Ayia Napa is a resort focused more on beach and club holidays, but there are also some sights here. There are few of them in the city itself, but for that they abound, as, indeed, the whole island of Cyprus. We will still travel around the resort, and now we invite you to walk around this tourist town and see all the sights of Ayia Napa. It will not be difficult to navigate here, especially since you have this guide to Ayia Napa in your hands. One straight avenue, Nissi, passes through the city, and no matter where you enter, you will find yourself on this avenue. In the east, the avenue intersects with another main street of Archbishop Makarios (Od.Archiepiskoupi Macariou). We go up this street, moving away from the sea, and we get to Seferi Square. All the most interesting things are located there.
Sightseeing in Ayia Napa
What to see in Ayia Napa
In the very center of the city, between bars and clubs, stands the medieval Orthodox monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Agia Napa. This is the main attraction of Ayia Napa. This monastery has a very rich history and in the 16th century it enjoyed the same fame as. According to legend, in the 11th century there were dense forests on the site of the monastery. One hunter found an icon of the Most Holy Theotokos in a cave, told fellow countrymen about it, and they began to come to this cave and pray. Nearby beat the purest spring, on the site of which a well was built and it is full of beautiful clean water even now. In the XIV century. a temple was built next to the source, which has survived to this day. In the 16th century, a two-story building was built near the northern part of the monastery.
There is an octagonal fountain in the courtyard of the monastery. It was also built in the 16th century. at the expense of one rich girl from. The girl, not wanting to marry her unloved one, went to a monastery and later became an abbess. She also planted a sikimore at the southern entrance to the monastery, and it still grows there. This is the oldest tree in the Famagusta region. Since 1790, a settlement gradually formed around the monastery. In 1813 the monastery was restored. Now the monastery is not functioning, but services are held in the church, and it is open to pilgrims.
Good to know:
Chapels of Ayia Napa
What other sights of Ayia Napa can you visit on your own? On the western outskirts of Ayia Napa, there is a small 12th century chapel built in the Byzantine style. This is the chapel of St. Barbara. It has been recently restored and is covered with very beautiful frescoes. Near the chapel there are several cave chapels that were built in the early centuries of Christianity. And a few kilometers from the chapel of St. Barbara, on the shore, stands the medieval chapel of St. Thekla. It was erected on the site of an ancient cave church, which in turn was built on an ancient burial site.
Museum of the Sea "Talassa"
If you wondered: "what to see in Ayia Napa with children?", then you will find the answer by visiting the Thalassa Sea Museum. This is one of the most interesting museums. He tells residents and visitors about the sea and its significance and influence on the island from antiquity to the present day. In the museum you will see finds from the bottom of the sea, models of ancient ships, sculptures, idols, vases from various historical periods (5000 BC - 1600 AD).
On the second floor is the Tornaridis-Pieridis Municipal Marine Life Museum. In the museum you will learn about many inhabitants of the sea. It opened in 1992 and has a very modern design. The seabed of the dinosaur era has been recreated with fossilized shells and corals (130-65 million years BC). The museum also contains a collection of modern shells and various marine organisms: sea urchins, stars, sponges, corals, various plants. Sea and lake birds, turtles and many other animals are also represented.
- Opening hours: from May to October: Wed-Sun: 9.00-13.00; 18.00-21.00; Thu: 18.00-21.00. Mon-day off. From November to April: Wed-Sun: 9.00-17.00; Thu: 13.00-17.00. Mon. - day off.
- Ticket for adults/children -3/1 €.
Walk to the Cyclops Cave
To the next attraction of Ayia Napa, you will need to take a short but exciting walk. Our destination is the Cyclops Cave. It is located near the city. It can be reached on foot in about an hour and a half from Konnos bay. The bay is located in the east of Ayia Napa between Cape Greco and. The bay is very picturesque with a secluded sandy beach with clear blue water. The road to the cave will be fascinating, it winds among flowering shrubs and trees, and then goes down to the sea, then rises to the hills. Stock up on provisions and you can have picnics - there will be many suitable places.
The starting point for the walk is. 
