Ayia napa city. Cyprus resort - ayia napa

The coastline of Ayia Napa is 8 kilometers long with 14 sandy beaches. All of them have a "blue flag" - an indicator of the highest quality of water, safety and excellent infrastructure.

Now all the beaches of Ayia Napa are municipal. Until 2015, the beaches were owned by individuals and organizations, but at the end of 2014 they became municipal property. The former owners protested and even sued the municipality, but the courts rejected all claims. Now the beaches bring 3.5 million euros to the city's budget annually.

For tourists, this situation only plays into the hands. The infrastructure on the beaches in Ayia Napa is excellent. The beaches are regularly cleaned and there are changing rooms and toilets everywhere. All beaches are free, but you have to pay for umbrellas and sun loungers - 2.5 or 5 euros per day. The big minus is that there is no hourly payment, because not all tourists are going to spend the whole day on the beach.

Nissi Beach (Nissi Beach) is considered Ayia Napa's main daytime hangout. It is always noisy here, bars are open, contests are held, often very frivolous. This is clearly not a place for family and senior tourists. Read our detailed story "".

Sandy Bay Beach (Sandy Bay) is considered the best beach for a relaxing holiday. The sand is great and there are several restaurants. However, the beach is small, get ready for an unpleasant moment that there will be no seats before your arrival.

Grecian Bay Beach (Grecian Bay) is the largest beach in the city. Most of the 4 and 5-star hotels are located along it. The beach is quiet, ideal for families. This beach has many names: Gluki Nero (lane: "sweet water"), Pantachou or Luccas tou Manti.

Makronissos Beach (Macronissos Beach) is not even one beach, but three, one main in the center and two cozy bays on the sides. It is calm here, the sand is pleasant golden color. Makronissos Beach is located on the Makronissos Beach Club, which hosts many entertainment and the famous Kandi Beach Party. The beach is located in the western part of Ayia Napa, next to the WaterWorld water park.

Landa Beach (Landa Beach) is also called "Golden Beach" because of the color of the sand. The beach is small, close to the city center and hotels. Because of this, it is always crowded here. There is a barbecue area (for a fee) and a playground for children.

It makes no sense to talk about all the beaches. Our advice is simple: rent a car or better bicycles. Drive along the coastline, since it is not so long, look at the bays and beaches and choose the best one for you!

Hotels

Now in Ayia Napa there are about 140 full-fledged hotels (with assigned stars). Half of them are classified as 3 stars. This is quite logical, because in Ayia Napa most tourists come to the beach during the day, to the disco in the evening, a luxury hotel is not needed in this case.

Almost all hotels are located along the waterfront, along Nissi Avenue (west of the city) and Krio Nero (east of the city). When choosing a hotel, we recommend paying attention to its location - book the hotel that is closer to a good beach.

There are only 6 5-star hotels here, among them there are no world-famous hotel chains. The most luxurious is Adams Beach Hotel Deluxe, this hotel has its own beach, however, according to the reviews of tourists, it does not pull on the title of “most luxurious”.

Entertainment and attractions

Ayia Napa boasts a balanced array of attractions. There are cultural attractions, natural attractions and amusement parks.

The most titled water park in Cyprus, over 20 years of its existence, it has received 24 international awards. There are 18 large slides and many water attractions for children.

Admission costs 38 euros for adults, 24 euros for children. It is convenient to get to WaterWorld, there is a bus along the hotel zone, you can get there for only 1.5 euros.

WaterWorld water park is stylized on the theme of ancient Greek gods and heroes, for which it received more than one award.

This is the same monastery that was built in the 11-12 centuries on the site of the miracle of the finding of the icon of the Virgin Mary. It was the monastery that gave the name to the area and the resort.

Quiet and calm monastery is located in the heart of the bustling resort. The contrast between these phenomena is mesmerizing, and the halls with ancient icons make you think about the eternal.

Admission is free, it is convenient to get there by buses 101 and 102 for only 1.5 euros. The entire monastery can be seen in one to two hours.

Perhaps this is the only place in Ayia Napa for lovers of outdoor activities.

Cycling and hiking trails in the Kavo Greco National Park are 16 kilometers long with stunning cliffs and quaint rocks. Several endemic (live only here) plants live here. You can see the ruins of the ancient temple of Aphrodite.

The visit to the Cape and National Park is free. It is convenient to get there by buses 101 and 102.

Read our detailed review "".

Located in the east of the city, at the end of Pantachou Beach. On a hill on a rocky plateau, 155 statues by 115 sculptors from around the world are exhibited.

The visit is free. You can get there by buses 101 and 102. We recommend visiting after 17-00, so that it is still light, but not hot. Stock up on comfortable shoes, the park area is 2 hectares, the soil is rocky.

Among the sculptures in the park there are works by Russians, especially good reviews about Vasilisa Chugunova and her sculpture "In the Sky".

Located to the east of the Sculpture Park, many tourists pass by without even knowing what an interesting place it is.

More than 10,000 cacti and other desert plants are collected here. It is the largest such park in the Mediterranean. Volunteers from local residents took a large part in the construction and arrangement.

If you go from the park to the south, you can get to the "bridge of love" - \u200b\u200ba natural rock, shaped like a bridge. Kiss here and love will last forever.

This museum is dedicated to the sea and its impact on the life of Cyprus and Cypriots. Located in the heart of the city, close to Ayia Napa Monastery. Entrance - 4 euros.

The first part of the exhibition is dedicated to ancient marine life. Here you will see fossilized shells, corals, fish. The oldest fossils date back to the Cretaceous period - 165 million years ago.

The second part of the exposition shows ancient artifacts raised from the bottom of the sea - ceramics, fragments of statues, sarcophagi.

The main exhibit is the Kyrenia 2 ship, an exact copy of the famous Kyrenia ship depicted on. This copy was created in 1985.

Amusement park Parko Paliatso

Located in the city center, south of the monastery. This is the largest amusement park in Cyprus, with an area of \u200b\u200b3 hectares, there are 26 attractions. In 2010, a 45 meter high Ferris wheel, a record for Cyprus, was installed here.

The "visiting card" of the park is the "Sling Shot" attraction. Its two masts shine with neon lights at night. Ropes are pulled down from the tops of these masts. The cab is attached to these ropes. The cockpit is released, and the visitors of the attraction fly up. Extremely extreme entertainment.

Finding a park is very easy, just use the Ferris wheel. The park has a complex payment system. You can pay for each attraction, or you can buy two types of passes - for 38 or 25 euros, which give unlimited access to some attractions and a certain number of rides on others.

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Ayia Napa is one of the most popular and liveliest resorts in Cyprus with an amazing history. The name, which is translated as "Sacred Forests", was given to the city in honor of a shrine that was once found here. Presumably in the 7-8 centuries AD. e. in a cave in the middle of dense thickets, the Byzantines hid the face of the Most Holy Theotokos from the iconoclasts. Hundreds of years later, a random traveler found the icon, news of this spread around the neighborhood, and believers began to flock to the cave.

The icon and the area began to be called "Panagia Napa" (the Most Holy Theotokos from the forest), and eventually simply Ayia Napa. Later, a chapel was erected over the cave, and then a temple. Today it is the Ayia Napa monastery, which has been preserved almost in its original form.

The city became a tourist destination in the 80s, it developed rapidly, attracting tourists with its paradise beaches and water activities. Ayia Napa is ideal for outdoor activities. The city is famous for its lively nightlife, it is even called "the second Ibiza" because of the large number of bars, discos and clubs

It should be noted that even the Cypriots themselves prefer to rest in Ayia Napa.

Search for flights to Larnaca (nearest airport to Ayia Napa)

Transport

Public transport in Ayia Napa is represented by buses and taxis. They are more relevant for traveling around the area and trips to neighboring cities, because the resort itself is very small, and it is quite possible to explore it during walking or cycling.

