What to Do & See in Larnaca Cyprus

Larnaca, Cyprus, is a great year-round destination for a beach holiday, with consistently warm weather. It offers a wide range of activities and tourist attractions, from relaxing on the beach with cocktails and experiencing the local culture to trying your hand at water sports. You can also indulge in local food and wine at one of the many bars and restaurants. There really is no limit to what you can do in Larnaca, Cyprus.

The beach resort is also known for its rich history, and the area is littered with historical sites. Some of the main highlights in this coastal city are Finikoudes Beach, Larnaca Salt Lake, Larnaka Fort, the Church of Saint Lazarus, Mackenzie Beach, and Sultan Tekke Mosque. You can easily add all of these to your Larnaca itinerary.

Where is Larnaca, Cyprus

Larnaca, also spelt Larnarka, is a major beach resort and port city on the south coast of Cyprus, on the Greek Cypriot side of the island. Its central location puts it between the popular coastal resorts of Ayia Napa and Limassol, with the capital, Nicosia, just a 45‑minute drive inland. This strategic position makes Larnaca an ideal base for exploring the region, and it’s also why Cyprus’s main international airport is located here.

Finikoudes is one of Cyprus’s best beaches

Things to do in Larnaca Cyprus

To help you make the most of your time in Larnaca, here’s a curated guide to the best things to do in the city. From beautiful beaches ideal for swimming to cultural and historic landmarks that showcase Cyprus’s rich heritage, Larnaca offers a mix of experiences for every type of traveller. You’ll also find great places to eat and drink, whether you’re after traditional Cypriot flavours or modern seaside dining.

If you’re planning a summer holiday in Cyprus, Larnaca is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

1. Finikoudes Beach and Promenade

Spend time wandering along the Finikoudes Promenade, then relax on the beach that runs parallel. The promenade is famous for its palm-tree-lined pedestrian esplanade, with shops, restaurants, cafes and bars like The Old Country Pub and Savino Rock Bar. The promenade is also a popular place to stay in Larnaca, with hotels and apartments overlooking the sea. Occasionally, the Finikoudes Promenade road is closed to traffic for events and concerts, such as the Kataklysmos – Festival of the Flood.

The long sandy beach is lined with sun loungers, umbrellas, and snack shops, with Larnaka Fort at one end. Finikoudes Beach has Blue Flag status, an internationally recognised standard. It is awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators to indicate high environmental and quality standards. If you are catching the bus from Nicosia or Ayia Napa, the bus stops on the Finikoudes Promenade.

Visiting Finikoudes Beach on a summer holiday

2. Go Diving at Zenobia Wreck

Go diving at the famous Zenobia Wreck, one of the world’s top ten wreck dives. This 172-metre-long sunken ferry is home to abundant marine life. The ferry sank just outside the Larnaca seafront in June 1980. Fortunately, all passengers were evacuated in time.

Today, divers from around the world visit to explore this underwater beauty. Book a guided two-hour Zenobia Shipwreck Dive with Equipment with pick-up from Larnaca fishing port. Don’t forget to bring your GoPro for use underwater at the Zenobia Wreck.

3. Do a pottery workshop

Join a hands‑on pottery workshop at Studio Ceramics in Larnaca; it’s a great way to enjoy a cultural experience. Guided by local artisans, you’ll learn to shape and decorate your own piece using techniques passed down through generations. You’lltake home a unique, handmade souvenir from your time in Larnaca, which is a nice little reminder of your trip. The hands‑on pottery workshop was creative and calming, one I would do again.

The pottery workshop lasts from 1 to 2 hours and is located just down from Larnaka Fort. It is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, closed on Sundays.

4. Explore the Church of Saint Lazarus and Tomb

Visit the historic Church of Saint Lazarus and Tomb in the Old Town Square. Stroll around inside the church (if no service is being held), go down into the tomb, then head to the Byzantine Museum in the grounds. The Church of Saint Lazarus, also known as Agios Lazaros, is a late-9th-century stone church. The inside is incredibly opulent, with stunning icon paintings and lit candles creating a rich glow.

The church lies over the tomb of the saint (Lazarus), who they believe came to Cyprus after being resurrected by Jesus. You can see his tomb in the basement, and it is said to have healing powers. Opening Hours are Mon-Sat 8:15 am – 12:30 / 15:00 – 17:30; Sat/Sun 9:30 – 7:30 pm. Closed on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons; all day Sunday. Book a private guided walking tour with a local, which includes the Church of Saint Lazarus.

The Church of Saint Lazarus is a famous historical site in Cyprus

5. Archaeological Museum of Larnaka District

To learn more about Cyprus’s culture, visit the Larnaca Archaeological Museum, a free activity. It is located in the old hospital building in the city centre. Its displays show the “historical development of the city of Kition and the District of Larnaka in general.” The museum houses a large collection of archaeological finds, including pottery, jewellery, sculptures, and ruins.

