tourist attractions ayia napa

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21 Tourist Attractions, Beaches to Visit and Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

Ayia Napa, also known as Agia Napa, is a beautiful beach city on the southeastern coast of Cyprus island.

Almost all of the best things to do in Ayia Napa revolve around the coastline. This includes leisure, entertainment, nightlife, and adventure activities to do in Ayia Napa . At the same time, the coastline is also known for sightseeing spots, nature trails, and historical places to visit in Ayia Napa , Cyprus.

The city is named after a Venetian monastery of the Virgin Mary. This cave church is still among the most popular things to see in Ayia Napa . While the church dates back to the 1500s, civilization did not develop in the region till the 1700s.

However, you will come across ancient Roman and Greek places to see in Ayia Napa that predate the church. You will also find many unique and colourful churches in and around the city. These happen to some of the most photographed Ayia Napa attractions .

At the same time, there is also a great thrill in Ayia Napa travel. You can go for scuba diving, water sports, kayaking, snorkeling, boat cruises, cliff diving, mountain biking, and more. Coastal hikes are also among the top things to do in Ayia Napa. All of this with the beautiful backdrop of the turquoise blue Mediterranean.

On the calmer side of Ayia Napa sightseeing , you can just sit by the beach and enjoy the views. If you want to explore all the wonderful things nature has created, you can explore the coastline further to explore the sea caves, cliffs, and rock formations. Some of these natural wonders have become Ayia Napa tourist attractions owing to the picturesque views they offer.

The Ayia Napa beaches are also popular for leisure and entertainment facilities. You can sit in lounges, enjoy drinks, beach sports, spa therapies, swimming, and more. There can be debate about the best beach in Ayia Napa , but you will have a great time at any of them. They are all serene.

But, when the sun goes down, Ayia Napa becomes a happening partying destination. There are numerous bars, clubs, pubs, shacks, and other places to go in Ayia Napa to enjoy a wild night out. And you don’t need to venture to specific areas for a great vibe, you can party in the city and by the beaches. You can even get on a cruise and party on the ocean.

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Table of Contents

Top 21 Tourist Places to Visit in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

1. cape greco national forest park.

This marvellous national park consists of forests, beaches, coastal cliffs, islands, streams, waterfalls, pools, and more. It is home to some of the most beautiful things to see in Ayia Napa.

You will see gorgeous beaches with turquoise ocean views and sculpture-like rock formations rising from the sea. It is absolutely heavenly. The national park is also popular for a lot of outdoor activities to do in Ayia Napa.

People come here for coastal hiking trails and forest trails leading to beaches. You can also enjoy cycling, cliff diving, swimming, and boating. The hidden ocean caves are also the best places to go in Ayia Napa for snorkeling. You can easily spend an entire day exploring the Cape Greco National Park.

I suggest you should book a Half-Day Trip to Cape Greco Region .

2. Makronissos Beach & Tombs

This beach is among the best places to visit in Ayia Napa, Cyprus for all things fun. The soft white sand and sapphire blue water sets the perfect backdrop for leisure, partying, and water sports.

You can go swimming, jet skiing, boat cruising, paddle-boating, waterskiing, snorkelling, and more on this Ayia Napa beach. You can also just sit by the beach and relax with drinks and snacks. The beach is also a hotspot for the best things to do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus at night. You will find amazing nightclubs, bars, lounges, shacks and events.

While most popular as a leisure destination, Makronissos is also home to historical Ayia Napa attractions. The tombs close to the beach have been carved into ocean caves. Some of the tombs date back to 300 BCE and are a few remnants of the Roman era. You can easily spend a couple of hours from Ayia Napa travel exploring the wonders, historical and happening, of Makronissos.

3. Thalassa Museum

This museum explores the history of the relationship between the Mediterranean Sea and the people living on its shores. The museum covers history, culture, zoology, archeology, and so on.

It is one of the most interesting Ayia Napa tourist attractions. Thalassa Museum has interactive exhibits showcasing historical ships, replicas of naval vessels, reconstructed shipwrecks, archeological artifacts, and more. You will need about an hour to tour this museum.

4. Water Sports

You get to explore a variety of terrains when you visit Ayia Napa. This includes the coastline, beaches, caves, pools, bays, and sea caves.

5. Ayia Napa Monastery

Dating back to the 15th century, this monastery was built under Venetian rule. The monastery was designed like a castle with some blends of palatial and religious elements.

It is a must-see in Ayia Napa for its architecture and collection of historical artifacts. The museum of the monastery outlines its history as well as the cultural influence of Venetians on the city. You will need about an hour to explore this monastery.

6. Ayia Napa Sea Caves

The sea caves give you a view of the ocean that even the best beach in Ayia Napa cannot. These caves have been carved by nature over centuries and create some incredibly beautiful rock formations.

You will get some of the most cinematic photographs and videos in these caves. There are pools, streams, rock formations, and the ocean, of course. These caves are also popular for some of the top things to do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus including scuba diving, swimming, snorkelling, cave exploring, hiking, and more. You will need a couple of hours to explore these sea caves.

I suggest you should go for a Guided Kayaking Trip to Ayia Napa Sea Caves .

7. Ayia Napa Sculpture Park & Cactus Park

This park houses a collection of 40 sculptures created by international artists from around the world. It is one of the most interesting places to see in Ayia Napa. These sculptures are themed after cultures, concepts, philosophies, legends, stories, and historical figures.

Cactus Park sits right next to the sculpture park and is another popular spot for Ayia Napa sightseeing. You will see a variety of native cacti and also a few reptiles You need 30 to 45 minutes to tour these places.

8. Waterworld Waterpark

This Ancient Greece-themed waterpark has all the fun things to do in Ayia Napa for families. While you can hit the beaches anytime, this park is still one of the most popular places to visit in Ayia Napa.

It is one of the best waterparks in Europe and is home to a variety of thrill rides, themed zones, games, and activities. It is also one of the most photogenic Ayia Napa tourist attractions owing to the Ancient Greece theme elements including pillars, temples, statues, Atlantis zone, and so on. You can easily spend a couple of hours enjoying this place when you visit Ayia Napa.

9. Konnos Bay

This Bay is one of the most happening places in Ayia Napa. The Bay is home to many coastline resorts, shacks, clubs, bars, and lounges. It is incredibly popular for one of the best beaches in Ayia Napa as well as small rock islands close to the shore.

The beach is great for swimming, snorkelling, beach sports, leisure, spa treatments, jet-skiing, and more. Konnos Bay is also known as a nightlife and party destination. You can easily take half a day to enjoy this place.

10. Kamara Tou Koraka

This natural rock bridge has formed due to centuries of carving by water and wind. Its shape, suspension, and unusual formation have made it one of the most top places to see in Ayia Napa.

This is one of the best sunset spots near the city with serene views of the ocean as it turns orange under a radiant sun. You should take a few minutes from glamorous Ayia Napa travel to admire nature’s craftsmanship here.

11. Ocean Cruise

Where there is an ocean, there are cruises. You can tour the ocean in a large ship or take a smaller boat for a more lavish experience. People can also take sailboats, speedboats, and yachts. It is one of the best things to do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.

