Larnaca is one of those places that can be easy to overlook.
Many visitors arrive at Larnaca International Airport, head straight to their resort and never really discover the city itself. That’s a shame, because Larnaca has plenty going for it.
There’s the famous Finikoudes seafront, Mackenzie Beach, Larnaca Salt Lake and Hala Sultan Tekke. There are historic buildings, churches, narrow streets, traditional restaurants and plenty of places to sit with a coffee and watch the world go by. And then, there’s the coastline. Head away from the city and you’ll find more beaches, villages and quieter places to explore.
We visited Cyprus as tourists for more than 10 years and then made the island our home in 2016. So this isn’t simply a list of things you can find in a guidebook.
It’s our guide to discovering Larnaca and the surrounding area.
The best things to do in Larnaca include walking along Finikoudes, relaxing at Mackenzie Beach, visiting Larnaca Salt Lake and Hala Sultan Tekke, exploring the historic old city and Saint Lazarus Church, and enjoying traditional Cypriot food. Larnaca also makes a good base for exploring nearby beaches, villages and other parts of Cyprus.
Two or three days is enough to explore the main city attractions and beaches. A longer stay gives you more time to explore the surrounding coastline, villages and nearby areas.
If you’re visiting Larnaca, you’ll probably end up at Finikoudes. And that’s not a bad thing. The palm-lined promenade runs alongside the beach and is surrounded by restaurants, cafés and places to sit.
It’s busy without necessarily feeling overwhelming. Walk along the seafront. Stop for coffee. Watch the boats. Then wander into the streets behind the promenade.
That’s where you’ll start to see another side of Larnaca.
Quite a lot.
You can spend a morning wandering through the old city. Have lunch beside the sea. Spend the afternoon at Mackenzie Beach. Then head to the Salt Lake and Hala Sultan Tekke for a completely different experience.
And if you’re staying for several days, use Larnaca as a base for exploring further.
Mackenzie Beach is one of our favourite examples of why Cyprus can surprise you.
It’s a proper beach. There’s swimming. There are restaurants and cafés. There’s a long seafront.
But…then an aircraft comes in overhead! Because the beach sits close to Larnaca International Airport, watching planes approach has become part of the Mackenzie experience. It’s particularly fun if you’re travelling with children. And if you’re into photography?
Bring your bucket and spade and your camera.
Larnaca has a fascinating history. The city is built around ancient foundations, and there are reminders of its past throughout the area.
Located beside Larnaca Salt Lake, Hala Sultan Tekke is an important Muslim shrine and one of the area’s most interesting historic sites. The setting makes it particularly memorable.
The salt lake is one of Larnaca’s most recognisable natural features. During the wetter months, it can attract large numbers of birds, including flamingos!
Located in the heart of the city, this historic church is one of Larnaca’s most recognisable landmarks.
Standing close to the seafront, the medieval castle is another reminder of the city’s long history.
There are plenty more places to discover and sometimes the smaller ones are just as interesting.
Larnaca is best known for its Finikoudes seafront, Mackenzie Beach, Salt Lake, Hala Sultan Tekke, historic buildings and relaxed atmosphere. It is also home to Larnaca International Airport.
Yes. Larnaca combines beaches, history, food, culture and local life. It can work well for a city break, beach holiday or as a base for exploring eastern and central Cyprus.
Popular activities include walking along Finikoudes, visiting Mackenzie Beach, exploring Larnaca Salt Lake, visiting Hala Sultan Tekke and Saint Lazarus Church, exploring the old city and enjoying local restaurants.
Yes. Larnaca offers family-friendly beaches, restaurants and attractions. Mackenzie Beach can be particularly entertaining for children because of the aircraft approaching Larnaca Airport.
Yes. Couples can enjoy the seafront, restaurants, beaches, historic sites, walks and relaxed evenings around the city.
Yes. Much of central Larnaca can be explored on foot, particularly around Finikoudes, the old city and the seafront. A car is more useful if you want to explore the surrounding villages and coastline.
Mackenzie Beach and Finikoudes are two of the best-known beaches in the city. The right choice depends on whether you prefer a lively seafront atmosphere, restaurants and aircraft views or a more traditional beach setting.
