How is it that I have been fortunate enough to visit Larnaca, a
port city on the south coast of Cyprus, not once, not twice but THREE times? I
didn’t plan it, it just happened to me serendipitously. The first time, I was asked to write some
promotional material for an organization based there; the second time I had to
attend a conference; the third, and most recent time, I was invited to teach on
a video school. It really is one of my most favourite places on the planet. Its
buzzy yet laid-back, European yet Middle-Eastern, high-end yet beachy. It's a
city full of crumbling charm, historic buildings and quaint neighbourhoods and
is exactly the kind of Mediterranean I feel most comfortable in.
I know three visits don’t make me an expert, but here are my Top
Ten things to do if you only have one day in Larnaca.
1. Go to the beach
If you’re there in summer, you have to go and hire a lounger and
an umbrella and do the beach thing. Some of the famous beaches of Larnaca
are Finikoudes, Alaminos, Castella, Mckenzie, Ellinas and Yannathes. My
favourite in Finikoudes because its so central.
2. Stroll the Corniche
When in Cyprus, do as the locals do and stroll the seaside
promenade. Stop and buy a bag of freshly fried honey puffs (or a grilled
corn-on-the-cob or a Papafilipou ice-cream) so you have something to chew while
you people watch.
3.
Visit the Marina
Larnaca's
200 berth yachting marina is one of its main attractions. The harbour is lined
with lovely palm trees and from here you can view all the yachts and boats - plus
you can actually take a boat trip around the bay.
4.
Go shopping
Something
I’ve yet to read on any trip advisor-type site or travel blog is..when in
Larnaca go shopping for clothes. Whether its winter or summer, the fashion is
delicious. Remember, you heard it here first!
5.
Attend a service at St Lazarus church
St Lazarus
was allegedly buried in Larnaca after his resurrection and expulsion from
Jerusalem. This 9th century church is devoted to him.
6. Nose around the old Turkish quarter
One of the great joys of Larnaca is its
old Turkish quarter. Quiet, sun-bleached streets and azure blue doorways hide
traditional ceramic workshops where you can see potters at work. You’ll find it
between the Mediaeval Castle at the end of the promenade and MacKenzie beach.
7. Grab lunch from Souvalki.gr
The
grilled meats here are legend. You can wash it down with a bottle of Keo, the
locally brewed Cypriot beer, that is light and low enough in alcohol to ensure
that you’re good to go for the rest of the day.
8.
Step back in time
The Choirokoitia
Neolithic Settlement is one of the best-preserved pre-historic sites of the
eastern Mediterranean. It contains the remains of a Neolithic settlement dating
from 7000 B.C. Located on the main Larnaca-Lemesos road; UNESCO declared it a
World Heritage Site in 1998.
9. Have mezze at Militzis
Restaurant
If you miss everything else, don’t miss this one! For
grilled halloumi so delicious it
renders you speechless and unforgettable local dishes such as kleftiko and giant beans, baked in
traditional clay ovens called foumo,
10. Drink a coffee
Preferably a Cyprus coffee, thick, sweet and flavoured
with cardamom
Thank you so much for writing this cute guide to an unforgettable holiday in Larnaca. I love this city! Most of the people who came there are pleasantly surprised at all the things to do in Larnaca – we had such a relaxing holiday there, and we’re sure anyone will too! :) The best possible way is to explore this city by foot and at our own pace. I advise you to click here to read more information about other best places of Cyprus for families.
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