There are also party cruises, scuba diving cruises, sunset cruises, and sightseeing cruises. The timings change based on what you choose. But you will need at least an hour for any of the cruises.

I suggest you can book your Half Day Ocean Cruise Trip with Lunch in advance.

12. Nissi Beach

This beach is twice as beautiful as it has two Ayia Napa beaches in one place. A narrow stretch of shallow shoreline creates a natural pool on one side and two beaches facing each other. This is one of the most beautiful things to see in Ayia Napa, Cyprus.

On the fun side, the beaches have all the facilities for leisure, entertainment, games, sports, partying, and adventure activities to do in Ayia Napa. If you are done enjoying one side, you can swim to the other beach and start your party there. Or you can simply walk to the other side. You can easily spend a couple of hours enjoying the Nissi beach.

13. Ayia Napa Square

The heart of the city is also its most happening spot day and night. During the day you can roam around here watching colourful buildings and beautiful people. The square is also surrounded by some of the best places to go in Ayia Napa for dining, snacks, street food, and shopping.

When the sun goes down, the square becomes a partying hotspot. You will hear music from clubs and bars on all sides. Pick anyone and switch just across the street if their style doesn’t match your vibe. You will need only a few minutes to enjoy the square and hours to enjoy the places around it.

14. The Blue Lagoon

It is a beautiful huge lagoon with turquoise blue water. Hence, the name. But the name does not capture the ethereal beauty of this spot. The water is so clear and the waves are so calm that you can see the bottom.

The lagoon is truly one of the most mesmerizing places to see in Ayia Napa. It is also one of the best spots for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

Even from the surface, you can see the vibrant sea life. So the view from under the surface is breathtaking. You should take at least 2 hours from Ayia Napa sightseeing to explore this place.

15. St. Nicholas Church

This wonderful white and blue church is heavily influenced by Greek churches. Owing to the appearance and the backdrop of the beautiful ocean, this church has become one of the most photographed places in Ayia Napa. You need 20 to 30 minutes for this church.

16. Scuba Diving

While the ocean is gorgeous, underneath the ocean is a must-see in Ayia Napa. The majority of people miss out on the opportunity to explore the surreal world under the surface. There are numerous spots close to the beaches and a few deeper in the ocean for scuba diving.

You will also find special cruises that take you further away for a deeper experience. It is one of the top things to do in Ayia Napa and you will need a couple of hours for it.

I suggest you should book your Scuba Diving Experience in advance.

17. Machairas Monastery

Just an hour away, this monastery is one of the best places to visit near Ayia Napa. The legend has it that a hermit brought one of Apostle Luke’s icons here and has since become a place of religious significance in the Mediterranean.

The monastery has some very interesting things to see in Ayia Napa including ancient manuscripts and religious artifacts. You will need about 2 to 3 hours for this historical site.

18. Profitis Ilias Church

The church of Prophet Elias was built in the late 1900s and sits atop a hill near Protaras. You will need to climb 300 steps to get to this church, but the view from there is worth the effort.

This church is also included among Ayia Napa tourist attractions owing to the classic artworks that adorn its walls. You will need about 2 hours from Ayia Napa travel to visit the church.

19. Ancient City of Salamis

Just an hour’s drive away, the ruins of the ancient city of Salamis is one of the best things to see near Ayia Napa. The site dates back to the 11th century. The site showcases aspects of the structures of the ancient city. You can still see the pillars of the temples standing.

The site also shows ruins of statues, temples, amphitheater, houses, and so on. You will also get to see many artifacts in the site’s museum. It is a fascinating place where you can get an imaginative experience of the ancient civilization. You will need to take 2 to 3 hours from Ayia Napa sightseeing to explore this site.

20. Mount Olympus

The famed mountain of the Greek Gods is a great day-trip option for outdoor activities to do near Ayia Napa. The mountain is popular among hikers and mountain climbers.

There are several trails of varying difficulty. You can also take a chair-lift to directly get to the top without much effort. It takes at least a day to make a trip to Mount Olympus during Ayia Napa travel.

21. Park Paliatso Luna Park

This carnival park is one of the best places to go in Ayia Napa to rekindle the child within you. The place has parlour games, rides, roller coasters, Ferris wheels, street food, and more. You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring and enjoying the place.

If you are looking for more places to visit in Ayia Napa and around it, check out the sections below.

Things to do in ayia napa, cyprus, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in ayia napa, cyprus.

• Sculpture Park
• Monastery of Ayia Napa
• Thalassa Maritime Museum
• Ayia Napa Monument
• MUSAN Museum of Underwater Sculpture
• Ayia Thekla Chapel
• Ayioi Anargiroi Church
• Monument of Peace
• Ayia Napa Aquaduct
• Church of Ayia Napa
• Park Rzezby
• Cyclops Cave
• Agioi Santara Cave Church
• Makronissos Archeological Sites
• The Fiesherman of Ayia Napa
• Makronissis Tombs
• National History Museum of Ayia Napa
• Country House Museum
• Cape Greco Lighthouse
• Green Bay Underwater Statues
• Ecclesiastical Museum
• Agia Marina Church

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

• Cavo Greco National Park
• Kamara Tou Koraka
• Bridge of Lovers
• The Blue Lagoon

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

• Water World – Waterpark
• Parko Paliasto Luna Park
• Ayia Thekla
• Dolfin’s Luna Park
• Govr Games Amusement Center
• Casino Ayia Napa
• Plateia Seferi

Shopping in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

• Nissi Avenue
• Ayia Thekla Market
• Makarios Avenue
• Stathis Shopping Center

Beaches & Islands in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

• Cape Cavo Greco
• Nissi Beach
• Konnos Bay Gardens
• Makronissos Beach
• Landa Beach
• Ayia Napa Island
• Latchi Adams Beach
• Limanaki Beach
• The Dome Beach
• Konnos Beach
• Vathia Gonia
• Poseidon Beach
• Pantachou Beach
• Nissi Island
• Glyki Nero Beach
• Ammos Kambouri Beach
• Katsarka Beach
• Limnara Beach
• Loukkos Tou Mandi Beach
• Vrissiana Beach
• Nisia Loumbardi Beach
• Pernera Beach
• Mikri Landa Beach
• Ziatzi Beach
• Malama Beach
• Liopetri Beach
• Sirens Beach
• Firemen Beach
• Kapparis Beach
• Agia Triada Beach
• Sirena Beach
• Kalamies Beach
• Trinity Beach

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventures in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

• Boat Cruise
• Transparent Bottom Boat Cruise
• Cliff Diving
• Scuba Diving
• Snorkelling

Sightseeing in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

• Aiya Napa Harbour
• Cavo Greco Viewpoint
• Agia Napa Promenade
• Ayia Napa Square
• The Mermaid Statue

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

• AVRA Authentic Cypriot Kitchen
• Napa Taverna
• Hungry Horse Taverna
• Tony’s Taverna
• Los Bandidos
• En Yevo Tavernaki
• MR Tzatziki
• Sesoula Kalamaki
• Magic Sandy Bay
• Glasshouse Lounge
• Limelight Taverna
• Stamna Taven
• Isac Fish Tavern
• Zaatar Foods Art
• Ocean Basket

Where to Stay in Ayia Napa?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range, and Budget Hotels in Ayia Napa. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Ayia Napa.

