Larnaca

With its palm tree lined promenades, natural salt lake and traditional craft markets, the laid-back port town of Larnaca offers a tranquil alternative to the bustling beach resorts of Paphos and Limassol in the south. Located along the southeastern coast of Cyprus, Larnaca is blessed with idyllic surroundings – rugged sea cliffs, golden sands and vast expanses of countryside, ideal for hiking or cycling, as well as a celebrated scuba diving spot. More than just a pretty face, Larnaca is also one of Cyprus’ oldest settlements with the ancient city of Kition lying just northwest of the center and including ruins that date back as early as the 13th century B.C.

Larnaca’s modern town center is charmingly unique, with the Larnaca Salt Lake swimming with Pink Flamingos throughout the winter months and the mazelike Turkish quarter crammed with small ceramics studios. That’s not to say that Larnaca is off-the-radar - a smattering of big resorts still line the waterfront, the historic town center is awash with modern shops and international restaurants, and nearby Ayia Napa offers a non-stop party scene.