larnaca airport to protaras — Complete Transfer Guide

Protaras is one of Cyprus’s most popular seaside resorts, known for its golden beaches, clear waters and family-friendly atmosphere. For many visitors the journey begins at Larnaca International Airport, the nearest major gateway to the east coast. Understanding your transfer options, travel times and costs will help you choose the most convenient way to reach Protaras, whether you value speed, comfort, or budget. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting from Larnaca Airport to Protaras efficiently and comfortably.

Distance and typical travel time

The driving distance between Larnaca Airport and Protaras is approximately 45 to 55 kilometers (28–34 miles), depending on the exact route and your destination within Protaras. Typical travel time by car or taxi ranges from 35 to 50 minutes under normal traffic conditions. During peak tourist season, weekends or evening arrivals, journey times can increase slightly. If you choose public transport, expect a longer duration due to connections and stops — usually around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Taxi and private transfers

Taxis and private transfers are the fastest and most convenient way to travel directly to Protaras from Larnaca Airport. Official airport taxis are available outside the arrivals terminal; licensed drivers will provide a fixed or metered fare. Many travelers prefer to pre-book a private transfer for a fixed price, meet-and-greet service and a reliable vehicle for families or groups carrying luggage.

Typical advantages:

Door-to-door service with minimal waiting time.
Fixed price options when pre-booked, avoiding surprises.
Comfortable vehicles with space for luggage and passengers.

Airport shuttle and shared transfers

Shared shuttle services operate between Larnaca Airport and hotels in Protaras. These are more economical than private transfers but less flexible since they may stop at multiple hotels along the route and wait for other arrivals. If you are traveling solo or on a tight budget, this can be an efficient choice. Booking in advance is recommended during high season to guarantee a seat and to coordinate pickup times.

Public buses

The cheapest option is to use public buses, though it requires at least one transfer. From Larnaca Airport, you can take a bus into Larnaca city centre and then catch an intercity bus toward Paralimni or Protaras. Bus schedules vary by season and day of the week, and services may be less frequent late at night. Expect total travel time to be significantly longer than by taxi — plan for around 1.5–2 hours and verify current timetables on the official transport websites or at the airport information desk.

Car hire

Renting a car at Larnaca Airport gives you the freedom to explore Protaras and surrounding areas at your own pace. Major rental companies have desks at the airport; advance booking can secure better rates and preferred vehicle types. Roads between Larnaca and Protaras are well maintained and signposted in English. Remember to factor in fuel costs, parking fees at popular beaches and resort areas, and local driving rules (left-hand traffic? No, Cyprus drives on the left). Always inspect the vehicle on pickup, and check insurance coverage.

Cost comparison

Costs vary by season, provider and booking method:

Taxi/private transfer: moderate to high — generally the quickest option. Fixed private transfers can cost more but are predictable.
Shared shuttle: lower than private taxi, higher convenience than public bus.
Public bus: cheapest, but longer travel time and possible transfers.
Car hire: daily rental rate plus fuel and possible extras; economical for longer stays or when visiting multiple sites.

When to pre-book

Pre-booking is recommended in three main situations:

Arrival late at night or early in the morning when public transport is limited.
Traveling with children, elderly passengers or lots of luggage.
Peak holiday seasons when demand for taxis and shuttles spikes.

Accessibility and special requirements

If you require wheelchair-accessible vehicles or child seats, contact transfer providers ahead of time to ensure appropriate arrangements. Many private transfer companies and larger car hire agencies can supply adapted vehicles or equipment on request, but availability can be limited during busy periods.

Local tips and practical advice

To make your arrival smoother:

Confirm pickup details and terminal locations in advance if you pre-book a transfer.
Keep some local currency for small purchases and tips; most services accept cards but cash can be useful for bus fares.
Allow extra time for luggage handling and passport control during busiest travel months.
Check traffic updates if you’re traveling during festivals or public holidays, as local events can affect journey time.

Exploring beyond Protaras

Protaras makes a great base for exploring eastern Cyprus. From here you can easily visit Fig Tree Bay, the Cape Greco National Forest Park, and nearby Ayia Napa for nightlife and water sports. Renting a car or hiring day trips from Protaras gives you flexibility to visit archaeological sites, coastal viewpoints, and quieter beaches that are less accessible by public transport.

Safety and regulations

Always use licensed taxi services or reputable transfer companies. If a quoted taxi fare seems unusually low, confirm whether it includes tolls, luggage handling or additional passengers. For car rentals, ensure your driving license is valid in Cyprus and that you understand the insurance terms. Keep emergency contact numbers handy and store your accommodation details in your phone.

Final recommendations

Choosing the best way to travel from Larnaca Airport to Protaras depends on your priorities: speed and comfort (taxi or private transfer), cost (public bus), or flexibility (car hire). Pre-book your transfer if you need certainty, convenience or specialized services. If you prefer a balance between price and comfort, consider shared shuttle services. With the right preparation you’ll transform an airport arrival into the easy beginning of a relaxing stay in Protaras.

Enjoy your trip — the sandy bays and clear waters of Protaras are well worth the short journey from Larnaca Airport.