Larnaca, on the southeast coast of Cyprus, is the island’s third largest city in terms of population. A popular tourist destination, charming Larnaca is the ideal option for anyone wishing to explore this part of Cyprus and to combine the pleasure of a beach holiday with visiting local cultural sights. The atmosphere here is relaxed and the beach is very close to the places of interest, making it easy for you to discover the best of Larnaca.
The city’s calling card is its stretch of sand and promenade lined with palm trees, the Finikoudes, where locals and tourists come to relax on the beach, take a stroll at sunset and try the local cuisine in one of the many restaurants and cafés. Whilst it can get very busy here in the summer, you only need to take a short walk to the centre for a more peaceful atmosphere. The old Turkish quarter of Skala takes you back to how Cyprus once was, and although this area may seem fairly dilapidated, the old whitewashed houses are finally starting to be restored and the narrow side streets have some interesting ceramic shops.
The best known monument in Larnaca is the church of Agios Lazaros, Saint Lazarus, built on the site where the saint is said to have been buried when he died. Dating back to the 9th century, the church has been extremely well preserved both internally and externally.
Also worth a visit are the Djami Kebir Mosque, the first Ottoman mosque to be built in Cyprus, and Larnaca Castle, a fortress on the seafront that defended the city for centuries. Today it houses the Medieval Museum and offers stunning views of the coast.
Moving away from the centre of Larnaca, towards the airport, you can visit the impressive Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, which includes a mausoleum, a minaret and a cemetery. To the west of the city you’ll find the Kamares Aqueduct, constructed by the Ottomans in 1747, and with 33 of its arches still intact. A truly amazing sight not to be missed.
