September in Cyprus is the best month for traveling and a beach holiday

September is considered one of the most comfortable months for a holiday in Cyprus. It marks the end of the summer season, when the island is still basking in the sun, but the heat is no longer oppressive. The sea remains warm, the scenery is vibrant, and a light autumn breeze wafts through the streets. The combination of mild temperatures, cultural events, and the decline in tourist traffic toward the end of the month makes September ideal for both beach and sightseeing holidays.

Climate and weather in September

Cyprus maintains a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild autumns. Temperatures gradually drop in September, but remain warm and sunny. Humidity drops, and rain remains rare. Average daytime temperatures range from 30°C to 34°C, with nighttime highs around 19°C. In Nicosia, peak temperatures of up to 41°C are possible, with the coolest nights dropping to 12°C.

The sea off the island’s coast remains perfectly warm, hovering around 26–27°C. Precipitation is virtually nonexistent: approximately 10 mm falls monthly, and then only over one or two days. Relative humidity is around 60%. On the coast, breezes make the heat comfortable, while in the mountains, it feels slightly cool.

In September, the sun shines up to 10 hours a day, creating ideal conditions for beach holidays and strolls. Temperatures are similar to June, but the air is drier and more pleasant.

The pros and cons of vacationing in September

The main advantage of September is its mild climate, free from sweltering heat. It’s the perfect time for swimming, sightseeing, and active sports. Museums and historical sites are open, and cultural events and festivals are held. By the end of the month, the tourist flow dwindles, and prices for residential properties and entertainment gradually decline. Evenings become cooler, making it pleasant to be outside even without air conditioning.

Disadvantages include high occupancy rates at resorts in the first half of the month. Airfare and car rental prices remain at summer levels. Inland lowland areas can remain hot, especially during the day, when temperatures exceed 35°C. Furthermore, the significant difference between day and night temperatures sometimes makes it feel chilly after sunset.

Weather patterns by region of Cyprus

Despite the island’s compact size, weather conditions in different parts of Cyprus have their own characteristics.

Weather in September in Nicosia

In the Mesaoria Plain, where Nicosia is located, September remains hot. Daytime temperatures reach 34°C (93°F) and drop to 19°C (66°F) at night. Under the influence of African air masses, short periods of up to 40°C (104°F) are possible. Precipitation is minimal—around 15 mm (0.6 inches) per month, with 10 hours of sunshine per day. The climate is milder in the mountainous regions. In the village of Prodromos, located at an altitude of approximately 1,300 m (4,300 ft) at the foot of Mount Olympus, temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 24°C (75°F). Occasional short showers are possible, but they occur no more than once a month.

Weather in September on the coast (Larnaca, Limassol, Paphos, Ayia Napa, Protaras)

In coastal areas, September is warm, like summer. There is virtually no precipitation, and the sun shines 10–11 hours a day. In the southeastern regions—Larnaca, Limassol, and Ayia Napa—the air and sea are slightly warmer than in the west and north of the island. In Larnaca, daytime temperatures reach 31°C (88°F) and 20°C (68°F) at night, with precipitation not exceeding 7 mm (0.75 in). The sea remains warm, at 26–27°C (81–82°F). On the northern coast, closer to the Kyrenia Mountains, it is slightly cooler due to mountain winds.

These weather differences make it possible to choose a holiday to suit any preference: a relaxing swim in the east, hikes in the Troodos Mountains, or cultural tourism in Paphos and Nicosia.

Things to do in September

Autumn in Cyprus is filled with events and celebrations. Despite the end of summer, the festival scene continues until the end of the month.

Aphrodite Festival in Paphos

One of Cyprus’s most famous events, the first weekend of September sees a three-day opera performance featuring international performers in front of Paphos Castle.

Wine Festival in Limassol

The largest event of the month, held from the end of August to the first week of September, the festival celebrates the grape harvest and has been held in the Limassol Municipal Gardens since 1961. Guests can enjoy tastings of Cypriot wines, traditional dishes, and theater and dance performances.

Jazz Festival in Polis

Held at the end of September, the festival brings together musicians from all over the world. Jazz in a wide variety of styles, from classical to fusion, plays at venues across the city.

Parties in Ayia Napa

The island’s largest resort is renowned for its club scene. In early September, discos and beach events featuring renowned DJs continue.

Besides festivals, Cyprus offers numerous cultural itineraries. In Paphos, you can visit the archaeological park with ancient ruins, the Tombs of the Kings, the House of Dionysus with ancient mosaics, and Aphrodite’s Rock. In Nicosia, the Leventis Museum, the Cathedral of St. John, the Byzantine Museum, the Cyrene Gate, and the Selimiye Mosque are worth seeing.

The island’s natural attractions are also impressive. The Troodos Mountains are ideal for hiking and cycling. Hidden among the pine-clad slopes are ancient monasteries and nine frescoed churches, all listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the west of the island, the Akamas Nature Reserve is popular, home to rare species of flora and fauna. Architecture and history buffs should visit the archaeological site of Salamis and the ancient temples of Famagusta.

To avoid the heat of the day, it is recommended to plan excursions and hikes for early morning or evening.

Air temperature and precipitation in Cyprus in September