Luxurious Hotels

• Nissi Beach Resort
• Nissiblu Beach Resort
• Alion Beach Hotel
• Grecian Bay Hotel
• Adams Beach Hotel
• Tsokkos Paradise Village
• Nelia Beach Hotel
• Amanti, MadeForTwo Hotels – Ayia Napa
• Melissi Beach Hotel & Spa

Mid-Range Hotels

• Chrysomare Beach Hotel and Resort
• So White Club Resort
• Tasia Maris Beach Hotel & Spa
• Hotel Napa Suites
• Napa Mermaid Hotel & Suites
• Nestor Hotel
• Anonymous Beach Hotel
• Amethyst Napa Hotel & Spa
• Mon Repos Design Hotel
• Atlantica Aeneas Resort

Budget Hotels

• Sea CleoNapa Hotel
• Evabelle Napa Hotel Apartments
• Aktea Beach Village
• Makronisos Holiday Village
• Cosmo Napa Boutique Hotel
• River Rock Hotel
• Cyprotel Florida
• New Famagusta Hotel
• Carina Hotel Apartments
• Rio Gardens

Custom Tours Package in Ayia Napa

How to reach ayia napa, cyprus.

The Larnaca airport is the closest one to reach Ayia Napa. The airport receives direct flights from cities in Europe, Africa and Asia. Some of the popular destinations of origin include Athens , Belgrade , Riga , Oslo , Tel Aviv, London , Copenhagen , Sofia , Warsaw , Zurich , Dusseldorf , Dubai , Milan , Beirut, Paris , Rome , Cairo , Tbilisi, and many others. You can reach Ayia Napa from the airport by taking a cab or a bus.

You can get direct buses to visit Ayia Napa from several cities on the Cyprus island. This includes Larnaca , Nicosia, Paralimni, Limassol , Paphos , and more.

If you are planning to reach Ayia Napa by road, you should head for routes: A3, E306, or E327.

You can get boat cruises for Ayia Napa travel from Larnaca and a few other coastal towns on the Cyprus island.

Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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Home » Travel Guides » Cyprus » 15 Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa (Cyprus)

15 Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa (Cyprus)

Since its spell as the Mediterranean’s wildest resort in the early-noughties Ayia Napa has grown up a little. If you’re in need of pulsating nightlife you’ll still find it in Ayia Napa square, and there are plenty of rowdy activities by day for party people.

But families will also be pleased with this corner of Cyprus . There’s a modern water park and permanent funfair, while Ayia Napa has the highest concentration of Blue Flag beaches for any stretch of coastline in the world. Really, Ayia Napa’s beaches, with their soft white sand and crystalline waters, are almost worth the flight alone!

Here are the best things to do in Ayia Napa :

1. Ayia Napa Monastery

This is Ayia Napa’s oldest landmark and mostly dates from the 1400s when Cyprus was controlled by the Venetians.

Although now part of the town, when it was built the monastery would have been remote and hidden within pine forest.

The church, flour mill, cloisters and courtyard fountain were all built with honey-coloured limestone by the Venetians, but the cave and well adjacent to these buildings suggest Byzantine origins.

After the Ottoman invasion in the 1500s the monastery remained intact and has survived the intervening years, although no monks have lived here since the late-19th century.

2. Thalassa Museum

Despite being a party town, Ayia Napa does have one the best museums in Cyprus.

The Thalassa Museum opened in 2005 and claims to be the only major attraction in the Mediterranean devoted to the sea.

Given the catalogue of seafaring civilisations that settled in Cyprus, this is the ideal place for such an attraction.

The museum covers 7,000 years of human maritime history, with exhibits starting in the Neolithic age and moving through the Bronze age to the Classical period.

Complementing these artefacts are natural exhibits of fossils and shells, alongside preserved turtle, fish and starfish specimens.

3. WaterWorld Water Park

There are 18 plunges, pools and side attractions at this mythology-themed water park a few minutes along the coast from the resort.

Like much of Ayia Napa, WaterWorld will appeal to families with young children, teenagers and young adults.

For younger kids there’s the Trojan Adventure, a sort of water-based adventure playground with slides that end gently in a shallow splash-pool.

For thrill-seekers there’s the Drop to Atlantis a high-speed plunge complete with special effects.

4. Konnos Bay

The best local beach if you want to get away from the resort and back to nature, Konnos has a narrow semi-circle of powder white sands and gleaming, clear waters.

This bay is bookended by long rocky spurs that help protect the beach from currents and prevailing winds.

Yachts often moor in the bay and these shallows are perfect for snorkelling and swimming.

Facilities are a little sparser than Ayia Napa’s resort beaches, but you can still rent jet-skis here or grab a bite at the beachside snack bars.

5. Nissi Beach

As beautiful as it is lively, Nissi Beach is great for party-goers and families alike. For party people there are beachside clubs with pools and djs.

Other sources of fun come from the cliff-jump a little way along the headland that pokes into the sea on the west side of the beach, as well as the endless choice of water sports available.

Visitors with kids can find a sunbed away from the hubbub and simply delight in those white sands and crystal-clear aquamarine waters.

6. Cape Greco

East of Ayia Napa is this rugged headland protected as part of a nature park.

Approaching Cape Greco from land you’ll be able to step along paths edged by wild herbs, poppies and long grass.

At the top of the cliffs are benches from which you can admire the cobalt-blue Mediterranean and the stark, rocky landscape around.

A little way west are the four soaring radio masts of the medium wave broadcasting station.

You can also venture down to the water to check out the system of sea caves beneath the cape, which we’ll talk about later.

7. Sculpture Park

The Sculpture Park is a contemplative cultural attraction on a rise looking over the sea just east of Ayia Napa.

Twenty sculptors from around the world were invited to contribute their work to the park. Their sculptures, numbering almost 40, combined with a classic Mediterranean seascape, make the park a handy place for a peaceful amble.

The pieces are carved from local white marble or limestone, and they range from abstract forms to statues inspired by the island’s ancient civilisations.

The park is free to enter and the collection is growing all time.

8. Makronissos Tombs

Although rock had been quarried at this site for centuries going back to ancient times, nobody had any idea that there was a Hellenistic and Roman tomb complex just outside Ayia Napa until in 1989.

Cyprus is a place that is constantly unearthing remnants of its early civilisations and these tombs are worth a little tour.

There are 19 rock chambers in total, each with a large rectangular entrance that would have been sealed with a large limestone slab.

Inside are benches and a central trench, while pyres discovered on higher ground prove that Ancient Greek rites were performed here.

9. Sea Caves

Also part of Cape Greco, these caves have been carved over time by the currents and can be accessed from the water or via a walking path that cuts underneath the headland for a way.

It’s an excellent place for photos as erosion has created all kinds of strange rock formations.

