Appreciate the ingenuity of the Ottoman Empire in the collection of ancient treasures at this city near an impressive salt lake. Take a picturesque stroll on the seaside esplanade.
Palm trees line the seafront promenade in the historic city of Larnaca. Visit this coastal municipality known for its scenic sea views and ruins from past dynasties.
One remarkable feature of the area is Larnaca Salt Lake, a huge expanse of water populated by pink flamingoes. In summer, the water evaporates and the surface resembles the moon. Adjoining the lake is the Hala Sultan Tekke, a religious complex that welcomes people from every faith. Explore the site to learn about its place in Islamic history.
West of the city, find the Larnaca Aqueduct, a marvel of Ottoman ingenuity that delivered water from springs and a river for centuries. Its magnificent arches and columns stretch for miles.
Go to the city's historic center to discover ancient gems, such as the Larnaca Fort. Its museum explains the castle’s former life as a place of execution. Next door, the Church of Lazarus, a 9th-century spiritual home, claims to have the tomb of a Biblical figure.
In the historic center you'll also find many restaurants in quaint alleyways near the lively Europe Square. Dine at one of the restaurants to enjoy the local cuisine. Try lamb and beans or one of the seafood options fresh from the Mediterranean Sea.
Amble along the promenade on Finikoudes Beach, the city’s most popular stretch of sand. Reach the northern tip of the beach to find the Larnaca Marina, where you can dive around a shipwreck.
Take a flight to Larnaca International Airport, about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) south of the city. It borders the salt lake and the mosque complex. Riding a taxi or shuttle bus to the city should not take more than 15 minutes. The historic center of Larnaca is manageable on foot, although you can take buses to get around.
Larnaca lays claim to being the country’s oldest city, with 6,000 years of fascinating stories to tell. The city has hot, dry summers and mild winters. Locals speak Greek, but English is widely understood.
