In days of old, Larnaca was the main trade town for all of Cyprus. In the last century, however, Larnaca passed that title to Limassol. Truth be told, this works out quite nicely for the many yachts that cruise the undisturbed waters off Larnaca’s coast. To run away from the monotony of everyday life, buy homes in Cyprus, particularly Cyprus luxury villas in Larnaca.

If you are lucky enough to be in Larnaca in the summertime, you are sure to find yourself in the city promenade. In the middle of town, the promenade hosts the delightful, and delectable, Kataklysmo, or Festival of Food. Many holidaymakers rent Cyprus luxury villas in Larnaca specifically for Kataklysmo, as well as some other popular summer festivals, making it wise to buy or sell Cyprus property in central Larnaca. In fact, the majority of Larnaca’s most famous attractions are located near the center of town. Most important of which is probably the Kitium ruins. The modern city of Larnaca is built upon the ancient ruins of Kitium. And, near the Larnaca airport is an amazing natural wonder. Every November through March, Larnaca Salt Lake is visited by hundreds of flamingoes providing a breathtaking sight. These are just a few of the many very good reasons to consider centrally located land when you buy or sell Cyprus property in Larnaca.

Cyprus boasts incredible beaches, and this is certainly true in Larnaca. A beautiful 25 kilometer stretch of sand lines Larnaca’s coast. McKenzie and Phinikoudes, Larnaca’s most popular beaches, are both blue flag recipients. Beachfront Cyprus luxury villas in Larnaca make are smart property investment. Definitely consider beach property if you are going to buy homes in Cyprus, especially if you plan to buy or sell Cyprus property in Larnaca.

If historical charm, and sunny days, are not enough to coax you to Larnaca, rest assured that there is still more to see and do. Sports fans will be interested in Larnaca’s two football teams. Larnaca’s Zenon stadium is home to the ALKI Larnaca FC, and the AEK Larnaca FC. Not planning to sit still? There are plenty of water and sand sports available to you in Larnaca, and Larnaca’s community calendar is filled with activies for tourists and locals alike.

Jump on a plane and let an estate agent show you some of the Cyprus luxury villas in Larnaca, and then visit some of these exciting sites for yourself. And, not that you needed one more reason to buy homes in Cyprus, but property prices are actually lower in Larnaca than in much of the island!

The oldest town in Cyprus, Larnaca has a great deal of history and many monuments scattered throughout – drawing countless visitors from across the globe each year. However, it has managed to retain a relaxed and leisurely atmosphere, never seeming overcrowded. Cultural enthusiasts are enthralled by the town’s archaeological sites and museums, as well as sites like the Church of St Lazarus and Hala Sultan Tekke – a mosque perched by the side of Lanarca’s Salt Lake. Countless others are drawn to its many monasteries and castles, each holding a great wealth of history.

Cultural offerings aside, Larnaca is also lined with 25 kilometres of stunning beaches – so holidaymakers can experience various faces and paces of the town. Sunbathe on the golden sand, go swimming in the sparkling sea, or sip a cool cocktail at one of Larnaca’s many beachside café and restaurants. Summer sports, sea activities and cruises are widely available, and you can also go shopping on Zenon Kitieos Street, a bustling road of small shops, with a colourful fruit and vegetable market at the far end.

Cuisine is another prominent aspect of Larnaca. The beaches of Larnaca are dotted with seafood restaurants, many of them serving exceptional cuisine – so take advantage of this seaside locale and indulge in delicious seafood plates during tour stay.

If you’re searching for nightlife opportunities, you’re best off heading to an area just off the main promenade called Laiki Yeitonia or to Larnaca-Dhekelia Road – about 15-20 minutes away from the city centre – where you’ll find upscale clubs and bars.

Larnaca is also an ideal base from which to travel to the central and eastern regions of Cyprus – so holidaymakers will always have new and exciting places to explore. Experience Famagusta and Paralimni on the eastern coast of Cyprus, or head inland to discover Goshi, Troulli, and Athienou. No matter where you venture to while holidaying in Larnaca, you’re bound to discover a host of cultural treasures.

With Larnaca flights only taking a few hours from the UK, it won’t be long before you’re enjoying all the culture, history and nature Larnaca has to offer.

One of the best and cheapest ways to explore this mesmerizing city is by about Car Hire Larnaca. Navigating the entire city would be easy with a local driver taking you to all the tourist destinations and the driver could act as a better guide than those glossy tour directors. There are attractive tourist spots within and on the outskirts of the city. Larnaca car hire is the most reasonable and the easiest ways to visit these destinations. Car Hire Larnaca is cheap and you can travel to nearby tourist destinations very easily. It is a hassle-free method of acquainting yourself with the city. The tourists are captivated by the sun-kissed beaches, pristine blue water, and its rich history.

The sea-side city Larnaca, is the third largest city of Cyprus in terms of population and one of the oldest cities in the world. The historical ruins have been preserved which includes the famous site of Hala Sultan Tekke- the aunt of the eminent Islamic prophet Muhammad has been buried there. The museums in the city of Larnaca have never failed to attract thousands of tourists every year. The Larnaca medieval museum, the Pierides foundation and other archaeological centers boast about the rich cultural heritage of the city.