A taxi ride around the city will cost at least 5 EUR.

Ayia Napa hotels

Seeing the Blue Flags on the coast of Ayia Napa, rest assured that only the cleanest and safest beaches for swimming are awarded this quality mark.

Here they are also surprisingly beautiful - white and turquoise during the day and dazzling orange at sunset. And certainly the beaches of Ayia Napa are rightfully considered the best on the island in terms of entertainment - diving, fishing, catamarans, surfing, jet skis, yachts, speedboating and other pleasures of water recreation are available to tourists.

Almost the entire coastal part of the town is landscaped - there are showers, umbrellas, sun loungers, rescue stations, restaurants. The beaches in Ayia Napa are sandy and gentle, which makes them safe for children. The entire coastline is quite noisy due to the many bars.

The number one beach in the resort is Nissi Beach, there is nowhere for an apple to fall in high season. Parties start long before sunset, or don't subside at all 24 hours a day. In search of a quieter rest, go to the beaches "Lanta", "Grecian Bay", "Makronisos", but do not count on solitude - it is more or less quiet here at lunchtime, when the heat drives tourists from the coast.

Ayia Napa and Protaras

What to bring

In search of authentic souvenirs, travel to the nearby villages, where the traditions of Cypriot folk craft are carefully preserved.

So, embroiderers from Lefkara will surprise you with skillfully made lace, which, as the legend says, Leonardo da Vinci himself could not pass by. Having bought the vestments, the painter took them to Milan Cathedral. Lefkarian lace will become an expensive but unique gift, nothing like this you will find in any other country in the world. Take a closer look at Lefkara and the intricate silverware.

Almost every village in Cyprus has a pottery workshop where you can buy clay souvenirs - amphorae, coffee sets, jugs, etc. The village of Paralimni, located near Ayia Napa, is especially famous for its products.

In Liopetri, you can buy baskets woven from vines. Many centuries ago, farmers carried crops to the market in such multi-colored baskets. And today the basket can be an excellent element of kitchen decor.

Ayia Napa cafes and restaurants

Ayia Napa has a lot of catering establishments for every taste and pocket. Guests are offered both international cuisine and traditional dishes.

Local cafes and eateries are distinguished by the fact that almost all of them are focused on a quick snack, because life at the resort is in full swing - tourists eat on the go, hurrying to the next party. Fast food is even on the menu of restaurants, but the service there, as usual, is more solid.

At the same time, the Cypriots cannot be denied culinary skills, even the whipped-up food will be fresh and tasty. Local establishments are especially proud of their fish and meat dishes.

The average cost of a quick lunch in a tavern is 8-14 EUR, a dinner with wine in a restaurant will cost 35 EUR and more.

The best photos of Ayia Napa

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the resort is the already mentioned Ayia Napa Monastery, as well as the Rock Tombs of Makronisos, located near the beach of the same name. This complex from the Greco-Roman period includes ancient tombs, sanctuaries and a quarry. Access to the tombs is open despite the fact that excavations are still ongoing here.

Cognitive leisure is offered by the Museum of the Sea, the exposition of which includes unique items found at the bottom near the Cyprus coast. Some of them are very ancient, they introduce guests to the history of shipbuilding and navigation of the pre-Christian era.

In the Cape Greco area, you can admire the amazing landscapes. And in its eastern part is the national forest park "Kavo Greco". Not only is it ideal for cycling and walking, the park is also a place for some fun. Diving in caves is popular among fans of extreme sports, and newlyweds rush to the “bridge of lovers”, because the photos taken on the arch are completely unique.

Not far from Ayia Napa is the city of Famagusta, where vacationers go to look at the closed quarter of Varosha. This "ghost town", named with the light hand of a Swedish journalist, was once a popular tourist destination, and today it resembles the scenery for a post-apocalyptic film.

Nightclubs and evening entertainment

With the onset of darkness, the fun does not stop here, but on the contrary is gaining momentum, which is not surprising, because Ayia Napa is, first of all, a fashionable youth resort.

The city has a whole Club Quarter, where bars, pubs and discos are lined up wall to wall - the music here thunders until the morning.

Many tourists start their nightly fun with a visit to the Nightmare Labyrinth of Fear, located at the very beginning of the "club" street. They say that episodes from famous thrillers are recreated here so believably that half of the guests shout "nightmare" (exit password), not even reaching the middle of the maze.

Cozy taverns and cafes scattered throughout the city offer quieter entertainment at night. The price for a cocktail at the bar starts from 5-7 EUR. Some dance floors charge an entrance fee of 10-15 EUR. Visiting foam parties is paid separately.

9 things to do in Ayia Napa

1. Rejuvenate by washing with water from the bath of Aphrodite.
2. Arrange a stunning photo session against the backdrop of landscapes that the ancient Greeks once admired.
3. Jump from a 50-meter bungee on Nissi Beach.
4. Take a ride on the fastest speed boat in the Mediterranean, the Scrimmer.
5. Make a wish by tying a ribbon on a 600-year-old mulberry tree.
6. Hang out all night on the Black Pearl and watch the sunrise on the high seas.
7. Mount Josephine, Hercules or Rasputin at the donkey farm in Skarina.
8. Go diving and try to find the Ayia Napa monster in the depths of the sea.
9. Fall in love with water sports and swim for a whole year ahead.

Ayia Napa for children

Ayia Napa is a great place to relax with the whole family. Local beaches - gentle and sandy - seem to have been specially created for children. It may seem that the city is too noisy, but a quiet rest is quite real here if you carefully approach the choice of the hotel. The quietest in terms of children's recreation is in April-May, when party-goers have not yet flocked to the coast.

Younger guests of the resort will always be delighted with the largest water park on the island. Having bought a ticket, you can spend the whole day in the complex - on its territory, in addition to steep slides and swimming pools, there are cafes and gazebos for relaxation. The park administration regularly organizes holidays for kids, updating the program every season. For the careful approach to organizing children's leisure and taking care of their safety, the park has received many awards.

Children will also appreciate the rich variety of attractions at Ayia Napa's amusement park. On an area of \u200b\u200babout 30 thousand square meters. m there are carousels, trampolines, slot machines, there is also a swimming pool. Older visitors will be impressed by the Catapult and the Ferris Wheel.

Weather

Ayia Napa is a hot resort not only in terms of entertainment. The sun shines here 300 days a year, the beach season begins in April and lasts until November. It is most comfortable in the city in May, as well as in September-October, when you can already / still swim. Ayia Napa is very sultry and lively during the summer months.

In winter, the weather at the resort is pleasant, but not conducive to swimming - the air and water are not warmed up enough. However, even at this time of the year there are dry, clear days, suitable for sightseeing holidays.

Cyprus is an island created for relaxation and pleasure. It is not surprising that almost every city here automatically turns into a resort. The competition between them is great, and each has its own tourist "specialization". This fully applies to Ayia Napa.

Ayia Napa is a resort for young people, parties and fun pastime. But families with children or couples looking for a quiet holiday - this is not the place.

Settlements on the site of modern Ayia Napa date back to the time of Byzantium, around the 10th century AD. Cyprus, as a tasty morsel, has always attracted the attention of both Greeks and Ottomans, and powerful Venetians. They occupied the island in the XIV century and wanted to settle here for a long time, therefore they built a monastery here on the site of the appearance of the miraculous icon of the Mother of God.

As a resort, the city has been developing rapidly since the 70s of the last century, and we can say that it is a young city for the young at heart.

How to get there

The closest airport where planes land from Moscow is Larnaca. Ayia Napa is located in the eastern part of the island of Cyprus, an hour's drive from Larnaca by bus. First, take the green Inter City Buses from the airport to the bus station in Larnaca (the fare is about 7 euros), and only there change to the bus to Ayia Napa.