From it, move to McDonald's and before reaching it you will see the road (opposite the mini-golf course and parking). Follow this road to the east, moving away from Luna Park. After a while you will see a T-junction and turn right towards the sea and follow the road that will end at the beach. Then turn left onto the ring road, and after about 20 minutes of walking, the road will turn left again. Go left until the road turns right. At this point there will be a ring road and you need to move along it to Cape Greco. After a while you will again find yourself at a T-junction. From it, take the road going to the right, towards the sea, towards Cape Greco (follow the signs).
Last minute tours to Cyprus
Follow this road and on the right there will be a sign for Sea Caves (Aiya Napa sea-caves). Keep walking and soon there will be a sign to the viewpoint at the top of Cape Cavo Greko. The pointer will be on the right along the way. Move past it for another 2 km and on the right you will see a sign for the passage to Konnos Bay. There will also be a Greek Park Hotel. Follow the sign for the road to the beach. Approximately in the middle of the descent there will be a sign "To the cave of the Cyclops 1.5 km." (Cyclops Cave 1.5 km.). You can climb into the cave and see its halls with stalactites on the vaults. And since you have reached the cave of the Cyclops, then do not be lazy and get to another attraction of these places - the Sea Caves.
Such bizarre caves are only in Ayia Napa. They were created by the sea for millions of years. After seeing the Cyclops Cave, return to the section of the road where the sign "Ayia Napa Sea Caves" was. Move along this road and after a while from it, to the right, an uneven, narrow path will branch off. Follow it to the sea and in a few minutes there will be caves on the right. A rock with caves protrudes into the sea. Nearby is a rocky beach with clear water. Explore the caves from the inside, they are very unusual and mysterious. Here are some interesting places in Ayia Napa. Impressions are provided to you, and excellent photos too.
11 interesting places and sights of Ayia Napa. Where to visit and what to see in Ayia Napa during vacation 2019.
Since the middle of the first decade of the 21st century, Ayia Napa has had a reputation as the most cheerful and noisy resort in the entire Mediterranean. There are many clubs, amazing beach parties and fun that does not stop day and night. However, Ayia Napa also has quiet places, natural and historical sights and interesting museums. Below is a list of 9 places and things not to be missed in and around Ayia Napa:
Ayia Napa Monastery
Monastery - attraction #1 in Ayia Napa
This is the oldest attraction in Ayia Napa, dating back to the 15th century, when Cyprus was ruled by the Venetians. Now the monastery is located within the city, but at the time of construction it was a remote and quiet place, hidden in a pine forest. The church, the mill, the cells and the fountain in the courtyard are built of honey-coloured limestone. After the Ottoman conquest in the 16th century, the monastery remained intact and was preserved in the following centuries in good condition, although the monks have not lived here since the end of the 19th century.
Thalassa Museum
Despite the fact that Ayia Napa is a city of parties, there are some of the best museums on here. The Thalassa Sea Museum was opened in 2005 and claims to be the best museum of its subject in the Mediterranean. In the museum you can learn a lot about the civilizations that settled in Cyprus at different times, and about 7 thousand years of navigation history. Among the exhibits are examples from the Neolithic, Bronze Age and Classical period. The collection is complemented by natural exhibits - fossils and shells.
Konnos beach
Konnos beach is another place worth visiting in Ayia Napa
This is the best beach around Ayia Napa for those who want to get away from the crowded resorts and get back to nature. Konnos is a narrow beach with white sand and clear waters. The bay is protected from currents and winds by long rocky spurs, which makes the waters quite calm. The shallow waters are ideal for snorkeling and swimming. On the beach, you can rent jet skis and have a bite to eat at local snack bars.
Nissi beach
The beautiful and lively Nissi Beach is great for party-goers and families alike. For the first on the beach there are clubs with pools and DJs. Another source of fun is cliff jumping, which can be enjoyed on the west side of the beach, as well as the huge range of water sports available on the beach. Visitors with children can find sunbeds on Nissi away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the white sands and clear aquamarine waters in a tranquil setting.