Adults and children alike would love to spend their time at Salt Lake, at the camel amusement park which is situated on the outskirts of the city. The easiest way to commute such long distances is Car Hire Larnaca. The tourists could also visit the 18th century bridge-Kamares. Despite its rich historical and cultural heritage Larnaca is a modern city and one of the favorite cities for the tourists. You can enjoy playing golf at Tersenfanou village which is outside of the city. The seaside beauty captivates all tourists and they are enthralled by the serene and the charming glamour of the city.

It is the apt place for all the sea-diving buffs as Larnaca’s neighbor Cape Greco is known for its marine life. You will be surprised to learn that Larnaca is one of the primary ways to access Cyprus from the sea.

Most of the nightclubs and restaurants are within short distances and thus making driving easy. The vicinity which should be visited by all the tourists is Larnaca-Dhekelia road for the exciting and lively nightlife at Larnaca. The city of Larnaca is a great place to take your next holiday because there are fun activities all times of the day.

Larnaca is the oldest living city of Cyprus. Legend has it that the first settlement at the spot was founded by Noah’s great-grandson Kittim. Unlike other ancient cities of Cyprus, which were abandoned by their inhabitants, Larnaca from the time of its founding 6,000 years ago, has existed and still exists on the same site.

The city of Larnaka is well-known for its picturesque sea-front which includes rows of palm trees. Much of the activity is centred around the city promenade during the major festivals. The most important of these for the city of Larnaka is Kataklysmos or the Festival of the Flood, celebrated in early summer with a series of cultural events.

It has a population of 72,000 and is the island’s second commercial port and an important tourist resort. To the north of the town lies the island’s oil refinery. The famous stoic philosopher Zeno of Citium hailed from the city. It is said he began his stoic teaching after losing everything he had in a shipwreck.

A famous Athenian general, Kimon, died at sea defending the city of Citium in a major battle with the Persians of Xerxes. On his deathbed, he urged his officers to conceal his death from both allied and Persians. The quote “Και Νεκρος Ενικα” “Even in death he was victorious” refers to Kimon. A statue of “Kimon the Athenian” stands proudly on the sea front promenade of modern Larnaca.

In 1974 Turkey invaded the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Army displaced by force about 200,000 Greek-Cypriots, the inhabitants of its Northern part. Larnaca received and welcomed over 40.000 refugees, thus tripling its population overnight, now at 65,000.

Larnaca – Tourist Resort

Larnaca is one of the major seaside resorts in Cyprus. There are numerous beaches in and around Larnaca which which extend for approx 25 km (16 mi). The main Phinikoudes and McKenzie beaches both have been awarded Blue Flags for environmental cleanliness. With Cyprus Car Hire you can easily explore all the beaches and find your perfect spot you like.

The archaeological sites and its six museums are in the centre of the town. Summer sports and sea activities are readily available. The shops are well stocked and medical care is good. There is one main six-screen cinema called ‘K-Cineplex’ which opened in 2001 and is on the edge of the town. Most English language films are shown in English with Greek subtitles.

Within the wider Larnaca district there are 9,500 hotel beds, about 10% of the total all island tourist capacity. Along the Larnaca Bay there are luxurious beach hotels and also hotel apartments or holiday apartments within all price ranges. Prices are generally lower than the rest of the island.

Places of interest

The most important site of Larnaca are the ruins of Ancient Kitium. The earliest architectural remains date back to the 13th century B.C. The area was rebuilt by Achaean Greeks. The remains of the Cyclopean Walls, made of giant blocks and the complex of the five temples, are particularly interesting.

Larnaca Salt Lake fills with water during the winter and is visited by flocks of flamingoes who stay here from November till the end of March. It dries up in the summer. It used to yield a good quality of salt which was scraped from its dried up surface. The salt from this lake is now considered unfit for human consumption.

Ayia Phaneromeni is a rock cavern with two chambers. The structure suggests that it once was a pagan tomb, possibly dating back to Phoenician times. The place is credited with various magical properties: thus those who suffer from headaches or other diseases walk three times round it and leave a piece of clothing or a tuft of their hair on the grill in front of the south window. It is also much frequented by girls, whose lovers are overseas, who come here to pray for their safety.

The Church of Lazarus is another magnificent Orthodox Church in Larnaca which was built in the town over the tomb of St. Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha. He died here and was buried in the church named after him. In 890 A.D. his tomb was found bearing the inscription “Lazarus the friend of Christ”. The marble sarcophagus can be seen inside the church under the Holy of Holies.

The Hala Sultan Tekke is about 5 km (3 mi) west of Larnaka, on the banks of the Salt Lake. It is equivalent to the Christian “monastery”. Within the precincts of this Tekke is the tomb of Umm Haram, said to be the foster mother of Mohammed. According to Moslem tradition Umm Haram died on this spot in 647 A.D. while accompanying the Arab invaders. She was buried here and later the Ottomans built the present mosque in her honour.
The Old Aqueduct known as “The Kamares”, stands outside the town on the way to Limassol. It was built in Roman style in 1745 to carry water from a source about 6 miles south of Larnaka into the town. The aqueduct is illuminated at night.

Another site of interest is the Fort of Larnaca which was erected by the Turks in 1625. This fort is now a museum and its inner courtyard is used as an open air garden – theatre during the summer months, by kind permission of the director of antiquities.

There you have it, there is certainly plenty to see and do in Larnaca.