Getting there by taxi is faster, on average 40 minutes, but the cost will be from 50 - 60 euros. You can take a taxi. If you eat with a company it is cheaper.

Weather

Near the city, Cape Greco (Capo Greco) juts out into the sea, forming the bay with the same name. Due to this geographical position, the resort has a warm calm sea with clear and gentle water.

The climate here is quite favorable for recreation from April to November: in the summer months - 31̊, in the spring and autumn - from 21̊ to 27̊. In winter, the temperature does not rise above 17̊. Sea water is at least 17̊ in the winter months, and from 21̊ to 26̊ in the high season. There is little rainfall, and the bright Cypriot sun shines 300 days a year.

Where to stay

Ayia Napa has many hotels and small hotels (about 130). All of them are located on lines along the beaches of the bay, and getting to the sea is not a problem.

The most respectable and luxurious are five-star, the best of them offer classic rooms, junior suites and suites, rooms for newlyweds. Children can live with adults, this is provided by the service. These are the Adams Beach Hotel, Grecian Bay, which are located very close to the beaches.

Four- and three-star hotels are the most popular. Mon Repos and Limanaki Beach Hotel are especially popular among Russian tourists. Of the three-star, Napa Mermaid Design Hotel and Nissi Park Hotel are popular. All hotels of these classes have tennis courts, spa, swimming pool, fitness center.

If you need a budget holiday option, you can choose hotels of a lower class, there are also a lot of them in the city.

Beaches

Sea caves cavo greco - Beach "Sea Caves", with a complex of bizarre caves, grottoes, arches and labyrinths of natural origin. There is amazingly clear sea water in all shades of blue. Once upon a time pirates hid their treasures here.

Beach Love bridge, or "Lovers' Bridge" - one of the most romantic places in all of Cyprus. There is an arched bridge that extends from a rocky plateau into the turquoise-emerald sea. If you go down from the "sea" edge of the bridge to its base, you can swim or go diving nearby.

Beautiful white and gold beach Agia thekla named so in honor of Saint Thekla - there is a blue and white church nearby. The lagoon here is very shallow and ideal for children.

Beautiful beach Makronissos with white sand located on the outskirts of Ayia Napa, on a promontory in the shape of a mermaid's tail. There is the clearest water, a diving center, and nearby is an ancient cave complex, which is more than two thousand years old.

While vacationing in Ayia Napa, you must visit the famous sandy beach Nissi Beach with a relaxed atmosphere and nearby Nissi Bay with Blue Flag awarded DJs and foam parties.

Things to do

The main feature of the resort is its youth orientation. This is a city that never sleeps. Many nightclubs, discos, restaurants, dance floors are ready to welcome everyone who loves noisy and cheerful companies, loves to dance and sing.

But not only beach holidays are offered by the city to its guests. Ayia Napa also has historical monuments that tell about the life of the island through the centuries. It is primarily a monastery founded by the Venetians. The monastery itself is no longer active, but there is a church where services are held. A 600-year-old mulberry tree grows in the courtyard of the Latin Chapel, which probably remembers the first monks who settled here.

Natural monuments of the resort (grottoes, Cape Greco, Lovers' Bridge) are some of the most beautiful in Cyprus.

An excursion to the Troodos mountains can also take place in the most picturesque places - mountain peaks, waterfalls, relict forests, old villages. Don't miss the opportunity to travel to northern Cyprus and see fortresses and castles from the Byzantine period, rebuilt in the Middle Ages.

Anyone who has visited Cyprus once will agree with me that this island is the perfect place for complete relaxation. The Mediterranean climate combined with the warm crystal blue sea and picturesque nature will not leave anyone indifferent.

An independent country whose population speaks two official languages: Greek and Turkish. Communication problems did not arise, since most of the population is fluent in English. In fact, the island is divided into two parts: the Republic and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

The main youth resort of Ayia Napa is located in the southern part, where the population is mostly Greek Cypriots. Ayia Napa lives with youth, eternal holidays and festivals. It is not for nothing that it is called the second Ibiza. Although the city has won the title of a hangout and youth place, everyone can find something to their liking here. For example, families with children can visit the water park or go on a donkey safari. Beach lovers will appreciate the clean sandy beaches, certified in accordance with water quality standards, cleanliness and safety measures with a special environmental symbol - the Blue Flag. I advise extremals to visit the amusement park. For the gastronomic tourist, here you can taste almost any cuisine of the world and taste fresh seafood. All in all, recommended for everyone!

How to get there

You can get to the island both by air and by sea; there are no railways. Cyprus is connected with several countries by ferry services, in particular with the Greek port of Piraeus and with the islands and Crete, as well as with the Egyptian Port Said, Haifa in Israel, Latakia in Syria and Ankokna in Italy.

The main sea gate of the Republic is the city's port, from where not only most ferries and merchant ships depart, but also cruise liners. Traveling to Cyprus by sea is expensive, so it is easier and cheaper to buy a plane ticket directly to the island.

By plane

Sadly, the most party and youth city of Ayia Napa lacks an airport. In general, the Republic of Cyprus has two operating airports in cities and. Several airlines operate regular flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg. Aeroflot aircraft fly from Sheremetyevo and Pulkovo once a week, or even more, depending on the season. Two more carriers to the paradise island are Cyprus Airways and S7. In the summer, planes fly daily and even several times. Travel time by plane from Moscow will be about four hours, half an hour longer. In the high summer season, prices can reach up to 20 thousand rubles in both directions, but if you buy in advance, you can save a lot. In winter, plane prices do not exceed 10 thousand. If you, like me, are an avid traveler, then you will not be afraid of the cold, because, believe me, there is something to see. Regardless of the season, you can compare ticket prices on the dates you want.

How to get from the airport to Ayia Napa

There are several possible options:

1. You can take a taxi that waits for tourists at the airport without interruption, day and night.
2. Book a transfer in advance, which will cost you less than a taxi, but you will have to make stops at every hotel in the city.
3. The most economical way is to use public transport and get with two transfers to the center of Ayia Napa.
4. If you are going to travel around the island,.

By taxi

The easiest and fastest way to get to Ayia Napa is by taking a taxi. As in all airports in the world, a taxi can be ordered right on the spot, but it is better to take a couple of minutes and book a car in advance via the Internet. I traveled from the city (46 kilometers to my destination, or about forty minutes), but you can also from Paphos - then you have to spend two hours of precious time, driving 135 kilometers. The prices vary accordingly. The cost of the trip in the first case will be on average 60 EUR, in the second - from 180. Taxis on the island, for the most part, are black or white Mercedes. Without fail, a special meter must be installed in the taxi, by which you then pay. Quite an expensive way, but there is a chance to find the same tourists and share the costs.

By bus

The most economical option. Regular buses run from Larnaca Airport. Just to get straight to the city of Ayia Napa, you have to change trains. Attention! I give specific instructions. You need to leave the terminal building across the bridge (2nd floor), and there you will see a bus stop in the form of benches. Then we take any blue bus with numbers: 407, 409, 418, 419, 431 and 440. The journey will take about 20 minutes. You need to get to the center of Larnaca and get off at the Finikoudes promenade. In 2014, I paid only 1.5 EUR for a ticket.

At the Finikoudes embankment, I got off and waited for another bus, which goes to Ayia Napa. You can find bus timetables on cyprusbybus.com. It also hangs at the bus stop. I was lucky, I made it on time, but you can wait an hour if you don't make it on time. The journey will take about an hour. The ticket price is 4 EUR. In total, the whole journey, taking into account the transfer, took me two hours. The bus will take you to the center of Ayia Napa.

