Cyprus is the best place for an autumn break. Four resorts top the European rankings.

Cyprus took the top four spots in the European holiday destination rankings for October and November. Ayia Napa was ranked highest, followed by Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. No other resort in the world made it to the top three.

The ranking was prepared by British travel company Solmar Villas, analyzing 105 European destinations in terms of temperatures, number of rainy days, and flight prices. However, it's important to remember that travel costs were assessed from the perspective of the British market, so the price results cannot be directly applied to flights from Poland.

Four Cypriot resorts top the rankings

The top ten best European autumn holiday destinations are headed by four destinations in Cyprus:

1. Ayia Napa
2. Limassol
3. Larnaca
4. Paphos
5. Athens and the Athenian Riviera
6. Lanzarote
7. Fuerteventura
8. Rhodes
9. Blackbird
10. Malta

This means that Cyprus has overtaken, among others, the Canary Islands, the Greek islands and Malta – places traditionally chosen by sun-seekers outside the main holiday season.

Ayia Napa is the best place for an autumn holiday

Ayia Napa took first place. One of the key reasons for this choice was the weather.

From September to November, the Ayia Napa area averages around 2.3 rainy days per month. As the high season ends, the popular resort also becomes much quieter.

Autumn is a good time to visit Nissi Beach, Makronissos, and Konnos Bay, as well as Cape Greco National Park. Temperatures are lower than in July and August, making walking, cycling, and sightseeing easier.

However, you should take into account that at the end of the season, some seasonal clubs, restaurants and attractions may shorten their opening hours or be closed.

Limassol combines beach and city life

Second place went to Limassol. Unlike typical seasonal resorts, the city operates year-round.

Tourists can combine a seaside holiday with walks around the old town and marina, a visit to the castle, and trips to Kourion, Amathus and the villages at the foot of the Troodos Mountains.

In autumn, Limassol's restaurants, bars, museums, and city attractions remain open. This can be important for those who don't want to spend their entire vacation on the beach.

Larnaca for a quieter holiday

Larnaca came in third. The city is a good choice for those seeking a more leisurely pace but still wanting access to restaurants, a promenade, and public transportation.

Among the most important sites are the Finikoudes promenade, the Church of St. Lazarus, the Skala district, and the salt lake. In autumn, you can observe the first migrating birds there, although the largest flamingos usually appear later, when the lake fills with water.

An additional advantage is the proximity to the airport. Larnaca city center can be reached in just a few minutes.

Paphos for history and nature lovers

Fourth place went to Paphos, which combines seaside resorts with some of the most important archaeological sites on the island.

Autumn is a great time to visit the Archaeological Park, the Tombs of the Kings, and the mosaics in Kato Paphos. Cooler temperatures also make it ideal for trips to the Akamas Peninsula and coastal walks.

Paphos, like Limassol and Larnaca, doesn't die down after the holidays end. Some of its tourist infrastructure remains operational year-round.

It can still be very warm in autumn

According to the data used in the ranking, temperatures in Cypriot resorts in October and November reach around 24 to 29 degrees Celsius.

This doesn't mean, however, that every day will be cloudless and hot. In autumn, the likelihood of showers and thunderstorms increases, and evenings become cooler. The weather can also vary significantly between the coast and the Troodos Mountains.

The sea remains warm for a long time after the hot summer, so you can still enjoy the beaches in October, and often even November. However, autumn trips are especially attractive for those who want to combine relaxation with island sightseeing.

How to find an autumn holiday in Cyprus?

On CYPRNews, you can compare current travel agency offers. Available options include offers from various Polish airports, all-inclusive options, and stays in several regions of the island.

Polish tours during your holiday

A stay at a seaside hotel can be complemented with a guided tour of the island with a Polish-speaking guide. Available activities include trips to the Troodos Mountains, traditional villages, Paphos, Famagusta, as well as cruises and off-road excursions.

The ranking confirms that autumn doesn't have to mean the end of the holiday season. In Cyprus, October and November can be a good time for both beach time and active sightseeing – without the extreme summer heat and crowds.

Sources: Solmar Villas, Euronews, Cyprus Mail.