Larnaca, Cyprus

On the edge of Larnaka Bay the palm-lined seafront of Larnaka town bustles with cafes, tavernas, shops and bars. Historic charm is lent to the scene by its fortress castle, now used as the town's summer cultural centre. Larnaka is an excellent base from which to get to know the central and eastern section of Cyprus, and its proximity to the International Airport and a number of luxury hotels that have been developed along its beautiful sandy beaches make this a popular holiday choice. Larnaka was originally known as Kition, or Khittim, and legend has it that the first settlement at the spot was founded by Noah's grandson Khittim. But the name Larnaka probably comes from the Greek word "Larnax", which means sarcophagus many of which have been unearthed in this area.

Learn more about Cyprus

Tourist Attractions- Larnaca

Greek mythology places Cyprus as the birthplace and home to Aphrodite, goddess of love. If the goddess of love made her home in Cyprus, there must be much beauty there. Tourists who chose Cyprus as their vacation destination are in for a treat as they explore this Mediterranean Island that still holds this ancient beauty. One of the popular towns to begin an exploration of the island of Cyprus is Larnaca.

Larnaca, Cyprus is a modern port city and the home to the islands international airport. The airport is a fifteen minute drive to the outstanding accommodations in Larnaca. Tourists can choose to rent apartment accommodations or rent villa accommodations that will make their Cyprus retirement property a comfortable one.

Beaches

Once settled in the apartment or villa, there are many activities and attractions for tourists to explore. There is much to do in Larnaca itself. The town is located on the Mediterranean coast and there are beautiful beaches to discover. The town offers public beaches with facilities to accommodate tourists. Many places rent beach furniture and there are also changing-rooms for sun bathers. Many beaches also have beach side cafes, bars and restaurants with wonderful daytime and nighttime dining.

The beaches are, of course, perfect for sun worshipers, but there are also many activities for the more adventurous. Water sports such as parasailing, windsurfing, and water skiing are all available. Those who enjoy scuba diving will marvel at diving down to the wreck of Zenobia which sits only a few hundred meters off the coast.

Ancient Sites

For those interested in seeing ancient sites, there are many preserved wonders. The Byzantine Church of St. Lazarus dates back to the 9th century. It is said to be built around the tomb of the biblical Lazarus.

The Church of Avia Phaneromeni is an 8th century church that is built next to two tombs that are from the 1st century B.C. Legend has it that the church has a mystical healing power. Those who wish to be healed need to walk around the church three times. Then they need to leave an item of their clothing behind, and legend says they will be healed. There are also beautiful Public Gardens a short walk from the church.

The Great Salt Lake in Larnaca is the home to the Hala Sultan Tekke, a mosque. It is said that Umm Haram, Mohammed’s foster mother, is buried in a tomb there. This shrine is an important Muslim holy site.

Ancient Kition is the site of the ruins of Kition, There are partial remains of five different temples that date as far back as 13th century BC.

Another archeological site is Choirokoitia. The site dates back to 7000 BC and visitors to Choirokoitia can explore elements like the defensive wall of the settlement, ancient tombs and the remains of circular houses. Excavating is continuously being done at the site.

Museums

The Larnaca District Archeological Museum displays many ancient archeological finds that date from the Neolithic Age (4500 BC) to the Roman period. Sculptures, pottery, vases and bronze, clay and glass ornaments can all be viewed while at the museum.

Another museum in Larnaca is the Medieval Museum. It is located in the Larnaca Fort on the seafront. Originally, the building was a prison in the 1600’s and now houses pieces that were excavated from Kitium and Hala Sultan Tekke.

The Great Salt Lake

During the cool months in Cyprus, the Great Salt Lake is a site to behold. It is estimated that over 10,000 pink flamingos make it their home during January and February.

Shopping

The shopping in Larnaca offers something for everyone. For those looking to shop items made by the locals in Larnaca and its surrounding cities, lace is one of the regions famous fabrics. There is also local pottery, leather, woodwork, and metalwork that have been carefully crafted by local artisans.

For those who are looking for something a little less local, there is also mainstream shopping where the latest fashions and gadgets can be bought. One of the regions biggest bargains is optical items. Contact lenses and frames for glasses can be bought at a bargain price.

Dining

For those who choose to rent apartment accommodations or rent villa accommodations in Larnaca, dining out is usually a high priority. Larnaca is home to several five star hotels and resorts so it stands to reason that the dining in the port city is just as good. There are fine dining restaurants located throughout the city; several are located on the beachfront.

There are also many local restaurants that where tourists can sample the local Mediterranean cuisine. The local cuisine closely resembles that of the Greeks and fresh food is prepared daily at the local restaurants by chefs who are looking to show off the regions bountiful foods. One of Larnaca’s specialties is fresh fish because it is located right on the coast.

Tourists who choose to vacation in Larnaca could spend their entire time discovering what the port city has to offer without ever leaving the city limits. However, many choose to make Larnaca just the first stop on their adventure of exploring the beautiful Mediterranean Island of Cyprus. Choosing holiday rentals in Larnaca, Cyprus gives tourists the perfect place to begin their adventure.