By transfer

The most optimal way. Faster than regular buses and much cheaper than ordering a taxi. Group transfer takes tourists to hotels. Usually the driver knows where this or that hotel is, but if you are going to stay in a small hostel, you will have to explain here, which, of course, takes some time. The cost of the trip depends on what time you arrive: cheaper during the day. The transfer can be booked in advance online. Several options are: and Shuttledirect. When ordering, you must provide all the necessary information: date and time of arrival, flight number, phone number, number of people and luggage. The cost of a trip to Ayia Napa in the daytime will be from 15 EUR per car.

Hint:

Ayia Napa - the time is now

Difference in hours:

Moscow 1

Kazan 1

Samara 2

Ekaterinburg 3

Novosibirsk 5

Vladivostok 8

When is the season. When is the best time to go

The weather conditions of Ayia Napa allow you to lie on the beach and swim in the sea for many months. The sun shines here 300 days a year!

From the beginning of November to March, the air temperature drops to 10 ° C, which will allow only the bravest to swim. Less extreme I advise you to go this season to enjoy the excursion programs.

But when the water temperature warms up to 23 ° C, the real beach season begins. This happens already in mid-May and continues until early November.

Ayia Napa in summer

Summer in Ayia Napa starts in May when the beach season opens. The summer period is hot, dry and sunny. In July and August, the air temperature can reach 35 ° С, and the water warms up to 24 ° С on average. The weather in Ayia Napa is conducive to water sports, as you don't want to get out of the water at all. The beginning of June and the end of August are the best time to visit a youth resort, as the weather is pleasant, cool and there is no crowded crowd.

Ayia Napa in autumn

In the fall, young travelers and families with children from all over the world come to Ayia Napa for youth. During this period, heavy rains and gusts of wind are observed. The air temperature drops to 22 ° C, which allows tourists not to buy expensive sunscreens that we need so much in the summer. More and more clubs and restaurants are closing, but still there are many places to visit where you can while away the evening. There will be time to go to the spa center or water park, taste local food and drinks. Prices are lower than in summer, which is good news.

Ayia Napa in spring

The average temperature in spring in Ayia Napa is 21 ° C, in the evening it usually drops to 16 ° C. Therefore, I recommend taking something warm. During this period, tourists can admire the picturesque nature of the island: everything here blooms and smells, which means the arrival of spring, which is quite short, since it lasts only 2 months.

Ayia Napa in winter

Winter in Ayia Napa is pretty mild. The average air temperature is about 13 ° C. Precipitation occurs at this time more often than at any other time period. There are few tourists; deserted streets and a peaceful atmosphere. Most of the establishments are closed. This period is not suitable for fans of the beach season, but you will not have to hustle in lines for another delicious portion of seafood. Afterwards, you can go jogging or walking and sightseeing. You will also save a lot on accommodation and flights. Low period - low prices.

Ayia Napa - monthly weather

Hint:

Ayia Napa - monthly weather

Districts. Where is the best place to live

Ayia Napa can be divided into two zones: the center and the coastal part of the city. The choice of a hotel depends on your desires and needs for relaxation - you can choose the right option at, but prices are worth comparing. I will tell you about the prices for vacations below.

If you like to make noise, then settle in the center of Ayia Napa. Most of the hotels and hotels are concentrated here, which attracts young people from all over the world. For the picky tourist, a 2-3 star hotel is also suitable. A double room will cost from 50 EUR. In the center are the main attractions of the resort town.

The coastal area of \u200b\u200bAyia Napa is a quieter place. Ideal for families with children. Often, hotels in the coastal part are equipped with playgrounds and animators work on the territory. Another plus: many hotels and inns have their own beach. In the high season, hotel prices are higher here than in the city center. For a double room from 160 EUR in a five-star hotel, in a four-star and three-star hotel - from 100 EUR. The coastal area at the most popular Nissi beach is considered the most expensive.

Pay attention to the map showing the approximate boundaries of the city districts.

The bonus will be that local hotels and hotels meet all European standards and have a good range of services. But you should know: before choosing where to stay, you need to determine what you need more - to live by the sea or to have excellent service in the hotel. Usually, housing near the sea is more expensive only because of its location, while the quality of service does not correspond to the declared category.

What are the prices for rest

Prices for accommodation in Ayia Napa depend on the category of accommodation: hostels will cost about 50 EUR per day, three-star star hotels will cost 100 EUR, and 4-5 stars - about 130 EUR.

Eating in local cafes and restaurants is quite expensive. Dinner for two with drinks in the restaurant will cost about 60 EUR. Lunch at a cheap tavern for two - from 40 EUR. Dinner will cost more (about 55 EUR). In Ayia Napa, you will find more budgetary establishments, but the quality of the dishes, of course, will differ significantly. Your wallet won't be hit by lunch at McDonald's or Burger King. The cheapest hamburger there will cost about 4 EUR, Coca-Cola 1 EUR. There are also local taverns where you can buy a sandwich (6-9 EUR) and drink beer (3 EUR).

The price for a taxi depends on where and how far you go. Minimum EUR 10. Gasoline for a rented car will cost you 1 EUR per liter. Travel by public transport - 1.5 EUR.

A few tips on how not to go bankrupt when traveling to Ayia Napa:

1. If you like to relax on the beach like a king, with a sun lounger and an umbrella, keep in mind that in Ayia Napa absolutely all beaches will be paid. Therefore, in order not to pay a fee for a place in the sun, provide yourself with this place yourself by buying everything you need at the nearest tourist store, or taking an umbrella and a mattress from home. This will allow you to save from 5 EUR per day (per seat).
2. It is better to buy groceries in local stores, at hotels prices bite.
3. Not all hotel rooms have tea, coffee and sugar. Therefore, I advise you to take all instant products with you.
4. Hygiene products are not issued in hotels less than five stars, so it is better to buy everything at home, so as not to spend money in expensive tourist shops. And, of course, medicines - buy them all at home: medicines in local pharmacies will cost you three times more.
5. Ayia Napa locals sell excursions for less than hotel guides. You can also use public transport or a rented car on your own, or walk.
6. You can also save on housing. I advise you not to settle right near the sea. Yes, you have to walk to the beach on foot, but you will save more than one hundred dollars! Life by the sea, sadly, is not cheap pleasure.

Hint:

The cost of food, accommodation, transport and more

Currency: Euro, € US dollar, $ Russian ruble, rub

Major attractions. What to see

Ayia Napa not only perfectly combines a calm beach holiday and noisy parties in clubs, but also an educational leisure for the traveler.

There are some interesting observations that I have noticed:

• Always carry the exchange with you. Especially taxi drivers like to say that they have no change;
• For lovers of the Russian-speaking car radio: we connect to the wave of the Russian-speaking car radio 102.2 FM;
• Cyprus has the toughest anti-tobacco law in Europe. Smoking is allowed only in designated areas. A tourist can be deported from the country for such a violation!

Top 5

I would distribute the top attractions of Ayia Napa as follows:

Beaches. Which is better

Ayia Napa's beaches are renowned for their crystal clear waters and clean coastlines. Here are a few of them, starting with the most popular:

Nissi - the most famous sandy beach in Ayia Napa. All tourist entertainment is at your service here: water skiing, diving, fishing and much more. The beach is famous for its white sand and the purest water. The water here is so clear that you can easily observe its marine life. Despite frequent discos and festivals, the coast is still the cleanest here. Therefore, there are plenty of tourists here.

Makronisos - one of the best beaches, marked with the international blue flag certificate. There are fewer tourists here, but the quality of the water and the coast is not worse, which makes it more attractive. As a bonus, there is a free archaeological complex nearby, which includes preserved tombs.

Cryo Nero - a fairly wide coastline and still, crystal turquoise water and golden sand. There are all kinds of attractions; in the summer, there are cafes, restaurants and bars on the beach.

