Larnaca

Good to know

1. 1The Church of Saint Lazarus stands in the old town. Tradition holds that Lazarus, raised from the dead in the Gospel story, came to Cyprus and later became the first bishop of ancient Kition, the city that stood here.
2. 2Larnaca sits on the site of ancient Kition, a Phoenician-era city kingdom. Some of its remains can still be seen in the modern town.
3. 3The Hala Sultan Tekke, beside the Salt Lake, is an important Muslim shrine and one of the holiest sites of Islam on the island. In winter the lake often draws flamingos and other migrating birds.
4. 4The Finikoudes promenade runs along the town beach and is lined with cafes. Locals and visitors walk it in the evening, and it is the centre of the town's social life.
5. 5Greek is the main language, and English is widely spoken in shops, restaurants and hotels. Cyprus uses the euro.
6. 6Meze is the classic way to eat in Cyprus: a long succession of small dishes, usually with grilled halloumi, olives, dips, meats and fish. Larnaca's seafront tavernas serve it well.

Tips for a first visit

• Allow a few hours for the old town and the Church of Saint Lazarus, then walk along the seafront to the fort at the end of the promenade. The centre is small enough to cover on foot.
• Cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops, but carry a little cash for small cafes, bakeries and bus fares.
• Come hungry for a meze meal and share it with others, since the dishes keep coming. Also try halloumi, loukoumades and a Cypriot coffee served in a small cup.
• If you want to see the rest of the island, hiring a car is the simplest option. Traffic in Cyprus drives on the left, which takes a little getting used to.
• Cover your shoulders and knees when you visit churches and mosques, and take off your shoes where asked, such as inside a mosque.
• The sun is strong for much of the year, so bring a hat and sunscreen, and carry water if you go walking around the Salt Lake.

When to go

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable times, with warm days and a sea that is pleasant for swimming, especially in autumn after the summer heat. Summer is hot and dry and suits beach holidays, though midday is best spent in the shade. Winters are mild and sometimes rainy, which is a good time for sightseeing and for watching the birds at the Salt Lake.

From the airport

Larnaca International Airport is close to the town, only a short drive from the centre, usually around ten to fifteen minutes by car. Taxis wait outside arrivals and are the quickest and simplest way into town. There are also public buses that connect the airport with the town and the seafront, though they run less often than taxis, so check the timetable if you plan to use one.