Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa ranks among the most popular travel destinations in Europe. Visitors flock here to enjoy its crystal-clear waters, golden sandy beaches, and vibrant culture.
Start your adventure at Nissi Beach, Makronisos Beach, or the scenic part of Konnos Beach. These are just a few of Ayia Napa’s breathtaking coastal spots. For nature lovers, Cape Greco offers a network of captivating trails. Hike through its varied landscapes and pause at the sea cliffs to take in stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Cape Greco, a large portion of which lies within Ayia Napa, stands out as one of the true gems of the Famagusta Region. Its natural beauty and year-round appeal make it perfect for visitors of all ages and interests.
Beyond the beaches, Ayia Napa reveals a deep and fascinating history. Explore the medieval castle in the town square or wander through the Open-Air Sculpture Park for a cultural experience. Each corner of the town hides a story, just waiting to be discovered.
For cycling enthusiasts, Ayia Napa delivers even more. Specially designed cycling paths stretch across the area. Thanks to the mild climate and low rainfall, the weather stays ideal for cycling throughout the year.
Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Ayia Napa has something to inspire and excite you every season.
Nissi Beach
Nissi Beach ranks among the best beaches in the world. Its golden sand and shallow, crystal-clear water make it perfect for all ages.
On the eastern side of the beach, you’ll find a small islet. In Greek, nissi means “island,” which is how the beach got its name. The islet sits just 45 meters from the shoreline.
Because the water is so shallow, a natural sand lane connects the islet to the beach. This unique formation creates a stunning sight. As a result, it draws thousands of visitors each year who come to walk across and experience it up close.
Ayia Napa Monastery
The Medieval Monastery stands at the heart of Ayia Napa. It is the town’s most important historical site, located right in the central square.
Over the years, it has attracted many notable visitors. Among them was Greek Nobel laureate poet Giorgos Seferis. He was so inspired by the site that he wrote the poem “Ayia Napa B’,” featured in his collection Logbook III.
The Monastery holds deep roots in history. Its cave, hiding place, and ancient well prove the presence of a Christian community here since the Byzantine era, dating back to the 11th century.
The first part of the temple was built during the Frankish period in the 13th–14th century. Later, during the 15th century, the rest of the structure was completed.
Today, the Monastery reflects its 15th-century design, shaped during the Venetian rule over Cyprus. Its architecture and story continue to draw admiration from visitors around the world.
Ayia Napa Marina
Ayia Napa Marina is an award-winning mixed-use development. It combines residential, commercial, and leisure spaces in one stunning location.
Visitors can enjoy luxury housing, high-end boat services, and world-class facilities. The marina also features a vibrant mix of seaside restaurants, shops, and wellness centers. For those seeking relaxation, spa services are available as well.
Moreover, the marina serves as a unique wedding venue. It includes a modern events and conference center, perfect for special occasions and business gatherings.
Located between Ayia Thekla and Makronissos beaches, the marina offers both scenic beauty and convenience. It includes spacious luxury apartments and elegant villas designed for comfort and style.
In addition, Ayia Napa Marina can accommodate up to 600 yachts, with lengths reaching up to 110 meters. This makes it one of the most advanced and impressive marinas in the region.
Discover more by visiting Ayia Napa Marina’s website at www.MarinaAyiaNapa.com
Ammochostos Motor Museum
The Ammochostos Motor Museum in Ayia Napa, offers an exceptional experience for anyone fascinated by the history, design, and evolution of motor vehicles.
With an extensive collection of 105 exhibits, the museum welcomes visitors to explore a wide range of iconic machines, ranging from 70 classic cars, 29 motorcycles, 3 small cars to 2 historic tractors.
Each of these automobiles tells a story of innovation, culture, and passion that crosses generations and continents.
Designed for all audiences; families, enthusiasts, collectors, and tourists, the museum offers a self-guided experience through a well-presented, modern space that brings the past to life.
Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic experience or an educational journey, the Ammochostos Motor Museum provides a memorable and remarkable visit.
Visitor Information:
📍 Location: Kryou Nerou 20, Ayia Napa, 5330
🕒 Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00-22:00
🎟️ Admission: Adults €12 | Children (under 12) €6 | Seniors €10 *Children under 4 years of age = for free
📞 Phone: +357 23 722 720
✉️ Email: info@ammochostosmotormuseum.com
🌐 Website: https://ammochostosmotormuseum.com/
Thalassa Ayia Napa Municipal Museum
The museum focuses on the sea and marine life. It offers a rich collection of exhibits that span from the paleontological and prehistoric eras to modern times.
