One of the oldest cities in Cyprus, Larnaca is set along a palm-backed promenade on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. It boasts picturesque beaches, ancient ruins, a fascinating old Turkish Quarter and one of the country’s most important Islamic pilgrimage sites.
Things to do in Larnaca
The Old Town of Larnaca is home to the beautiful Agios Lazaros, a 9th-century church where Lazarus was believed to have risen from the dead. The ornate iconostasis is an outstanding example of Baroque woodcarving, while the Byzantine Museum across its courtyard houses an impressive collection of religious icons and relics.
Spend an afternoon exploring the narrow laneways of the old Turkish Quarter, known locally as “Skala”, which has retained much of its traditional character. Colourful window frames adorn the whitewashed cottages where locals have set up shop with ceramic workshops and galleries.
Overlooking Skala is the Larnaca Fort, built in 1625 as the main line of defence during Ottoman rule. It was transformed into a prison during the British colonial period and now houses the Medieval Museum of Larnaca, with a collection of weaponry and old photographs.
A short drive from Old Town is the Larnaca Salt Lake, home to the stunning Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, built to honour prophet Muhammad’s foster mother, Umm Haram. The lake itself is a nature reserve where flamingos come to feed in the spring and has a picturesque walking trail along its perimeter.
Getting around Larnaca
Larnaca International Airport is 10 minutes’ drive south of the city centre and connected by regular city buses. Larnaca is a compact town and easy to explore on foot.