Best Places to Visit in Cyprus for Christmas Cheer

Cyprus transforms into a magical winter wonderland in December, offering expats and digital nomads a chance to soak up the holiday spirit with festive markets, twinkling lights, and traditional celebrations. Whether you're craving cozy village charm, bustling city energy, or coastal holiday cheer, the island has something for everyone. From handcrafted gifts to seasonal treats, these destinations are perfect for embracing the season and creating unforgettable memories.

Nicosia’s Old Town

Nicosia’s Old Town is the heart of Cyprus’s holiday magic, with its medieval streets draped in lights and decorations. The centerpiece is the annual Christmas Market, held in Eleftheria Square, where vendors sell handmade crafts, local honey, and festive ornaments. The market also features live music, carolers, and a giant Christmas tree that lights up the square. The atmosphere is lively yet cozy, with mulled wine and warm loukoumades (Greek donuts) keeping visitors toasty. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Ledra Street, where shops and cafés go all out with holiday displays.

We Recommend: Try the *melomakarona*, traditional honey-dipped Christmas cookies, at one of the market stalls—they’re a Cypriot holiday staple and pair perfectly with a cup of warm *sahlab* (a creamy spiced drink).

Limassol’s Old Port and Marina

Limassol’s Old Port and Marina area becomes a glittering hub of holiday activity in December, with dazzling light installations and a festive market that draws crowds from across the island. The Christmas Village at the marina is a must-visit, featuring wooden chalets selling everything from hand-knit scarves to local wines. The highlight is the ice-skating rink, where families and friends glide under the stars. The nearby Molos Promenade is lined with twinkling lights, and the city hosts a grand Christmas parade with floats, dancers, and Santa Claus making his grand entrance. The celebrations usually kick off in early December and run through New Year’s Eve.

We Recommend: Warm up with a cup of *glühwein* (mulled wine) from one of the market stalls—it’s spiced with cinnamon and orange, and the aroma alone will put you in the holiday mood.

Larnaca’s Finikoudes Promenade

Larnaca’s Finikoudes Promenade is a picturesque spot to enjoy the holidays, with palm trees wrapped in fairy lights and a festive market that brings a European flair to the seaside. The Christmas Market here is smaller but charming, offering handmade jewelry, Cypriot sweets, and artisanal soaps. The promenade often hosts open-air concerts and caroling sessions, while the nearby St. Lazarus Church is beautifully decorated for the season. The city also organizes a Christmas parade with marching bands and colorful floats, typically held on the first weekend of December.

We Recommend: Grab a *kourabiedes*, buttery almond shortbread cookies dusted with powdered sugar, from a local bakery—they’re a holiday favorite and make for a sweet souvenir.

Paphos’s Kato Paphos Harbor

Paphos’s Kato Paphos Harbor is a stunning backdrop for holiday celebrations, with the ancient ruins of the Paphos Archaeological Park illuminated against the night sky. The Christmas Market here is a mix of traditional and modern, with stalls selling everything from hand-painted ceramics to organic olive oil. The harbor is decorated with thousands of lights, and the city hosts a Christmas boat parade, where festively decorated vessels sail along the coast. The celebrations often include live nativity scenes and open-air performances, making it a magical experience for all ages.

We Recommend: Try *loukoumi* (Turkish delight) from a local vendor—it comes in flavors like rosewater and pistachio and is a perfect edible gift.

Troodos Mountain Villages (Omodos and Kakopetria)

The Troodos Mountain villages are the epitome of cozy holiday charm, with snow-dusted rooftops and stone houses adorned with wreaths and lights. Omodos and Kakopetria are particularly enchanting, offering a slower pace and a chance to experience Cypriot traditions. In Omodos, the village square hosts a small but festive market selling handwoven textiles, local wines, and *soutzoukos* (grape must rolls with almonds). Kakopetria, with its cobbled streets and riverside setting, is perfect for a quiet holiday escape, often featuring carolers and folk music performances. Both villages are ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and enjoy a more rustic celebration.

We Recommend: Warm up with a cup of *zivania* (Cypriot brandy) or *mountain tea* at a local café—both are perfect for chilly evenings in the mountains.

Ayia Napa’s Square

Ayia Napa may be known for its summer nightlife, but in December, its central square transforms into a festive playground with a lively Christmas market and entertainment for all ages. The market features stalls selling handmade crafts, holiday decorations, and Cypriot delicacies, while the square itself is decorated with a giant Christmas tree and twinkling lights. The town hosts a Christmas parade with floats, dancers, and a visit from Santa, usually held in mid-December. There’s also an ice-skating rink and live music performances, making it a fun destination for families and groups of friends.

We Recommend: Don’t miss the *kourambiedes* (butter cookies) from a local bakery—they’re often shaped like stars or Christmas trees and melt in your mouth.

Protaras’s Fig Tree Bay

Protaras’s Fig Tree Bay is a hidden gem for holiday cheer, offering a more relaxed but equally festive atmosphere. The town’s Christmas market is smaller than others on the island but no less charming, with stalls selling handmade gifts, local honey, and holiday treats. The beachfront is decorated with lights, and the town often hosts open-air movie nights featuring classic holiday films. The highlight is the Christmas lights switch-on event, usually held in early December, where the entire area is illuminated in a dazzling display. It’s a great spot for those who want to combine beachside relaxation with holiday fun.

We Recommend: Try *halloumi fries* from a market stall—they’re crispy, salty, and the perfect snack to enjoy while strolling through the lights.

Polis’s Town Center

Polis, a quiet coastal town on the northwest coast, offers a more intimate holiday experience with its small but festive Christmas market. The town center is decorated with lights and wreaths, and the market features local artisans selling handmade pottery, olive wood carvings, and traditional Cypriot sweets. The town often hosts caroling sessions and folk dance performances, giving visitors a taste of authentic Cypriot culture. Polis is also a great base for exploring the nearby Akamas Peninsula, where you can enjoy winter hikes with stunning sea views.

We Recommend: Pick up a jar of *carob syrup* from a local vendor—it’s a unique Cypriot product that makes a great gift and can be drizzled over yogurt or ice cream.

Lefkara’s Village Square

Lefkara, famous for its lace-making tradition, is a postcard-perfect village to visit during the holidays. The village square is adorned with lights and decorations, and the local Christmas market showcases handmade lace, silver jewelry, and traditional sweets. Lefkara is known for its *lefkaritika* lace, a UNESCO-recognized craft, and many of the market stalls sell intricate pieces that make for meaningful gifts. The village also hosts caroling events and folk music performances, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great place to experience the slower, more traditional side of Cypriot holiday celebrations.

We Recommend: Buy a piece of *lefkaritika* lace as a keepsake—it’s a beautiful and unique souvenir that supports local artisans.