There are such a lot of superb issues to do in Larnaca, the energetic and delightful beach-front metropolis on the south coast of Cyprus. Larnaca boasts golden sand seashores, attention-grabbing historical past, and a very good location for exploring the remainder of Cyprus.
I’ve spent round 4 months dwelling in Cyprus as a digital nomad, and I cherished exploring the completely different cities and villages this small island has to supply.
Throughout my time in Cyprus, I used to be principally primarily based in Limassol however usually ventured over to Larnaca, which I name Limassol’s extra laid-back neighbor.
Together with some actually enjoyable stuff to do in Larnaca, it additionally has a improbable food and drinks scene. So, let’s check out the most effective issues to do in Larnaca Cyprus.
Greatest Issues To Do in Larnaca
Larnaca is one in every of my favourite cities in Cyprus, and it’s stuffed with enjoyable issues to do. It has its personal worldwide airport and it’s additionally an incredible base to be positioned in the event you’re trying to discover the remainder of the island.
I’ve put collectively a listing of the most effective issues to do in Larnaca that can assist you make the most effective of your time right here. For extra particulars on touring to Cyprus, don’t miss my in-depth information.
1. Spend the Day at Finikoudes Seashore
Among the best issues to do in Larnaca is to move to the seashore. As a coastal city, it has a protracted shoreline and though it might come as a shock to some, its metropolis seashores are glorious.
Finikoudes Seashore is within the coronary heart of Larnaca. It’s backed by palm bushes and a promenade. The seashore itself is clear, spacious, and blanketed in nice, comfortable sand. The ocean is superbly clear and heat a lot of the 12 months.
As a metropolis seashore, it additionally has all of the facilities you can need. From loungers and parasols to loads of bars and eating places. It’s the center of the town and one of the well-liked locations to go in Larnaca for locals and vacationers alike.
2. Take a Troodos Mountain Wine Tasting Tour
Among the best methods to get to know a brand new place is thru its wine. Cyprus is residence to the oldest named wine nonetheless in manufacturing in Commanderia. It’s a dessert wine, (so don’t strive it as a refreshing drink on the seashore).
Head into the center of the wine-making nation in Cyprus with this superb day-long tour of the Troodos Mountains. You’ll get to go to the unimaginable, conventional city of Omodos in addition to a collection of wineries on this well-known wine-growing area.
In all, you’ll get to strive 15 completely different wines, together with Commanderia. Water, espresso, and snacks are additionally included within the worth, and also you’ll be delivered again to your lodging on the finish of the day. A superb tour and lots of enjoyable – an ideal day trip for {couples} trying to delight their senses.
☞ SEE ALSO: When to Go to Cyprus (Greatest Climate and Prices)
3. Cycle the Larnaca Salt Lake
Larnaca is residence to not one however 4 salt lakes, and collectively they’re thought of one of the essential wetlands in Cyprus. It’s one of the spectacular issues to see in Larnaca, notably throughout the winter season (from November to March), when tens of 1000’s of flamingos descend on the lakes.
Among the best methods to discover the lakes is by bike. In addition to the picturesque lakes, you’ll cease off on the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque and the attractive Kamares Aqueduct.
Cease for a espresso at Mackenzie seashore earlier than heading again to the middle of Larnaca. It’s one of the enjoyable issues to do in Larnaca, and it retains you match too!
4. Go Snorkeling
For me, exploring the unimaginable snorkeling spots is likely one of the high issues to do in Larnaca. There are some unimaginable areas to find alongside this coast of Cyprus.
First, is the brand new underwater museum within the Cape Greco space. Right here you’ll discover 93 completely different statutes which have been creatively positioned to create an underwater forest to be found.
Barely additional up the coast is a smaller museum with statues, which is a well-liked hangout for Inexperienced and Loggerhead turtles. The statutes additionally entice numerous tropical and brightly coloured fish so that you can swim amongst – it’s really magical.