One of the highlights is a full-scale replica of the ancient Kyrenia ship from the Classical period (400 B.C.). Nearby, visitors can also see a Mesolithic papyrus vessel dating back to 9200 B.C.
In addition, the museum displays a traditional 19th-century Cypriot boat known as the “Passara.” Other artifacts include Cypriot antiquities, fossilized sea urchins and corals, as well as gypsum.
You’ll also find bones and skulls from Cyprus’s endemic pygmy hippopotamus and dwarf elephants, estimated to be around 8,000 years old.
Moreover, the museum features an impressive variety of marine life. Stuffed fish, sea turtles, and marine mammals are on display. Visitors can also explore a wide array of marine organisms—shells, barnacles, starfish, crabs, lobsters, corals, sponges, and marine plants—all collected from different parts of the island.
Each exhibit helps tell the story of Cyprus’s deep connection to the sea.
Ayia Napa Harbour
The picturesque Ayia Napa Harbour stands as one of the town’s main landmarks. Alongside the Medieval Monastery and Cape Greco, it draws thousands of visitors each year.
Many decades ago, the harbour was just a quiet bay with a handful of fishing boats. That changed in the early 1970s, when construction began on the first breakwater. This marked the start of its transformation.
Today, the harbour is fully renovated. It now hosts a vibrant fleet of fishing boats, speed boats, sailboats, and cruise ships. The surrounding land area includes pedestrian paths that lead to two charming lighthouses.
Moreover, the area around the harbour is lively and colorful. Visitors can enjoy an open-air theatre, playful fountains, and scenic spots to relax. There are also quaint cafés, fish taverns, and seaside restaurants.
The atmosphere is both modern and traditional. As a result, Ayia Napa Harbour is rightly considered one of the most scenic and contemporary harbours in Cyprus.
Ayios Epifanios ch. & Ayia Napa View Point
The chapel of Ayios Epifanios stands on the eastern side of Ayia Napa. It was built on the southern slope of a rocky hill, directly over the ruins of an older chapel.
This small church is dedicated to Ayios Epifanios, the Byzantine Bishop of Salamis. Restoration works revealed the ruins of the original chapel, along with the site’s Holy Water. Today, both are open and accessible to visitors.
From this peaceful location, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of “Paliochori.” This Byzantine settlement was destroyed during the Arab raids between 632 and 964 A.D., yet its ruins remain visible.
Next to the chapel, a larger, more modern church now stands. The feast day of Ayios Epifanios is celebrated each year on May 12th, drawing locals and visitors alike.
Makronissos – Mikri Makronissos
Makronissos Beach lies just 5 kilometers west of Ayia Napa’s center. This golden sandy beach offers calm surroundings and moderate waves, making it ideal for a relaxing visit.
Interestingly, the beach was formed by a cluster of small bays. Each one faces a different direction. The first stretches west, the second southwest, and the third turns southeast.
The area is well-developed. You’ll find rental accommodations, restaurants, and a small kiosk nearby.
Moreover, visitors can explore more than just the beach. The nearby Necropolis of Makronisos adds historical depth to the experience. For those who enjoy walking, head east toward Vathia Yonia Beach or west toward Ayia Thekla Beach.
Makronissos offers a mix of natural beauty, convenience, and cultural exploration—all in one destination.
MUSAN Underwater Museum
MUSAN is the world’s first underwater forest museum and a major museum in the Famagusta region. It features over 93 sculptures—some shaped like trees, others as lifelike figures—designed to attract marine life and grow organically over time.
Placed at varying depths, the sculptures form a path through a surreal, submerged forest. Some tree forms float just beneath the surface, creating a layered habitat for marine species.
Located in a marine protected zone, 200 meters off the Ayia Napa coastline, MUSAN is built from inert, pH-neutral materials, offering a safe haven for marine flora and fauna. It’s accessible to both divers and snorkelers.
Among the underwater trees are sculpted children at play, symbolizing our need to reconnect with nature and restore wild spaces for exploration and imagination.
Part of the global eco-art movement, each sculpture is designed to evolve with the sea, becoming a living seascape shaped by marine life. Over time, nature and art merge, reminding us that we are part of nature.
Lovers Bridge
Love Bridge is one of the most romantic spots in Cyprus. Every visitor should experience it at least once, especially couples and honeymooners. For those in love, this is a must-see attraction.
