24 hours in Larnaca with Katerina Sergiou
Text: Teo Hatzis
8:00
Start your day with a walk at the beach. The Foinikoudes beach, with all the palm trees alignedat the side of the coastal road, is an ideal choice. From the city marina, just a few meters away from there, you can take a city cruise to Cavo Gkreco, while a stroll to the Castle of Larnaca is a must after swimming. The Mackenzie beach is also a great choice, named after a Scottish man who had set up a makeshift cabin for personal use. So when the people of Larnaca wanted to go there for a swim they used to say “Let’s go to Mackenzie’s”. Have a coffee at Nammos, a standard meeting point! My personal favorite is the little beach in front of Island hotel.
10:00
Visit the church of Ayios Lazaros and the museum that showcases relics, portable icons, old prints and crosses. Very near is the Pieridi Museum, the first private archaeological museum of Larnaca, housed in a beautiful and architecturally interesting mansion.
11:00
Keep on with your day and enjoy a light lunch at Edem's Υard, Mingle Cafe or the traditional Kafeneio of Lazaris. Go window shopping or actually shop at the commercial center of Larnaca in Ermou street and its vicinity.
14:00
Sit in one of the tables of my favorite tavern Roussias, located downtown and known for its grilled meat as well as casseroles.
16:00
A stop at the loukoumatzidiko Alasia in Piale Pasha is more than obligatory! The best loukoumades and bourekia of Larnaca are served there!
18:00
Take a stroll at the beautiful seaside neighborhood of Piale Pasha at Skala and don’t forget to visit the ceramic workshops’ area. Wander around the studios of young artists that keep popping up all over the city.
21:00
For a flawless Japanese culinary experience dine at the famous Nippon or at Sushi La Bar.
24:00
Sip a relaxed drink at the Old Market in picturesque Kleanthi Kalogera street or return to Mackenzie beach and sway under the stars and with the music of a beach bar!
My city stands out because…
Larnaca is unlike any other town in Cyprus. The blue color of the sea blends with pink and golden hues in a European landscape with Anatolian dashes. The magic here stems from the fact that its vast history and cultural heritage are kept alive, thanks to the hospitality and warmth of its dwellers. This can be seen everywhere: in little alleys and old neighborhoods, the funky downtown area, the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk, the Medieval castle and unique Foinikoudes.
