Larnaca

Larnaca: a resort with a touch of history

Larnaca, one of the oldest cities in Cyprus, truly boasts a rich history and cultural heritage that stretches back to antiquity. This picturesque seaside town isn’t just about its stunning beaches – it’s also home to incredible historical monuments and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. And if you’re driving a rental car, no need to stress, because there’s plenty of free parking available all around!

Your steps should lead you to the most important monument of the city, the Church of St. Lazarus. Built in the 9th century, St. Lazarus Church is one of the most important monuments of Larnaca. Originally a Byzantine church, it is dedicated to Lazarus, who, according to Christian tradition, died but was resurrected by Jesus Christ.

After his miraculous resurrection, Lazarus lived another 30 years and became the first bishop of Kition (the ancient name of Larnaca). Visiting the church will take you back to the period of Byzantine glory, where you will see old stone walls, massive wooden iconostases and magnificent golden icons.

There is a crypt underground where you can see the tomb believed to be the resting place of Lazarus.

Larnaca harbour and promenade

From the church, you should definitely head down to the promenade and take a leisurely walk along the town beach. While it may not be the ideal spot for a swim, it offers the perfect atmosphere for an early evening stroll, with the calming sound of the waves and a lovely view to enjoy as the sun sets.

Larnaca harbour is the lively heart of the city, where locals and tourists come together. Filled with fishing boats and yachts, the harbour makes for a beautiful setting. Around the harbour stretches the promenade, which is the perfect place for a stroll, a meal or relaxing by the sea.
On the promenade, you will find many restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and traditional Cypriot dishes. Once the sun goes down, the promenade brightens up and becomes a popular place for evening strolls. Moreover, the harbour is also the starting point for boat trips that take you on sightseeing cruises around the area.

This promenade was perfect for us. I’m as stubborn as a lion, Katya is a Leo sign and Martin is our anchor. Whenever we fly away, he’ll pull us back again. Chiara, on the other hand, is a typical Libra and can never make up her mind. And so this placement of the statues accurately depicted our family.

Larnaca Castle

Next to the promenade and the town’s beach, you will find Larnaca Castle, a fascinating historical site with a rich past. Built in the 14th century, the castle served as a defensive fortress against enemy attacks. Today, its walls attract tourists not only for the great views but also for the exhibits you’ll find inside.

From the top of the castle, you can enjoy spectacular views of Larnaca and the surrounding area. However, the kids didn’t really want to go inside, so we just walked around it.

Larnaca Salt Lake

The Larnaca Salt Lake, famous for its size and fascinating ecosystem, is another iconic landmark of the city. You can get here from the centre either by car, public transport or a half-hour walk.

The lake covers an area of 2.2 square kilometres and is home to many species of birds, especially flamingos, which can be seen here in the winter months. During the summer, you can walk along the lake bed and enjoy the scenery and sunsets.

Salt has been mined here since ancient times and today the lake serves as an important ecological and tourist destination. Unlike the salt lake in Limassol, here you will find pink salt. As a bonus, you don’t have to go on any hikes as there is a road and parking lots right next to the lake.

Around the lake, you will find many trails and viewpoints that are ideal not only for walks but also for picnics. When traveling with your teens, the scenery and the photos it yields are the main attraction.

The salt lake in Larnaca is much more accessible and beautiful than the one in Limassol. On the other hand, in Limassol, one has a sense of wildness and the power of nature that Larnaca lake does not have.

Sultan Hala Tekke Mosque

Hala Sultan Tekke is an important Muslim holy site in Cyprus. According to tradition, the Prophet Muhammad’s aunt, who came here with the Arab expeditions, died here. Built in the 7th century, the mosque is still an important pilgrimage site for Muslims. Encircled by a garden full of palm trees, the mosque is located right on the shores of the salt lake.

Mackenzie Beach

A few minutes’ walk from the salt lake, you’ll find Mackenzie Beach, one of the best beaches around Larnaca. What adds to its beauty is its proximity to the airport.

It is known for its wide, long sandy beach and calm, clear waters. As the sea is shallow and safe, it is an ideal place for relaxation and water sports, especially for families with children. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas and try a variety of water sports, including paddleboarding and jet-skiing.

Along the coast, you will find many restaurants, cafés and bars where you can enjoy local specialities or refresh yourself with a drink. During the evening hours, the promenade comes alive with nightlife, making Mackenzie Beach a popular spot for evening strolls and entertainment.

The main attraction, however, are the planes. Hence our reason for going to the beach and the kids were thrilled.

Agios Lazaros in Kiti

From Larnaca, take a short drive to the village of Kiti, where you will find the church of Agios Lazaros, built on the site where, according to legend, Lazarus lived after his resurrection. Featuring stone walls and four domes, the church is an impressive example of Byzantine architecture. Inside you will find exceptionally well-preserved frescoes from the 13th century depicting scenes from biblical stories, including Lazarus.

Particularly noteworthy are the iconostases and relics that complete the sacred character of the place. Visiting this site will give you an understanding of the reverence that Cypriots have for Saint Lazarus, considered to be their patron saint. During your stay, you will appreciate the tranquillity and the atmosphere that prevails here.