Seaside Promenade Walk (Self Guided), Larnaca

Throughout its multi-thousand-year history, Larnaca has "moved" several times, not only along the sea, but also inland and back, towards the shore. Today, the promenade of Larnaca is the very heart of the city, stretching for three kilometers.

For most tourists Larnaca is just the place where the Airport is located and the first thing they see upon arrival. During the day, herds of tourists and locals come here for a walk, to swim in the sea, or to take memorable pictures, meet friends, or dine with their families. In the evening, the area is just as lively and fun to be in, thanks to the abundance of cafes, bars and shops of all stripes, offering a variety of products and different types of food.

The Larnaca promenade is busy, even in low season, and, given the presence of a motorway, also quite noisy.

The promenade itself is divided in three parts: Finikoudes, Piale Pasha and Mackenzie. The former, situated between the Larnaca Castle and the Seaport, is the most famous and lined with palm trees on both sides (hence the name, meaning “dates”). Right in front of it is the eponymous beach, known for its calm, shallow waters and volcanic sand.

The medieval Castle (Fort), built in 1625, presumably under the Turkish rule, located in the northern part of the promenade, and Larnaca Marina, in the southern part, are the two major landmarks easily reachable from here.

Other notable beaches – such as Kastela and Mackenzie – lie behind the fishing port and next to the Airport, respectively. The latter beach is particularly popular with those keen on planes – flying directly over your head.

For a more detailed acquaintance with the delights of Larnaca's Seaside, take this self-guided walking tour.