Larnaca district, located on the southern coast of Cyprus, is a popular holiday destination for those seeking sun, sea, and sand. The district is known for its long stretches of beaches with crystal clear waters, as well as its rich history and cultural landmarks. Visitors to Larnaca can enjoy a variety of activities, from relaxing on the beach to exploring ancient ruins.
One of the most popular attractions in Larnaca is the Hala Sultan Tekke, a mosque and shrine located on the banks of Larnaca Salt Lake. This 18th-century structure is believed to be the final resting place of the Prophet Muhammad’s foster mother and is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims. Another must-see attraction is the St. Lazarus Church, a 9th-century Byzantine church that houses the tomb of St. Lazarus.
For beach lovers, Larnaca offers a variety of options, including the famous Finikoudes Beach, a long stretch of sandy beach lined with palm trees, cafes, and bars. Other popular beaches in the district include Mackenzie Beach, Pervolia Beach, and Faros Beach. Visitors can also enjoy water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing.
The district is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Visitors can enjoy traditional Cypriot cuisine as well as international dishes, and can also sample local wines at the many wineries in the area.
In addition to its beaches and cultural landmarks, Larnaca is also home to a number of natural wonders. The Larnaca Salt Lake is a popular spot for birdwatching, with flamingos and other water birds flocking to the lake during the winter months. The Cape Greco National Forest Park, located on the southeastern tip of the district, offers hiking and cycling trails, as well as stunning views of the coastline.
Overall, Larnaca district is a great choice for those seeking a mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure on their holiday. With its beautiful beaches, rich history and culture, and natural wonders, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and welcoming destination.
| Country | Cyprus |
| Capital | Larnaca City |
| Currency | Euro: € (EUR) |
| Language(s) | Turkish Greek English |
| Time Zone | Central European Standard Time: GMT+2 Central European Summer Time: GMT+3 |
THINGS TO DO IN LARNACA DISTRICT
One of the main highlights of the district is Larnaca town itself, which boasts a charming old town with winding streets and a picturesque seafront promenade. Visitors can explore the many restaurants, cafes, and shops, as well as historical sites such as the ancient Kition archaeological site and the 9th-century Hala Sultan Tekke mosque.
Beach lovers will find plenty to enjoy in the Larnaca district, with several stunning beaches such as Finikoudes Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, and McKenzie Beach, known for its clear waters and water sports. Visitors can also take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands of St. Lazarus and St. George.
Nature lovers should not miss the stunning Salt Lake, located just outside the city, where they can observe a variety of migratory birds and flamingos. The nearby Hala Sultan Tekke mosque is also worth a visit for its beautiful architecture and serene location.
For history buffs, the district offers several notable sites, including the ancient city of Kition, which dates back to the 13th century BC, and the Stavrovouni Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Cyprus.
Finally, visitors can take a break from sightseeing and relax in one of the district’s many spas, where they can enjoy a range of treatments and therapies.
PLACES TO VISIT IN LARNACA DISTRICT
Here are some of the best towns and cities to visit in the Larnaca District:
- Larnaca – Larnaca is the largest city in the district and is known for its beautiful beaches, lively promenade, historic mosque, and ancient ruins.
- Ayia Napa – Ayia Napa is a popular tourist town known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and excellent restaurants and cafes.
- Lefkara – Lefkara is a charming village located in the hills above Larnaca. It is known for its traditional architecture, excellent lace-making, and beautiful silverware.
- Choirokoitia – Choirokoitia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside of Larnaca. It is known for its well-preserved Neolithic settlement, which dates back to the 7th millennium BC.
- Zygi – Zygi is a fishing village located on the coast of the Larnaca District. It is known for its excellent seafood restaurants, beautiful harbor, and traditional architecture.
These are just a few of the many towns and cities worth visiting in the Larnaca District. Each one has its own unique charm and attractions that make it a worthwhile destination for travellers.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT LARNACA DISTRICT
- Larnaca District is home to Larnaca International Airport, the main airport in Cyprus that serves millions of visitors each year.
- The town of Larnaca, located in the district, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back over 4,000 years.
- The Salt Lake in Larnaca is a unique natural attraction, where salt is harvested using traditional methods. It is also a protected area and an important stopover for migrating birds.
- The Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, located near Larnaca Salt Lake, is one of the most important Muslim shrines in Cyprus and a popular tourist destination.
- Choirokoitia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the district, is an archaeological site of a prehistoric settlement dating back to the Neolithic period. It is considered one of the most important and best-preserved prehistoric sites in the eastern Mediterranean region.
FOOD AND DRINK IN LARNACA DISTRICT
Larnaca District is known for its delicious traditional Cypriot cuisine that is influenced by Greek and Turkish cuisine. The region’s fertile plains, rich fishing grounds, and vineyards have made it possible for the area to offer a wide range of fresh and locally produced food.
Seafood is a major highlight of Larnaca’s culinary scene, with restaurants serving up a variety of fresh fish and seafood dishes. Grilled octopus, calamari, and sea bass are some popular dishes. Lamb and pork dishes are also common, with souvlaki being a classic Cypriot meat dish, consisting of marinated chunks of meat grilled on skewers. Other popular dishes include kleftiko, a slow-cooked lamb dish, and moussaka, a layered dish of minced meat, eggplant, and potatoes.
Meze, a selection of small dishes served as an appetizer or main course, is a popular way to enjoy a variety of dishes. Meze typically includes dishes like tzatziki, hummus, dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), grilled halloumi cheese, keftedes (meatballs), and loukaniko (Cyprus sausage).
Cyprus is also known for its sweet treats, such as loukoumades (honey puffs), baklava, and galaktoboureko (custard-filled pastry). Commandaria, a sweet dessert wine, is a local favorite.
In addition to traditional Cypriot cuisine, Larnaca also offers international options, with restaurants serving up Italian, Chinese, and Indian cuisine.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LARNACA DISTRICT?
The best time to visit Kyrenia district depends on the traveller’s preferences and the activities they want to participate in.
The summer months from June to September are the hottest and driest in Kyrenia, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) and sometimes reaching up to 40°C (104°F). While this is a great time to soak up the sun and enjoy the beaches, it can be too hot for some travellers.
The spring months from March to May are a good time to visit Kyrenia district when the weather is pleasant, and the temperatures are milder, ranging between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). This time of year is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the historic sites.
Autumn, from September to November, is also a good time to visit Kyrenia district. The weather is still warm, and the crowds are smaller than in the summer months. This season is perfect for exploring the scenic beauty of the region and enjoying the local culture.
Overall, the best time to visit Kyrenia district is from March to November, with spring and autumn being the most comfortable times of year to explore the region. However, travellers who love hot weather and beach activities may prefer the summer months despite the higher temperatures.
LARNACA DISTRICT GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE
The geography of Larnaca is characterized by a mix of flat coastal plains, rolling hills, and mountains. The district is home to the Troodos Mountains, which is the highest range in Cyprus, and the Larnaca Salt Lake, which is a wetland area that serves as a stopover for migrating birds.
The climate in Larnaca is typically Mediterranean, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. Average temperatures in the summer months (June-August) range from 25-35°C (77-95°F), while winter temperatures (December-February) average around 15-20°C (59-68°F).
The area receives very little rainfall, with most precipitation occurring during the winter months.
LARNACA DISTRICT TRAVEL GUIDES
Larnaca District is the perfect destination for some time away from home however make sure you plan ahead to not miss out on the best destinations and receive local knowledge. Shop for a good Larnaca District travel guide on Amazon today and keep it in your bag during your stay.
