Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Locavy ratings
Party
Top 20
5/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4.5/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
1.5/5
Experiences
4.5/5
Party
Top 20
5/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4.5/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
1.5/5
Experiences
4.5/5
At a glance
Renowned for its legendary nightlife, Ayia Napa is one of Europe’s premier destinations for an unforgettable party holiday.
Party
Ayia Napa is renowned for its electrifying nightlife, attracting partygoers from across the continent. The vibrant scene is centered around Ayia Napa Square, featuring a variety of lively bars and nightclubs, along with popular party boats for a unique experience on the water.
Sightseeing
Ayia Napa is rich in stunning sights, featuring breathtaking coastal views at Cape Greco National Forest Park, picturesque sandy beaches, and historic sites like the Makronissos Tombs and Ayia Napa Monastery.
Relaxation
Ayia Napa is a fantastic destination for a relaxing holiday. Unwind on the white sandy beaches or explore the peaceful trails of Cape Greco National Forest Park for a perfect day of tranquility.
Value
While not always seen as a budget destination, Ayia Napa is generally more affordable than the Greek islands. To save money, tourists should book accommodation well in advance for the best deals.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Larnaca Airport, just 5 km west of Ayia Napa, is the closest international airport. For a convenient transfer, tourists are advised to take one of the many shuttle services, as taxis can be significantly more expensive.
Train
Cyprus does not have a train station, so transportation on the island primarily relies on buses, taxis, and other road-based options.
Drive
To fully explore the island’s hidden gems, renting a car is highly recommended. This gives you the freedom to discover remote beaches and visit sights like Cape Greco National Forest Park with ease.
Experiences
Ayia Napa boasts a vibrant mix of experiences. Enjoy the lively nightlife with top DJs, embark on scenic boat trips, explore the ancient Makronissos Tombs, or have fun at the WaterWorld Themed Waterpark.
Best Things To Do
1. Party in Ayia Napa
Experience some of the best nightlife in Europe with a vibrant selection of bars and nightclubs. Dance the night away to world-class DJs and enjoy themed parties that cater to all tastes.
Popular clubs can get crowded, so arrive early or consider booking a table for the best experience.
2. Relax on Stunning Beaches
Spend a day soaking up the sun on Ayia Napa’s beautiful beaches, with Nissi Beach being the most famous for its turquoise waters and lively atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the quieter charm of Makronissos Beach and Pantachou Beach.
Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at Nissi Beach during peak season.
3. Embark on a Boat Tour
Enjoy a memorable day on the water with various boat tours available, including lively boat parties and serene sunset dinner cruises. Exploring the crystal-clear waters of the famous Blue Lagoon is a highlight not to be missed.
Book your boat tour in advance during the summer months to secure a spot on popular excursions.
4. Discover Snorkelling Adventures
Dive into the underwater world of Ayia Napa by snorkelling in its clear waters, where you can encounter vibrant marine life, including turtles. Many tour operators offer guided snorkelling trips for all skill levels.
Bring your own snorkelling gear if you have it, or rent equipment from local shops for convenience.
5. Explore the Old Town
Wander through the charming old town of Ayia Napa, where cobblestone streets are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to experience local culture and sample traditional Cypriot cuisine.
Visit in the evening when the area comes alive with music and street performers.
6. Hike at Cape Greco National Forest Park
Just 8 km east of Ayia Napa, this stunning park offers excellent hiking trails with breathtaking coastal views. It’s a perfect escape into nature, with opportunities for picnicking and exploring hidden coves.
Bring water and snacks for your hike, and wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the trails fully.
7. Visit Makronissos Tombs
Step back in time at the Makronissos Tombs, an archaeological site that dates back thousands of years. This fascinating site offers insights into ancient burial practices and is one of Cyprus’s must-see historical attractions.
Plan your visit early in the day to avoid the heat and crowds.
8. Discover the Thalassa Museum
The Thalassa Museum showcases Cyprus’s rich maritime history, featuring a variety of artifacts, including a life-sized replica of the ancient Kyrenia ship. Interactive displays make it a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Tickets are around 4 Euros, making it a budget-friendly activity for families.
9. Tour Ayia Napa Monastery
This historic Byzantine-era monastery is one of Ayia Napa’s most iconic landmarks. With its beautiful architecture and serene gardens, it’s a peaceful spot for reflection and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Check for guided tours to learn more about the monastery’s fascinating history.
10. Experience WaterWorld
Experience thrills and excitement at WaterWorld, one of Europe’s largest themed water parks. With numerous slides and attractions suitable for all ages, it’s a fantastic family day out filled with fun and adventure.
Purchase tickets in advance to save time and secure your spot on busy days; adult tickets are about 50 Euros.
