Holiday in Ayia Napa: top attractions, beaches and activities for a dream getaway in Cyprus

Top beaches in Ayia Napa

Ayia Napa is famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, many of which have been awarded the Blue Flag, an award that guarantees the quality of the water and the facilities offered. Here are some of the most appreciated:

• Nissi Beach: One of the most popular beaches in Cyprus, Nissi Beach stands out for its fine sand and turquoise waters. It is ideal for trips with children, as a family, but also for young people, offering excellent facilities and a vibrant atmosphere.       
• Makronissos Beach: Located west of the city center, this beach is known for its golden sand and calm waters, being suitable for relaxation and water sports.
• Konnos Bay: Hidden between rocks and pine forests, Konnos Bay offers a picturesque and peaceful setting, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.  
• Landa Beach: Less crowded, this beach is ideal for those looking for peace and relaxation, with good facilities and clear waters.

Must-see attractions and activities

In addition to its stunning beaches, Ayia Napa offers a wide range of attractions and activities for all ages:

• Cape Greco: This national park offers hiking trails with spectacular sea views and impressive rock formations, making it an ideal place for nature lovers.
• MUSAN – Underwater Sculpture Museum: A unique museum in the world, located underwater, where you can admire impressive sculptures during a diving or snorkeling session.
• Ayia Napa Monastery: A historical monument from the 16th century, located in the city center, which offers an insight into the religious and cultural past of the region.
• Ayia Napa Sculpture Park: An open-air park with over 200 sculptures created by artists from around the world, offering a combination of art and nature.
• Love Bridge: A natural arch-shaped rock formation, considered a romantic place, where legend says that wishes come true if you kiss your loved one.

Activities for all tastes

Whatever your preferences, Ayia Napa has something to offer:

• Water sports: From jet skiing and parasailing to diving and snorkeling, the options are numerous for those looking for an adventure on the water.
• Cruises and boat trips: Explore the spectacular coastline of Cyprus, with stops for swimming and snorkeling in hidden lagoons and sea caves.
• Water and amusement parks: WaterWorld Themed Waterpark is one of the largest water parks in Europe, offering fun for the whole family.
• Nightlife: Ayia Napa is famous for its clubs and bars, which offer live music, international DJs and parties until dawn.

Day Trips from Ayia Napa: More Than Just the Beach

If you’re staying in Ayia Napa for a few days, you’ll have the opportunity to explore other fascinating corners of Cyprus. Here are some suggestions for day trips:

Protaras and Fig Tree Bay Beach

Just 15-20 minutes from Ayia Napa, Protaras welcomes you with one of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus. Fig Tree Bay is renowned for its fine sand, turquoise water and relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for families and couples.

Lefkara Village

For a foray into authentic Cyprus, hop in the car and head to Lefkara, a mountain village renowned for its handmade lace and traditional silverware. It is said that Leonardo da Vinci himself passed through this village and bought a lace for the altar of the Milan Cathedral!

Larnaca – history and urban atmosphere

About a 40-minute drive away, Larnaca offers a different perspective on Cyprus: quieter, with a cosmopolitan vibe and a beautiful seaside promenade. You can visit the Church of Saint Lazarus, the salt lake (where flamingos roost in winter) and the ruins of the ancient city of Kition.

Legends and Mysteries of Ayia Napa: Stories to Add Charm to Your Vacation

As modern and vibrant as Ayia Napa is today, the history of the place is filled with centuries-old stories and legends, which add a touch of mystery and romance.

The Legend of the Ayia Napa Monastery

It is said that hundreds of years ago, a dense forest covered the area where the resort is located today. A hunter entered that forest and discovered a miracle-working sacred image of the Virgin Mary in a cave. In honor of this discovery, the monastery was later built, which bears the name "Ayia Napa", meaning "Holy Forest". The sacred image can still be admired today, and the monastery is a symbol of the city.

The Talking Stones of Cape Greco

Cape Greco, that dramatic place where rocks meet the sea in a unique visual spectacle, is shrouded in mystery. Older locals will tell you that on quiet nights you can hear the “voice of the stones”, whispers carried by the wind, which seem to tell tales of sailors lost in the depths. Of course, it’s just a legend, but the atmosphere there sets your imagination ablaze.

A Taste of Cyprus: Ayia Napa’s Culinary Delights

After a day of beachcombing or exploring, you can’t help but stop at a traditional taverna for a true Cypriot feast. The local cuisine is a delicious blend of Greek, Turkish and oriental influences. Here are some dishes you should definitely try:

• Meze – an appetizer consisting of dozens of small snacks: from halloumi cheese to lamb meatballs, seafood, fresh salads and grilled vegetables.
• Souvlaki – skewers of pork or chicken, served with warm pita bread, tzatziki and fries.
• Kleftiko – lamb slow-cooked in the oven until it becomes buttery tender.
• Loukoumades – small doughnuts, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, drizzled with honey and cinnamon.

And, of course, they all go perfectly with a glass of Commandaria wine, one of the oldest wines in the world, produced right in Cyprus.

How to get to Ayia Napa?

To get to Ayia Napa, all you need to do is book your flight tickets to Larnaca, one of the destinations we operate within the AnimaWings flights. You will reach Larnaca airport via a direct flight that takes no more than 2 and a half hours (if you depart from Bucharest), and from there you have to drive approximately 45 minutes to Ayia Napa.

We are a scheduled airline and offer quality services at fair prices, but also a lot of specific amenities, including free cabin baggage, online check-in and flexible options for checked baggage. Modern Airbus A220 and A320 aircraft ensure a comfortable flight, and the friendly crew is ready to give you a pleasant experience. In addition, cabin baggage (8kg) is included in the price, and seat selection is free!

Ayia Napa is not just a seaside resort, but a complete destination: with inspiring legends, spectacular landscapes, diverse activities and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you want an active, romantic or family holiday, you will find everything you need here.

📅 Book your flight to Larnaca with AnimaWings and let yourself be captivated by the magic of Cyprus!