Cape Greco
What to see in Gia Napa - Cape Greco
To the east of Ayia Napa is Cape Greco, which is part of a natural park. Approaching the cape, one can admire tall wild grass, poppies and various plants. At the top of the cape there are benches, sitting on which you can admire the rocky landscapes and the Mediterranean Sea. You can also walk down to the water to explore the sea cave system.
sea caves
The caves, which are part of Cape Greco, have been carved into the rock by currents and can be accessed from the water or on foot. These strange but beautiful places will be of interest to adventurous people and those who want to take some bright photos during their vacation.
sculpture park
The recently opened Sculpture Park is an interesting cultural attraction located to the east of Ayia Napa. 20 different world sculptors placed their works in the park. Mediterranean landscapes and 40 white marble or limestone sculptures make the park a great place for a relaxing walk.
Tombs of Makronisos
Until 1989, no one suspected the existence of this Hellenistic and Roman complex of tombs, which is located near Ayia Napa. There are a total of 19 stone tombs, each with a rectangular entrance covered by a large limestone slab. This place will be interesting to explore for those who are interested in history.
Boat trips from Ayia Napa
Boat trips from Ayia Napa are in demand
From the harbor of Ayia Napa you can cruise on a variety of boats, from a "floating club" with a bar and DJ to a pirate ship that will make several swimming stops along the way. There are also calm catamaran cruises for people who want to bask in the sun and admire the surrounding beauties.
Warm and hospitable Cyprus has long been almost the most popular beach holiday destination. One of the most famous resorts of the island is Ayia Napa, which is increasingly called the "youth capital" or "Cypriot Ibiza". Such fame came to the city because of the large number of bars, discos and noisy entertainment. It is home to the largest water park in Europe, a huge amusement park, several gorgeous beaches and countless natural attractions.
The coast of Ayia Napa is white sand and limestone cliffs, in harmony with the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. What else do you need for the perfect vacation? Unless unhurried conversations in Cypriot taverns and evening walks along the embankments. Or maybe fun parties and dancing to incendiary music until the morning.
The best hotels and hostels at affordable prices.
from 500 rubles/day
What to see and where to go in Ayia Napa?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.
One of the most popular beaches in Ayia Napa. Unlike the neighboring Nissi Bay, it is more focused on a relaxing holiday, it will be comfortable to be here with children. The beach is located in a beautiful bay surrounded by palm trees, it is covered with white sand, and the water here has a pleasant azure hue. The entry into the sea is gentle, so some tourists do not like that it is rather shallow here.
The city port is located in a small closed bay, reminiscent of a quiet and serene harbor. Along the coast are elegant yachts, modest fishermen's boats and pleasure boats, waiting for those who wish to take a boat trip. Cypriot taverns are hidden in the streets adjacent to the port, where you can have a hearty and tasty lunch. You can also buy fresh sea delicacies here.
A huge water amusement park created based on ancient Greek mythology. Its rides are named after the Olympian gods and are stylized as ancient legends: there is the Minotaur's Libyrinth, the Trojan Horse and the Labors of Hercules. In total, there are 18 slides in the water park, where you can ride all day long without fear of getting bored or tired. Playgrounds are organized for children.
An amusement park almost in the center of the city, where several dozen rides are open for visitors - from simple carousels for the smallest to extreme ones for thrill-seekers. Especially popular are the "roller coaster" and "catapult", which throws a person to a great height with incredible force. The local Ferris wheel reaches a height of 45 meters and offers a panoramic view of the city.
Museum of Contemporary Sculpture, located in an open area. Masters from all over the world took part in the creation of its exhibits. The park was opened in 2014, so far its collection continues to grow. Basically, all the sculptures are made of local limestone and marble. Sometimes in the park you can watch the process of sculpting the sculpture, which takes place right before the eyes of visitors.
The Maritime Museum was founded in 1984. The main purpose of its creation is to acquaint the guests of the island with marine flora and fauna, as well as draw attention to the problems of ecology and conservation of species. The collection is located on three floors. In addition to natural exhibits, paintings by local artists and paleontological finds are exhibited here. The most important exhibit is the remains of the ancient ship Kyrenia-Elefetria.