There’s a natural arch and cavities that go deep into the honeycomb rock, so you could spend hours exploring this strange but beautiful place.

Most days the seas are also calm enough for diving and swimming and at these times the water is almost transparent.

There are seven PADI-approved dive companies based in Ayia Napa alone, which illustrates the excellent conditions for this activity, and its popularity on the eastern edge of Cyprus.

The caves that you can see from dry land at Cape Greco continue under water; there’s also deep canyons, an abundance of sea life including turtles and wonderful visibility extending for 50 metres on a sunny day (most days are sunny!).

Nearly all the business comes from beginners, so Ayia Napa is a good place to take to the water for the first time, but serious divers can get certified or set off for the gargantuan wreck of the Zenobia, which sank off Larnaca in 1980.

11. Boat Trips

Setting sail from Ayia Napa’s harbour are all sorts of cruises.

Party people could book a ticket for something that resembles a floating club, with a bar and djs.

The Pirate ship is also in this vein, with on board entertainment and lots of swimming stops.

If you’re after a more tranquil day on the water, there are catamaran cruises for people more interested in soaking up the sun and gazing at Cape Greco from the comfort of a sun lounger.

If you’d like to see what goes on beneath the waves then there’s a choice of “submarines”, vessels with glass panels beneath the waterline that often stop for snorkelling breaks.

12. Ayia Napa Square

A clubber’s paradise, Ayia Napa Square squeezes all of the resort’s top bars and nightclubs into a surprisingly small area.

If you’re worse for wear this is great, as you’ll never have too much trouble navigating from one nightspot to the next.

What’s refreshing about the square is that there isn’t a great deal of antisocial behaviour going on, and the atmosphere is raucous but mostly friendly.

As with most Mediterranean party towns the clubs stay open until the sun comes up and things don’t really get going until almost midnight.

13. Parko Paliatso Luna Park

With 25 attractions to choose from, Park Paliatso is the largest funfair in Cyprus.

By day there are a few rides and games that the little ones will love, but the park is most frequented by Ayia Napa’s party crowd.

If you’ve browsed the internet enough you’ll have seen, or at least caught wind of, the Sling Shot. This was installed in 2010, and it’s Europe’s highest ejection seat ride, catapulting a small capsule into the air at high speed.

The g-forces are so strong that a small handful of riders have temporarily blacked out, coming to no long-term harm it must be added!

14. I Love Ayia Napa Sculpture

One for Facebook or Instagram, this new photo opportunity has been installed a few paces from the central bus station in the touristy heart of the town.

Day or night people queue up to have their picture taken next to the marble sculpture, which dwarfs almost anyone who stands here.

The monument was clearly inspired by “I Amsterdam”, and if it works for Amsterdam then why not Ayia Napa?

15. Protaras

North of Ayia Napa, in an area of small villages with whitewashed houses, Protaras is another resort replete with family-friendly attractions like a waterpark, an aquarium, stables for horseback riding and of course a host of beaches.

The Church of St. Elias here was only built in the 1980s, but merits a visit for its location, at the crest of a hill more than 150 steps above the town and with sumptuous views all around.

Best not to try it on a summer afternoon, but it’s a fab way to see the sunrise if you’re up early enough.

15 Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa (Cyprus):

• Ayia Napa Monastery
• Thalassa Museum
• WaterWorld Water Park
• Nissi Beach
• Sculpture Park
• Makronissos Tombs
• Ayia Napa Square
• Parko Paliatso Luna Park
• I Love Ayia Napa Sculpture

The 12 Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

• Post last modified: October 25, 2023
• Post author: Danielle Zito
• Post published: November 18, 2021
• Post category: Europe / Guides

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Ayia Napa in Cyprus is one of the most stunning areas of the Mediterranean. Characterized by glistening turquoise waters and jaw dropping sea caves, this is a must visit for your island stay. Keep reading and you'll see why this is the most desirable region to visit in Cyprus .

Cypriots flock to this area of the country for vacation, and it is apparent why. Come to Ayia Napa and you will find some of Europe's best beaches, and some real hidden gems. Here are 12 best things to do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus. 

*Please note that this blog post may contain some affiliate links, which we make a small profit on, at zero cost to you.  Links are only used on products & services that we've used and believe in, to give you the best buying experience.  Purchasing from these links helps us to continue providing free travel guides for you- so thank you for your support!

Where is Ayia Napa in Cyprus?

Ayia Napa is located on the south east end of Cyprus , on the very end of the Greek side of the island. Located right on the coast, the small town is highly frequented by both tourists and locals alike.

Ayia Napa is in the south east of Cyprus.

How to Get to Ayia Napa in Cyprus

Cyprus is a relatively small island, making it pretty easy to get most places. There are two airports that serve Cyprus internationally, which are Paphos and Larnaca. Paphos   is about 145 km away, and takes 2 hours and 45 minutes in bus. Larnaca is just 44 km away, and takes a little over a half hour to drive to.

Flight Tip:  Using Skyscanner you can put from "your city" to "Everywhere". This way you can see which cities in Europe are the cheapest to fly to (once you're in Europe it's super cheap to get to Cyprus). Also, you can check the calendar to see which are the cheapest dates for your getting there!

Search for a flight to Cyprus:

We definitely suggest renting a car to get to Ayia Napa, as it is very easy to do so in Cyprus , and is the best way to explore in our opinion. There are also buses that you can get, which we have mentioned down below.

Want to visit Ayia Napa but don't have a car? Here are a few options to choose from:

How To Travel Cheaper and Better in 15 minutes!

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Entry Requirements for Cyprus

Want to know the requirements to enter Cyprus? We cover all of the visa and Covid-related requirements in our "Complete Guide to Visit Cyprus" that you can check out by reading our blog below:

A Complete Guide To Visit Cyprus

Welcome to one of the most underrated islands there is. Cyprus was one of the countries that surprised us the most! Filled with stunning beaches, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and vibrant vibes, we're sure you'll fall in love with this island like we did. Here is everything you need to know

Local Adjustments

Cyprus is a country that is interesting, as it is actually influenced by a couple of countries. Here are a few important things to know when you visit Ayia Napa in Cyprus.

What Language is Mostly Spoken in Cyprus?

The two official languages in Cyprus are Greek and Turkish. In Ayia Napa the language spoken is Greek, but there are also plenty of people that can speak English too.

Does Cyprus Have It's Own Currency?

The official currency in Ayia Napa Cyprus is the Euro. Currently, (October 2023) the euro and the dollar are almost equal. Most things in Cyprus can be paid with credit card, but we suggest keeping some cash for tipping and small markets.

Can You Use British Pounds in Cyprus?

No, you cannot you British Pounds, Dollars, or other currencies in Cyprus. We suggest going to a local ATM to take out Euros while you are in Cyprus.

What Plug Do I Need for Ayia Napa?

This one is a bit of a curveball. Although Cyprus is part of the EU, this is where they are actually more influenced by the British. Make sure to remember to bring an adapter with you, as the plugs are the three pronged outlets that are found in the UK .

Is it Okay to Drink Tap Water in Cyprus?

