Larnaca

Larnaca is located on the south coast, the third largest town on the island and it is one of the most popular coastal resorts in Cyprus. The home to Cyprus' second busiest port as well as the island's New International Airport.

Motorways linking Paphos and the Famagusta towns including Nicosia the Capital all intersect on the outskirts of the town.

The town's attractive waterfront hosts numerous concerts, exhibitions and cultural events and its Marina attracts yachts from all over the world.

Coffee houses and cafes are very popular in the Cypriot culture and still today the old men gather at the village coffee shop to gossip and play backgammon. Today the new generation still gathers at these places to relax and chat with friends.

It's nightlife is quite lively most of the action takes place on the seafront Promenade. An abundance of restaurants line the streets and alleyways of this charming town and visitors and locals can sample international and the local culinary that are set in traditional Cypriot old houses.

Chain stores, exclusive boutiques and small personalized shops are not located centrally but scattered throughout the town so you will have to walk or drive through the small roads.

Larnaca was ancient capital known then as Kition, excavations indicate that it dates back to around 2000BC. Due to its rich history there are many places of interest to visit.

Golf course at nearby Tersefanou Village.

Sites

• The ancient city of Kition - An attraction for those interested in times gone bye.
• Saint Lazarus Church - The stunning stonework on the Byzantine church is an example of excellent workmanship done in the 10th century. It is located on Agios Lazaros Square, and is also the resting place of the saint. On the site you can also visit the Byzantine Museum which features a small collection on religious relics.
• Larnaca Salt Lake - Hard to miss as it is the first thing you will see on arrival to Cyprus. It is a complex of four lakes forming one and is Cyprus' most important wetland. In the summer the lake is bone dry but in winter flamingos and other migratory birds stopover.
• Hala Sultan Tekke - Built in 1816 over the tomb of the Umm Haram, the Prophet Mohammed's aunt and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Muslim world.
• Phinikoudes - The most popular area in Larnaca. A long strip of beach off the town center with dark sand and shallow waters. The palm tree lined seafront is the best place for a walk in the early evenings. This is also the main beach area of Larnaca and directly opposite are the towns most popular venues - bars, cafes and a few restaurants. This is where the locals go on the weekends to have their coffee and cake.The Fort and Marina are located on both opposite ends of the promenade and are worth visiting.
• Kamares - A remarkable stone built wall dating back to the 18th century.
• Stavrovouni Monastry - One of the oldest monasteries in Cyprus. It was built on the peak of a steep mountain and has stunning views of the island. Entry into the main monastery walls is forbidden to women but you can still light a candle in the entrance to the chapel.
• Mackenzie Beach - Not far from the airport, this beach is popular with the locals. Close to all amenities and from here you can do a bit of plane spotting! A large number of restaurants line the beach area.
• Faros Beach, Pervolia - Approx 10km from Larnaca, towards Kiti and close to Pervolia village, this sandy beach is located off the beaten track. Going down to the beach from the main road the coastal cliff gives you excellent views around the bay. A couple of tavernas nearby, and it is busy at the weekends.

Museums

• Larnaka District Archaeological Museum - interesting collection dating from the Neolithic era to Roman times
• Larnaka District Mediaval Museum – displays from early Christian, Byzantine and Ottoman periods
• Larnaka Municipal Gallery – hosts exhibitions by local and international artistis
• Pierides Foundation Museum – a collection of mediaval, Byzantine Frankis and Roman exhibits
• Tornaritis Pierides Municipal Museum of Palaeontologhy – unique collection of shells and fossils.

Art

• There are a few galleries,each displays beautiful works by local and imported artists of varying styles (the Municipal Art Gallery, Heliotropio and the Kyriaki Goni Gallery).

Family Fun

• Karting Centre (mini go kart track), Bowling, Kids world (adventure park), Mozotos Camel Park (day by the pool and riding a camel), Tourist Submarine (a sea trip in a submarine) or an organized fishing cruise.