Nestled on the southern coast of Cyprus, Larnaca (also known as Larnaka) is one of the best seaside destinations in the whole country. Visitors can enjoy Larnaca’s beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters and then walk into the city to try some of the region’s incredible food and visit the many cultural landmarks that make this city so special. Larnaca was the birthplace of the Stoic philosopher Zeno, and as soon as you step off the plane at Larnaca International Airport, you’ll understand exactly why he was so relaxed.
The history of Larnaca goes back to the 13th century BC when the ancient Greeks and Phoenicians settled in the area. The city became a hub of Phoenician culture until it was conquered by the Assyrian Empire, and then later by Egypt. The many periods of Larnaca’s history are still evidenced today by the many historical sites around the city. Travelers who have the opportunity to visit Larnaca can tour the city and experience all of its history and culture, lounge out on the beach, get wild at Larnaca’s many nightlife hubs, and sample some of the best Mediterranean food in the world. With so many things to see and do in the city, the best way to experience Larnaca is to hire a quad bike and explore on your own time.
Here is everything you need to know about hiring a quad/ATV in Larnaca. Most things here can also be applied if you are renting a scooter or a motorcycle. This guide includes:
- Whether you need an international driving permit to hire a quad in Cyprus
- The price of quad hire in Larnaca
- The best places to rent an ATV in Larnaca
- Whether it’s safe to drive an ATV in Larnaca
- The best things to do in Larnaca by quad
Do You Need an International Driving Permit To Hire an ATV in Cyprus?
Foreign drivers in Cyprus are required to carry a valid copy of their driver’s license from their home country, their passport, and an international driving permit with them at all times while operating a motor vehicle, including an ATV. If you fail to present law enforcement with any of these documents while you’re driving, it could result in a hefty fine.
If you want to apply for an international driving permit, you can do so here. There is a $20 application fee, and you should apply at least two weeks prior to departing from your home country because that’s how long it typically takes for the permit to arrive in the mail. Once you have your permit, it will be valid for one full year.
What Is the Price of Quad Hire in Larnaca?
If you’re interested in hiring an ATV in Larnaca, your cheapest option is to rent a 50cc ATV, such as a Kymco MXU 50, for around €30 per day. If you’re looking for something more powerful, you can usually find a 200cc ATV for around €50 per day or a 450cc ATV for around €70 per day, with other power levels available at different prices as well. The cheapest option for getting around Larnaca, however, is to rent a motor scooter.
One of the more popular tourist activities in Larnaca is to go on a quad bike tour around the city. There are several tour companies in the area that all charge different prices; however, you can expect to pay somewhere in the neighborhood of €50 for a 2-hour tour and around €85 for a 5-hour tour.
Where Can You Rent an ATV in Larnaca?
If you’re visiting Larnaca from abroad, chances are you’ll be flying into Larnaca International Airport, the largest airport in Cyprus. There are rental services you can find online that will deliver quad bikes, cars, and motor scooters to your airport terminal so you can drive them directly to your accommodation without having to take a taxi.
If you’d rather wait until you get to your accommodation to rent a quad, you can find several rental shops in the area around Larnaca Marina and Finikoudes Beach. Many of the hotels in Larnaca are located in this area anyway, so you should have no trouble locating ATV hire.
What Is It Like To Drive in Larnaca?
In general, driving in Cyprus is fairly easy. The island as a whole is fairly small, safe, and relaxed, and so driving as a foreigner is a pretty stress-free endeavor. While Larnaca is one of the larger cities on the island, there are still no real problems with congestion, even in the city center. Additionally, road conditions around Larnaca are very good and there is ample signage in most parts of the city.
If you’re a native of the United States, though, you should know that they drive on the left side of the road, so that could be a bit of a difficult adjustment. If you’re from the United Kingdom, you’ll have no problem with the flow of traffic in Larnaca. Either way, hiring a car or ATV in Larnaca is an enjoyable and safe way to experience the city.
What Are the Best Things To Do in Larnaca by Quad?
As was previously mentioned, there are plenty of tour companies around Larnaca offering ATV tours. However, if you want to explore the city on your own, here are some ideas for things to do:
Agios Lazaros
According to local legend, the famous biblical figure Lazarus is believed to have moved to Larnaca after having risen from the dead. In the remaining 30 years of his life, he served as a bishop in the city, and when he died again, he was buried at Agios Lazarus. This gorgeous church was originally built in the 9th century and was eventually restored in the 17th century. The building features four domes and some amazing examples of Baroque wood carving.
Visitors to Agios Lazaros can descend a flight of stairs and see the Tomb of Lazarus. Unfortunately, the actual remains that they found in the tomb, which may or may not have been Lazarus, were moved to Constantinople in 890 AD. Agios Lazarus is located just a short walk from Finikoudes Beach, about a 10-minute drive from the center of Larnaca.
Hala Sultan Tekke
A visit to the most famous mosque in Larnaca, Hala Sultan Tekke, gives you the opportunity to see one of the city’s most famous cultural sites while also taking in views of the nearby Salt Lake. In the springtime, you can stand outside the mosque and watch flocks of flamingos and ducks in the Salt Lake. There is also a walking trail around the outside of the mosque that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The mosque itself is a beautiful architectural work dedicated to Umm Haram, the prophet Muhammad’s wet nurse. Umm Haram is said to have died at the site after falling off of her donkey. Hala Sultan Tekke is located on the western side of the Salt Lake, about a 10-minute drive from the city center.
Finikoudes Beach
One of the best beaches in Larnaca, and probably the easiest one to find, is Finikoudes Beach. This stretch of golden is located right along the city’s main promenade, only a few steps from a row of stores and restaurants. There are plenty of places where you can rent a lounge chair and an umbrella so you can hang out in the shade in between dips in the water.
Finikoudes Beach is a great place to get into some water sports, rent a boat and paddle around, or hit the beach bars and get a little boozy. If you’re traveling with children, there’s also a small park with an arcade located right along the beach. Finikoudes Beach is right next to the Larnaca Marina and about a 10-minute drive east from the Salt Lake.
Discover Larnaca on a Quad Bike
Hiring a quad bike is undoubtedly one of the best things you can do in Larnaca. There’s so much beautiful nature in the area, so many historical sites, and endless stretches of beach. Renting an ATV gives you the opportunity to explore all of these places at your own pace.
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