Larnaca is a city on the southern coast of Cyprus and the third-largest city in the country, after Nicosia and Limassol, with an approximate population of 144,200. Larnaca is known for its beautiful palm-tree seafront. The coastal promenade – known as the Finikoudes – is where locals and visitors come together for a morning coffee or an evening drink to enjoy the sunset. It’s a lively hub, with restaurants, cafes and bars, and transforms into a beehive during the summer. Larnaca counts numerous important sights such as the Hala Sultan Tekke, the Kamares Aqueduct, and Larnaca Castle which was built on the ruins of ancient Citium, which was the birthplace of Stoic philosopher Zeno. Larnaca is home to the country's primary airport, Larnaca International Airport.
Take a few steps inland where a less tourism-centered side of Larnaka unfolds. The modern downtown district has stayed determinedly local while the old Turkish quarter of Skala displays quaintly dilapidated buildings. Important relics of the past are the Byzantine church of Agios Lazaros and Larnaka’s little fort, both of which have kept an eye on the town for centuries. Top attractions in Larnaca include Zenobia where a Swedish-built cargo ship sank just off the coast of Larnaka in 1980, leaving behind one of the top five wreck dives in the world, scattered across the seafloor like a bizarre underwater scrapyard!
Cyprus is a mixing pot of cultures that is geographically located in Asia but has clear ties to Europe. With its Mediterranean good looks, the island of Cyprus is the fourth popular destination to visit in the world. Sun-soaked beaches await you to discover them in an island of unremarkable beauty, culture, and history. Cyprus is a truly irresistible destination with electable cuisines, pristine beaches, sunny weather, and wonderful historic sights.
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