If you're craving a last-minute winter escape that offers both relaxation and sunshine, the Cypriot city of Larnaca should be at the top of your list. This Mediterranean haven provides the ideal recipe for a restorative holiday, boasting sandy shores, palm-fringed walkways, and remarkably warm November temperatures.
A Sun-Drenched and Affordable Escape
Located on the sunny south coast of Cyprus, Larnaca enjoys highs of 22°C even in November, making it a superb destination for those seeking late-year warmth. While it's just a 40-minute drive from the famed nightlife of Ayia Napa, Larnaca has earned the fitting nickname the 'city of peace', offering a far more tranquil and laid-back atmosphere for travellers.
Reaching this coastal gem is surprisingly affordable. A recent search uncovered a one-way easyJet flight from London Luton for just £26 on Saturday, November 22. For those considering other airlines, a Wizz Air flight from London Gatwick was also available for £40.99, with a journey time of four hours and 35 minutes.
Beaches, Watersports, and World-Class Diving
Larnaca is a paradise for beach lovers, with at least 18 beautiful spots to choose from. The city's main beach, Finikoudes Beach, features a 600-metre stretch of golden sand lined with palm trees, complete with sunbeds and umbrellas for hire.
Families often favour Kastela Beach for its clear, shallow waters, while Yiannades Beach within Larnaca Bay is a peaceful cove known for its warm waters and spectacular sunrises and sunsets. For the more adventurous, Mackenzie Beach is the hub for watersports, where you can try jet skiing, parasailing, and water skiing.
At Mackenzie Beach Watersports, you can hire a SUP board for €15 (£13.21) per day or book private windsurfing lessons for €100 (£88) per day. The city is also a premier destination for diving enthusiasts, being home to the famous Zenobia Wreck. This dive site, which sank in the 1980s, offers great visibility and weak currents, making it suitable for both experienced and novice divers.
Ancient History and Philosophical Roots
The 'city of peace' moniker has deep historical roots. Larnaca is the birthplace of the ancient Greek philosopher Zeno of Citium, the founder of Stoicism. He established his school of thought around 300 BCE, focusing on achieving a life of tranquillity and moral purpose.
History buffs have plenty to explore, starting with the magnificent 9th-century Church of Saint Lazarus Larnaca Castle, a medieval fortress that now serves as a museum, is another key landmark. The fort took its present form under Ottoman rule and was later used as a prison by the British, with its western chamber serving as an execution site. Today, visitors can explore the castle's remains for an entry fee of €2.50 (£2.20). For a stunning example of Ottoman architecture, the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, built in 648 AD, is a must-see. It is situated by the Larnaca Salt Lake, which in winter fills with migrating birds, including thousands of vibrant flamingos. A short 30-minute drive from the city centre leads to the Choirokoitia Neolithic Settlement, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Recognised as one of the most important prehistoric sites in the eastern Mediterranean, it was occupied from the 7th to the 4th millennium BC. Entry costs €2.50 per person, and the site features both reconstructed huts and original ruins, with nature trails ranging from an easy 1.27km loop to a more challenging 12.2km hike. The Finikoudes area is Larnaca's dining hub, where visitors can find traditional Cypriot tavernas serving classics like souvlaki, moussaka, and halloumi, alongside international options from sushi bars to Italian restaurants. The highly-rated Edesma Cyprus Taverna, popular with locals, boasts four-and-a-half stars on TripAdvisor. There is also a significant Lebanese influence in the local cuisine. Expect to find delicious mezzes such as hummus and baba ganoush, as well as hot appetisers like falafel, kibbeh, and stuffed grape leaves. Maqam Al-Sultan Restaurant was voted number three on a list of the 50 best places to eat in Larnaca, with one Finnish couple declaring it the 'best restaurant' they visited during their week-long Cyprus tour. Larnaca offers a range of affordable accommodation options. The three-star La Veranda Hotel, located just 350 yards from the beach, offers a double room with a balcony for £64 per night. For a more upscale stay, the four-star Leonardo Boutique Hotel Larnaca is available for £100 per night. The authentic Le Voyageur By the Sea has rooms from £71 per night and boasts a prime location, with Finikoudes Beach just a 3-minute walk away and Saint Lazarus Church only 400 metres from its door. With its blend of winter sunshine, rich history, beautiful beaches, and delicious food, Larnaca presents a compelling and affordable case for a last-minute autumn getaway.A Diverse and Flavourful Food Scene
Accommodation to Suit Every Budget
