Larnaca International Airport

Larnaca International Airport (LCA) is the main air gateway to sunny Cyprus, welcoming millions of tourists from all over the world. Located in the immediate vicinity of the city of Larnaca and the picturesque Salt Lake, it is the ideal starting point for a journey around the island. Modern and convenient, this airport serves as a hub for several airlines and ensures a comfortable start or end to your Cypriot adventure.

Larnaca Airport, despite its relatively compact size and single terminal, offers passengers a wide range of services for a comfortable stay. Here you will find numerous Duty Free shops, restaurants, and cafés to suit every taste, and you can also use free Wi-Fi throughout the territory. For those who value time and comfort, the Express Lane service is available for expedited security clearance, as well as several business lounges, including the Aphrodite Lounge with its famous open terrace overlooking the runway. Furthermore, it is easy to rent a car, exchange currency, or use luggage storage services at the airport, making it truly convenient for travellers.

• Official Website: www.hermesairports.com
• Information Service Phone: +357 77 778833 (available 24/7).
• Address: Larnaka International Airport, P.O. Box 43027, 6650, Larnaca, Cyprus.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the feedback form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: The airport has official pages on popular social networks where news and operational information are published. Search by the operator's name — Hermes Airports.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage, you must contact the Lost & Found service of your airline or its representative at the airport directly. Contacts are usually listed on the airport website in the relevant section.
• Passenger Support Contacts: The main channel for communication is the 24-hour information service phone. Information desks are also located within the terminal.

Getting to Larnaca International Airport, the main transport hub of Cyprus, is quite simple thanks to a well-developed transport network. The choice of method depends on your budget, departure point, and comfort preferences. The most economical option is public transport. Zenon city buses depart directly to the terminal from the centre of Larnaca (for example, route 425); the trip will take about 15-20 minutes and cost just a few euros. In addition, there are convenient intercity shuttles (such as Kapnos Airport Shuttle) that connect the airport with other major cities on the island — Nicosia, Limassol, and Paphos.

Taxi or pre-booked transfer is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the airport. A trip from the centre of Larnaca will take just 10-15 minutes. The cost will be higher than the bus, but it is an excellent choice for travellers with large luggage or those who value their time. Taxi fares are usually fixed, but it is always better to clarify the approximate cost with the driver before starting the trip. Transfer services can be ordered online in advance, which guarantees a fixed price and timely car arrival.

Car rental is a popular choice among tourists wishing to explore the island on their own. Most major international and local rental companies have their desks right in the airport building. You can both pick up and return a rented car at the airport, making this option very convenient. This is the ideal solution if you plan to travel to different corners of Cyprus without depending on public transport schedules.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented car, convenient parking is provided. There are several zones on the territory for both short-term and long-term parking. Short-stop spaces are located right at the terminal entrance, which is convenient for dropping off and picking up passengers, while long-term car parks offer more favourable rates for those leaving their car for several days or weeks. It is also worth noting that from other major transport hubs of the island, for example from Paphos International Airport, you can get to Larnaca on direct express buses.

International Airport Larnaca (LCA) has one main passenger terminal, which serves all international and domestic flights. The old terminal building, located nearby, is used today for VIP passengers, private aviation, and government flights. Thanks to the modern and thoughtful layout, navigating the main terminal is very simple, even if you are here for the first time.

The airport structure is intuitive and complies with international standards. The Departure Zone is located on the upper level (first floor), led to by ramps for cars and buses. Here you will find check-in counters, baggage drop-off points, security control, and passport control. The Arrival Zone is located on the lower level (ground floor). After passing passport control, passengers enter the baggage claim hall, and then the general meeting area, where rental company offices, taxi stands, and public transport stops are located. You can move between levels using elevators and escalators.

Since all operations for scheduled flights are concentrated in one building, passengers do not need to worry about transfers between terminals. Navigation inside is significantly simplified thanks to clear signs in Greek, Turkish, and English. After passing security, passengers enter a spacious "airside zone" with numerous Duty Free shops, cafés, restaurants, and boarding gates.

On average, passing check-in and security control takes from 30 to 60 minutes. However, during the peak tourist season, especially in the summer months, waiting times may increase. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-2.5 hours before the departure of international flights to complete all formalities without rushing and enjoy a cup of coffee before the flight.

The history of Larnaca International Airport (LCA) is inextricably linked to the events of 1974 in Cyprus. After the main international airport in Nicosia was closed to civil flights, an urgent need arose to create a new aviation hub. The decision was made promptly: a new airport was erected on the site of a former British airbase in record time. Its official opening took place on 8 February 1975, marking the restoration of full-fledged air communication with the republic.

At the initial stage, the airport was quite modest and had basic infrastructure. However, as the popularity of Cyprus as a tourist destination grew, it began to expand actively. In subsequent years, the old terminal was extended several times to cope with the growing passenger flow, and the runway was lengthened to accommodate larger aircraft. Despite these improvements, it was obvious that a more global solution was required to meet the needs of modern tourism.

A turning point in the airport's development was the construction of a completely new terminal complex, which opened its doors to passengers on 7 November 2009. This large-scale project turned the airport into a modern and high-tech hub. The new terminal made it possible to significantly increase capacity (up to 7.5 million people per year) and offer travellers the highest level of comfort. The old terminal building is still used, but for other purposes: serving private and VIP flights, as well as acting as a cargo terminal.

