Welcome to Larnaca

As the ancient capital of the island, Larnaca is steeped in the history and traditions of Cyprus.  Known then as ‘Kition’ where archaeological excavations show that Larnaca dates back to around 2000 BC…

Today, Larnaca is the third largest city in Cyprus and the main point of entry for visitors travelling through Larnaca International Airport. Located close to Mackenzy Beach and just a few kilometres, or ten minute drive from the centre of town, Larnaca airport is the principal gateway for onward journeys to Limassol, the modern capital city of Nicosia and the popular coastal resorts of Agia Napa, Protaras and Paralimni in the Famagusta region.  The new airport terminal and improved facilities are scheduled to open in November 2009, which reflects Larnaca's growing importance as a transportation hub in the Eastern Mediterranean region, linking Cyprus to the rest of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East - including daily flights between Dubai and Larnaca.

Less than ten kilometres from the airport is the proposed development of a new championship Golf course, nearby Tersefanou Village. For Eastern Cyprus this will complement the exclusive golf courses in Paphos - and increase the popularity of Cyprus as the destination for your golfing holiday.

By 2012 Larnaca Marina, which adjoins the Blue Flag Phinikoudes Beach on the city centre seafront, will be extended to provide berths for up to 2000 yachts! This palm-tree lined promenade is a favourite meeting place for young and old alike. The existing port, the second busiest after Limassol, will be upgraded to form a new passenger and cruising centre.

Larnaca town is just a few minutes drive from the intersections of excellent motorway links into the wider Larnaca District plus Paphos, Limassol, Paralimni, Agia Napa, Protaras, Nicosia and the scenic uphill routes towards the Troodos Mountains. Time distances to the rest of Cyprus are relatively short. You can be in Paphos or Troodos in less than ninety minutes - car hire is recommended for getting around, this is cheap and easy to arrange with www.hestia-holidays.com/carhire.

Permanent residents of Larnaca and visitors alike enjoy a rich choice of culture and recreation - everything from museums, art galleries, ancient churches, waterfront concerts & exhibitions, a multi-screen cinema showing the latest Hollywood blockbusters (see www.kcineplex.com) plus an abundance of coffee houses, cafes and restaurants catering for all tastes, from local Cypriot ‘mezes’ to cordon bleu international cuisine, the choice is yours!

Retail therapy is close at hand with the vast selection of charming specialist shops and boutiques that line the ancient road network - alongside more recent superstore developments like Carrefour and Debenhams on the edge of town.  

Larnaca town is a natural focus for the wider region. The villages and stunning landscape of the surrounding District present a striking contrast to the coastline seascapes. Forty kilometres from Larnaca and eight kilometres off the Larnaca-Limassol highway, on a gentle limestone slope lies Lefkara, a village full of tradition and beautiful local architecture that is world-renowned for its hand-made lace embroideries – well worth a visit during your holiday in Cyprus.

At Oroklini, one of the best spots in Larnaca bay, the elevation above the village is known as 'yerakomoutti' (eagles’ nose), where the Chapel of Prophitis Elias stands. Eastwards, further along the coast lies the picturesque and romantic fishing harbour at Ormedeia, just a couple of the delightful sights in the Larnaca Region.

Scuba diving is extremely popular in Larnaca, especially with the famous wreck of the Zenobia – voted one of the top 10 wreck dives in the world!

For a list of ‘Places to See & Things to do’ in Larnaca, please click here.  

As one of the longest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, Larnaca and its surrounding area has much to reveal - and continues to surprise in the 21st century…