The bridge is a natural rock arch. One end reaches out into the crystal-clear, turquoise and emerald waters, while the other connects to a raised coastal plateau. Nature shaped it over time, with no human interference.
According to local legend, if you kiss while standing in the center of the arch and make a wish, it will come true. This magical tradition adds to the charm of the place.
Moreover, Love Bridge is one of the most photographed sights in the Famagusta Region. Its unique beauty makes it unforgettable. So, be sure not to miss it during your visit!
The Ayia Napa Aqueduct
The Agia Napa Aqueduct stands as one of the most important monuments within the municipality. For centuries, it supplied water to the monastery and the surrounding region.
Today, the structure you see reflects changes made during the Frankish period. These alterations were built over the original Roman aqueduct when the monastery was constructed.
The water source lies somewhere in the northeastern hills of Agia Napa. Until 1974, visitors could trace the visible route of the aqueduct.
Back then, a barrel-shaped structure at the site known as “Mana tou Nerou” marked the starting point. This spot, traditionally called the House of the Greeks, still holds local significance.
From there, the aqueduct followed the natural curves of the bedrock, running all the way to the monastery. It remains a fascinating example of ancient engineering shaped by both Roman and medieval influence.
Sea Caves
Sea Caves, also known as “Palatia,” are one of the main attractions in Ayia Napa. They draw thousands of locals and tourists each year. Located between Ayia Napa and Cape Greco, these caves have a rich geological history.
The Sea Caves hold significant social, environmental, and economic value for the area. Visiting them is a must for those who enjoy scenic walks and breathtaking views shaped by nature and time.
For an added thrill, a swim in the crystal-clear waters is a real treat! The unique geology of these caves plays a key role in the significance of Cape Greco, which is now a protected area.
Love Ayia Napa
One of the most well known instagram spots in Famagusta region. Visit the stone sculpture “I Love Ayia Napa” at the central square and create your own photo memory in between the sculpture, to express your love for this unique destination. The sculpture is placed in front of the Monastery Central Square and was created by the sculptor Yianni Yianni.
Sculpture Park
The Sculpture Park sits at the crossroads of Cavo Greco Avenue and Kryou Nerou, covering 20,000 sq.m. of stunning natural beauty with panoramic views. It’s a true gem, the first of its kind, offering an oasis of culture not only for Ayia Napa but for the entire Famagusta region.
The park showcases sculptures created by renowned artists from around the world. These pieces are part of the Sculpture Symposium, organized annually by the Municipality of Ayia Napa.
Ayia Napa Water Park
The award-winning Ayia Napa Waterpark, recognized internationally with numerous prizes and distinctions, is located on Ayia Theklis Street, at the western entrance of Ayia Napa. It sits directly across from Ayia Napa Marina and just a few meters from the beach of Ayia Thekla, known for its charming chapel. It is one of the parks in Ayia Napa that you must visit.
Inspired by ancient Greek mythology, the Waterpark offers a unique experience. Its themed design brings Greek characters to life in a simple yet realistic way, featured across the water slides, recreation areas, and various entertainment zones. These mythological elements create an immersive and visually engaging atmosphere.
In addition, the park provides full-day entertainment, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a fun and carefree escape into a world of legends and adventure.
Visit the official website for more information: https://waterworldwaterpark.com/
Ayioi Anargyroi Chapel
The chapel sits on the eastern side of the town and is dedicated to Ayios Kosmas and Ayios Damianos, also known as Ayioi Anargyroi. These two doctors treated and cured patients without asking for payment.
Tradition says that during their travels in the area, they encountered rough seas. Their boat was carried into a cave, which later became a chapel. Eventually, a new chapel was built on the rock above the cave. Church services are held on July 1st and November 1st.
Hellenistic and Romam Period Cemetery
The Makronisos’ cemetery consists of 19 tombs. The Hellenistic and Roman tombs (2400 B.C.). The entrances were originally closed with one large or two smaller calcarenite slabs. Among the findings are a clay sarcophagus which were originally covered with three flats tiles and a limestone Korre statueette. (Both are displayed in THALASSA Municipal Museum).
Kamara tou Koraka
On the way to Ayioi Anargyroi chapel, on the right side you’ll find “Kamara Tou Koraka”, an impressive geological formation which looks like a bridge or an arch. It the perfect place to enjoy the scenery of Cape Greco and relax at one of the benches available for visitors.