Previously, the monastery belonged to the Cypriot Orthodox Church, now there is a museum on its territory. It is believed that the name of the city of Ayia Napa came from the name of the monastery. The complex was founded in the 15th century. Unlike the religious buildings of Cyprus, it has survived to this day in almost perfect condition, avoiding serious damage. The last restoration took place in the 1950s.
Graeco-Roman burial, which consists of sanctuaries, a quarry and several tombs. The latter are burial chambers covered with stone slabs. Excavations have been carried out on the territory of the archaeological site for a long time, but access to it is still allowed. The tombs are located on the western outskirts of Ayia Napa near Makronisos beach.
In the port of Ayia Napa, tourists are waiting for the ship "Black Pearl" - a copy of the famous ship from the movie "Pirates of the Caribbean". A boat trip on it takes place in the presence of everyone's favorite heroes - captains Jack Sparrow and Barbossa. During the excursion, the crew organizes an interesting animation program for children, costume shows and a search for a lost treasure.
The Blue Lagoon is a picturesque cove with clear azure water near Cape Greco, where you can sunbathe, snorkel and scuba dive to observe the life of the underwater world. The attraction is located between Protaras and Ayia Napa. The bay is surrounded by limestone cliffs of unusual shape. This is one of the most photographed places in Cyprus.
The beach is located in the bay of the same name, about 4 km from Ayia Napa, next to the Cavo Greco park. This picturesque piece of the coast lies among the rocks, so you will have to get to it along an inclined slope. Here you can sunbathe and practice water sports. Although the size of the beach is small - 200 meters long and 100 meters wide, a sufficient number of people can fit on it.
Like most beaches in Cyprus, Makronisos lies in a wind-sheltered bay, which ensures calm seas without high waves. The coastal strip is covered with an even layer of sand, gleaming invitingly in the sun. The beach has everything you need for a comfortable stay: sun loungers, umbrellas, swimming equipment. There are several hotels along the coast.
Rock arch in the Cavo Greco nature reserve, which was formed as a result of natural processes. All tourists who have visited Cyprus must have several photos of this place. It is also very popular to hold wedding photo shoots here. Some young people on the "Bridge of Lovers" propose to their girlfriends. Perhaps that is why he received such a romantic name.
The coasts of Cyprus are made up of limestone rocks that have been exposed to winds and waves for thousands of years. As a result of natural processes, the coast has acquired a rather rugged appearance, strewn with bays. Not far from Ayia Napa there are sea caves and bizarre grottoes, where the elements showed their talents in full force. You can admire them from a pleasure boat.
The cape is located on the southeastern tip of Cyprus, on the edge of the bay of Ayia Napa. On part of its territory there is a national park with an abundance of viewing platforms, walking and cycling paths, as well as picnic areas. You can sunbathe on the coast, in the azure waters of the sea, tourists go diving and fishing, some even book a parachute flight. According to legend, a local monster lives in the waters surrounding the cape.
The Russians are happy to go on vacation to Cyprus. Pleasant climate, transparent sea, picturesque surroundings, magnificent beaches, excellent resorts with interesting sights, reasonable prices will delight travelers. Wide range of activities and excursions awaits guests of the beautiful island.
Many cities of Cyprus, despite their modest size, have a rich history and a lot of unique corners. The small town of Ayia Napa is one of such wonderful places that wins the hearts of travelers. What is so attractive about this corner of Cyprus?
About Ayia Napa
The resort town is located in eastern part islands near Protaras. Only 2.7 thousand people live here. There are several times more tourists from different countries in this hospitable land.
The name of the city was given by the Venetian monastery, still located in the central part of Ayia Napa. In ancient times, there was a fishing village on the site of a popular resort, the surroundings were covered with dense forest.
Ayia Napa beaches
City beaches are awarded cleanliness awards. The blue flag is awarded to each of them. Pure sand, azure waters, bright sun - what else do you need for a great beach holiday?!
Noisy Nissi beach loves the youth new Golden Beach and Pantahou- quieter places. Cafes and restaurants nearby, beach volleyball, competitions, entertainment on the beach allow you to have plenty of fun.
Infrastructure
Today, the city has created conditions for a comfortable, meaningful vacation. There are cozy hotels near the sea.
