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Larnaca

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Looking along the coast of Larnaca, you might think that you have stepped back in Roman times as you gaze upon the ancient fort, the historical quarter, and the other beautiful buildings that line the waters, which in turn provide a reflection of the skyline. Not only is Larnaca a perfect place to enjoy tropical weather and beaches but it’s also a city filled with history as Lazarus was the city’s first bishop. Modern day Larnaca is full of people working among the palm tree settings and it also has an international airport. It is this airport which makes Larnaca a gateway for the rest of the country. The entire atmosphere of Larnaca is centered on relaxation. Here you will find some of the friendliest people you will ever meet in one of the most charming places on earth!

Areas

Although there are no formal distinctions between areas of the city, you will find that different areas are very different from others. You will find areas with ancient ruins along the southern end of the city, and the promenade with its many shops, restaurants and beaches just beyond that.

Weather

Visiting Larnaca at any time of the year is sure to bring you pleasant weather. The winter months generally see a high of eighteen degrees Celsius and the summer months see weather that is hot and dry with calm and cooling breezes coming from the ocean. The temperature in the summer months reaches approximately thirty-five degrees Celsius. Larnaca is not a destination that sees many storms however, it has been known to rain or snow in the winter.

Average Temperatures

F/C	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
F	53	53	56	62	69	75	80	80	77	71	63	56
C	12	12	13	17	21	24	27	27	25	22	17	13

Getting There

By Plane

Because Larnaca lies on the island of Cyprus most visitors come to the island by airplane. Entering the city through Larnaca International Airport is easy and the free short-term parking that is available as soon as you walk out the doors makes it possible to hail a cab quickly and in just five short kilometers, you will be in the city of Larnaca.

By Bus

If you want a cheaper way to get to the city, Intercity buses are available and they will also take you close to wherever you want to go. Passports and visas are generally not required for visiting Larnaca for a period that is shorter than three months. However, if you’re planning a visit, it’s advisable to look into specific entry requirements.

Getting Around

By Taxi

Driving in Larnaca is possible but visitors are cautioned about using the local taxis. Drivers are required by law to charge by a metered total but many will not use their meters, giving instead a flat rate which may or may not be fair. Drivers that do charge by the meter will charge sixty-five cents to get into the taxi, approximately twenty-two cents per kilometer and there are sometimes other charges such as a night driving charge.

On Foot

Larnaca is a small town so unless you are travelling to surrounding cities and towns, you should be able to walk just about anywhere you want to go. It’s also important to remember that choosing to get around any other way than on foot may cause you to miss the best parts of the town such as the Larnaca Promenade.

Sights & Activities

Agios Lazaros Church

Perhaps one of the most historical churches in the entire world, you simply can't take a trip to Larnaca without visiting this amazing site! The site is a memorial to Lazarus, who lived in the city in ancient times and was even the city's first bishop. The church will astound you as you read and hear about how it was constructed after the emperor of Byzantium Leon VI Sophos ordered Lazarus' remains to be taken back to Constantinople. The emperor built this church in exchange for his remains. Inside the church you will find different ironwork, a beautiful altar, and the tomb of Lazarus, whose body can now be found in Marseilles.

The Salt Lakes

These are man-made lakes in Larnaca that absolutely must be visited on any trip to the city. If you happen to visit in different seasons and visit the lakes on both visits, you are sure to see something quite different! The lakes are made up of water and saline. During the summer months, they look very much like other Mediterranean lakes however, during the summer months the water dries up almost completely. What is left behind is a thin layer of salt, with perhaps a small amount of water in the center.

Old Larnaca

Visiting Old Larnaca is like visiting another time in another world. Here walk down narrow streets while looking at architecture that varies from old to new and is sometimes a combination of both! Cafes and residential homes can be found here and these too are exquisite as you will see many homes with arched doorways and vines climbing up every wall. Also in Old Larnaca is a mosque, which is open to the public. Be sure to dress properly before entering the mosque. For the locals that means women wearing skirts or shorts that are no higher than the knee and no jeans of any kind.

Larnaca Promenade

Not only is the Larnaca Promenade high on the list of favorites for visitors to Larnaca but there are also many things that can be done just by strolling down it. Here check out historical statues and plaques, taste some treats in any one of the fine cafes, visit one of the museums that sit on each end, or simply take a nice relaxing walk along the beach that it lines.

Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque

This mosque is considered to be the most important in Larnaca due to the fact that the Prophet Muhammad's nurse lived here. Her name was Hala Sultan and while in battle during the siege of Larnaca, she fell off the mule she was riding and died. Her body was buried near Larnaca Salt Lake and this mosque was originally built to be a shrine to her.