During Christmas in Cyprus, visitors can enjoy traditional holiday markets and processions, attend special church services, and indulge in local cuisine and wine. The island’s mild climate also allows for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring ancient sites.
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During Christmas in Cyprus, visitors can immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural traditions and enjoy various festivities. According to the Cyprus Tourism Organisation, “Christmas in Cyprus is a wonderful time of year when the island shines in all its glory, from sparkling festive lights to traditional Christmas markets and delicious seasonal treats.” Here are some things to do in Cyprus during the Christmas season:
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Experience the Festive Atmosphere: Cyprus is known for its lively and festive atmosphere during Christmas. The streets are decorated with lights, Christmas trees, and nativity scenes, and traditional carols can be heard everywhere.
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Visit the Christmas Markets: Visitors can enjoy shopping for unique Christmas gifts and decorations at the markets. These markets offer a variety of traditional sweets, such as melomakarona and kourabiedes, as well as mulled wine and other drinks.
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Attend Special Church Services: Christmas in Cyprus is a deeply religious holiday, and visitors can attend special church services that are held throughout the season. The highlight is the midnight mass on Christmas Eve.
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Explore Ancient Sites: Cyprus is home to many ancient sites and ruins, and the mild weather during Christmas provides the perfect opportunity to explore them. Some noteworthy sites include the Kourion, Paphos, and Salamis.
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Enjoy Local Cuisine and Wine: Local cuisine is an essential part of the festivities. Visitors can indulge in traditional dishes such as stuffed turkey, roasted lamb, and “Christougenna” soup, which is made with chicken and poultry. Cyprus is also known for its excellent wines, particularly Commandaria, which is considered one of the oldest wines in the world.
According to Rick Steves, a prominent travel writer, “Christmas is one of the most popular times of year to visit Cyprus, especially for those interested in the country’s rich cultural and religious traditions.” In conclusion, Christmas in Cyprus offers a delightful blend of tradition, history, and festivity. A table summarizing the key points is provided below.
| Things to Do in Cyprus during Christmas | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience Festive Atmosphere | Streets decorated with lights, trees, and nativity scenes, traditional carols |
| Visit Christmas Markets | Shop for unique Christmas gifts and decorations, sample traditional sweets and drinks |
| Attend Special Church Services | Attend midnight mass on Christmas Eve and other special services |
| Explore Ancient Sites | Visit ancient sites such as Kourion, Paphos, and Salamis |
| Enjoy Local Cuisine and Wine | Indulge in traditional dishes such as stuffed turkey and roasted lamb, sample the excellent local wines |
Overall, Christmas in Cyprus is an unforgettable experience that combines tradition, festivity, and culture.
Video answer to “What is there to do in Cyprus at Christmas?”
This video provides a list of 10 things to know before traveling or moving to Cyprus. It covers different aspects of the country, including transportation, beaches, nightlife, mosquitos, the divided country, cost of living, religion, recycling, holidays, and tourism. The video suggests having a car for better transportation, finding sandy beaches, respecting the local culture, being mindful of mosquitos, and exploring less crowded places. Overall, this video offers helpful insights and tips for a pleasant stay in Cyprus.