Pantahu- a picturesque place with colorful fishing boats. Almost the entire beach is made of sand, but you can often find rocky areas.

Vatia Gonia, or Sandy Bay... The beach is only 300 meters long. It is absolutely calm, and the water warms up faster here than on other beaches. You can swim here in any weather!

Katsarka- one of the less crowded places. Suitable more for walking. There is a great depth from the shore, therefore, I do not advise swimming with children. The beach is suitable for lovers of privacy and tranquility.

Poseidon beach- an ideal place for a wedding. The place is secluded, located near the most famous Nissi beach. The water is crystal clear, the coast is sandy and clean. Basically, like on all the beaches of Ayia Napa.

Churches and temples. Which are worth visiting

The only historical landmark located in the heart of the resort is the Ayia Napa monastery, or rather the whole complex of chapel, church and monastery. It was built in the 15th century. Legend has it that two centuries before the construction of the building itself, an ancient icon of the Virgin Mary was found here.

The church is active. The central historical heritage site of the spa town, which you will definitely not pass by. The best part is that the entrance there free... In the courtyard there is an ancient gazebo and a marble fountain, all decorated with a real greenhouse, where various exotic plants bloom. The monastery hosts festivals, celebrations and dance evenings.

Museums. Which are worth visiting

Thalassa Sea Museum. More like a local history museum. All expositions of the museum are devoted to water themes from ancient times to the present. The museum is interesting because there is an old sunken ship found in 1984. There are many different archaeological and paleontological finds, skeletons of sea animals, artifacts, seafarers' household items and much more. The museum is still being improved. Located on three floors of the building. At the exit, tourists can buy souvenirs and even mini copies of the sights and exhibits of the museum.

The museum collection contains hundreds of exhibits from the Mediterranean. A ticket for adults costs 4 EUR, for students and schoolchildren - 2.5 EUR, for children - 1.5 EUR. The museum is closed on Sundays from early October to late May.

Parks

• Forest National Park Cape Greco". The place is romantic, so couples in love love to visit it. There is everything here: rocks, a clean beach, and a crystal clear sea. The photos are amazing.
• Luna Park is a place where dozens of various attractions are concentrated, from the Ferris wheel to the extreme "slingshot". All who have taken off are photographed and the photos are hung on the stand next to the entrance to the attraction. So to speak, so that it is immediately clear what awaits you there. Luna Park is open all day every season. Tickets are purchased separately for each attraction, the minimum price is from 4 EUR.
• Aquapark " Water world»Decorated in the style of myths and legends of Ancient Greece. There are statues of ancient Greek gods everywhere and even a Trojan horse. The name of the roller coaster speaks for itself: "The feat of Hercules", "Whirlpool of Alos", "Falling Icarus" and so on. There are many families with children, but adults will also find it interesting there. On the most popular slides, respectively, there is a queue. But definitely worth a visit. Incidentally, the world's only themed water park. It works from April to November. The ticket price for one adult is 35 EUR, for children under 12 years old you will have to pay 20 EUR, up to 2 years old free.
• CyHerbia Herbal Park - a real labyrinth of a complex of different plants. Spice garden, relaxation, lavender maze and so on. Oh, what a smell there is! Guests can purchase products from the park's plants at the nearby shop CyHerbia Herbal Park. Entrance fee: 5 EUR per adult, children from 5 to 12 years old - 3 EUR, up to 5 years old - free. Bonus: a glass of delicious tea. Alternatively, a separate ticket to the lavender labyrinth can be purchased for EUR 2, which includes a decanter of iced lavender lemonade.

Tourist streets

What to see in 1 day

Although the city is small, one cannot see everything in one day. Here is a rough route plan for 1 day:

• 9:00 - we go to one of the best beaches in all of Cyprus, Nissi Beach. From Ayia Napa city center you can get there by bus in 10 minutes and get off at the Nissi Avenue stop. The beach is located within the city and many hotels can even be reached on foot. Don't forget to use sunscreen.
• 12:00 - we get the same way back to the city. In the very heart of Ayia Napa we go to the monastery. It will be enough for 1 hour.
• 15:00 - After lunch you can go to the Mediterranean Sea Life Museum, which is also located in the center.
• 16:00 - Cape Greco. The very cape can be reached from the center of Ayia Napa by bus and the cost of the trip will be only 1 EUR (it will take about 20 minutes). Even at the peak of the season, the heat will already subside at this time, so it will be possible to walk around the park, take great photos and have a small picnic.
• 18:00 - walk to the Cyclops cave. Located between Cape Greco and the city. There are signs throughout the Cape National Park. We move in the direction "To the Cyclops cave". Enough for 30-40 minutes.
• 19:00 - walk to the sea caves. Also follow the signs.
• 20:00 - we return back to the city. Luna Park. You will definitely not pass by him. The glowing structures can be seen from afar; there is a park right in the center of the city. 2 hours will be enough for you.
• 22:00 - Club Street. You can just walk and look at the drunken youth, or you can take part in the fun of the city yourself and go to any bar or club you come across.

What to see in the vicinity

Within a radius of 100 kilometers, you can visit other cities and run into a couple of interesting places:

1. Oceanarium in Protaras. It is the largest oceanarium in Cyprus, with about a thousand marine inhabitants.
2. Dancing fountains are one of the must-see places on the island. This is a whole show in the very center of Protaras, which lasts 1 hour.
3. Cathedral of St. Nicholas in the oldest city.
4. The Citadel of Castello and the Tower of Othello, located in Famagusta. The tower overlooks the entire city.
5. Tekke Hala Sultan Mosque in Larnaca. One of the main shrines of Muslims.
6. The Cypriot village of Lefkara, located near the city in the mountains. One of the most picturesque villages in Cyprus.
7. Monastery Stavrovouni. 37 kilometers from Larnaca, located high on a mountain. It is considered the oldest shrine on the island.
8. Craftsmen Quarter in Nicosia. Here you will be offered real unique handicrafts made of clay, metal and wood.
9. An old oriental bazaar in the city where you can buy spices, various handmade textiles and much more.
10. The history of all of Cyprus can be found in the Museum of Decorative and Applied Arts and Folk Crafts, also located in Nicosia.

Food. What to try

Ayia Napa is not considered a paradise for gastronomic tourists, but you will definitely be able to taste delicious national cuisine and the freshest seafood. I advise you to try one of the most popular traditional dishes - meze. This is a snack usually consisting of 20-30 meat or fish dishes. There are also cheese cuts and various salads. The dish called Dolmades has an exquisite taste. It is rice mixed with meat and wrapped in grape leaves.

During the low season on the island, most grocery stores and restaurants close, as it is unprofitable to maintain establishments. In addition, buying food in stores and supermarkets can save you a lot. There is a network of small shops, you can even name kiosks, where they sell all the essentials of food.

If you intend to save money on restaurants and cafes and cook on your own, then I advise you to shop in larger supermarkets, where the choice is greater and the prices are more pleasant:

1. BEST BUY. There are two such supermarkets in Ayia Napa - on Archiepieskopou Makariou III street (not far from Nestor hotel) and on Nissi ave avenue (next to Tassia Maris hotel).
2. PLUS on Nissi ave 27 and Kryou Nerou 20 (near the New Famagusta hotel).

Fresh meat can be bought at a local shop on Tefkru Antiya Street, where they always sell fresh beef, lamb, pork, poultry and semi-finished meat products. There is a shop nearby where you can buy various national Bulgarian and Russian products. For groceries, pastries, cakes and pizza, ice creams and hot sandwiches, head to Ayia Napa's finest groceries: Zorpas, Euro Bakers, Bakery Co.

Budget

1. Gary "s Bar & Grill;
2. The Three Lions;
3. Hungry Horse;
4. Georgie "s Handy Food;
5. Sesoula Kalamaki;
6. Zorbas Bakery.