The water is completely safe to drink on this island. While it is custom to drink bottled water in restaurants, there is no problem ordering tap water instead. We suggest having a refillable water bottle to take around with you and keep you hydrated. We use the 17oz Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle by Cafago , as it holds the temperature well.

How Much Do You Tip in Cyprus?

Tipping is not super typical in the culture here. If you feel like you've gotten very good service, you can simply round up to the nearest euro, or leave up to 5% of the bill.

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The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus

Now that you know where Ayia Napa in Cyprus is located, how to get there, and some of the local adjustments, let's jump into the fun part! Here are the best things to do in Ayia Napa.

The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #1: Nissi Beach

Nissi Beach is one of the most popular beaches in all of Ayia Napa in Cyprus. With its pristine waters and white sand, it's no wonder that tourists flee to this spot. The bay is lined with hotels, lounge chairs, and plenty of amenities.

Nissi beach is one of the most beautiful beaches of Cyprus .

Nissi beach offers an array of water activities from snorkeling to pedal boats with slides. There are several kiosks for food & drinks, as well as souvenir shops. In addition, parking and restrooms with showers are both available on site. This beach is great to spend the entire day with all it has to offer.

Check the photo below for all of the different activities that you can do on Nissi Beach.

Nissi beach also has a number of water sports to choose from.

The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #2: Love Bridge

The Love Bridge of Ayia Napa in Cyprus is one of the most beautiful formations on the island, and definitely one of our favorite things to do in Ayia Napa. The giant rock arch stretches over the turquoise waters, creating a natural bridge. We also suggest this for one of the most beautiful spots to watch the sunset in the area.

The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #3: Sea Caves of Ayia Napa

The sea caves of Ayia Napa in Cyprus are some of the most outstanding landscapes on the island. Climb down and witness the rock cave. It's a natural window facing the gorgeous formations in the back, making it one of the most Instagrammable spots in Cyprus .

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In order to get here you should have a 4x4, as it is a pretty rough dirt road leading up to it. If you don't have the proper car we suggest parking near the main road and walking.

The Sea Caves are one of the most popular spots in Ayia Napa.

The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #4: Cape Greco

Speaking of great spots for sunset, this is another one of the best in the area. Cape Greco marks the point of Ayia Napa in Cyprus. The small peninsula features numerous trails for hiking and cycling, as well as some gorgeous sea cliffs. Cape Greco is the perfect place to explore in Ayia Napa for an afternoon.

The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #5: The Blue Lagoon

Looking for some of the most turquoise waters on the island? Well the blue lagoon is one of them. It is actually a little confusing, as there are two different Blue Lagoons. One is located near Paphos , and the other in Ayia Napa.

Just a stone's throw from Cape Greco, the Blue Lagoon is a great place for snorkeling, swimming, and diving.

The Blue Lagoon has some of the bluest waters in the area.

Note: Due to the sharp rocks, there aren't really a lot of places to sit or relax, so is better to stop here strictly for the water itself.

The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #6: Konnos Bay

Another great place for a swim is Konnos Bay. Here there are not just great waters, but a long stretch of sandy beach to relax. With lounge chairs and plenty of water activities, Konnos Bay is the perfect place to spend an entire beach day.

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The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #7: Fig Tree Bay

Just minutes away from Konnos Bay is the equally stunning beach area of Fig Tree Bay. Here you can find parking, plenty of restaurants, and some of the clearest waters in all of Europe . 

Fun Fact:  Fig Tree Bay was once rated as the third most beautiful beach in  Europe , so you can see why so many people visit here!

The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #8: Agioi Saranta Cave Church

This is one of the most unique churches that you will ever visit. Agioi Saranta is a tiny church that has been built right into a small cave. This spot is a true hidden gem, and is located in the heart of Ayia Napa in Cyprus.

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The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #9: Ayioi Anargiroi Church

Here is another picturesque church in Ayia Napa. Ayioi Anargiroi is right next to the Blue Lagoon. This tiny white building with a blue domed roof is perched up right next to the deep blue waters, making it a great picture stop.

The churches in Cyprus are very similar to the typical blue and white churches in Greece.

The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #10: Ayia Thekla Chapel

This adorable chapel is located right next to Poseidon beach, one of the first beaches when entering the area of Ayia Napa in Cyprus. With the white walls, blue dome, and the ocean as its backdrop, this spot is super picturesque, and a popular wedding spot.

The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #11: Sculpture Park

Located right in the heart of Ayia Napa in Cyprus you will find a park with a huge collection of sculptures. Over 50 artists from around the world have contributed to the park. Perched up on a hill, you can enjoy the park for free admiring the great works of art with the stunning blue waters in the background.

The Best Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus #12: Cyclops Cave

Ayia Napa in Cyprus is covered with some pretty awesome rock formations, and here's another. Cyclops Cave is one of the areas best kept secrets, and is home to tons of the island's history. This spot is just 700 meters away from Konnos Bay, by a 15 minute trail by foot. Not only is the cave itself beautiful to explore, but the water around it is a great area for diving.

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Want to plan an excursion in Ayia Napa? Here are some other fun activities that we found:

Ayia Napa in Cyprus: Local Food & Drink

We absolutely loved the food in Cyprus! Ayia Napa has a delicious Greek inspired cuisine. Their dishes are light, fresh, and tasty, with local olive oil, lemon, and seafood. Some of our favorite dishes also include spicy feta dip (local cheese), spanakopita (spinach pie), and baklava (a traditional Greek dessert). Don't miss out on the fresh fish options, as well as a delicious Greek salad to start off your meal.

Getting Around Ayia Napa in Cyprus

We rented a car and truly think it is the easiest way to explore the area of Ayia Napa in Cyprus. However, the area isn't too big, so if you don't want to drive, there are other options! There are some buses, and you can also get taxis while you are in the area, but they can get quite expensive. Uber is not available, so you'll have to call a cab if you don't have a car or want to take the bus. Truthfully though, renting a car in Cyprus definitely the way to go!

Suggested Read:  Island Road Trip: Everything You Need to Know About Car Rental in Cyprus

Island Road Trip: 7 Things to Know About Car Rental in Cyprus

Having a car rental in Cyprus is a great way to get around the island, and something we highly recommend, But driving in a new country can be scary. Roads, rules, and weather conditions vary greatly around the world. That's why we're here to share what we've learned through our

Ready to rent a car in Ayia Napa? Here is a site that works with local companies:

Where to Stay in Ayia Napa

When we visited Ayia Napa, we found that there were hardly any accommodation options left in August, as it was high season. Therefore, we ended up staying 45 minutes outside the city. As far as location goes, we would suggest trying to stay close to Nissi Beach, or near the peninsula. Book well in advance, and stick to smaller hotels for a better experience.

Look for places to stay in Ayia Napa:

Is Ayia Napa in Cyprus Safe?

Cyprus is an extremely safe country, and has a super low crime rate. We felt comfortable all day every day, whether we were solo, or even if it was dark out at night. Just another great reason to add this beautiful place to your bucket list!

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Other Things to Know About Visiting Ayia Napa in Cyprus

Now that you know almost everything there is to know, here are a few other tips for traveling to Ayia Napa in Cyprus.