In the center around the square, dozens of nightclubs, restaurants, cafes, shops and taverns are full of signs. In the center is a pedestrian zone. Residential buildings are located on the third line from the sea.
Recreation on the water
In the coastal waters of the resort town of Ayia Napa, conditions allow diving, surfing, and fishing.
It offers catamarans, "banana", water parachute.
Fascinating underwater excursions to sunken ships and caves are always held in high esteem among tourists.
Natural, historical monuments, entertainment centers, festivals and holidays waiting for guests all year round.
Night clubs, restaurants do not let you get bored day or night.
Is here Russian restaurant "Teremok", club "Red Square". You can enjoy natural beauties, take a walk along the coast, visit historical monuments.
Attractions Ayia Napa
Visit as many interesting corners of the resort area as possible. Miracles abound here!
Venetian monastery
Business card of Ayia Napa. Built in the 16th century. After reconstruction in the middle of the 20th century, the building became the center of cultural life. In September, an ethnographic festival takes place here.
Museum of the Sea "Talassa"
Unusual architecture immediately draws attention to the three-story municipal building.
The museum collection is huge. Presented: paleontological finds, ancient artifacts, collections of marine flora and fauna, a variety of shells and paintings by local artists.
Tourists will get acquainted with a copy of an ancient Greek ship that crashed in the local waters.
bridge of lovers
An elegant stone arch over the sea, formed by nature itself, is located above the turquoise waters. All newlyweds come to be photographed against the backdrop of delicate blue and picturesque coastal landscape.
Tourists admire the perfect resemblance to a real bridge.
sea caves
Near the city center at Cape Greco is another natural wonder - sea caves in the coastal cliffs. Stunning landscapes, numerous grottoes are explored by our tourists, despite the prohibitions and warning signs, diving into the water from the rocks.
Most of the tourists visit the caves from a pleasure boat.
Luna park
Roundabouts, swings, water slides, crazy rides, karting races, a mind-blowing "slingshot" attract thousands of tourists here in search of impressions.
Lotteries and funny drawings, ice cream, sweets and cartoon characters create a great mood.
Room of fear
For thrill-seekers, Ayia Napa has a horror labyrinth that allows you to test yourself in relation to various fears. The paintings are so realistic that more than 10,000 guests were never able to complete the entire route. The saving word for the exit "Nightmare!" is constantly heard from the depths of the room of fear.
Ayia Napa is one of the most popular resorts in Cyprus. This is a city where the clubbing nightlife is wonderfully combined with marvelous sandy beaches and many interesting places to visit.
It is here that the best beaches of Cyprus are located, sea excursions depart from here, music plays here all night long and life is in full swing in clubs. But at the same time, those who want a relaxing holiday can also get what they want. There are many attractions in Ayia Napa and its surroundings.
Cape Cavo Greco
I already wrote about this cape in an article about. It is located just between these two resort towns and is definitely worth a visit.
Optionally, either on foot or by bike. We preferred the second option, yet the path is not a short one.
(pirate caves)
These caves can be seen during a boat trip, some of them (the largest) can even look into the boats. Once upon a time, pirates hid their treasures here, and also hid themselves from the authorities and their ill-wishers.
All caves are unique and have a natural origin. We stayed here during our sea cruise and even swam inside one of the caves. Here, an unusual rocky arch opens up, surprising tourists with its power and uniqueness, created without the involvement of a person.
bridge of lovers
The bridge of lovers is a natural arch in the rock, formed without human intervention. It is a very popular photography spot and many couples have their photo shoots here.
"Bridge of Lovers" Who just takes pictures, and someone jumps from it.
But there is another use for this natural bridge - extreme sports enthusiasts jump from it into the water. Sergey, for example, even liked it very much.
Ayia Napa beaches
Nissi Beach
This beach with fine white sand has long been not just a place of rest, but also one of the most famous sights of Ayia Napa, its hallmark.
It is marked with the Blue Flag of quality and attracts all vacationers like a magnet. In the evening, DJs light up here and parties are held, and during the day there is practically no free space due to the abundance of sunbathing bodies.
This is one of the most wonderful places in Cyprus, where all the boats make sure to stop to give people the opportunity to swim in the sky-blue clear water.