One of the curious facts about Larnaca Airport is its unique location next to the famous Salt Lake. In the winter months, this place becomes home to thousands of pink flamingos. Passengers arriving or departing during this period can often observe these graceful birds right from the aircraft windows, adding a special charm to the journey. Today, the airport is not just an important transport facility but also a calling card of the hospitable island.

Larnaca International Airport offers travellers a modern and convenient infrastructure for waiting for a flight. Here you can find a wide selection of shops: from a large Duty Free with perfumes, beverages, and sweets to boutiques with local souvenirs, jewellery, and Cyprus delicacies. You can have a snack or a full lunch in one of the numerous cafés and restaurants serving both international cuisine and traditional Cypriot treats.

For those who want to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous sockets and USB ports are provided for charging electronic devices. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the VIP lounge services. They offer all conditions for quiet rest or work: comfortable armchairs, snacks and drinks, fresh press, and a separate work area.

It is easy to solve financial matters at the airport: bank branches, currency exchange points, and ATMs located in different parts of the terminal are at your service. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical centre operates in the airport building, where qualified personnel are ready to provide first aid.

Larnaca Airport cares about the comfort of all travellers. For families with children, mother and child rooms and small play areas are equipped where young passengers can distract themselves before departure. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance upon prior request, including escort and special equipment for boarding. The terminal is fully adapted for convenient movement in wheelchairs.

Business travellers can use the services of the business centre and conference rooms. Although there are no hotels directly within the terminal building, several hotels of various comfort levels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. They can be quickly reached by taxi or shuttle, which is especially convenient for those with an early departure or a long layover.

At Larnaca International Airport (LCA), travellers will find sufficient options for a snack or a full meal to spend time comfortably while waiting for a flight. Dining establishments are located both in the public area and in the departure area after passing security control, offering a diverse menu for every taste and budget.

The main part of restaurants and cafés is concentrated in the departure zone (airside). Here lies the large Food Village food court, which operates on a self-service basis and offers dishes from various world cuisines. You can choose Italian pasta, Asian noodles, classic burgers, or healthy food at the salad bar. This is the ideal place for those who want a substantial lunch or dinner before the flight. Also in the departure area, there are several lounges where you can order beverages and light snacks in a more relaxed atmosphere.

For those in a hurry, the airport has many options for a quick snack. Chain coffee shops, such as Costa Coffee and Starbucks, offer the familiar assortment of coffee, tea, sandwiches, and pastries. They exist both in the check-in area (landside) and after passport control (airside). In addition, you can find spots with ready-made sandwiches and baguettes, for example, Upper Crust, or visit Burger King for classic fast food. These establishments are excellent if there is little time left before departure.

Travellers with special dietary needs will also not go hungry. The menus of major establishments, especially at the food court, usually feature marked vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. While finding certified Halal food might be more challenging, vegetarian options are available almost everywhere. To try something from the local cuisine, pay attention to pastries with Halloumi or Anari cheese — this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the gastronomy of Cyprus right at the airport.

Food prices at Larnaca Airport are higher than in the city. Expect to pay about 4-6 euros for coffee, 8-12 euros for a sandwich, and from 15-25 euros for a hot dish in a restaurant. Most establishments in the departure area operate around the clock or adapt to the flight schedule, opening with the first departures and closing after the last ones. Cafés in the public area may have shorter working hours.

To ensure your journey through Larnaca Airport goes smoothly, take advantage of these tips. During the peak tourist season (from May to October) and on holidays, the airport can be quite busy, so arrive in advance — at least 2.5–3 hours before the departure of an international flight. This will give you enough time to check in luggage, pass security control, and passport control without rushing.

To save time, it is highly recommended to complete online check-in for your flight. This will allow you to either proceed immediately to security (if you are travelling only with hand luggage) or use separate bag drop counters, where the queue is usually shorter. The security procedure is standard: be prepared to remove all electronics and containers with liquids of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, from your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your priorities. Do you want to take beautiful photos of the coast of Cyprus during takeoff or landing? Take a window seat. If a quick exit from the plane and freedom of movement during the flight are important to you, your choice is an aisle seat, preferably in the front part of the cabin.

Customs control at Larnaca Airport usually passes quickly, especially for EU citizens. Travellers from other countries should orient themselves towards the "green" (if there is nothing to declare) and "red" corridor system. Please remember standard restrictions on the import of tobacco products and certain food items. If you have a connecting flight, follow the "Connecting Flights" signs. The airport is intuitive, and transfers here generally do not cause difficulties.

To save a little, order a taxi or transfer from the airport online in advance — this is often more profitable than taking a car on the spot. Inside the terminal, there are drinking water fountains, so you can take an empty bottle with you and fill it after passing security control without buying expensive water. Duty Free offers a standard assortment, but prices for local traditional products can be attractive.

In case of a flight delay, first of all, contact your airline's counter for information and, possibly, meal vouchers. The airport offers comfortable conditions for waiting: there are several cafés, shops, a pharmacy, and free Wi-Fi to stay connected. Rest calmly and wait for the announcement of your departure.