What is the Best Month to Visit Ayia Napa, Cyprus?

Ayia Napa gets particularly busy in the summer months of July and August. If you like to be surrounded by a lot of people, then this is the time you'll want to go. If you want equally beautiful weather but fewer crowds, then we suggest visiting in June or September.

Weather in Ayia Napa

Cyprus is one of the countries in Europe that has the most sunshine, and stays hot as late as October, and warms up sometimes as early as April. The island experiences hot dry summers, and very mild winters.

How to Pack for a Trip to Ayia Napa in Cyprus  

Here are a few of the things we suggest bringing to Ayia Napa, Cyprus:

• Bathing Suits  
• Flip flops (our favorites are  Havaianas )
• Power bank  (we use  Anker Homepage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" class="" style="outline: none;">Anker power banks , as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
• Zippered bag or backpack - here's a list of the best backpacks for travelers
• Nicer beachy clothing to go out in
• Action Camera  (for all water activities) we use the  Insta 360 X3  because it's small & waterproof
• Drone (You can get awesome shots at the beaches! We use the Mavic Mini Pro 3  because it's super light and high quality)
• Waterproof phone pouch  (we use the  Waterproof Underwater Pouch Dry Bag Case Cover" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" class="" style="outline: none;">Cafago Waterproof Phone Pouch )
• Travel Adapter  (we use  New%20Year%20Sale%20-%20Order%20Over%20$39+%20Save%2010%%20Off! " rel="nofollow" target="_blank" class="" style="outline: none;">Tessan travel adapters  as they are affordable and reliable)
• Water Bottle  (we use  17oz Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" class="" style="outline: none;">Cafago Water Bottles because they hold the temperature well)

10 Travel Essentials You Didn’t Know You Needed

Have you ever though what would your travel essentials be? when you're traveling, there's certain situations you want to be prepared for. Here you will find a list of what we found out to be absolute necessary items.What to pack? That's the biggest question when preparing for a trip. No

Is Ayia Napa Worth Visiting?

Some of the best things to do in Ayia Napa were our favorite on the whole island! We definitely think Ayia Napa is worth visiting. Covered with gorgeous beaches, dramatic rock formations, and plenty of hotels and restaurants, Ayia Napa in Cyprus is definitely one for the bucket list. We only got to spend two days in the area, but we definitely suggest spending a full weekend, or even a week to fully enjoy all of the best things to do in Ayia Napa.

Want to see what the other places in Cyprus have to offer? We have a complete guide for everything you need to know, and more articles to check out!

Need help planning your trip to Cyprus or somewhere else? Scratch Your Mapa is now offering the ultimate travel planning services. Save more, and see more. Take a look at our  travel planning packages for more details.

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12 Things to Do in Ayia Napa

Photo: Shutterstock

Looking for things to do in Ayia Napa? In Ayia Napa you’ll find some of the countries most beautiful beaches, historic churches, delicious food, amazing nature, and fun activities for the whole family.

It’s in Ayia Napa where you’ll find the best nightlife on the island, as well as the biggest themed water park in Europe. Whether you’re looking for fun night clubs, family-friendly beaches, or exciting activities – Ayia Napa has it all.

Here are my best tips on things to do in Ayia Napa as a tourist:

Table of Contents

Walk the trails in Cape Greco

Cape Greco is a National Park with beautiful walking trails and unspoiled nature. There are around 16 km of walking trails and 4 km of cycling trails for tourists to enjoy.

While exploring this park, you’ll get to see beautiful nature surrounded by its crystal clear waters where you can go swimming and snorkeling.

Some of the biggest attractions in Cape Greco are the sea caves, the chapel Ayioi Anargyroi, and the love bridge.

Visit the Ayia Napa Monastery

The Ayia Napa Monastery is one of the most visited landmarks in town and is home to the icon of the Virgin Mary of Napa.

It was built around 1500 AD looking like a castle, so the architecture is very impressing.

In addition to the architecture, you can have a look at beautiful art, pretty gardens, and a sycamore tree that’s over 600 years old. It’s no doubt one of the best things to do in Ayia Napa!

Eat local food

There are many nice restaurants in Ayia Napa where you can enjoy a delicious meal. You can eat everything from traditional Cypriot food and Lebanese food to Mexican food and fresh sea food.

I can recommend visiting the restaurants Sesoula Kalamaki, En Yevo Tavernaki, ZAATAR Food Arts Lebanese Syrian Cuisine, and Sage Restaurant.

If you like to splash around in the water, then you should consider going scuba diving during your vacation. Ayia Napa is a great place to learn how to scuba dive, and is also a perfect place for the more experienced divers.

In addition to the rocky sea around the city, you also have Cape Greco and Protaras where you can explore both caves, tunnels, canyons, and see beautiful rock formations under the sea.

It’s no doubt one of the best things to do in Ayia Napa for the adventure seekers!

See the sea caves

The sea caves is a natural landmark that you should visit at least once during your stay in Cyprus. The beautiful rock formations of the sea caves was created by the waves hitting the cliffs over the centuries.

Today, the sea caves is a hot spot for snorkeling, swimming and diving to explore the beautiful natural caves. However, some of the caves are also accessible by foot, and the biggest attraction is the cave with a natural window of the beautiful sea caves – it’s one of the most popular photo spots in Cyprus.

NOTE : When going swimming and exploring the caves, make sure to wear proper shoes since the rocks can be very sharp in some places.

• Go on a boat trip

One of the most popular things to do in Ayia Napa is to take a boat trip to explore the coast.

There are several boat trips to choose from departing from Ayia Napa every day during high season. Some boat trips are family-friendly, some are romantic, and some are a bit more wild with loud music and drinks.

However, one of the best things about these boat trips is that you get to see the beautiful coast of Ayia Napa from a different angle and get the opportunity to swim in some of the most beautiful places on the island.

Photo: Crazy nook / Shutterstock.com

Relax at Nissi Beach

Nissi Beach is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus, and also one of the most beautiful in Europe. It’s famous for its white soft sand, crystal clear waters and small islet that you can reach by foot via the strip of sand.

Nissi Beach is one of the most popular beaches to visit in Cyprus, and therefore it’s often very crowded. Make sure to go there early to find an available sunbed or spot to lay down in the sand.

West of Nissi Beach you’ll find another beautiful beach called Makronissos. It’s just as beautiful as Nissi Beach and well worth a visit during your stay in Cyprus.

Party the night away

Ayia Napa is famous for being party destination where you can party at various bars and night clubs all night long. In addition to a lively night life, there’s also various pool parties and party boats if you like to party during day time.

Photo: LongJon / Shutterstock.com

Go to Konnos Bay

Konnos Bay is located east of Ayia Napa and is part of Cape Greco National Park. It’s a beautiful bay with a nice beach and crystal clear waters where you can go for a swim.

In Konnos Bay you also have a great selection of water sports, as well as a snack bar.

See the famous Love Bridge

The bridge of love is located east of the city and is a natural bridge surrounded by crystal clear water.