The Archaeological Museum of Larnaka District is one of Larnaca’s best hidden gems and well worth a visit. It is open daily from 9 am to 4.30 pm, but closed on Mondays.

6. Go Swimming at Mackenzie Beach

One of the top things to do in Larnaca is to go swimming at Mackenzie Beach. It’s another Blue Flag beach and worth a visit. Mackenzie (also known as Makenzy) Beach is located near the Airport and the Salt Lakes. Mackenzie Beach is a sandy beach with shallow, clear water. Many trendy bars, clubs, and restaurants line the esplanade; worth mentioning are Ammos Beach Bar and Rebuke Lounge.

Its beach location makes it a popular area for holidaymakers looking for accommodation in Larnaca.

7. Visit Larnaka Fort

One of the top historical things to do is to visit Larnaka Fort and climb the walls for panoramic views. It sits on the oceanfront at the end of Finikoudes beach, just a 5-10-minute walk from The Church of Saint Lazarus, making it a great combination to do at the same time. Larnaka Fort, also known as Larnaca Castle, was constructed to defend the southern coast of Cyprus and the harbour town of Larnaca. It was later used as an artillery station and prison, and is now a museum, similar to the one in Hammamet, Tunisia.

Inside, you will find artefacts from the region’s history, hanging nooses, artillery cannon guns and exhibits on the Ottoman period. From the fort walls you can take in the views across both Piale Pasha and Finikoudes Promenade. There is a small entrance, and Larnaca Castle/Fort is open Mon-Fri 8:00 am – 7:30 pm, Sat/Sun 9:30 – 7:30 pm. Book a 2-and-a-half-hour Salt Lake & Cultural Highlights Guided Bike Tour, including a visit to the castle.

Exploring inside Larnaka Fort out towards the ocean

8. See the birdlife at Larnaca Salt Lake

Larnaca Salt Lake is a complex network of four salt lakes of different sizes and the second-largest salt lake in Cyprus. It is home to a variety of bird species, especially during migration season and is one of the top places for wildlife and bird watching, like in Tabarka, Tunisia. If you are there at the right time when the birds are migrating, you might get the chance to see the flamingos.

Apparently, it’s an amazing sight to see hundreds of these pink birds digging for the tiny pink shrimp in the salt lake. It is located near the Larnaca airport, and you can easily get there from Mackenzie Beach or by the No. 425 bus. Walking or biking along the marked paths around the lake is a great family activity. Be sure that you wear Insect repellent for mosquitoes.

9. Walk along Piale Pasha

One free thing to do in Larnaca is to stroll along the Piale Pasha promenade, popular with couples. You can dip your feet in the water as you walk. Afterwards, stop off for something to eat or drink at one of Larnaca’s restaurants along the oceanfront, like Famelia Tavern or Seanatra Lounge Bar & Restaurant. Piale Pashe promenade is perfect for a sea stroll any time of day, especially sunset.

Last time I was along Piale Pasha, I ate at Zephyros Restaurant, which serves seafood straight from the sea. It is located at the Larnaca fishing port at the end of Piale Pasha. Remember to wear some good, light Walking Shoes.

Looking down Piale Pasa from Larnaca Castle

10. Hala Sultan Tekke

One of Larnaca’s top cultural sights is Hala Sultan Tekke, also known as the Mosque of Umm Haram. It sits on the west bank of Larnaca Salt Lake and pairs well with birdwatching. It was built in phases, beginning in 1760 and completed in 1817. This mosque is one of the holiest sites in Islam and is dedicated to Umm Haram, who was the foster mother of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.

The site offers a serene atmosphere and beautiful views across the salt lake. If you like religious sites, how about booking a day trip to the UNESCO Churches and Monasteries of Cyprus.

11. Try Authentic Cypriot food

Have an authentic food experience in Larnaca. I suggest trying real Cypriot food or a Cypriant Meze. The resort city has a vibrant food scene, with taverns and restaurants everywhere. Don’t miss specialities like Souvlaki (grilled meat kebabs) and fried halloumi cheese. If you have a sweet tooth, then I suggest Loukoumades, a traditional Cypriot doughnut.

A Cyprus Meze is a traditional multi‑course feast that showcases the best of Cypriot food. These are my favourites, and you can get them from most Taverns around the island. One of Larnaca’s top restaurants for Cypriot food is Kazani Traditional Tavern, a family-run business. Closer to town is Edesma Cyprus Taverna, which is supposed to have great Souvlaki. Book a full-day Troodos Mountain Food & Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch.

Eating yummy fried halloumi cheese

12. Learn to make Cypriot Brand Sour

Taking a cocktail class at Sunmoon Hospitality in Larnaca is a fun, flavour‑packed way to dive into Cyprus’s drinking culture. Led by expert mixologists, the session teaches you to shake, stir, and balance ingredients to create the Cypriot Brandy Sour, the island’s unofficial national drink and a staple of summer evenings.