Middle level

1. Los Bandidos;
2. Flames Restaurant and Bar;
3. Raphaels Restaurant;
4. Isaac Tavern;
5. Blueberries Restaurant and Bar;
6. Taverna Napa.

Expensive

1. Glasshouse Lounge Restaurant;
2. Sage Restaurant & Wine Bar;
3. En-yevo tavernaki;
4. Quadro;
5. Atlas.

Holidays

Ayia Napa lives with youth, eternal holidays and festivals. It is not for nothing that this is the "second Ibiza", the city is one of the most popular party resorts.

Security. What to watch out for

When I went to swim and left my things on the shore, I was not afraid that they would be stolen. Ayia Napa is a safe place. I walked around the city and did not think that I would be robbed in broad daylight. Although all the same precautions will not hurt, people come to the island different.

• I advise girls to dress more modestly, so as not to attract undue attention from the outside. Local men try to show attention and may behave inappropriately if they refuse.
• Although crime in the city is minimal, there are pickpockets in any resort city where there are a lot of vacationers.
• Before using a taxi, ask how the calculation is made. Tourists often don't expect such a big price tag at the end of the trip.
• But most of all in Ayia Napa one should beware not of the locals, but of the scorching sun. Be sure to use sunscreen.

Things to do

Entertainment in the resort city is thought out in such a way that it will suit any category of people. There are both active entertainment and quieter ones. I advise:

• Hike to Cape Greco and have a sunset picnic.
• Fly with a parachute behind the boat.
• Attend a foam party.
• Jump from a 50-meter bungee on the most famous and cleanest beach in Nissi.
• Take a ride on the fastest speed boat in the Mediterranean, the Scrimmer.
• Dive into the Ayia Napa sea cave with scuba diving.
• Watch the Black Pearl show and admire the Blue Lagoon.
• Try yourself in one of the water sports.
• Rent an ATV for a day and ride it around the city's outskirts.
• Take a trip on a jet ski.

Shopping and shops

Ayia Napa is a small town, so shopaholics have nowhere to roam around here. In the resort you can find a shop of Greek fur coats, leather shoes and beach accessories. Most shops in Ayia Napa are concentrated around Nissi Ave, while the waterfront is full of souvenir shops and beachwear stalls. In the Planet Store you can buy almost everything from hairbrushes to mobile phones at the lowest prices in Ayia Napa. For branded items go to Brandshop, where you can find US Polo, CDavid and many other brands, and for jewelry - at Brilliance Jewelery. The local craftsmen at Maggie Souvenir Shop offer the finest selection of handicrafts, clay and handicrafts.

Tax refund

On the whole island of Cyprus goods are not subject to VAT (local VAT). Some stores have a refund system - then you will be issued a VAT refund check either at the office or at the airport. If it says "no refund, then there will be no refund. Therefore, at the checkout always say:" Refund, please ", and they will explain to you about the refund, make an appropriate long-long return check, put it in an envelope and write the address where you need to go for a return.

Bars. Where to go

In Ayia Napa, you can find a lot of barkers who hand out flyers on the streets with drinks as a gift, free admission or a discount on the next shot. In these cases, as a rule, you will be given diluted alcohol. For 3-5 EUR you can buy a quality alcoholic cocktail.

• I advise you to visit Tommy "s Pubwhere incendiary performances are held, there is always a crowd of people. Also recommend Seahorse bar - karaoke and positive audience.
• There is a nice bar Jasminwith dancing on the bar, fire shows and leading animators.
• Purely Russian bar Red square, decorated in the style of the USSR with music from the 90s.

Ayia Napa bars start working from 10 pm and mainly until 3-4 am. Many continue the fun and go to the nearest club. More bars:

• Senior Frog's;
• The Square Bar;
• Heaven Rock Garden.

Clubs and nightlife

Despite the fact that Ayia Napa is considered to be a hangout place, the musical choice of clubs is not great: almost the same music is played in each club. Although I managed to find the only place where you can dance salsa - the club with the self-explanatory name Salsa Cubana - but the instructor was away, so no one organized the performances with the girls' training and did not put on the music.

The biggest and noisiest club is The Castle. The club has an R "n" B dance floor on the first floor, Techno / House / Trance on the second. SOHO Club is considered to be the most elite club. Russian girls are admitted there free of charge, the rest will have to pay about 35 EUR for admission. The club is filled with party-goers only after midnight, when most of the establishments are closed, and "thunders" until dawn.

Once a week on Saturdays, there is a foam party near Starsky's club - there is a barker on the beach offering tickets for EUR 20. This price includes free admission, free non-alcoholic cocktail and free alcoholic cocktail. All free cocktails, as in the city bars , strongly diluted with water, but the entrance is still more expensive (about 30 EUR). Therefore, you can buy a ticket from him, and good drinks - in the same bar. There is no dress code and face control, like that. Everyone knows that in Aya - It's a beach holiday, so everyone dresses appropriately for the clubs.

Extreme sports

In Ayia Napa, you will find a huge amount of water activities.

• One of the most popular activities is diving. The crystal clear sea allows you to see all the inhabitants of the marine world. History buffs can admire the sunken British warship off the coast of Ayia Napa.
• The calm Cypriot sea allows even beginners to try water skiing.
• Wakeboarding is also popular here. We can say that these are the same skis, only with all kinds of tricks on the water. Since smooth water is best suited for this sport, the best time to exercise is in the early morning. The cost depends on the number and time of towing and ranges from 35 to 130 EUR. To learn wakeboarding, you have to spend at least 200 EUR.
• Ideally Ayia Napa is suitable for windsurfing enthusiasts. This is riding on an oblong-oval board with a sail. Learning to windsurf is an expensive pleasure. Those wishing to master this sport will have to take an introductory course, which costs from 200 EUR, excluding equipment rental fees. The rental will cost at least 70 EUR per day (300 EUR per week).
• Kitesurfing. Beginners will definitely need a helmet and a life jacket. Equipment rental costs from 30-50 EUR per day. The training is carried out in several stages. The price for beginners per day varies from 100 EUR.

Extreme water sports are relevant from May to October-November. The main thing is to always remember about your safety and get the most out of it.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

A traditional gift from Ayia Napa is olive oil and, accordingly, olives. It should be remembered that it is prohibited to export more than two bottles from the country. When I bought, no one told me about it. Even the guide said this only after all the tourists brought five bottles of olive to the bus.

There are many shops with hand-made products in the city. Local craftsmen can offer you various silver jewelry, clay and ceramics, lace and national embroidery. Everything is quite expensive, but well done.

In the city, you can buy all kinds of Cypriot alcoholic drinks in almost any grocery store. I brought home several bottles of the famous traditional sweet wine, Commandaria. I bought it when I went to a tasting in one of the Cypriot villages, where they offered an excursion. Alcohol is sold there more expensive than in city shops, but you can try all types of products and buy what you like.

How to get around the city

City buses run regularly on the island. Unfortunately, although the bus network is well developed, in the high season they run every hour, or even two. At low two times a day, or even do not go at all. The ticket can be purchased from the driver on site. As a good alternative to buses, the island has a taxi system that runs all over the island and picks up passengers who have booked in advance for a particular flight. More expensive than a public bus, but cheaper than taking a taxi. The service is called Travel express. Local and intercity timetables can be found on the respective websites before travel, upon arrival at the hotel or at local bus stations.

There is also a pass that is valid on all intercity and city routes. The price of such a ticket for a week will be about 45 EUR.

The practice of renting bicycles is widespread among tourists. In this way, it is quite convenient to move around the island and there are many rental points. Also in Ayia Napa there is an automatic rental system, where you can take a bike in one parking lot and put it in another. For the first hour you will pay about 2 EUR, for the next 1 EUR. Can be borrowed for a week for 50 EUR. A fairly convenient and profitable way to travel around the island.

