Where to stay in Larnaca
The Finikoudes promenade and the streets behind Saint Lazarus church are the classic base, with the beach, the marina and the old Turkish quarter of Skala on foot. Mackenzie beach suits a livelier crowd; the villages toward Lefkara, half an hour inland, are the lace-and-silver day trip.
Getting there and around
Most visitors land here: the island's main airport is 10 minutes from the promenade, with a local bus and cheap taxis into town. Larnaca is also the best-connected base on the island by intercity bus: under an hour to Nicosia, Ayia Napa or Limassol.
Planning when to come? See the month-by-month guide, check Cyprus in October, or the practical essentials and bus routes.
Our pick of the best in the region, so you do not have to scroll for it.
Common questions about Larnaca
Is Larnaca worth staying in, or just an airport city?
It is a proper, underrated base: the promenade, Saint Lazarus, the salt lake with winter flamingos, Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, and the shortest transfers on the island. It is also the cheapest of the coastal cities.
What is the Larnaca salt lake famous for?
Greater flamingos winter there, usually between November and March, right next to the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. In summer the lake dries to a salt crust.
Which is better, Larnaca or Ayia Napa?
Different trips: Larnaca is a year-round town with culture and calm city beaches; Ayia Napa is a purpose-built resort with the island's best sand and summer nightlife, an hour east.
What to do in Larnaca?
Walk the Finikoudes promenade to the medieval fort, visit Saint Lazarus church, dive or snorkel over the Zenobia wreck (one of the world's top wreck dives), see the flamingos at the salt lake in winter, and take the half-hour trip inland to Lefkara for lace and silver. Evenings belong to the Mackenzie beach bars.
