Mediterranean city on Cyprus's south coast with a seafront promenade, historic castle, and Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque. Home to Palestinian refugees and famous for halloumi cheese.
Larnaca, a coastal city in Cyprus, has a history dating back to the 13th century BCE. Today, it serves as Cyprus's main entry point, with the country's primary international airport and second-busiest port. Visitors can explore the 9th-century Church of Saint Lazarus, observe flamingos at the Salt Lake, or relax on Finikoudes Beach with its palm-lined promenade.
Sunbathing and Water Activities on Larnaca's Beaches
You'll find several beaches along Larnaca's coast for relaxation and recreation. Finikoudes Beach, in the city center, has a palm-tree lined promenade with cafes and restaurants. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, or try jet skiing and paddleboarding. Mackenzie Beach is another popular spot with calm waters. The shore has many bars and eateries, making it convenient to grab refreshments between beach activities.
Savoring Larnaca's Culinary Delights
Larnaca's food reflects its multicultural influences. You'll find numerous tavernas serving traditional Cypriot meze, a selection of small dishes meant for sharing. Try local specialties such as halloumi cheese, souvlaki, and fresh seafood from the Mediterranean. For a seaside meal, choose one of the restaurants along the Finikoudes Beach promenade. You can eat while looking out at the sea and watching the activity on the beach.
Exploring the Unique Ecosystem of Larnaca Salt Lake
Just outside the city is Larnaca Salt Lake, a complex of four salt lakes that forms a distinct ecosystem. From November to March, thousands of flamingos make the lake their temporary home. You can walk along the lake's shore to observe these birds up close. Next to the lake is Hala Sultan Tekke, an important Islamic shrine with views of the water. This area combines natural beauty and cultural significance.
Navigating Larnaca: Transportation Tips
Larnaca International Airport is 4 km southwest of the city center, making arrivals and departures convenient. In the city, public buses are the main form of public transportation. As of April 2024, bus fares cost €2.40. Many of Larnaca's points of interest are along the coast and in the city center, so you can easily walk to them. This layout lets you explore the city at your own pace and discover local spots along the way.
Venturing Beyond Larnaca: Day Trip Ideas
Larnaca's central location on the island makes it a good base for exploring other parts of Cyprus. You could visit the ancient ruins of Kourion near Limassol, about an hour's drive away. These remains give insight into Cyprus's Greco-Roman past. If you want active nightlife and sandy beaches, Ayia Napa is 45 minutes east of Larnaca. For mountain scenery, take a trip to the Troodos Mountains. There, you can hike through pine forests, visit small villages, and see a different side of Cyprus's landscape.
Uncovering Larnaca's Past
The Church of Saint Lazarus, built in the 9th century, is one of Larnaca's oldest structures. Inside, you'll see detailed iconography and what's believed to be Lazarus's tomb. At the end of Finikoudes Beach, Larnaca Castle, a 14th-century fort, now houses a museum. Its exhibits show artifacts from different periods of Cypriot history. These sites let you connect with Larnaca's long past.