Taxi. What features exist

Almost a hundred private companies operate on the island. All of them offer tourist services 24/7. There are several types of taxis:

• intercity - something like a transfer that carries several passengers at a time;
• city \u200b\u200bservice - you can either meet it on the street or order it on the Internet;
• rural - carries passengers only within the main parking areas.

A distinctive feature is that each taxi has a meter and the tariff is read for 1 km. The cost is about 1 EUR plus a day or night rate (from 20:30 to 06:00). The cost is about 5 EUR. Daytime is cheaper - 4 EUR. Keep in mind, if in Cyprus you ordered a taxi at a certain time and got in later, you will have to pay a fine of 14 EUR per hour during the day and 16 EUR per hour at night. Payment is made only in cash.

A standard taxi ride from Larnaca airport to Ayia Napa center will cost 60 EUR and take about 40 minutes. From Paphos the price is from 180 EUR and two hours. This site contains all the taxi offices in Cyprus.

Buses

There is an extensive bus network throughout the island of Cyprus, consisting of four types of buses:

• daily intercity buses that connect all cities and have dozens of flights throughout the day;
• rural buses, which provide transport links for almost all rural settlements with the nearest cities;
• intracity buses;
• airport shuttle buses.

However, you should always plan a trip to other cities in advance and remember the schedule, as on weekdays bus drivers usually finish work at 17:00, on Saturdays at about 15:00, and on Sunday they do not work at all. This type of transport is not popular on the island, and therefore buses run quite rarely. You can even wait an hour at the bus stop. The advantage is the low cost of travel. For example, from Ayia Napa to Nicosia you will pay about 5 EUR for a ticket. To the water park from the center of the resort town - only 1.5 EUR. Accordingly, the shorter the distance to your destination, the less you pay.

Cyprus by bus is a very convenient site for finding the route you need. There is an interactive map, the schedule of all buses and transfers.

Transport rent

In Cyprus, you do not need to have an international driving license to rent a car. Normal enough. But it must be borne in mind that there are age restrictions (from 25 to 70 years) and driving experience (from 3 years) is taken into account. The downside is that the traffic here is left-hand, which makes it difficult to navigate, and it is also forbidden to use rented vehicles to move between the Greek and Turkish parts of Cyprus. Also, do not forget about a deposit of about 250 EUR.

You can book a car on the car rental website or, and a company representative will meet you at the airport, where you will receive the keys after completing the contract. The approximate cost of renting a car with insurance will cost 40 EUR per day. If you still decide to rent a car, then do it in the city, it will cost a little less than in Ayia Napa.

Since the traffic on the island is left-hand, it is difficult to find your way straight away. But, perhaps, the only problem is to confuse the side of the road. Remember also the dimensions of the machine. At home, we are used to the fact that the main part of the car is located on the right, here the opposite is true.

The local police are quite tourist friendly, but should not be abused or violated traffic rules. Remember to wear a seatbelt, you cannot talk on the phone while driving without a special headset. Don't forget to pay for parking. Observe the speed limit. There are three main speed limits in Cyprus:

• 100 km / h on the motorway;
• 65 km / h outside the city;
• 50 km / h - in cities and towns.

Ayia Napa - holidays with children

Although Ayia Napa is considered a youth resort, there is also a lot of interesting things for families with children. Firstly, the cleanest beaches of Ayia Napa are ideal for families. Most of the beaches do not have sharp depressions, so they are perfect for a safe and comfortable stay.

Book a hotel if you are eating with small children, you definitely need to not in the center of the resort city. It is very noisy there after six in the evening. Many hotels have a separate meal for the child, which you can order initially, at the stage of booking. But, it seems to me that nearby cities, such as, and, are more suitable for families with children. There is a quieter vacation and, mainly, families with children go there, and in Ayia Napa they come to admire the beaches.

The resort town of Ayia Napa in the eastern part of Cyprus is located 8 kilometers from Protaras: you can get to it from Paralimni and back by regular bus. For the first time, a settlement on the site of the future city arose during Byzantium. During the reign of the Venetians, a monastery was founded here, which was named "Ayia Napa" (literally - "holy tree alley").

In the second half of the 20th century, the village of Ayia Napa began to turn into a major tourist center of the island.

Today the city remains an extremely attractive destination for tourists visiting Cyprus. In the coastal part of the city there are equipped sandy beaches, and in the center are concentrated restaurants, souvenir shops and clubs (it is for the nightlife that young people from Europe, Great Britain and the USA come to Ayia Napa). You can relax with children in a huge amusement park and on a pirate ship with the fabulous name "Black Pearl", and a walk to Cape Greco, one of the most beautiful places on the island, is a must for all guests of the city, young and old.

You can find out more about where to go and what to see in Ayia Napa in our review.

Cultural holidays in Ayia Napa

Ayia Napa has an unusual museum dedicated to the sea, which is called and located at Krio Nero Avenue 14. In the museum you can see an exact copy of the ancient ship "Kyrenia", created in 1985 by the scientific center of the Hellenic Institute, and a copy of the ship from the Mesolithic papyrus ... In addition, the permanent exhibition of the museum presents marine fossils (fish, shells, corals, etc.), which are from 60 to 135 million years old, various marine organisms found in remote parts of the island, stuffed fish and mammals and a collection of marine and lake birds living in natural environment.

In addition, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural and educational events for the whole family. The entrance is paid (discounts are provided for children, students and excursion groups). Opening hours of the museum during the summer season (from June 1 to September 30): Monday - from 9:00 to 13:00, Tuesday-Saturday - from 9:00 to 17:00, Sunday - from 15:00 to 19:00. The museum is closed on Sundays during the winter season.

Located in the heart of the city. It is believed that the main shrine of the monastery, the Panagia Napa icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, was found in a forest cave by a local hunter. Most likely, the icon was hidden in a cave during the period of iconoclasm and safely lay in it for several centuries. Subsequently, a temple was built over the cave, around which a monastery eventually grew.

Currently, the monastery functions as a historical museum, and church services are held in a new church built nearby.

Visiting the museum is free, inside you can see old icons, and sometimes festivals and exhibitions are held in the courtyard.

In addition to the monastery, Ayia Napa and the surrounding area have several small chapels, each of which is named after one of the saints (traditionally, on the day of the saint in whose honor the chapel is named, a religious fair "Panagiri" is held in it).

Chapel of St. Anthony, which is located between the villages of Paralimni and Sotira, once served as a refuge and resting place for local shepherds. St. Anthony's Day is celebrated on January 17th.

Can be found a few kilometers from Ayia Napa, on the border with the village of Sotira, and the temple Saint Anagiriya, under which there is a cave with a source of holy water, is located in the eastern part of the city.

Of chapel "Agios Epiphanios" a panorama of the ruins of the Byzantine settlement "Paliohori" opens, chapel of St. Barbara in the western part of Ayia Napa was built during the Byzantine rule, and pillar "Agia Mavri"is believed to cure disease.

On the monastery square of Ayia Napa is located, in the rooms of which you can see furniture, tools, household items and other attributes of the Cypriot rural life: a loom, carved furniture, lace bedspread, traditional ceramic dishes, a fireplace and much more. And in the courtyard of the house there is a real peasant plow. There is a souvenir shop on the territory of the museum.

Another attraction of Ayia Napa is that it was used to supply the monastery and the entire region with water for several centuries. Archaeological finds in the area of \u200b\u200bthe aqueduct have confirmed the hypothesis of the existence of an earlier aqueduct at this site, dating back to the Roman period (which was partially recreated).

