There are such a lot of wonderful issues to do in Larnaca, the full of life and exquisite 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 residing 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 typically 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 incredible foods and drinks scene. So, let’s check out the perfect issues to do in Larnaca Cyprus.
Finest Issues To Do in Larnaca
Larnaca is one in every of my favourite cities in Cyprus, and it’s filled with enjoyable issues to do. It has its personal worldwide airport and it’s additionally a terrific base to be positioned when you’re seeking to discover the remainder of the island.
I’ve put collectively an inventory of the perfect issues to do in Larnaca that will help you make the perfect 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
The most effective 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 wonderful.
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 high quality, comfortable sand. The ocean is superbly clear and heat many of the 12 months.
As a metropolis seashore, it additionally has all of the facilities you could possibly need. From loungers and parasols to loads of bars and eating places. It’s the center of town and some of the well-liked locations to go in Larnaca for locals and vacationers alike.
2. Take a Troodos Mountain Wine Tasting Tour
The most effective methods to get to know a brand new place is thru its wine. Cyprus is house 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 wonderful day-long tour of the Troodos Mountains. You’ll get to go to the unimaginable, conventional city of Omodos in addition to a sequence 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 a whole lot of enjoyable – an ideal day trip for {couples} seeking to delight their senses.
☞ SEE ALSO: When to Go to Cyprus (Finest Climate and Prices)
3. Cycle the Larnaca Salt Lake
Larnaca is house to not one however 4 salt lakes, and collectively they’re thought-about some of the essential wetlands in Cyprus. It’s some of the spectacular issues to see in Larnaca, significantly throughout the winter season (from November to March), when tens of 1000’s of flamingos descend on the lakes.
The most effective 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 some 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 among the prime 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 were 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 a number of tropical and brightly coloured fish so that you can swim amongst – it’s really magical.
☞ SEE ALSO: 10 Finest Climbing 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 among 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 stay in Larnaca for the subsequent 30 years. After his demise, he was buried beneath the Church within the sanctuary.
The church is gorgeous each inside and outside and is unquestionably price a go to – it’s positively the most effective issues to do in Larnaca. There’s a Byzantine museum subsequent door to the church, which homes essential non secular relics and artifacts.
6. Study to Make Halloumi Cheese
What higher strategy 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, some 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 attractive, conventional village well-known for Cypriot lace making. The tour consists of all charges and door-to-door pickup. Study extra right here.
7. Discover Cape Greco Nationwide Park
The shoreline round Larnaca is a number of the most spectacular on the island and exploring it’s one in every of my favourite issues to do close to Larnaca. One of the best ways to discover is with this wonderful 4-hour tour of Cape Greco.
This tour will take you to a number 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 alleged 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 strategy to discover.
8. Take a Champagne Sundown Cruise
One other nice strategy to discover the Larnaca shoreline is, in fact, by boat. For those who’re visiting with a associate, taking a sundown tour is among 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 be taught extra about this highly-rated journey.
9. Uncover the Thrilling Historical past of Paphos
For those who fancy getting out of town, Paphos is among the greatest locations to go to close to Larnaca. Paphos is filled with historical sights and is a superb place to go to when you’re into historical past.
This full-day tour to Paphos will take you to many alternative websites in at some point, so that you needn’t fear about discovering your approach 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 incredible tour consists of pick-up out of your lodge in Larnaca together with knowledgeable driver and information to help you along with your journey. It’s a terrific, simple approach of exploring the traditional websites of Paphos.
10. Have Enjoyable at Ayia Napa Water Park
Ayia Napa is house to the incredible WaterWorld Water Park which is among the greatest 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 a terrific lazy river and small water playgrounds for smaller children.
In the summertime months, it could possibly 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.
For those who’re popping out of season (outdoors of June-September) verify the web site for opening occasions. You’ll probably not should 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 among the most spectacular locations to see in Larnaca, used all through the Ottoman and Venetian eras.
Through the British occupation, the Fort was used as a jail till the center of the twentieth century, with the primary flooring used to execute prisoners.
In 1948, it took up a somewhat much less ugly goal and now features as an intensive museum. The courtyard and facade are beautiful too. The doorway prices simply €2.50, so it’s the most effective locations to go in Larnaca on a finances to be taught some historical past.
12. Take a Meals Tour within the Mountains
For those who’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 a terrific tour, and it looks like nice worth since you cease off at 5 completely different areas. 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 positively received’t return to Larnaca feeling hungry. The tour consists of entrance and tasting charges, transport, and lunch with drinks, so it’s wonderful worth.
13. Dive the Zenobia Wreck
For those who’re a diver, you received’t wish to miss visiting the Zenobia Wreck. It’s the most effective issues to do in Larnaca and Cyprus as a complete when 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 typically named one of many greatest wreck diving websites on the earth, so when you’re a eager diver, it’s not one to overlook.
Resting on its facet, it’s a terrific web site for divers of all expertise ranges, with a possibility to view the 120 automobiles which sank alongside along with her.
It’s an enormous wreck to discover, and you could possibly simply do a couple of dives on the market and see one thing new each time. Examine the PADI web site for extra particulars.
14. Absorb the Solar at Mackenzie Seashore
Mackenzie Seashore is a beautiful stretch of high quality, 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 among the greatest 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’ll be able to simply spend the entire day right here, absorbing the solar and when you merely pitch your towel on the sand, it’s the most effective free issues to do in Larnaca.
If you wish to seize a chunk to eat, or simply take pleasure in a drink with a view, I like to recommend Ammos for his or her wonderful 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.
For those who love wine, you’ll go to the small household vineyard in Kato Drys and style some conventional Cypriot wine and be taught all concerning the trade of winemaking in Cyprus.