It’s a popular place among honeymooners to watch the sunset and photographers to snap photos. It’s also a popular place for wedding ceremonies.

It’s believed that if you kiss your loved one while standing in the middle of the bridge and make a wish, your wish will come true.

Visit the sculpture park

Above the famous love bridge you’ll find the sculpture park. It’s a popular place among tourists to visit to see all the beautiful sculptures.

It’s an open-air museum that’s free to visit with panoramic views of the coast.

Photo: Nadya1986 / Shutterstock.com

Have fun at Europe’s largest themed waterpark

If you’re traveling to Ayia Napa with your family, it can be fun to spend a day at the waterpark. It’s the largest themed waterpark in Europe, and features over 30 different Greek mythology themed rides.

It’s a fun place for the whole family with attractions for both kids and adults. While the kids are splashing around and going down the water slides, you can relax in the adult pools or float down the lazy river.

In addition to the various rides, there are also several restaurants and souvenir shops.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by WaterWorld Waterpark Ayia Napa (@waterparkcyprus) on Aug 14, 2018 at 4:33am PDT

Things to do in Ayia Napa when it rains

If you’re traveling to Cyprus during late spring, summer or early autumn, bad weather is not common and the sun is shining most days.

However, if you’re traveling during low season, rain and colder weather is common. Here’a a few recommendations on things to do in Ayia Napa when it rains:

• Visit the churches
• Go shopping in The Mall of Cyprus
• Visit Thalassa Museum
• Eat delicious food at the various restaurants
• Party at indoor clubs at night
• Explore Ayia Napa’s historic monastery
• Visit the Farm House Museum
• Buy an umbrella and explore in the rain
• Spoil yourself at a spa

Things to do in Ayia Napa with kids

Ayia Napa is a popular destination among families since there’s a good selection of family-friendly beaches and activities. Down below you have some recommendations of things to do in Ayia Napa with kids:

• Go swimming at Nissi Beach
• Have fun at the Water World Waterpark
• Visit Makronissos Beach
• Spend an evening at Luna Park
• Stroll around in the sculpture park
• Take a picture with the sculpture at Ayia Napa Square
• Try water sports at Konnos Bay

What are your favorite things to do in Ayia Napa? Leave a comment below!

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Ayia Napa is a resort in Eastern Cyprus located 40 kilometers from Protaras: one can get here from Paralimni by a commuter bus. First settlement was founded here in the times of the Byzantine Empire. When the area was under the Venetian rule the Ayia Napa («the holy alley in the woods») monastery was built in the village.

In the second part of the 20th century the village started to grow and finally became one of the main resorts on the island. Today it is still very popular for its clean sand beaches, gift shops, restaurants, and especially clubs – Ayia Napa night life is what brings young people from Europe, Great Britain and the US here every summer. Families with kids can visit the Paliatso adventure park and the Black Pearl pirate boat, while hiking in Capo Greco – one of the most stunning places in Cyprus – will most likely become an unforgettable experience for everybody regardless of age.

Want to know where to go and what to do in Ayia Napa? You may find a lot of useful information below.

Cultural sites in Ayia Napa

The Thalassa (also known as the Thalassa Museum of the Sea) is a maritime museum in Ayia Napa located at Krio Nero Avenue 14. The replica of the Kyrenia ship created in 1985 by the Hellenic science center and the full-scale model of the papyrus vessel from the Mesolithic period are exhibited here. Visitors can also have a look at sea fossils (fish, shells, corals etc) that are 60 – 135 million years old, sea organisms, stuffed fish and mammals and sea and lake birds in their natural habitat.

Temporary exhibitions and cultural and educational family events are also regularly held at the museum. Admission fee is charged (discount for children, students and groups is available). Museum working hours vary depending on the season.

The Ayia Napa monastery is located in the city center. It is believed, that the main relic of the monastery, the Panayia Napa icon dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was found in the cave by a local hunter many years ago. The icon must have been put there in the times of aniconism and was not much disturbed during the following centuries. The church, and later the monastery, were built above the cave where the icon had been discovered.

Today there is a historical museum with free admission at the monastery. Religious services are held at the new church nearby. The museum features a collection of old icons, temporary exhibitions and cultural events are also held at the yard.

The Saint Antonius chapel is located between Paralimni and Sotira villages not far from Ayia Napa. Saint's feast day is celebrated on the 17th of January.

The Saint Thekla chapel is located several kilometers from Ayia Napa, on the border with Sotira village, and the Saint Anargyroi church with a sacred spring nearby can be found in the eastern part of the city.

The Agios Epifanios chapel overlooks the ruins of the ancient Palaiochori settlement. The Saint Barbara chapel in the west of the city was built under the Byzantine rule, and the Ayia Mavri pillar helps to fight diseases (as legend has it).

The Farm House museum is located at the main square of Ayia Napa. Here visitors can see Cypriot furniture, working tools, household items, and other objects connected with rural living: a weaver's loom, carved pieces of furniture, lacy coverlet, ceramics etc. There is also a plough in the yard and the gift shop on the territory of the museum.

One more historical place of interest in Ayia Napa is an the old aqueduct that had been used to provide the monastery and the whole district with water for many centuries. The results of archaeological excavations proved that even older aqueduct had existed here in the Roman times.

The Cape Greco , the most eastern point of the island, is a huge park and a natural resort in 8 kilometers from Ayia Napa. Rare plants (including orchids, irises, crocuses and colchicums) grow here; fauna of the park is also unique. There are walking trails and bicycle routes, picnic areas, observation decks and different sport facilities at the park. Those who are interested in historical and architectural landmarks can visit the Aphrodite's Sanctuary, the Cyclop's Cave and the Saint Anargyroi church.

According to the local legend, a sea monster lives next to the cape. In Greek mythology it is referred to as Scylla, but local fishermen, who claim to have met the monster, assure visitors that it is much more friendly than the one described by ancient Greeks.

There is a village called Makronissos not far from Ayia Napa. In the end of the 20th century 19 ancient tombs and a small chapel were discovered there. This archaeological objects are considered to date back to Hellenistic or Roman periods.

The Ayia Napa Sculpture Park is located next to the Marina hotel. Metal and stone sculptures made by modern artists from all over the world are exhibited here. Admission is free, the park is open 24/7.

Tourist attractions in Ayia Napa

The Paliatso adventure park is located at Nissi Avenue, 5340. There are roller-coasters, merry-go-rounds, an observation wheel, a «ghost train» attraction, 5D-cinema, a giant «pirate's ship swing», a shooting gallery, sport facilities and board games and a few thrill rides for teens and adults at the park. Restaurants, cafes and icecream parlours are also open to the visitors.

If you are on vacation in Ayia Napa with family or friends, be sure to visit the WaterWorld waterpark, where visitors find themselves inside the stories of ancient Greece. There is the Zeus slide, the «Trojan Adventure» attraction, the Poseidon lazy river and the Aphrodite's bath at the waterpark. Pizzas, burgers, fish and chips, pancakes and other dishes are served in several restaurants and cafes located on the territory of the park.

There are over 10 beaches in Ayia Napa. Most of them are marked with a «Blue Flag» — an international sign of high water quality and safety.

