Larnaca Area holidays

There’s no shortage of Blue Flag beaches in Larnaca. Lay out your towel on the lively sands of Nissi Beach or dial up the relaxation on Protaras’ Fig Tree Bay, where peaceful shores flake off into super-calm waters. Finikoudes Beach and Mackenzie Beach are equally good options, too – both promise white sands and turquoise waves.

Families and younger crowds find common ground on Nissi Beach, which is just up the road from Ayia Napa. The spotless sands stretch out for 500 metres, leaving plenty of room for party people to stretch out while sleeping off their hangovers, and a prestigious Blue Flag has been awarded to the see-through waters. The nearby beach promenade is heaving with restaurants, too. Post-dip pizza, anyone?

The Cape Greco National Forest Park is a must-visit for wildlife-lowers. The site, which is about half-way between Ayia Napa and Protaras, spans 385 hectares, and there are over 80 species of creatures to look out for (so don’t forget your binoculars). And it’s even got its own beach. Konnos Bay hides between the pine trees, with sands that don’t get as crowded as Larnaca’s swimming spots. And there’s Alaminos Beach. This one’s so secluded it’s known as the Secret Paradise of Alaminos.

Spare euros are best spent at Ayia Napa’s Seferis Square open-air market. Every Saturday, bargain stalls are piled high with foodie bits like halloumi, plus woven baskets and bits of pottery. And there are performances from zorba dancers and bouzouki musicians. For something quieter and more authentic, head to Larnaca’s flea market. It’s on every Sunday.

It’s not just spades and buckets you’ll find sold down by Nissi Beach. Clubbing gear stores keep the party crowd prepped for nights out. Nissie Avenue’s the best place to go if you’re in the market for Ayia Napa-appropriate party accessories – we’re talking ‘I Love Napa’ crop-tops and glow-in-the-dark bangles.

Gucci, Versace and YSL all have designer boutiques over in Protaras. This place is a gold mine for fancy finds, especially if you plan on turning beach days into fashion shows. Nicosia, the capital city, is another good spot for luxury shopping, too.

Protaras Avenue is a go-to for hungry couples and families on evening strolls. Relaxed restaurants and ouzo bars line this relaxed street – ideal for fuelling up for classical plays at Limassol Kourion Amphitheatre. Or, spend the evening in the Oak Tree Wine Cellar. It’s been open since the 1960s.

In Larnaca, there’s nowhere better for a proper night out than in Ayia Napa, the party capital of Cyprus. Napa Square’s the epicentre of all the action – it’s filled with famous nightclubs pouring fishbowl cocktails, and often plays host to top DJs. Bookmark Club DEEP for hip-hop and house music.

Love it or hate it, you’ve got to try traditional Cypriot halloumi cheese while you’re in Larnaca. It’s known for its unique rubbery texture, and is especially tasty when grilled and scattered on top of salads or fried like a salty, less melty mozzarella stick.

A Cypriot tavvas is a hearty casserole that’s a bit like a North African tagine. Both dishes get their name from the dish they’re served in, but this one is mainly made from lamb and herby vegetables, rather than chicken and dried fruits. Spicy cumin adds a nice depth of flavour, too.

Don’t let the unfamiliar name fool you. Lountza is a simple smoked pork tenderloin, which is soaked in a rich wine marinade before cooking. Traditionally, it’s served inside koupepia or stuffed vine leaves, alongside rice and herbs.

During Easter, Cypriots tuck in to flaounes. These savoury pies combine pastry, goat’s cheese and a spicy filling, which get a nutty crunch from a sesame seed coating.

When dinner’s done and a sweet treat comes calling, why not sip a glass of commandaria? This sweet dessert wine comes from the foothills of the Troodos mountains, and is made with a mix of xynisteri and mavro grapes. Fun fact – it’s the world’s oldest named wine.