For the historical past buffs, you’ll be taught 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 extremely nice expertise to be taught extra about Cypriot tradition. Study extra concerning the day journey right here.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Larnaca
Listed below are a couple of itineraries to assist present a place to begin when planning what to do in Larnaca. These embrace a number of the greatest issues to do in Larnaca in addition to some day journeys exploring the remainder of Cyprus.
1 Day in Larnaca Itinerary
For those who’ve solely acquired at some point in Larnaca, and also you’re a eager diver, you must positively dive the Zenobia Wreck. It’s the most effective wreck diving spots on the earth, so that you shouldn’t miss that.
For those who’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 must 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 can enable you to get to know the world and discover your approach round.
On the second day of your journey, I like to recommend heading into the Troodos Mountains. For those who’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 can both go to close by Cape Greko Nationwide Park and awe on the crystal clear water and sea caves or ebook a snorkeling tour to find beneath the floor.
1 Week in Larnaca Itinerary
In a single week, you’ll be able to discover fairly a little bit of Larnaca and the encircling areas in Cyprus.
Along with the issues listed within the 2-3 day itinerary, I positively advocate a day journey to the neighboring metropolis of Limassol. It’s shut by, and it has a totally completely different really feel to Larnaca. Take a look at my weblog put up, 15 Finest Issues to Do in Limassol for some inspiration.
One other good thing to do close to Larnaca is to go wine tasting. Larnaca could be very near the Troodos Mountains, the place wine has been made for 1000’s of years. This tour is great, and the wines are scrumptious.
As you have got a little bit longer, you could possibly be a part of a biking tour of the Salt Lake. It’s tremendous spectacular and when you’re visiting between November and March, you’ll probably see flamingos. It’s an excellent enjoyable strategy to discover the lake and takes in a number of different Larnaca vacationer sights too.
In case you are keen 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 couple of of the perfect neighborhoods in Larnaca for vacationers.
Skala – Finest for Tradition and Nightlife
The Skala is the Previous Turkish Quarter and connects town middle to the Mackenzie neighborhood.
Not like the remainder of Larnaca, it’s distinguished by two-story homes and slim streets and is sort of like village life proper in the course of town. The homes are peppered with good eating places and bars. I like to recommend Stefanos Fish Tavern for a tasty however reasonably priced dinner.
Considered one of my favourite lodging is this beautiful fashionable residence which is simply 5 minutes from the seashore.
Metropolis Middle – Finest 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 superb base.
Right here, you’re near a number of the fundamental Larnaca sights together with Finikoudes Seashore and the Church of Saint Lazarus, in addition to the primary buying road.
My selection of residence is this beautiful suite which has a incredible location.
Mackenzie Seashore – Finest 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, but it surely’s nice for getting away from the thrill of town for a calming retreat.
Whereas it’s out of city, this doesn’t imply there aren’t some nice eating places and bars. The truth is, you’ll discover some wonderful 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 a terrific possibility for these with youthful kids.
I like this Seashore-Zen residence which is true on the seashore.
Finest Eating places in Larnaca
The meals in Cyprus is incredible, and Larnaca has some wonderful eating places. Don’t miss these nice locations to eat in Larnaca.
Ammos Seashore Bar
It is a nice possibility for lunch on the seashore, or for dinner in a stunning setting. The inside and ambiance at night time is romantic and chilled, and throughout the day there’s a beautiful outside seating space to calm down and seize a salad.
What stands out at Ammos is the contemporary fish dishes. The oysters are incredible, and the sushi is a number of the greatest on the island.
Maqam Al-Sultan Restaurant
This nice Lebanese restaurant is true reverse the seashore and serves a number of the greatest Lebanese meals I’ve ever tried. The worth is on the upper facet of mid-range, however the high quality is great. 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 every thing. The meals is so contemporary and scrumptious, you received’t remorse it.
Souvlaki.gr
You’re going to should 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 perfect restaurant in Larnaca”. However, if you’d like tasty Greek souvlaki, that is the place to go.
The service is wonderful, and the meals is SO good. Not solely that, however the parts are big, and it’s one of many least expensive locations to eat in Larnaca. Ensure you strive their particular sauce along with your meal.
Issues To Do in Larnaca: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Larnaca.
Larnaca is thought for its beautiful stretches of golden sand and clear water, and for the divers amongst us, the Zenobia Ship Wreck, which is among the greatest wreck diving websites on the earth.
The very best time to go to Larnaca is Could to Mid-June or in September to keep away from the crowds. Whereas the seashores and eating places will probably be busier in summer time, June-August, the climate is sunny and scorching and ideal for sunbathing.
Undoubtedly. There are such a lot of nice issues to do in Larnaca, and it’s a terrific base for visiting close by cities and villages. It’s additionally a terrific 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 can see Larnaca in a weekend or over a couple of days. Nonetheless, if you wish to discover extra of Cyprus it’s a terrific place to base your self for day journeys, a lot of that are featured on this put up.
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 a terrific place to go to in Cyprus in its personal proper, but additionally as a spot to base your self to see the remainder of the island. It’s house to some beautiful nature and shoreline, in addition to some wonderful nightlife and locations to eat.
I hope this weblog helps you propose what to do in Larnaca throughout your go to to Cyprus.
See extra Cyprus posts right here:
15 Finest Eating places in Limassol
15 Finest Airbnbs in Limassol
25 Finest Locations to Go to in Cyprus
15 Enjoyable Issues To Do in Paphos
15 High Issues To Do in Limassol
15 Attention-grabbing Issues To Do in Nicosia