November / 11th / 2024
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Christmas? Maybe it’s the pretty sparkle of the Christmas tree lights, the heartfelt exchange of wishes, religious services and mass, unwrapping presents with family and friends, or digging into sumptuous treats at the dinner table. No matter what the festive season means to you, no holidays are quite as magical as Christmas!
If you’re dreaming of an alternative Christmas this year, then time out in the Med could be just what you need. With Cyprus recently named by Conde Nast Traveller as one of the hottest destinations in Europe to visit in October, this holiday haven is also an incredibly appealing destination throughout the winter, blessed with glorious weather while much of Europe braces the icy chill. Christmas in Cyprus brings together the warmth of the Mediterranean with festive magic and offers stunning backdrops for holiday adventures, whether you’re basking in the sun by the coast or heading to the Troodos mountains for a snowy escape.
Keen to find out more? Here are five reasons why Cyprus ticks all the boxes at Christmastime.
Christmas in Cyprus often brings glorious sunshine, thanks to the island’s mild climate, especially in the coastal town of Paphos. With average December temperatures hovering between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius, you can participate in the lively festive celebrations while soaking up the warm rays under clear blue skies.
Beyond the coast, winter magic awaits on the towering peaks of the Troodos mountains, less than an hour’s drive from the seaside. Wrap up warm and sip on hot chocolate by a roaring fire in a village coffee shop, or enjoy a meze feast in a cozy stone-built tavern. If you’re fortunate enough to experience a white Christmas, you can even go skiing or snowboarding on the sparkling, white-capped slopes.
There’s always something to enjoy during the Christmas season in Cyprus, from light displays in city squares to family-friendly events and cultural performances. Some of the island’s most beautiful countryside villages even host their own festive markets from the end of November to the start of January.
These quaint little markets evoke a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all ages, featuring handmade crafts, local delicacies, and live music. Wander through villages draped in lights, stroll past stalls filled with unique gifts, sample seasonal treats, and embrace the holiday spirit amidst Cyprus’ most scenic landscapes. This year’s Christmas villages will operate from November 22, 2024, until January 6, 2025 (inclusive) in eight beautiful traditional Cyprus villages and towns.
In the winter, the Cyprus countryside transforms into a lush green refuge, giving travelers the opportunity to enjoy a totally different experience from the beach-filled summer days. Head to the rugged countryside surrounding Paphos and Limassol to discover vine-covered slopes, pine-clad mountain peaks, gushing waterfalls, and countless nature trails in beautiful locations.
Be sure to make the most of the breathtaking beauty of Akamas National Park near the picturesque Latchi harbour. Here, stunning nature trails take you through gorges, above glistening coves, past caves, and into areas of profound natural beauty. Or head towards the leafy mountain village of Platres and stop off at Caledonia Falls to enjoy a hike through a designated path before you reach the cascading waters.
In some ways, locals in Cyprus celebrate the festive season in much the same way as the rest of Europe: families and friends come together for end-of-year parties, shops fill with extravagant Christmas displays, and streets come to life with the sound of heartwarming live music and children’s laughter.
But Cyprus is also notorious for blending its unique customs with festive celebrations, from traditional carols (‘kalanda’) to local delicacies like egg lemon (‘avgolemono’) soup, ‘kourabiedes,’ and ‘melomakarona’ (delicious traditional Christmas biscuits). Head to local bakeries and patisseries to savour the aroma and sweet taste of Cyprus Christmas and walk through town centres and festive markets to bag some delicious roasted nuts or soup from streetside vendors.
Each year, Kanika Hotels & Resorts pulls out all the stops for the festive season, offering guests of all ages an unforgettable experience with various beautifully organized holiday events. From dining extravaganzas to creative workshops and games for all the family, the holiday season fills with palpable magic at three fine hotels by the glistening Paphos coast.
Revel in romance at the luxurious MadeForTwo adults-only Amavi, spend time bonding with all the family in magical festive style at the all-inclusive Olympic Lagoon Resorts Paphos, or make the most of a stay immersed in classic comfort at the revamped and upgraded Alexander The Great Beach Hotel.
Cyprus offers stunning backdrops for your festive holiday adventures. Make the most of Christmas in Paphos this year with a sunshine-filled stay at Kanika Hotels & Resorts!
A five-star, couples-only retreat on a romantic beachfront, offering stunning sea and sunset views, ideal for a romantic and relaxing getaway.
A luxurious, couples-only escape, blending upscale elegance with relaxed seaside charm, and offering tailored services and unique experiences for couples.
Discover the ultimate all-inclusive five-star Olympic Lagoon Resorts, Ayia Napa, renowned for its lush gardens, Blue Flag beach, bespoke entertainment, and top-tier luxury services.
Experience luxury and endless leisure at our all-inclusive Olympic Lagoon Resorts Paphos, on a prime Blue Flag beach. With personalised services, and daily signature entertainment for couples and families.
Overlooking a Blue Flag beach and Paphos harbour, Alexander the Great, offers luxury accommodations steps from the shore, with excellent leisure facilities, and exceptional dining.
