Cyprus has been named the best destination for an autumn getaway, with temperatures reaching 27C and one-way flights from the UK starting at just £31. The island claimed all four top spots in a ranking of European destinations for sunshine between September and November.
Cyprus dominates the top 10
Travel specialists at Solmar Villas analysed typical weather conditions across Europe to identify the top 10 destinations for autumn sun. Ayia Napa in Cyprus led the rankings, with Limassol and Larnaca taking second and third place respectively, while Paphos came fourth.
Cyprus boasts an average of only 2.3 rainy days per month throughout autumn, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 29°C. According to Skyscanner, flight prices can start from as low as £31 one-way, with journey times of approximately four and a half hours for most travellers departing from the UK.
Beaches and value in the shoulder season
While Ayia Napa is known as a summer party destination, the autumn months see things calm down considerably, though nightlife remains available for those seeking it. Visitors will find significantly better value than during peak party season.
The coastal resort offers spectacular beaches, including Nissi Beach with its pristine white sands and the crystal-clear waters of Makronissos Beach. One TripAdvisor visitor to Nissi Beach in September wrote: "Nissi Beach is heaven just around the corner! Probably one of the most popular beaches in Cyprus-and for good reason."
An autumn visitor to Makronissos commented: "The most beautiful beach, clean, lots of sunbeds, clear warm waters, absolutely amazing. The best beach we found. Lovely atmosphere. Bravo municipality, this beach and its staff do you proud. The sunbed prices are the same on every beach, ten euros for a set, so cheap compared to most places, bravo."
Top 10 destinations for autumn sun
The full ranking of the best destinations for sunshine between September and November is: Ayia Napa, Cyprus; Limassol, Cyprus; Larnaca, Cyprus; Paphos, Cyprus; Athens Riviera, Greece; Lanzarote, Spain; Fuerteventura, Spain; Rhodes, Greece; Kos, Greece; and Malta, Malta.
