Cyprus sits so far east in the Mediterranean that its season stretches long after the rest of the region has cooled off. Larnaca, on the south coast, is its most relaxed gateway — you land almost in the town, and the beach, the old fort and the promenade are all within a short walk.
The Finikoudes promenade
The heart of Larnaca is a palm-lined seafront (Finikoudes) with a sandy town beach, cafés and a medieval fort at one end. It is made for slow evenings and long dinners of meze.
Salt lake and flamingos
Just outside town, a salt lake fills in winter and draws flocks of flamingos, with the elegant Hala Sultan Tekke mosque reflected on its edge. Nearby, the church of Saint Lazarus anchors the old quarter.
Day trips
Larnaca is a great base: the buzzy resorts of Ayia Napa and Protaras and the wild Cape Greco are an easy drive east, the Troodos mountains and painted churches lie inland.
When to go
Cyprus swims from May well into November. Spring and autumn are warm and quiet; high summer is hot and busy.
Good to know
- Driving is on the left — a hangover from British rule.
- Wreck-divers love the Zenobia, one of the world's best wreck dives, right offshore.
- Meze is the way to eat — order it and let the plates keep coming.