☞ SEE ALSO: 10 Greatest Mountaineering Trails in Cyprus (For All Ranges)
5. Uncover the Church of St Lazarus
The attractive stone church of Agios Lazaros, or the Church of Saint Lazarus, is likely one of the most spectacular locations to go to in Larnaca. It’s an unimaginable instance of Byzantine structure and sits proudly in its personal sq. within the middle of city.
It’s stated that Saint Lazarus got here to Cyprus after he was resurrected by Jesus, and he continued to reside in Larnaca for the subsequent 30 years. After his dying, he was buried beneath the Church within the sanctuary.
The church is gorgeous each inside and outside and is certainly price a go to – it’s undoubtedly among the best issues to do in Larnaca. There’s a Byzantine museum subsequent door to the church, which homes essential non secular relics and artifacts.
6. Be taught to Make Halloumi Cheese
What higher option to get a real understanding of conventional Cypriot life than by studying to make one in every of their hottest exports?
This fascinating cheese-making and meals tour takes you into the unimaginable Troodos Mountains, one of the lovely locations to go to close to Larnaca.
You’ll begin your meals journey at a cheese-making workshop in a conventional native village, the place you’ll make halloumi and anari cheese. That is adopted by brunch, the place you’ll mix your hand-made cheese with different native delicacies.
After brunch, you’ll proceed into the mountain countryside to go to a neighborhood honey producer, and also you’ll see some merchandise made with donkey milk. The tour concludes in an exquisite, conventional village well-known for Cypriot lace making. The tour consists of all charges and door-to-door pickup. Be taught extra right here.
7. Discover Cape Greco Nationwide Park
The shoreline round Larnaca is a few of the most spectacular on the island and exploring it’s one in every of my favourite issues to do close to Larnaca. The easiest way to discover is with this glorious 4-hour tour of Cape Greco.
This tour will take you to a few of the best-hidden treasures in Cape Greco together with the unimaginable sea caves. The caves seem as majestic home windows carved into the rocks and provide unimaginable views over the turquoise-blue ocean past.
You’ll soak up Love Bridge (Monachus Arch) – sharing a kiss on the bridge is claimed to make your needs come true – and could have the prospect to see the beautiful Ayioi Anargyroi Chapel perched on the cliffs. It’s a surprising a part of Cyprus and this Larnaca sightseeing tour is the proper option to discover.
8. Take a Champagne Sundown Cruise
One other nice option to discover the Larnaca shoreline is, in fact, by boat. If you happen to’re visiting with a companion, taking a sundown tour is likely one of the most romantic issues to do within the metropolis.
This 2-hour sundown cruise takes you out on a cushty yacht with an skilled skipper. The views over the ocean are as lovely because the sunsets, and also you’ll take pleasure in each whereas sipping on a glass of champagne, wine, or beer. The selection is yours.
Not solely will you get to benefit from the excellent views, however the boat will anchor, and also you’ll get the chance to view the sundown from the water. There’s additionally snorkel gear on board which you should utilize at your leisure. Click on right here to study extra about this highly-rated journey.
9. Uncover the Thrilling Historical past of Paphos
If you happen to fancy getting out of the town, Paphos is likely one of the finest locations to go to close to Larnaca. Paphos is stuffed with historic points of interest and is a good place to go to in the event you’re into historical past.
This full-day tour to Paphos will take you to many alternative websites in in the future, so that you needn’t fear about discovering your method across the metropolis by your self. You’ll go to Kolossi Fortress, the traditional Amphitheater, and the traditional sea stack – Aphrodite’s Rock – believed to be the birthplace of the goddess of affection herself.
This improbable tour consists of pick-up out of your resort in Larnaca together with an expert driver and information to help you together with your journey. It’s an incredible, simple method of exploring the traditional websites of Paphos.
