Hermes Larnaca Airport: Your Introduction to Cyprus
Hermes Larnaca International Airport is the main international gateway for Cyprus, with millions of international visitors flying directly into Larnaca from all over the world. Larnaca itself is rugged, yet alluring, with the charm of a palm-fringed main promenade lined with many cafes and bars to choose from. The old Turkish section of Larnaca is lined with studios and houses, many homes to some of the oldest crafts on this island, which has a rich ancient history. You’ll see pita makers, blacksmiths and candle makers almost side by side with the trendy chain stores frequented by worldly youngsters enjoying a day outdoors. Larnaca epitomizes Cyprus’ mix of old and new, with the new airport representing a modern design gem.
Particularly since it joined the European Union in 2004, Cyprus has become a major tourist destination in the Mediterranean, with more than 5 million air passengers a year using Hermes Larnaca International Airport. The airport is still in the process of expansion, although many of the expansion plans laid out in 1998 have been completed, including the new control tower, runway extension, and fire station. The infrastructure surrounding the airport has also been improved, with the surrounding highways being upgraded and completed. That means getting to and from the airport is now easier than ever.
With the opening of the latest terminal building in late 2009, the airport now has 16 jetways, 67 check-in terminals, several self-service check-in kiosks, and 48 gates. This new terminal can better cope with the influx of tourists discovering the beauty and wonder of Cyprus, with the capacity to handle 7.5 million passengers a year. For 2013, the expansion of the new terminal and the expansion of the runway are planned. The design of the new terminal building was specifically created to resemble the proportions of Larnaca’s medieval-era aqueduct. In its current and anticipated form, Larnaca International Airport is considered the best designed of its size in the world.
Once you arrive at Larnaca airport, how do you get where you need to go? You can take shuttle buses to Limassol and Nicosia and if you are staying in Larnaca some of the hotels offer shuttles but not all. Buses will soon be added to your airport transportation options, but as of now, your best bet is to take a taxi into town. The city center is about 7 km from the airport, and taxis are available 24 hours outside the main entrance of the airport. Rates are displayed on a rate board in the arrivals hall of the airport.
Some of these taxi services also offer tours and minibus services, and can arrange to meet you at the airport arrivals hall or at your hotel reception. The taxi drivers of the best services are fluent in English and the cars themselves are modern and air conditioned. Airport transfer rates for taxis are fixed and all-inclusive.