This small bay is surrounded by rocks, and therefore there is no wind here, and the water is especially blue.
Museums in Ayia Napa
Maritime Museum "Talassa"
This museum, which opened in 1992, invites visitors to plunge into the world of the deep sea and get acquainted with the inhabitants of the sea. 
Note: "Thalassa" (Thalassa) - from Greek means "sea".
There are many exhibits in several halls: birds, turtles, various types of fish and plants that live in the sea. There are both modern representatives of the fauna and various fossils. The museum also has a large collection of ship accessories. 
But the museum is especially proud of one exhibit - the reconstruction of the ancient Greek ship Kerinia-Eleftheria, which sank off the coast of Cyprus in the 4th century BC. Another hall also arouses admiration among visitors - it shows the process of a shipwreck.
Museum "Country House"
In Ayia Napa, on the monastery square, there is an interesting little museum - "Country House". There you can get acquainted with what is the home of a Cypriot peasant, with the customs and traditions of local villages.
Things to Do in Ayia Napa
We came to the Water World water park from Protaras, as this is really an amazing place to visit. It is made in the theme of ancient Greek mythology, and all the slides and pools are named after one or another legend.
The territory of the water park is simply huge, and many people come here just to spend time with a book in their hands on a sun lounger or by the pool, and not to get adrenaline while riding the local slides.
Lunapark
In Ayia Napa there is a Lunapark with many attractions, both for children and extreme ones. For those who want to see the surroundings from a height, there is a Ferris Wheel, for fans of extreme sports - a Catapult that shoots a person several tens of meters above the ground. 
There is a free fall, cars, all kinds of children's attractions.
club street
Ayia Napa has a lot of nightclubs and entertainment venues that open in the evenings, but they are all concentrated in one place - Club Street. This place is known and loved by all the party-goers of the resort. 
During the day, this is an ordinary street, convenient for leisurely walks, and at night - a string of restaurants and clubs where the music never stops. But even if you are not a fan of nightlife, it is worth walking along it at least during the daytime to appreciate the unique design of shop windows and the exterior of local establishments.
Ayia Napa has a harbor from where boat trips around Cyprus depart. There are many companies involved in cruising: there are large yachts, there are small boats with a glass bottom and ordinary cruise boats.
The cost is also different - from 5 euros. We took a 4.5 hour excursion with lunch on a large yacht. Impressions from a sea cruise are simply unforgettable. In addition, this is the best way to get to the most picturesque place for swimming in Cyprus - the blue lagoon.
Ship "Black Pearl"
This ship is worth mentioning separately. This is not just a sea cruise, this is a real pirate entertainment for children. The atmosphere is chosen just fine: the ship itself looks like the famous "Black Pearl" from "Pirates of the Caribbean", the crew is well made up, and the program is well chosen.
In addition to the walk, the visitor is invited to take part in the treasure hunt, shoot cannons, swim in the sea and dine with a team of brave corsairs. This tour is sure to please the kids. Please note that it is more expensive and noisier than a simple sea cruise.
Churches and monasteries
Church on Cavo Greco
The snow-white church on the hill of Cape Greco is a popular wedding venue for those who decide to join their destinies in Cyprus. 
Ayia Napa
This is the most famous and noticeable attraction of Ayia Napa, which gave the name to this resort. “Ayia Napa” in Greek means “Holy Forest Valley”. And it was in the place where dense forests grew, under the sacred evergreen sycamore, that the monastery of the Most Holy Theotokos was built.
The same sikimore.
The first mention of the monastery dates back to the 16th century, and the age of the sikimora, next to which it is located, exceeds 1000 years. There are legends that the monastery was built over a sacred cave, in which the hunter found the image of the Mother of God, hidden there during the period of iconoclasm.
These burials belong to the Hellenistic period, and also partly to Roman times. Excavations are still ongoing, but visitors with guided tours are allowed here.
Ayia Napa lighthouse
This lighthouse is hard to miss. It is located not far from the city on an elevation made of a pile of stones.
Ayia Napa lighthouse
Once it saved sailors and played an important role in the life of the island, but now this snow-white building has become a popular place for walks and photo shoots.