10. Have Enjoyable at Ayia Napa Water Park
Ayia Napa is residence to the improbable WaterWorld Water Park which is likely one of the finest issues to do in Larnaca for households.
They’ve rides for all ages from tremendous speedy tubes, to enjoyable inflatable household rides. There’s additionally an incredible lazy river and small water playgrounds for smaller youngsters.
In the summertime months, it may get actually busy, so I like to recommend arriving simply earlier than it opens to get in earlier than the crowds and reserving a ticket on-line previous to your go to.
If you happen to’re popping out of season (outdoors of June-September) examine the web site for opening occasions. You’ll seemingly not need to line up all day.
11. Go to the Larnaca Medieval Fort
Proper by Finikoudes Seashore, you’ll discover the Medieval Fort of Larnaca which is likely one of the most spectacular locations to see in Larnaca, used all through the Ottoman and Venetian eras.
In the course of the British occupation, the Fort was used as a jail till the center of the twentieth century, with the primary ground used to execute prisoners.
In 1948, it took up a slightly much less grotesque goal and now capabilities as an intensive museum. The courtyard and facade are attractive too. The doorway prices simply €2.50, so it’s among the best locations to go in Larnaca on a funds to study some historical past.
12. Take a Meals Tour within the Mountains
If you happen to’re a foodie, you’ll love this distinctive tour of the Troodos Mountains. It’s one in every of my favourite issues to do in Larnaca.
You’ll be picked up out of your lodging and brought to a couple villages hidden throughout the mountains. Right here you’ll go to locals making conventional meals and get to style some Cypriot delicacies.
It’s an incredible tour, and it seems like nice worth since you cease off at 5 completely different places. You’ll eat specialties like halloumi cheese, olive oil, wine, and conventional sweets, (meals on provide change relying on the season).
You’ll additionally take pleasure in a tasty meze lunch while you’re on this tour – you undoubtedly gained’t return to Larnaca feeling hungry. The tour consists of entrance and tasting charges, transport, and lunch with drinks, so it’s glorious worth.
13. Dive the Zenobia Wreck
If you happen to’re a diver, you gained’t wish to miss visiting the Zenobia Wreck. It’s among the best issues to do in Larnaca and Cyprus as an entire in the event you like to dive.
The Zenobia is a RO-RO ferry that sank in 1980 on its maiden voyage off the coast of Limassol. It’s usually named one of many finest wreck diving websites on this planet, so in the event you’re a eager diver, it’s not one to overlook.
Resting on its facet, it’s an incredible web site for divers of all expertise ranges, with a chance to view the 120 automobiles which sank alongside together with her.
It’s an enormous wreck to discover, and you can simply do a number of dives on the market and see one thing new each time. Verify the PADI web site for extra particulars.
14. Take in the Solar at Mackenzie Seashore
Mackenzie Seashore is a beautiful stretch of nice, darkish golden sand with calm and clear shallow water. It’s round 1 km lengthy, and it has each amenity you’d want for the proper seashore day. This is likely one of the finest seashores in Cyprus, and is only a fast stroll from Larnaca.
Alongside the stretch, you’ll discover sunbeds (priced at €2.50 every), showers, a altering room, umbrellas, cafes, bars, and eating places.
You may simply spend the entire day right here, absorbing the solar and in the event you merely pitch your towel on the sand, it’s among the best free issues to do in Larnaca.
If you wish to seize a chew to eat, or simply take pleasure in a drink with a view, I like to recommend Ammos for his or her superb sushi and salads- completely refreshing within the Cypriot solar.
15. Discover the Inside of Cyprus
A lot of conventional Cyprus lies away from the coast and towards the middle of the Island. This nice day tour takes you to the small village of Lefkara, which is legendary traditionally for lace-making and silversmithing.
If you happen to love wine, you’ll go to the small household vineyard in Kato Drys and style some conventional Cypriot wine and study all concerning the trade of winemaking in Cyprus.