The Makronissos beach is located not far from the WaterWorld waterpark. Its shallow waters are ideal for small kids. There are sunshades and sunbeds, changing stalls, restrooms, showers and water sports equipment rental at the beach.

The Konnos beach is located not far away from the Cape Greco. White sand and transparent water make this place especially attractive for tourists; yachts often drop anchor here.

The Nissi beach includes two joint areas: the big (and sometimes overcrowded) beach and the more isolated one. Beach services are offered in both locations.

The Black Pearl pirate boat is the replica of the ship from the Pirates of the Caribbean movie which offers cruises from the Ayia Napa harbour. The cruise program includes visiting of the caves in the Blue Lagoon, a performance from entertainers, swimming at sea and a pirate's dinner.

The Breakout escape quest in Ayia Napa is located at Ayia Napa Square Seferi 13. Participants can choose one of two plots — «an asylum» or «a casino». To find a key from the locked room for a limited period of time they will have to use logic and work as a team.

The Olympian Divers diving center is located at the Sandy Day beach. Speical diving test program is offered for children 8-9 years old. Those who want learn more about diving may sign up for two or three days long intensive course.

Where to fly a flyboard in Ayia Napa? The Flyboarding Cyprus platform is located at the Nausicaa harbour. Test flight includes safety training and lasts 20 minutes. All the equipment is provided at the spot. More experienced sportsmen can sign up for individual trainings with an instructor.

The EMW Go Karts karting is located next to the WaterWorld waterpark. It is the only karting in the city with one short but curving track and a cafe.

The Nightmare ghost house at Aleferia 9 is a perfect attraction for those who like some thrill in the middle of vacation. Visitors are invited to walk through a dark maze where, as organizers claim, they will meet somebody or something that will make them scream. Kids are not allowed to visit the Nigthmare house.

The Napa Bungee space is another source of adrenalin for Aiya Napa visitors. Bungee jumping requires safety training. There is a bar and a swimming pool at the spot. For an additional fee photos of the jump and T shirts with Napa Bungee logo are provided.

Restaurants in Aiya Napa

There are several restaurants at the Adams hotel located next to the Nissi beach. The Glasshouse luxurious restaurant on the top floor of the hotel overlooks seashore and the harbour. The menu is changed depending on the season, as only fresh local seasonable produce is used for cooking here.

Guests of the hotel can also visit the Socci sushi bar, the Victory pub, the Atlantis restaurant, the Dionysos tavern and several other cafes.

The Sage restaurant is located at Kriou Nerou, 8. Appetizers from seasonable produce, italian pastas and risottos, vegetarian and seafood meals are other dishes are offered here. A special children's menu and a wine list are available on demand. Live music concerts are held at the restaurant from time to time.

The Taverna Napa Mediterranean cuisine restaurant is located at Democratias 15. Wood-fired grill is used here for cooking meat and fish. Guests of the Taverna Napa can also order meze, famous Commandaria wine and Cypriot coffee here.

The Quadro restaurant (Odos Kryou Nerou, 7) serves Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Appetizers, salads and meals (pastas and risottos) with seafood are really good here, and pizzas are baked in a wood stove. Limoncello or schnapps come along with a check as a compliment from the Chef.

The Blueberries restaurant was founded by two Englishmen in 1985. It offers appetizers with halloumi and arugula, shrimp cocktails, traditional starters and sauces (meze, tzatziki, tirokafteri and other), fish and seafood meals, steaks, grilled food, chicken and, of course, such traditional Cypriot dishes as moussaka, stifado, sheftalies and chicken shashlik.

The Los Bandidos Mexican restaurant is located in Ayia Napa Square. Here you can try «Mexican» meze, fajitas, quesadilla, guacamole, burrito, nachos and other dishes. The restaurant is also known for its tradition to serve Margarita cocktail in water-bottles.

The Golden Arrow is an English pub where guests can not only drink beer or wine but also have a solid breakfast. British and mediterranean cuisine is served here. In the evenings live music concerts and karaoke parties are held at the pub. The address is 21 Archiepiskopou Makariou III.

The Garden of Eden restaurant is located in the western part of the city in 500 meters from the waterpark (Nissi Avenue 144). There is a large children's playground with slides, a bouncing castle and a swing next to the restaurant. Wedding parties and other events are held in the spacious hall. Greek, Mediterranean and International cuisine is served.

The Dione restaurant is located on the seashore, next to the Adamas Beach hotel (Nissi Beach Avenue). Fresh fish dishes, chicken, steaks, pasta, sandwiches and vegetarian meals are served here. There is also a cafe with desserts and hot drinks, a bar and a belvedere on the territory of the restaurant. Children can spend time at the playground.

Where to try Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine in Aiya Napa? Visit the Zaatar restaurant at Nissi Avenue. Meze sets are served with hummus and falafel here, hookah is available, and belly dancing is performed in the evenings.

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Ayia Napa Things to Do – Attractions & Must See

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Ayia Napa Things to Do

The water, scenery, and seafood of Ayia Napa, Cyprus, call to tourists around the globe, and there are plenty of attraction and must see locations in this Mediterranean town. See the top tips for things to do in this beautiful town.

The Coast of Ayia Napa

Nissi Beach is the most popular beach in this area, and the spot to rent out sunbeds and umbrellas to enjoy a perfect day in the sun. Theres also the Lanta Beach (also known as the Golden Beach) which has crystal waters and pristine sand. It’s also known for being less crowded than Nissi if you’d like a little more privacy. Makronissos Beach has coarser sand than the other two, but it’s a great place to snorkel and see a variety of fish that live below. There are also around 30 dive sites spread out over the different beaches if you’d like to scuba dive. Rent a jet ski or a trampolin boat to get even further out on the water. You can take a boat tour which will take you to sea caves just east of Cyprus, which are worth exploring.

Inland History

The Ayia Napa Monastery dates back to the 15th century, and it’s located in the middle of the club district. Today it’s a place of pilgrimage, especially for childless couples who believe the Virgin will give them children. See the well, the belfry, and the sculptures that surround this building. Learn more about the local legends with a tour around the monastery. Or visit Agia Thekla on your own. Agia Thekla is a church in the western section of the town, and located in a grotto against the coast. Open all day, the architecture is striking and the interior is full of interesting icons. Complete your inland history tour by heading to the Thalassa Municipal Museum, which has seven levels of treasure and is known for its interactive experiences and underground viewing areas.

Fun and Adventure in Ayia Napa

Past travelers recommended bungee jumping near the coast if you’re feeling adventurous. On your way down, your hands will actually touch the water briefly which makes for a great photo. There’s also WaterWorld Waterpark, which is perfect for kids and adults who want a few more slides and rides. At the chapel of Profitas Elias, you can climb the stairs to find wishing trees. Here, people come to ask for what they want with letters and everyday items that represent their hopes and dreams. Every year in October, you can attend the Medieval Festival, which is a tribute to the time period marked by its food, traditional events, and songs. Between April and October, you can see tradition folk dancers of Ayia Napa, complete with live music and singing.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Ayia Napa.

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