Visitors planning a trip to Cyprus often face a practical question before booking flights: Should you fly into Larnaca or Paphos Airport? The answer depends largely on where your villa is located and what part of the island you plan to explore. At La Mer Homes, we help guests coordinate airport transfers to ensure a smooth start to their holiday. But choosing the right arrival point can still make a noticeable difference in both time and comfort.
Below is a detailed comparison of Larnaca and Paphos Airports, including insights on location, flight routes, airport facilities, and travel times to key regions. If you’re still unsure which is better for your plans, this guide offers clear direction.
The Basics of Cyprus Airports
Cyprus has two primary international airports serving the south of the island: Larnaca International Airport (LCA) in the east, and Paphos International Airport (PFO) in the west. Both are operated by Hermes Airports and handle millions of passengers annually.
- Larnaca Airport is the larger of the two and acts as the main hub for long-haul and connecting flights.
- Paphos Airport serves more point-to-point flights, particularly from the UK and selected European destinations.
Both airports offer modern terminals, efficient baggage handling, and access to public transport, car hire, and taxi services. However, your choice should align closely with your villa’s location and the travel experience you want.
Villa Locations and Travel Time
Villas in Protaras, Ayia Napa, or Larnaka District
If your villa is located in Protaras, Ayia Napa, or the greater Larnaca area, Larnaca Airport is the logical choice. Travel time from LCA to these eastern coastal towns ranges from 45 minutes to just over an hour, depending on traffic.
Choosing Paphos Airport for a villa in the east would mean a 3-hour road transfer across the island. While scenic, it may not be ideal after a long flight, especially for families with young children or those arriving late at night.
Villas in Paphos, Coral Bay, or Polis
Travellers staying in western Cyprus, particularly in Paphos, Tala, Peyia, or Coral Bay, will be best served by Paphos Airport. Most villas in the west are within 15 to 40 minutes of PFO, making it highly convenient.
Flying into Larnaca for a Paphos-based villa adds unnecessary travel time. The cross-island drive can stretch to nearly 2.5 hours, often passing through Limassol or Nicosia, depending on your route.
Comparing Larnaca and Paphos Airports
Size and Capacity
Larnaca Airport is larger, with more boarding gates, a higher passenger capacity, and a wider selection of services. It handles more international airlines and offers more year-round routes, including long-haul destinations and key European hubs such as Frankfurt, Vienna, and Amsterdam.
Paphos Airport is smaller and less busy, offering a simpler arrival and departure experience. With fewer terminals and shorter queues, many guests find the airport easy to navigate, especially during the summer rush.
Airlines and Destinations
Larnaca is better connected to cities in the Middle East, Central Europe, and Northern Europe.
Paphos is dominated by budget airlines, making it a cost-effective option for direct flights from the UK and Ireland. However, routes can be more limited during the winter.
Terminal Amenities
Both airports offer a range of food options, shopping areas, and lounges, but Larnaca’s terminal includes more retail outlets, larger dining spaces, and more spacious waiting areas.
If you value airport comfort, or expect a long layover, Larnaca may feel more polished. However, for quick arrivals and departures, Paphos remains highly efficient.
Airport Transfers and Accessibility
At La Mer Homes, we coordinate airport transfer services for all villa guests. Whether you’re landing at Larnaca or Paphos, we’ll arrange for a professional driver to meet you at the terminal and transport you to your villa comfortably.
Here’s a quick travel time reference table:
| Villa Area | From Larnaca Airport | From Paphos Airport |
| Protaras | 55–70 mins | 2 hrs 50 mins |
| Ayia Napa | 40–50 mins | 2 hrs 45 mins |
| Larnaka | 10–25 mins | 2 hrs 30 mins |
| Limassol | 45–60 mins | 55–65 mins |
| Paphos Centre | 2 hrs 30 mins | 15–20 mins |
| Coral Bay | 2 hrs 45 mins | 30–40 mins |
| Polis/Latchi | 3 hrs | 45–55 mins |
Seasonal Considerations and Flight Availability
Summer vs Winter
Larnaca Airport operates more year-round flights, making it a better option outside of peak months. Paphos tends to reduce its schedule between November and March, though it still maintains essential connections to London, Manchester, and a few other cities.
Charter Flights
During the summer, charter flights are common into both airports. Many travellers book package holidays that include flights to Paphos but end up with accommodation in Larnaca District, causing longer transfers. Always check your villa’s exact location before selecting your airport.
Public Transport and Taxis
Both airports offer intercity bus services, though schedules vary. From Larnaca, guests can take a direct airport shuttle to Nicosia or Limassol. Paphos Airport has fewer options, with most buses requiring a change in Paphos town.
Taxis are available at both terminals, though pre-booked transfers tend to offer better rates and guaranteed vehicle size, especially for families or guests with luggage.
Need help arranging your arrival? Our team at La Mer Homes is happy to help you book a transfer in advance and ensure your driver knows the exact villa address.
Airport Development and Future Growth
Cyprus continues to invest in airport infrastructure. Larnaca Airport underwent a major expansion project in recent years, enhancing terminal flow, adding parking bays, and improving baggage claim efficiency. Its proximity to Nicosia and Limassol ensures it remains the island’s busiest.
Paphos Airport has also seen improvements, particularly in passenger screening and outdoor facilities. Despite being smaller, it serves as an important hub for the West Coast, and its relaxed environment is often praised by returning travellers.
Which Airport Is Best for You?
Choosing between Larnaca and Paphos comes down to more than just flight availability. It’s about minimising time on the road, maximising comfort, and aligning with your travel goals.
- Choose Larnaca Airport if:
You’re staying in Protaras, Ayia Napa, Larnaca, or travelling off-peak. Larnaca offers more international routes and a larger facility. - Choose Paphos Airport if:
Your villa is in the Paphos District, Coral Bay, or Polis. It provides easier access to the west and fewer crowds on arrival.
Wherever you land, La Mer Homes will ensure your transfer is seamless. Our local drivers know the island’s roads well and can guide you to your villa quickly and comfortably.
Still undecided? Reach out to our concierge team for personalised advice based on your travel dates, villa location, and arrival preferences.