For the historical past buffs, you’ll study concerning the historical past of faith on the Ayios Minas monastery and about what life was like in Cyprus, 9000 years in the past at a neolithic settlement. It’s a very nice expertise to study extra about Cypriot tradition. Be taught extra concerning the day journey right here.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Larnaca
Listed below are a number of itineraries to assist present a place to begin when planning what to do in Larnaca. These embrace a few of the finest issues to do in Larnaca in addition to some day journeys exploring the remainder of Cyprus.
1 Day in Larnaca Itinerary
If you happen to’ve solely bought in the future in Larnaca, and also you’re a eager diver, you need to undoubtedly dive the Zenobia Wreck. It’s among the best wreck diving spots on this planet, so that you shouldn’t miss that.
If you happen to’re extra of a beachgoer, head to both Finikoudes or Mackenzie Seashore for a calming morning within the solar.
Within the afternoon, take a stroll alongside the primary promenade alongside Finikoudes seashore to the Medieval Fort, then have a peek on the Church of Saint Lazarus earlier than stopping in for a drink at one of many nice surrounding bars and eating places.
2-3 Days in Larnaca Itinerary
In case you have a little bit longer to spend in Larnaca, then you need to contemplate reserving a day journey to discover the villages outdoors of Larnaca, or visiting close by Paphos.
In your first day, I recommend following the 1-day itinerary. This may provide help to get to know the world and discover your method round.
On the second day of your journey, I like to recommend heading into the Troodos Mountains. If you happen to’re a foodie, this might be on the meals tour, or with a information to discover the native villages.
On the third day, I like to recommend exploring the coast additional past the sandy seashore. You possibly can both go to close by Cape Greko Nationwide Park and awe on the crystal clear water and sea caves or e book a snorkeling tour to find below the floor.
1 Week in Larnaca Itinerary
In a single week, you possibly can discover fairly a little bit of Larnaca and the encompassing areas in Cyprus.
Along with the issues listed within the 2-3 day itinerary, I undoubtedly suggest a day journey to the neighboring metropolis of Limassol. It’s shut by, and it has a very completely different really feel to Larnaca. Try my weblog submit, 15 Greatest Issues to Do in Limassol for some inspiration.
One other good thing to do close to Larnaca is to go wine tasting. Larnaca may be very near the Troodos Mountains, the place wine has been made for 1000’s of years. This tour is superb, and the wines are scrumptious.
As you’ve gotten a little bit longer, you can be a part of a biking tour of the Salt Lake. It’s tremendous spectacular and in the event you’re visiting between November and March, you’ll seemingly see flamingos. It’s an excellent enjoyable option to discover the lake and takes in numerous different Larnaca vacationer points of interest too.
In case you are prepared to move a bit additional afield, there are quite a few issues to do in Nicosia to warrant a full day of exploration.
The place to Keep in Larnaca
These are a number of of the most effective neighborhoods in Larnaca for vacationers.
Skala – Greatest for Tradition and Nightlife
The Skala is the Outdated Turkish Quarter and connects the town middle to the Mackenzie neighborhood.
In contrast to the remainder of Larnaca, it’s distinguished by two-story homes and slender streets and is sort of like village life proper in the midst of the town. The homes are peppered with good eating places and bars. I like to recommend Stefanos Fish Tavern for a tasty however inexpensive dinner.
One in every of my favourite lodging is this beautiful fashionable house which is simply 5 minutes from the seashore.
Metropolis Middle – Greatest for First Time Guests
The realm near Finikoudes Seashore is downtown Larnaca, and it’s the place you’ll discover the center of life in Larnaca. For anyone visiting Larnaca for the primary time, Finikoudes or the close by Marina is a good base.
Right here, you’re near a few of the major Larnaca points of interest together with Finikoudes Seashore and the Church of Saint Lazarus, in addition to the primary procuring avenue.
My selection of house is this gorgeous suite which has a improbable location.