Also sometimes called Kapo (or Kavo) Greco, it is the easternmost point of the island and is part of the Republic of Cyprus. 8 kilometers from Ayia Napa, right on the cape, there is a huge natural park, on the territory of which you can see rare plant species (including several varieties of orchids, irises, crocuses, crocuses, etc.). The park also has bicycle routes and walking trails, special picnic areas, viewing platforms with picturesque sea views, and all conditions are created for those wishing to go diving, parasailing, fishing or rowing.

In addition, visitors to the park can look at the ruins of the Temple of Aphrodite and the Cyclops Caves, as well as visit the Temple of St. Anargyri.

There is a legend saying that a sea monster lives near the cape, mentions of which are found in Greek mythology (Skilla). However, local fishermen and tourists, who, according to them, saw the monster with their own eyes, believe that it is set up quite friendly and, unlike Skilla, does not do more harm than damaged fishing nets.

Not far from Ayia Napa, in the village of Makronissos, at the end of the 20th century, it was discovered antique burialconsisting of 19 tombs and a small chapel. Researchers believe that such tombs were used during the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Sky located on the outskirts of Ayia Napa, next to the Marina Hotel. The park contains sculptures of stone and metal created by contemporary artists from all over the world. The entrance to the park is free, the opening hours are around the clock, seven days a week.

Things to do in Ayia Napa

Located at Nissi Avenue, 5340. The park has many attractions: carousels, go-karts, roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, as well as a "Haunted Train", a huge swing in the form of a pirate ship, a 5D cinema and several extreme attractions for teenagers and adults ...

In addition, the park offers shooting ranges, table football and basketball, a toy shark, and many other games. For those wishing to have a bite, there is a restaurant and cafe in the park, as well as several ice cream stalls.

Another place worth visiting for vacationers in Ayia Napa with family or friends is the water park. The style of the water park is designed in the spirit of ancient Greek myths, so here you can slide down the Zeus slide, take part in the Trojan Adventure, relax in the Poseidon wave pool, raft down the Odysseus River and relax in the Aphrodite Pool. You can have a bite to eat in a restaurant, pizzeria, a spacious burger or pancake shop, as well as in an English-style café that offers fish and chips. The address of the water park is Agia Thekla Road 18.

Ayia Napa has more than ten equipped beaches, most of which have been awarded the Blue Flag, an international award given to the cleanest beaches with proven water quality and a high degree of safety.

Not far from the water park there is a spacious beach with light sand, which is especially suitable for children due to the possibility of long walks in shallow water. There are lifeguards on the beach, sun loungers and umbrellas, as well as changing cabins, showers and toilets. Equipment for water sports can be rented.

Another beach - - is located near the famous natural park at Cape Greco. White sand and clear water make this beach especially attractive for a relaxing holiday; yachts are often anchored here.

The beach consists of two interconnected beaches: a large one (which usually has a lot of people) and a small one (more isolated). Both beaches have all the services necessary for recreation.

This is a replica of a ship from the movie Pirates of the Caribbean that cruises daily from Ayia Napa Harbor. In a few hours, the participants of the cruise have time to visit the sea caves in the Blue Lagoon Bay, in the clear water of which you can see many fish and corals, taste luxurious pirate dishes, see a theatrical show prepared by animators and, of course, swim.

You can take part in Ayia Napa at Ayia Napa Square Seferi 13. Participants are offered a choice of two scenarios: "Shelter" and "Casino". In order to get out of the locked room in a limited time (this is the goal of the quest), you need to solve several problems of logic and attentiveness, as well as demonstrate the ability to work in a team.

Diving enthusiasts can explore the marine life around Sandy Day Beach under the guidance of the dive center's instructors. For children 8-9 years old, there is a special program for the first dive, and those who want to get acquainted with diving in more detail can sign up for a two-day or three-day intensive.

Go flyboard not far from Ayia Napa, you can visit Nausicaa Bay, where the flyboarding platform is located. The test "flight" includes safety briefing, provision of all necessary equipment and clothing, and 20 minutes on the water. In addition, it is possible to take one-hour lessons from an instructor.

Karting is located near WaterWorld in Ayia Napa. It is the only go-kart in town with one small but winding track. For those wishing to have a snack, there is a cafe on the territory of the karting.

Thrill seekers can explore, which is located on Aleferia street (house 9). Visitors to this house of horrors will have to walk through a maze in complete darkness, faced with something that, according to the organizers, will make them scream and almost cry with fear. It is not recommended to visit the attraction with children.

It is a bungee jumping area, a bar and a pool. Before jumping, you must undergo a mandatory safety briefing. For an additional fee, you can get a T-shirt with a corporate logo, as well as photos of the jump itself. Site address: Evagora Pallikaridi 3.

Cuisine in Ayia Napa

There are several dining options at the Adams Hotel, just off Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa. The restaurant is located on the top floor of the hotel with large windows overlooking the sea and harbor, and the interior is designed in an elegant luxury style. The menu here changes according to the season, as only fresh, seasonal ingredients are used to prepare the dishes.

In addition, the hotel can visit, victory Pubwhere all the main events from the world of sports are broadcasted on large screens, a restaurant Atlantis, tavern Dionysos and a few more cafes.

The restaurant is located at Kriou Nerou, 8. It serves seasonal snacks, Italian pastas and risottos, vegetarian dishes, seafood dishes and much more. There is a separate menu for children and a wine list with a large selection of drinks. In addition, live music can be heard in the restaurant on select evenings.

The Mediterranean restaurant is located on Democratias street, building 15. Meat and fish dishes are cooked here on the grill. Also in the restaurant you can taste traditional meze sets, the famous Commandaria wine, Greek coffee and much more.

The restaurant (Odos Kryou Nerou, 7) serves Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Pizza is cooked in a real wood-fired oven, and for seafood lovers there are many items on the menu: appetizers, salads, and main courses (pasta and risotto). As a compliment to the restaurant guests, along with the bill, they bring out limoncello or schnapps.

A restaurant founded by two Englishmen in 1985. Here you can try appetizers of halloumi cheese with arugula, shrimp cocktail, traditional starters and sauces (meze, tsatszyki, tirokafteri, etc.), fish and seafood dishes, steaks and other grilled dishes, chicken dishes and, of course, main dishes of the Cypriot cuisine: moussaka, stifado, sheftalyu, chicken barbecue.

At the Mexican restaurant located in the center of Ayia Napa on Ayia Napa Square, you can taste Mexican meze, fajitas, quesadilla, guacamole, burrito, nachos, flowers and other dishes and snacks. In addition, the restaurant is famous for the Margarita cocktail, which is served here in decanters.

An English-style pub where you can not only drink wine, beer or cocktails, but also eat: hearty breakfasts are even served here. Cuisine - British and Mediterranean. In the evenings, the pub offers music and even karaoke in English. Pub address: 21 Archiepiskopou Makariou III.

The restaurant is located in the western part of Ayia Napa, 500 meters from the water park, on Nissi Avenue 144. For children, next to the restaurant there is a large playground with slides, swings and a trampoline. In the spacious hall you can hold a wedding, corporate party or other celebration. The restaurant serves Greek, Mediterranean and international cuisine.

The restaurant is located on the coast (Nissi Beach Avenue), next to the Adams Beach hotel. The windows offer sea views. The menu features Cypriot cuisine (including a wide variety of fresh fish dishes), chicken dishes, steaks, pastas, sandwiches, vegetarian options and more. Also on the basis of the restaurant there is a cafeteria with desserts and coffee, a bar and a belvedere. A playground is provided for children.

Middle Eastern and Lebanese cuisine can be enjoyed at the restaurant on Nissi Avenue. Meze sets served in this restaurant necessarily include hummus and falafel, and those who wish to relax after a meal can order a hookah. In the evenings, belly dancing is performed here.