Christmas in Northern Cyprus

This week-long holiday with Just You offers a measured pace for those who prefer time to linger as well as see. After flying into Larnaca, the hotel base is in Kyrenia, a town whose Venetian harbour curves quiet enough in winter to hear the water lap beneath the fishing boats. Day two tours the castle and shipwreck museum — the remains of a 2,300-year-old merchant vessel resting in the harbour — before visiting the Gothic ruins of Bellapais monastery above the town.

The following day takes a scenic drive through the Karpas Peninsula’s rural villages, with a pause for lunch and a stroll on some of Cyprus’ quieter beaches. After this, the itinerary loosens: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day are all left mostly free with optional outings, including a look at the ancient ruins of Salamis and the divided city of Nicosia for anyone who fancies an extra day out.

The journey finishes back in Larnaca for the flight home. This isn’t a hectic dash around the island, more a chance to stretch out the Christmas break comfortably in a Mediterranean setting with familiar history and calm company.