So, you're planning a trip to the beautiful island of Cyprus? One of the first questions you'll likely ask is about airports. The simple answer is that for international travel, you really only need to think about two: Larnaca International Airport (LCA) and Paphos International Airport (PFO).
These two are the main gateways to the Republic of Cyprus, handling the overwhelming majority of flights coming in and out of the country. They are the beating heart of the island's tourism, and they've been busier than ever. In fact, a record-breaking 12.3 million passengers passed through their terminals in 2024, which shows just how popular Cyprus has become.
A Quick Look at the Two Main Airports
When you're booking flights, your decision between Larnaca and Paphos really just comes down to where you're staying on the island. Think of it like this: Cyprus is one big, beautiful house, and these airports are two different front doors. Both get you inside, but choosing the right one can save you a long walk to your room.
For a better sense of the island's layout, you might find our guide on how big Cyprus is useful. It'll help put the airport locations into perspective.
The key thing to remember is this: Larnaca Airport is your best bet for the eastern side of the island and the capital, Nicosia. Paphos Airport, on the other hand, is the go-to for anyone heading to the west.
Getting this choice right from the start can make a real difference, saving you precious holiday time on transfers.
To make things even clearer, let's break down the main differences in a simple table.
Cyprus International Airports at a Glance
Here’s a straightforward comparison to help you see which airport best fits your travel plans.
| Feature | Larnaca International Airport (LCA) | Paphos International Airport (PFO) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | East Coast | West Coast |
| Best For | Ayia Napa, Protaras, Nicosia, Limassol | Paphos, Polis, Latchi, Limassol |
| Size & Traffic | Larger, busier, more airlines | Smaller, more seasonal |
| Vibe | Major international hub | Relaxed, holiday-focused |
| Ground Transport | Excellent motorway connections, bus services | Good motorway links, local buses |
Ultimately, both airports are modern, efficient, and well-equipped to get your Cypriot adventure off to a smooth start. Your choice simply boils down to convenience and your final destination.
Larnaca Airport: The Island’s Busiest Hub
If Cyprus has a main front door, it's Larnaca International Airport (LCA). As the island's largest and most bustling airport, this is where the vast majority of international visitors first touch down. Its prime location on the southeast coast makes it the perfect entry point, especially if your plans involve the lively resorts of Ayia Napa and Protaras or a visit to the capital, Nicosia.
Larnaca is a truly global hub, servicing a fantastic mix of airlines. You’ll see major carriers like British Airways rubbing shoulders with popular budget-friendly options such as Wizz Air and Jet2. This variety gives travellers superb connectivity, particularly from the UK and the rest of Europe, ensuring plenty of choice and competitive fares.
Landing at Larnaca, you’ll step into a modern, single-terminal building that’s surprisingly easy to get your bearings in. Even though it's the busier of the two main airports, it’s well-organised and manages the summer rush with impressive efficiency.
From the moment you land to when you head for your departure gate, the experience is designed to be straightforward. Once you’ve grabbed your bags, you’ll find several simple transport options ready and waiting.
Getting Around From Larnaca
Getting from the airport to your final destination couldn't be easier, with choices available for every budget and travel style.
- Car Hire: Fancy the freedom to explore? All the main international and local car hire firms have desks right in the arrivals hall. It’s a very popular choice for anyone wanting to discover the island on their own schedule.
- Airport Taxis: Just outside the arrivals exit, you'll find a dedicated taxi rank. They operate on fixed-rate fares to all the major towns and resorts, which takes the guesswork out of the journey.
- Bus Services: For a more budget-conscious trip, several public and private bus services connect the airport to Larnaca city centre, Nicosia, Limassol, Ayia Napa, and Protaras.
Back inside the terminal, there’s a great selection of shops, from duty-free and high-street brands to stores selling local crafts. You're also spoilt for choice with cafés and restaurants, whether you need a quick coffee before your flight or want to sit down for a proper meal. All in all, Larnaca Airport is a convenient and genuinely welcoming start to any Cypriot adventure.
Paphos Airport: The Gateway to Western Cyprus
While Larnaca might be the island's primary hub, Paphos International Airport (PFO) is the savvy choice for anyone looking to explore the beautiful, sun-drenched western coast of Cyprus. As the country's second-largest airport, it offers a noticeably more relaxed and often less crowded welcome to the island. So, if you're wondering how many airports in Cyprus serve this specific region, PFO is your go-to answer.
Its location is perfect for visitors heading to the ancient city of Paphos, the bustling coastal town of Limassol, or the wild, natural landscapes around Polis and the Akamas Peninsula. Landing here dramatically cuts down your travel time, getting you from the arrivals hall to a beachfront taverna in no time at all.
