As the UK shivers through another grey winter, a charming European capital offers a compelling escape with bargain flights and guaranteed sunshine. Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is basking in temperatures of up to 24 degrees Celsius this December, providing a perfect antidote to the British cold.
A City Bathed in Year-Round Sunshine
According to data from travel booking site Omio, Nicosia is officially Europe's sunniest capital city, enjoying a remarkable 3,388 hours of sunlight every year. This puts it a staggering 358 hours ahead of its closest rival, Valletta in Malta. The city's climate makes it an ideal destination for travellers seeking a reliable dose of vitamin D during the darkest months.
The top five sunniest European capitals are completed by Lisbon in Portugal (2,838 hours), Athens in Greece (2,773 hours), and Madrid in Spain (2,712 hours). London, by contrast, averages just 1,675 hours of annual sunshine and does not feature in the top 20.
Ancient History and Modern Charm
Nicosia is not just about the weather. The city is a pedestrian-friendly gem where key tourist sites are within comfortable walking distance. Its heart is Ledra Street, the primary shopping thoroughfare, which is home to both designer boutiques and quaint souvenir shops.
Adjacent to Ledra Street stands the Shacolas Tower, where visitors can ascend to a compact museum dedicated to the city's history while enjoying panoramic views. The city's defining feature is its ancient Venetian walls, constructed in the 1500s, which form a perfectly circular fortification around the historic quarters. Remarkably well-preserved, the former moat has been transformed into a running track, gardens, and a sculpture park.
A Tale of Two Cities
Nicosia holds a unique position as the capital of both the Republic of Cyprus, an EU member state, and Northern Cyprus, a state recognised only by Turkey. This division dates back to the Turkish invasion of 1974, which was triggered by a Greek Cypriot nationalist coup. The city is physically split by the Green Line, a buffer zone monitored by the United Nations.
For tourists, this adds a fascinating layer of history. Crossing from the south to the north is typically straightforward, offering a striking cultural contrast. As one holidaymaker noted on Expedia, it's "a unique divided city... Easy to cross and a striking contrast. Lots of history to explore on both sides." Visitors should be aware that entry to Cyprus via Turkey may complicate crossing the Green Line.
Other highlights include the beautiful Büyük Han, a historic Ottoman caravanserai, and a general atmosphere that travellers describe as safe, welcoming, and rich in heritage.
How to Get There for Less
The most compelling reason to visit this winter might be the price. Flights to Ercan International Airport, a short drive from Nicosia, can be found on Skyscanner from just £52 for December travel. This makes a sun-soaked winter break more accessible than ever for UK travellers looking to swap raincoats for sunglasses.
With its blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, unparalleled sunshine, and incredible flight deals, Nicosia presents a powerful case for becoming your next winter escape destination.