It’s interactive, social, and a great way to experience a local classic, with plenty of tips to take home to recreate the cocktail long after your trip. This was one of my favourite things to do in Larnaca. Book a 2-hour cocktail class at Sunmoon Hospitality.

13. Spend a day in Ayia Napa

A day in the popular resort of Ayia Napa is an easy and worthwhile trip from Larnaca. Just a short drive away, Ayia Napa offers crystal‑clear waters and soft sandy bays such as Nissi Beach for swimming or relaxing. Beyond the coastline, you can wander through the Sculpture Park, enjoy the sunset at Love Bridge, or take a boat to the famous Blue Lagoon. It’s a great addition to any Larnaca itinerary, whether you’re after sun, culture, or a change of pace.

You can book a full-day trip from Larnaca to Ayia Napa that includes Cape Greko, Blue Lagoon & Sea Caves.

14. Plane spotting on the beach

If plane spotting is your thing, then Mackenzie Beach is the perfect spot, as it is next to the airport. When the planes are coming in to land, they look like they are going to land on the beach, right on top of the umbrellas. I have to admit I thought it was pretty cool to watch. I suggest heading to the furthest end of the beach, near Zakos Beach Restaurant, if you want to take photos and videos.

One of the many bars that line Mackenzie Beach

Day Trips from Larnaca

If you are staying in Larnaca for a week, I suggest taking a day trip or tour to other parts of Cyprus. You can go swimming at Cape Greco, hike in the Troodos mountains, or even take a winery tour. Below is a selection of guided tours you can book in advance and might find interesting.

Famagusta

Take a cultural and historical tour of Northern Cyprus with stops in Famagusta, Bellapais Abbey and Kyrenia, ending with a view of Varosha, the haunting “Ghost Town” frozen since 1974.

Nicosia & Troodos Mountains

Go on a full-day guided tour to the capital, Nicosia, the last divided city in the world, the Troodos Mountains, and Omodos. Stroll through traditional villages and enjoy breathtaking views.

Jeep Tour

Take a full-day adventure in a 4×4 off-road vehicle to explore Cyprus’s beauty by visiting traditional villages, meeting locals and enjoying the forested landscapes of the Troodos Mountains.

St. Hilarion Castle

Head to St Hilarion Castle, a vast fortress complex, as well as Bellapais Monastery and Village. Learn about the Middle Ages, its knights, nobles, and kings.

Larnaca Castle along the waterfront

Getting to Larnaca, Cyprus

Flights from the UK to Larnaca, Cyprus

Larnaca International Airport is only a 15- to 30-minute drive, depending on where you are staying. If you are staying around McKenzie Beach, you are only 5-10 minutes away. Larnaka Airport is also the airport you fly into if you are heading to Ayia Napa and Nicosia.

Jet2 offers great deals on flights from various parts of the United Kingdom to Larnaca, Cyprus, year-round. I flew from London Stansted to Larnaca, with a flight time of around four and a half hours. Jet2 operates this route several times a week.

Catching the Bus to Larnaca

Take the number 425 bus from Larnaka Airport to the centre of town; it costs less than €4 per person one way. If you are going to Nicosia or Ayia Napa, take the 425 bus to Finikoudes Promenade. From there, take the Intercity Buses to either destination.

If you book a Jet2 package Holiday, then a bus transfer will be provided.

Rent a car to get around Larnaca

You can hire a car from Larnaca Airport when you land, as there are numerous car rental companies near the departure area. I suggest booking in advance and using a company such as AutoEurope, which compares rental companies and prices.

We caught the bus everywhere, but we wished we had hired a car for the trip, as it wasn’t expensive and made it much easier to get around the tourist sites.

Watch the planes over Mackenzie Beach

Where to stay in Larnaca

Sunflower Hotel Apartments

We stayed at Sunflower Hotel Apartments for three nights, and it had everything we needed for the short holiday break. The apartment was a little away from the resort centre, but the bus stop was out the front, and it was easy to use. We had a spacious room, a separate lounge, and a kitchen area with all the required amenities. It also had a balcony with ocean views and strong Wi-Fi.

The most popular areas to stay in Larnaca are Finikoudes centre and Mackenzie Beach. Check rates and availability on Booking.com.

Other Jet2 Destinations you may be interested in discovering

If you’re planning a trip with Jet2, you might also enjoy discovering some of their other Mediterranean destinations. I’ve put together a selection of guides and itineraries that showcase Europe’s best beaches, cultural highlights, and easy summer breaks. Browse the destinations below, or head straight to my Cyprus travel page for more in‑depth guides, tips, and itineraries to help you plan your trip with confidence.

Have you been to Cyprus before? Please share your experience in the comments below, or suggest other places to add.

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Disclaimer: Jet2Holidays sponsored my flights. However, all views are my own and based on my experience.

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