A Hub For Budget-Savvy Travellers
Paphos Airport has really made a name for itself as a major base for low-cost airlines, which is why it's a firm favourite for holidaymakers from the UK and Europe. The most significant airline you'll find here is Ryanair, which runs a massive network of routes connecting Paphos with countless cities. This strong focus on budget carriers means you can often find fantastic flight deals, especially if you plan ahead.
Other popular airlines flying into PFO include:
- Jet2: A huge name in the UK holiday scene, offering both flights and package deals.
- easyJet: Another low-cost giant with great connections from numerous UK airports.
- TUI: A go-to for travellers looking for an all-in-one holiday package.
The vibe at Paphos Airport is just calmer. It’s smaller, with a single terminal that makes finding your way around incredibly simple – a welcome relief after your flight.
Getting to your final destination is a breeze. The car hire desks are conveniently located just across from the terminal exit, so you can pick up your keys and be on the road in minutes. For those who prefer public transport, regular bus services run directly to Paphos harbour and other nearby towns. To make things even smoother, it's worth reading up on a Paphos airport transfer in advance.
Ultimately, PFO is a wonderfully efficient and convenient entry point to the undeniable charms of western Cyprus.
How To Choose The Right Airport For Your Cyprus Trip
Deciding between Larnaca and Paphos might seem like a small detail, but getting it right is the first step towards a stress-free holiday. It’s a bit like choosing the best door into a massive venue; while both get you inside, picking the one closest to your seat saves you a lot of walking.
Your choice really boils down to one simple question: where on the island are you actually staying? If you’ve booked a hotel or villa in a specific resort, the airport decision is practically made for you. This simple choice can be the difference between a swift 20-minute transfer and a long two-hour trek across the island after you've already spent hours on a plane.
The East vs. West Rule
A good rule of thumb is to think of the island as split into east and west.
- For the eastern resorts, famed for their lively atmosphere and golden beaches like Ayia Napa and Protaras, Larnaca is your best bet. It also serves the capital, Nicosia.
- For the western side, which is rich in ancient history, charming villages, and natural beauty around Paphos town and the Akamas Peninsula, Paphos is the obvious choice.
This handy map gives you a great visual of how the island is laid out and which airport serves which region.
As you can see, picking the right airport really does put you right on the doorstep of your final destination.
Choosing Your Airport Based on Destination
To make things crystal clear, here’s a simple table to help you decide.
| If Your Destination Is… | Recommended Airport | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Ayia Napa or Protaras | Larnaca (LCA) | It's the closest airport, meaning a much shorter transfer time to these popular eastern resorts. |
| Paphos Town or Coral Bay | Paphos (PFO) | You'll be just a short drive away, perfectly placed to explore the west coast. |
| Limassol | Either (LCA or PFO) | Limassol sits in the middle. Check flight prices and times, as both are viable options. |
| Nicosia | Larnaca (LCA) | LCA offers the most straightforward and quickest route to the capital city. |
| Latchi or Polis | Paphos (PFO) | Flying into Paphos gets you much closer to these quieter spots on the north-west coast. |
This quick guide should cover most of the main holiday spots and help you make a practical choice.
It's Not Just About Location
Beyond geography, the airline you fly with and the price you pay can also play a part. Paphos has become a major base for budget-friendly airlines, so you might find more bargain fares flying there. Larnaca, on the other hand, tends to have a broader mix of carriers, including legacy airlines alongside the low-cost ones.
Larnaca's status as the island's main gateway is clear from the passenger numbers. In the first five months of 2024 alone, Cyprus's two international airports welcomed over 4 million passengers. That's a huge 12% increase from the year before, with Larnaca Airport accounting for the lion's share of that traffic.
Ultimately, your choice will influence more than just your transfer time; it could also have a real impact on your travel budget. To get a better idea of what to expect in the air, have a look at our guide on how long the flight to Cyprus is.
A Closer Look at Other Airstrips on the Island
So, we've covered the two main gateways for holidaymakers. But when you're looking at a map or searching online, a few other names might pop up. It's really helpful to know what these are so you don't get your wires crossed when booking your trip.
For instance, you might see Nicosia International Airport mentioned. This was once the island's main airport, but it's been out of action since 1974. It now lies completely abandoned inside the UN Buffer Zone, a fascinating but eerie relic of Cyprus's past. It’s definitely not somewhere you can land.
Then there's RAF Akrotiri. Tucked away on the peninsula near Limassol, this is a large, active Royal Air Force base. It's a crucial military installation, which means it’s strictly off-limits to civilian and commercial aircraft. So, unless you're in the RAF, you won't be flying in or out of here for your sun holiday.