1. Party in Ayia Napa
Experience some of the best nightlife in Europe with a vibrant selection of bars and nightclubs. Dance the night away to world-class DJs and enjoy themed parties that cater to all tastes.
Popular clubs can get crowded, so arrive early or consider booking a table for the best experience.
2. Relax on Stunning Beaches
Spend a day soaking up the sun on Ayia Napa’s beautiful beaches, with Nissi Beach being the most famous for its turquoise waters and lively atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the quieter charm of Makronissos Beach and Pantachou Beach.
Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at Nissi Beach during peak season.
3. Embark on a Boat Tour
Enjoy a memorable day on the water with various boat tours available, including lively boat parties and serene sunset dinner cruises. Exploring the crystal-clear waters of the famous Blue Lagoon is a highlight not to be missed.
Book your boat tour in advance during the summer months to secure a spot on popular excursions.
4. Discover Snorkelling Adventures
Dive into the underwater world of Ayia Napa by snorkelling in its clear waters, where you can encounter vibrant marine life, including turtles. Many tour operators offer guided snorkelling trips for all skill levels.
Bring your own snorkelling gear if you have it, or rent equipment from local shops for convenience.
5. Explore the Old Town
Wander through the charming old town of Ayia Napa, where cobblestone streets are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to experience local culture and sample traditional Cypriot cuisine.
Visit in the evening when the area comes alive with music and street performers.
6. Hike at Cape Greco National Forest Park
Just 8 km east of Ayia Napa, this stunning park offers excellent hiking trails with breathtaking coastal views. It’s a perfect escape into nature, with opportunities for picnicking and exploring hidden coves.
Bring water and snacks for your hike, and wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the trails fully.
7. Visit Makronissos Tombs
Step back in time at the Makronissos Tombs, an archaeological site that dates back thousands of years. This fascinating site offers insights into ancient burial practices and is one of Cyprus’s must-see historical attractions.
Plan your visit early in the day to avoid the heat and crowds.
8. Discover the Thalassa Museum
The Thalassa Museum showcases Cyprus’s rich maritime history, featuring a variety of artifacts, including a life-sized replica of the ancient Kyrenia ship. Interactive displays make it a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Tickets are around 4 Euros, making it a budget-friendly activity for families.
9. Tour Ayia Napa Monastery
This historic Byzantine-era monastery is one of Ayia Napa’s most iconic landmarks. With its beautiful architecture and serene gardens, it’s a peaceful spot for reflection and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Check for guided tours to learn more about the monastery’s fascinating history.
10. Experience WaterWorld
Experience thrills and excitement at WaterWorld, one of Europe’s largest themed water parks. With numerous slides and attractions suitable for all ages, it’s a fantastic family day out filled with fun and adventure.
Purchase tickets in advance to save time and secure your spot on busy days; adult tickets are about 50 Euros.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
More Than Just a Party Destination
Discover Ayia Napa’s beautiful white sandy beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse activities beyond its vibrant nightlife.
6.
Public Transport
Utilize the affordable and reliable bus network in Ayia Napa for easy access to local attractions and nearby towns.
2.
Where to Stay
For nightlife enthusiasts, Ayia Napa Square is ideal, while beachfront hotels offer a relaxing retreat with stunning sea views.
7.
Mosquito Awareness
Be ready for mosquitoes during your stay; it’s wise to bring insect repellent to ensure a comfortable visit.
3.
Safety
Although Ayia Napa is generally safe, exercise caution when walking at night, especially in areas frequented by intoxicated tourists.
8.
Tipping Culture
While not mandatory, tipping 10-15% is appreciated in restaurants due to lower local wages, enhancing your dining experience.
4.
Prepare for Hot Weather
Expect high temperatures in summer, often exceeding 40°C, so stay hydrated and wear sun protection while enjoying outdoor activities.
9.
Currency
The Euro is the official currency in Cyprus; carrying cash is advisable, as many smaller establishments prefer it over cards.
5.
When to Visit
June and September are perfect months to visit, offering pleasant weather and the chance to experience Ayia Napa’s lively party scene without extreme heat.
10.
Language Tips
Greek and Turkish are the official languages, but English is widely spoken, making communication easy for most visitors.
6.
Public Transport
Utilize the affordable and reliable bus network in Ayia Napa for easy access to local attractions and nearby towns.
7.
Mosquito Awareness
Be ready for mosquitoes during your stay; it’s wise to bring insect repellent to ensure a comfortable visit.
8.
Tipping Culture
While not mandatory, tipping 10-15% is appreciated in restaurants due to lower local wages, enhancing your dining experience.
9.
Currency
The Euro is the official currency in Cyprus; carrying cash is advisable, as many smaller establishments prefer it over cards.
10.
Language Tips
Greek and Turkish are the official languages, but English is widely spoken, making communication easy for most visitors.