Mackenzie Seashore – Greatest for Households
Mackenzie Seashore is a little bit additional out of city, at round a 30-minute stroll, or a 5-10 minute drive to the middle of city, however it’s nice for getting away from the excitement of the town for a calming retreat.
Whereas it’s out of city, this doesn’t imply there aren’t some nice eating places and bars. In actual fact, you’ll discover some glorious locations to eat in Larnaca dotted alongside the seashore.
The seashore right here is tremendous shallow and clear. 50 m offshore, the water remains to be solely waist excessive, so it’s an incredible possibility for these with youthful kids.
I really like this Seashore-Zen house which is true on the seashore.
Greatest Eating places in Larnaca
The meals in Cyprus is improbable, and Larnaca has some glorious eating places. Don’t miss these nice locations to eat in Larnaca.
Ammos Seashore Bar
This can be a nice possibility for lunch on the seashore, or for dinner in a beautiful setting. The inside and ambiance at evening is romantic and chilled, and throughout the day there’s a beautiful out of doors seating space to calm down and seize a salad.
What stands out at Ammos is the contemporary fish dishes. The oysters are improbable, and the sushi is a few of the finest on the island.
Maqam Al-Sultan Restaurant
This nice Lebanese restaurant is true reverse the seashore and serves a few of the finest Lebanese meals I’ve ever tried. The value is on the upper facet of mid-range, however the high quality is superb. Anticipate to pay round €25-€30 every for meals and drinks.
I like to recommend the platter for one or two, so that you get to strive a little bit of the whole lot. The meals is so contemporary and scrumptious, you gained’t remorse it.
Souvlaki.gr
You’re going to need to belief me on this one, as a result of this little souvlaki joint doesn’t look a lot from the surface, and its title doesn’t actually scream “the most effective restaurant in Larnaca”. However, if you need tasty Greek souvlaki, that is the place to go.
The service is superb, and the meals is SO good. Not solely that, however the parts are large, and it’s one of many least expensive locations to eat in Larnaca. Be sure you strive their particular sauce together with your meal.
Issues To Do in Larnaca: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Larnaca.
Larnaca is understood for its beautiful stretches of golden sand and clear water, and for the divers amongst us, the Zenobia Ship Wreck, which is likely one of the finest wreck diving websites on this planet.
One of the best time to go to Larnaca is Might to Mid-June or in September to keep away from the crowds. Whereas the seashores and eating places can be busier in summer time, June-August, the climate is sunny and scorching and excellent for sunbathing.
Positively. There are such a lot of nice issues to do in Larnaca, and it’s an incredible base for visiting close by cities and villages. It’s additionally an incredible place on the island to get a extra native really feel for issues.
Larnaca is completely different from Paphos. Larnaca has bigger sandy seashores than Paphos, which has a primarily rocky shoreline. Paphos has extra motels and attracts extra vacationers, whereas Larnaca has a bigger inhabitants of locals, so you may get a extra genuine expertise.
You possibly can see Larnaca in a weekend or over a number of days. Nonetheless, if you wish to discover extra of Cyprus it’s an incredible place to base your self for day journeys, lots of that are featured on this submit.
Sure. Finikoudes and Mackenzie seashores are beautiful seashores with darkish golden sand and clear waters to swim and snorkel.
Conclusion
Larnaca will not be solely an incredible place to go to in Cyprus in its personal proper, but in addition as a spot to base your self to see the remainder of the island. It’s residence to some beautiful nature and shoreline, in addition to some glorious nightlife and locations to eat.
I hope this weblog helps you intend what to do in Larnaca throughout your go to to Cyprus.
See extra Cyprus posts right here:
15 Greatest Eating places in Limassol
15 Greatest Airbnbs in Limassol
25 Greatest Locations to Go to in Cyprus
15 Enjoyable Issues To Do in Paphos
15 Prime Issues To Do in Limassol
15 Fascinating Issues To Do in Nicosia