Flying into Northern Cyprus? Here's What You Need to Know
You’ll almost certainly see flights advertised to Ercan Airport (ECN), the main airport for Northern Cyprus. If you're considering this route, it's vital to understand its unique status, as it has a big impact on travel from the UK.
Because of the long-standing political situation, Ercan Airport is not internationally recognised by bodies like the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). For travellers, this has one very specific consequence: all flights from the UK to Ercan must legally stop in Turkey.
There are absolutely no direct flights. This layover in Turkey is a mandatory part of the journey for every airline. While it’s a perfectly valid way to get to the north, you just need to factor in the extra travel time. It’s a trade-off to consider when you compare it with flying directly into Larnaca or Paphos and crossing the border by land.
Of course! Here is the rewritten section, crafted to sound like an experienced human expert with a natural, informative style.
Soaring Passenger Numbers and the British Connection
You only need to look at the bustling terminals of Larnaca and Paphos airports to see just how popular Cyprus has become. It's not just a feeling; the numbers tell a story of incredible growth, especially when it comes to visitors from the United Kingdom.
These airports aren't just arrival points; they are major hubs connecting Europe with the Middle East, and they're handling more passengers than ever before. This constant upward trend is a clear sign of the island's enduring appeal for both holidays and business.
The consistent rise in passenger numbers underscores a simple fact: Cyprus is more accessible and in-demand than ever. The island's airports are efficiently handling this increase, ensuring a smooth travel experience for visitors.
The UK's Unbreakable Bond with Cyprus
The link between the UK and Cyprus is the lifeblood of the island's tourism industry. A massive chunk of the millions who flock to the island each year are Brits, hopping on flights from all over the United Kingdom.
This steady stream of visitors is made possible by a vast network of non-stop flights. You'll find a route from almost any major UK city, including:
- London: Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, and Luton all offer multiple daily flights.
- Manchester: A key northern hub providing strong, year-round connections.
- Birmingham: Serving the Midlands with regular flights to both Larnaca and Paphos.
This network is a healthy mix of well-known carriers and popular budget airlines, making a trip to Cyprus easy and affordable. The latest figures show just how strong this connection is. In October 2024 alone, Larnaca Airport saw nearly 958,000 travellers, a jump of 8.8% from the year before. Paphos Airport wasn't far behind, with traffic growing by 3.2% to around 380,000 passengers in the same month. You can read more about these historic passenger numbers and see what it means for the island's future.
Your Cyprus Airport Questions Answered
Arriving in a new country can feel a bit overwhelming, so let's clear up some of the most common questions travellers ask about Cyprus's airports. Think of this as your cheat sheet for a smooth arrival.
Which Airport is Better: Larnaca or Paphos?
Honestly, the "best" airport really comes down to where you're staying. It’s all about geography.
If you're heading to the eastern side of the island for the buzzing resorts of Ayia Napa or Protaras, or visiting the capital, Nicosia, then Larnaca (LCA) is your best bet. On the other hand, if your holiday plans are on the west coast—in Paphos town, Coral Bay, or exploring the beautiful Akamas Peninsula—then Paphos (PFO) is the clear winner.
For those staying in Limassol, which is conveniently located right in the middle, you're in luck. Both airports are a good shout, so just compare flight prices and schedules to see what works best for you.
Can I Get a Direct Flight to Northern Cyprus from the UK?
This is a common point of confusion, but the answer is a straightforward no. You cannot fly directly from the UK to Ercan Airport (ECN) in the north.
Because of the political situation, all flights to Ercan from the UK and most other countries must make a mandatory stop in Turkey. There are no exceptions. It’s a crucial detail to remember when planning your journey time.
While you can book flights to Ercan, they will always involve a layover. This is a stark contrast to the Republic of Cyprus, where dozens of non-stop flights from the UK land at Larnaca and Paphos daily, making for a much quicker trip.
What’s the Best Way to Get from the Airport?
Getting from either Larnaca or Paphos to your final destination is pretty simple. Both are well set up with a few great options:
- Car Hire: You’ll find all the big international brands and reliable local firms with desks right inside the arrivals hall.
- Taxis: A dedicated taxi rank is located just outside the terminal doors, with fixed fares to major towns so there are no surprises.
- Buses: A network of public buses and private shuttle services offers a budget-friendly way to get to the main cities and holiday resorts.
How Busy Do the Airports Get?
Unsurprisingly, things get very busy during the peak summer season, roughly from June through to September. That said, Cyprus is a genuine year-round destination. You can expect a steady stream of travellers even in the cooler months, especially during school holidays and over Christmas and Easter.
At SayCyprus, we love helping you put together the perfect trip. For more insider tips and detailed destination guides, feel free to explore our other articles.
