Larnaca holidays

Beautiful beaches

Finikoudes Beach, in the city centre, has a palm-tree lined promenade with an array of lively bars, cafes and restaurants. A few minutes further down the coast are the family-friendly Kastela and Mackenzie beaches. 

Larnaca is an excellent diving spot, with warm waters, high visibility, and some easily accessible shipwrecks.

History and culture

The 9th-century Byzantine Church of St Lazarus was built over the tomb of Lazarus, the man whom Jesus was said to have resurrected four days after his death and who later lived in Larnaca. At the end of the Finikoudes promenade is Larnaca Medieval Castle – you can climb the ramparts for coastal views, and the courtyard often hosts concerts.

Behind it is Djami Kebir Mosque, built originally as a church in the 16th century and boasting an impressive minaret. Hala Suttan Tekke Mosque, a serene Muslim shrine on the banks of Larnaca Salt Lake, is believed to have prehistoric origins and is one of the world’s most important places of worship for Muslims. The lake is also great for birdwatching and is home to flocks of flamingos from November to March.

The atmospheric old Turkish quarter, Skala, has quaint, crumbling cottages, now occupied by ceramic workshops. The archaeological remains of the ancient city-kingdom of Kition features ruins dating back to Phoenician times.

As Larnaca is a beach resort, the best time to visit is between April and October – but as this is peak season it’s not the cheapest time to visit. This is particularly true during school holidays, unless you get a particularly good value all-inclusive deal. August can get very hot, especially inland where there are no cooling ocean breezes.

The cheapest time to visit is from December to February. Many hotels and restaurants will be closed, but warm and sunny days are not unheard of; you’ll usually get away with shorts and a t-shirt during the day and only need a sweater in the evening.  

One of the cheapest ways to visit Larnaca is with a package holiday; look out for deals including flights, accommodation and transfers. All-inclusive hotels, where all drinks and meals packages are included in the price, are a good way to keeping costs down if you don’t plan to venture further than the poolside sun lounger.

Events for your diary

Easter is the most important event in the Greek Orthodox calendar. Eight days before Easter Sunday, the icon of St Lazarus is taken from the church in a procession around the town.

From Easter Sunday to the following Tuesday, the resurrection of Christ is celebrated with a feast accompanied by traditional Cypriot folk music. In July, Larnaca Summer Festival is a celebration of music, theatre, dance and film.

Looking to visit Larnaca? Make sure to check out our Tips and Advice first