Larnaca Airport guide: arrivals, transfers, and getting around

Cyprus’s main international gateway

Larnaca International Airport (IATA: LCA) handles approximately 75–80 percent of Cyprus’s air passengers and serves as the primary gateway for flights from the UK, most of mainland Europe, and many other international origins. Paphos International Airport (PFO) handles most of the remaining traffic, primarily serving western Cyprus.

Understanding Larnaca Airport’s layout and transport options saves significant stress on arrival — particularly if you are renting a car (the exit from the airport requires navigating a roundabout on the left-hand side of the road within the first minute of driving).

Airport layout and facilities

Larnaca Airport is a single-terminal airport with separate arrivals and departures halls on different levels. It is not large — walking from passport control to the hire car desks takes approximately 10 minutes.

Arrivals hall: Hire car desks are positioned across from the baggage claim exit (look for the row of branded desks). ATMs are available in arrivals before you exit customs. Currency exchange counters are present but offer poor rates — use an ATM instead.

Departures: One main departure concourse with duty-free, cafés, and a range of restaurants. Allow 90 minutes before departure — security queues in peak summer can be 30–45 minutes.

WiFi: Free throughout the terminal. Connect to “LCA Free WiFi.”

Lounges: Several lounges accessible to priority pass holders and business class ticket holders. One is accessible via a daily day-pass purchase.

Getting from Larnaca Airport to your destination

Hire car (recommended for most travellers)

The hire car desks in arrivals represent all major international companies (Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Budget) and several reliable local companies (A. Petsas, Budget Cyprus, Autovera). Booking online in advance almost always provides better rates than walk-in desk pricing.

Collect keys at the desk in arrivals, then take the shuttle or walk to the hire car lot (a short distance from the terminal). Be ready to drive on the left immediately from the airport exit. See our full car hire in Cyprus guide for detailed advice.

Taxis

A metered taxi rank is immediately outside arrivals. Prices are regulated (2026 approximate rates):

• Larnaca city centre: €15–20
• Ayia Napa: €45–55
• Protaras/Paralimni: €50–60
• Limassol: €55–70
• Nicosia: €50–60
• Paphos: €120–140 (long journey)

Official airport taxis are metered. Decline any unlicensed driver who approaches you before you reach the rank.

Private transfers

Pre-booked private transfers are available from several operators and from GYG. The advantage over a taxi is knowing the cost in advance and having a driver waiting with your name on a board. Worth considering for families with young children or heavy luggage, or for late-night arrivals when regular taxi availability decreases.

Larnaca: Private Transfer to/from Larnaca Airport (LCA) Private Transfer from Larnaca Airport to Ayia Napa

Bus services

Bus 425 connects Larnaca Airport to Larnaca city centre and Larnaca Bus Station. Runs hourly during the day (less frequently early morning/late night). Cost: approximately €1.50. Journey time: 20–25 minutes.

Intercity buses (OSEA): From Larnaca Bus Station (reached by bus 425), intercity services run to Limassol, Nicosia, and Ayia Napa. Journeys are slower than taxis but significantly cheaper. Larnaca to Ayia Napa by bus takes 1.5–2 hours vs 50 minutes by car. Check OSEA timetables — services reduce sharply in evenings and on Sundays.

Shared shuttle services: Several operators run shared shuttle vans between the airport and major resort hotels in Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Limassol. Prices fall between taxi and public bus rates. Book online in advance.

Key distances and travel times from Larnaca Airport

Destination	By car	By taxi	By bus
Larnaca city	15 min	20 min	25 min
Ayia Napa	45 min	50 min	90–120 min
Protaras	50 min	55 min	100–130 min
Limassol	55 min	65 min	90–120 min
Nicosia	45 min	50 min	60–75 min
Paphos	1h 40min	2h	not practical

Arriving from Northern Cyprus

If you have been in Northern Cyprus and are returning home via Larnaca, cross back through the checkpoint (Pergamos or Agios Dometios) and drive to the airport. Allow extra time if crossing at busy periods. Your Republic of Cyprus hire car insurance resumes the moment you re-enter the south.

Note: Flights from Ercan Airport (Northern Cyprus) are not served by international airlines from EU countries. You cannot fly directly from Northern Cyprus to a European airport except via Turkey. Return to Larnaca Airport for all international departures.

Frequently asked questions about Larnaca Airport

Is Larnaca or Paphos airport better?

Depends entirely on your destination in Cyprus. If heading to Paphos, Limassol west, or Akamas — Paphos Airport (PFO) is far more convenient. If heading to Ayia Napa, Larnaca, or Nicosia — Larnaca is better. If heading to Limassol, either airport is similar distance. Check which airports your flight options serve.

How early should I arrive at Larnaca for departure?

In summer (July–August), allow 2.5–3 hours before departure — security queues can be long, and the queues for UK-bound flights (where passport checks apply) can be extended. Outside peak season, 90 minutes is generally sufficient.

Is there a left-luggage facility at Larnaca?

Yes — left luggage storage is available near the arrivals area. Useful for travellers who want to explore Larnaca before or after their flight.

Does the airport have restaurants and shops beyond security?

Yes — airside, there is a reasonable selection of cafés, a Cyprus-themed restaurant, and duty-free shopping including KEO and SODAP wines, halloumi (vacuum-packed), traditional Cypriot sweets, and Commandaria.

Is Larnaca Airport accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes — the airport has full accessibility facilities including lifts, accessible toilets, and assistance services. Request special assistance when booking your flight.