Larnaca offers the chance to really get to grips with the Cypriot way of life. If you're looking for the perfect balance of a relaxing holiday and the buzzing vibe of a lively town it's the perfect place to visit. There's plenty of opportunities to soak up some well-deserved sunshine and simply chill out especially on the beautiful beaches.
If you're a thrillseeker, you'll find an lots of water sports, from slower-paced pedalos to wakeboarding and exciting banana boat rides. While the beaches are a major attraction for visitors, you'll also find plenty of other things to do in Larnaca, whether you're travelling with your partner, family or friends.
Life's a beach
If you're travelling with little ones, the beaches are one of the best things to do in Larnaca. Dusted with powder-soft sand and lapped by shallow, deep blue waters, the majority are suitable for families with younger children. Finikoudas Beach is extremely popular with families, with regular lifeguard patrols and some convenient places to grab a bite on the nearby promenade.
Similarly, Mackenzie Beach is ideal for younger visitors. This Blue Flag Beach offers pristine sands that are perfect for kicking back on or making incredible sandcastles. There are plenty of sunbeds and parasols for keeping the kids protected from the sun.
For grown-ups and teenagers, there are some excellent water sports on offer and the whole family can enjoy a chilled out lunch in one of the tavernas, cafés or restaurants close by.
Family fun
If your kids are slightly older and you want a more action-packed day, take a trip to the Water World Waterpark. The biggest waterpark in Europe, it's full of rides and slides such as the Chariot Chase, the Odyssey River, and the dizzying Fall of Icarus. There are also attractions for younger visitors: the Trojan Adventure and the Pegasus Pool are designed with little ones in mind and provide plenty of fun for the whole family.
Party on or chill out
If you're planning to kick up your heels and enjoy some serious partying, you'll find plenty of things to do in Larnaca. The best clubs have set up shop in the centre of town, cranking out dance, house, and trance music until the early hours.
If you fancy something a little less lively, head for the bars at the harbour where you can enjoy a cocktail while listening to some chill-out tunes.
Explore Larnaca's history
History buffs will find lots of fascinating attractions to see and things to do in Larnaca. You'll find the Larnaka Medieval Castle at the end of the Foinikudes promenade, looking over the sea. Originally a Medieval fort, it boasts an extensive collection of 16th Century cannons and some beautifully-preserved artefacts. For a look into the darker side of Larnaca's history, there's even an opportunity to see the gallows and cells that were used, when the castle was used as a prison, under British rule.
To travel further back in time, head to the Pierides Museum, where you'll find relics and remnants from the various civilisations that have made Larnaca their home, as far back as its original Neolithic inhabitants.
Enjoy some quiet time
If you'd like to soak up some of the local culture, a visit to the Hala Sultan Teke Mosque ought to be at the top of your list. Just a seven-minute drive from the town centre, it offers peace and tranquillity in abundance. Shelter from the sun under one of the palm trees or enjoy a picnic by the salt lake and spot the various species of migratory bird that stop by for a quick break from their travels.
Whatever your interests, there are plenty of things to do in Larnaca, whether you're enjoying some family downtime or a romantic getaway with your loved one.
