Larnaca, Cyprus, is great place to visit, when you want to experience for few days a blend of beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Easily accessible via its international airport, it offers a range of attractions from the ancient Church of Saint Lazarus to the bustling Finikoudes Promenade.
Also, Larnaca is a great start to explore a bit of Cyprus and get a real feel for the island.
How to get there?
Larnaca International Airport (LCA) is the main gateway to Cyprus and it’s located about 4 km southwest of Larnaca city center. Numerous international airlines have direct flights from major cities in Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
Flights with discount airlines like the one we took, are usually late at night, so you will either need a rental car or a taxi.
Rental Car
We have experience with a local car rental company Aercar Rentals and with the international Budget Car Rental.
Aercar Rentals were definitely better, service and pricewise. Negative point is that the desk is not directly in the airport, but you would need to take a free shuttle bus from the airport to their office. However, the experience and the car were better.
Budget Car Rental Desk is directly in the airport, that’s the positive. However, the car park is older and prices are higher.
There are few things you need to consider while Driving in Cyprus, our practical tips offer some help.
Once you get there, in just few days, you can explore the city that’s pretty walkable.
If you intend to have just a short trip to Cyprus, for example a long weekend, here is our
3-Day Itinerary for Larnaca, Cyprus
Day 1: Exploring Larnaca
Morning:
- Finikoudes Beach and Promenade
- Start your day with a walk along the palm-lined Finikoudes Promenade and enjoy the morning sun at Finikoudes Beach.
- Grab a coffee and a light breakfast at one of the beachfront cafes.
- Church of Saint Lazarus
- Visit the 9th-century Church of Saint Lazarus, famous for its beautiful architecture and the tomb of Saint Lazarus.
Lunch:
- Traditional Cypriot Taverna
- Enjoy a traditional Cypriot lunch at a local taverna, sampling dishes like souvlaki, halloumi, and meze platters.
Afternoon:
- Larnaca Castle
- Explore the medieval Larnaca Castle, which also houses the Larnaca Medieval Museum.
- Enjoy the views of the Mediterranean Sea from the castle walls.
- Pierides Museum
- Visit the Pierides Museum to learn about Cypriot culture and history through its extensive collection of artifacts.
Evening:
- Larnaca Salt Lake and Hala Sultan Tekke
- Visit the Larnaca Salt Lake, especially beautiful at sunset, and see the Hala Sultan Tekke, an important Muslim shrine located nearby.
Night:
- Seafront Dinner
- Have dinner at one of the restaurants along the Finikoudes Promenade, enjoying fresh seafood and local cuisine.
Day 2: Day Trip to Ayia Napa and Nissi Beach
Morning:
- Travel to Ayia Napa
- Drive or take a bus to Ayia Napa, which is about a 40-minute drive from Larnaca.
- Nissi Beach
- Spend the morning relaxing at the famous Nissi Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand.
- Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Lunch:
- Beachside Lunch
- Have lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants or cafes at Nissi Beach, enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
Afternoon:
- Cape Greco National Park
- Visit Cape Greco National Park, located nearby. Explore the stunning cliffs, sea caves, and hiking trails.
- Consider a boat tour to see the Blue Lagoon and the sea caves from the water.
Evening:
- Ayia Napa Monastery and Town Center
- Visit the historic Ayia Napa Monastery in the town center.
- Explore the vibrant Ayia Napa town, filled with shops, cafes, and bars.
Night:
- Return to Larnaca
- Head back to Larnaca for the night.
Day 3: Machairas Monastery and Surrounding Area
Morning:
- Travel to Machairas Monastery
- Drive to Machairas Monastery, which is about an hour’s drive from Larnaca, located in the Troodos Mountains.
- Machairas Monastery
- Explore the beautiful Machairas Monastery, known for its rich history and religious significance.
- Learn about the legend of the Machairotissa icon and the founding of the monastery.
Lunch:
- Lunch in a Mountain Village
- Have lunch in a nearby mountain village like Lefkara or Kato Drys. Enjoy traditional Cypriot dishes in a scenic setting.
Afternoon:
- Lefkara Village
- Visit the charming village of Lefkara, famous for its lace-making and silver crafts.
- Wander the picturesque streets, visit the local shops, and perhaps buy some handmade lace or silver items as souvenirs.
- Return to Larnaca
- Drive back to Larnaca in the late afternoon.
Evening:
- Mackenzie Beach
- Spend your final evening at Mackenzie Beach, known for its lively atmosphere.
- Enjoy a walk along the beach and have dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants, savoring fresh seafood and local cuisine.
Night:
- Finikoudes Promenade
- Conclude your trip with a leisurely evening stroll along the Finikoudes Promenade, soaking in the night-time ambiance of Larnaca.
Have enjoyable visit to Larnaca, Cyprus!
