Discover 20 Must-See Attractions in Famagusta Region

Explore the rich history, vibrant traditions, and stunning natural beauty of Famagusta District through its 20 most important sights. This journey through centuries of history, folklore, culture, and nature will leave you enchanted.

Priceless treasures, historical and archaeological monuments, impressive natural sights, folklore museums, and religious sites create a mosaic of experiences in Famagusta Region. These attractions reflect the region’s great history and the vision of its people to enrich the past with new emblematic works of art and culture.

Historical and Religious Monuments

Medieval Monastery of Ayia Napa

Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this 15th-century monastery is located in the central square of Ayia Napa and has recently been restored. The cave, crypt, and well testify to the existence of a Christian community from Byzantine times. The monastery is linked to local religious faith and traditions.

It is said that the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary was found in a cave by a hunter. On the hill west of the monastery, there is a Byzantine chapel where, according to tradition, the Virgin Mary lay down to rest. The monastery grounds feature a huge sycamore tree, considered the oldest in Cyprus, and the monastery inspired Nobel Prize-winning poet George Seferis to write “Ayianapa II.”

Ancient Tombs of Makronissos – Ayia Napa

Located next to the famous Makronissos beach, this necropolis consists of 19 carved tombs, a small sanctuary, and an ancient quarry, dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. At present, one of the clay sarcophagi found there along with some of the grave goods are displayed at the Municipal Thalassa Museum of Ayia Napa.

Chapel of Ayia Thekla & Catacomb of Ayia Thekla – Sotira

This picturesque chapel is built next to Ayia Thekla beach and features ruins of an early Christian Basilica with mosaics. West of the chapel is the Catacomb of Ayia Thekla, an underground carved church presumed to be an ancient tomb converted into a temple during the Byzantine or Frankish periods.

Chapel of Ayioi Anargyroi & Natural Bridge Kamara tou Koraka – Cape Greco

Located in Cape Greco, this chapel is dedicated to Saints Anargyros, Cosmas, and Damianos. According to tradition, the saints were washed ashore in a cave during a sea storm, which was later turned into a chapel.

The new white and blue chapel was built on the rock above the cave. At a distance of one kilometre, you will find the Natural Bridge Kamara tou Koraka, a beautiful natural bridge, an architectural wonder of nature. According to local lore, its name comes from the many crow’s nests that once surrounded it.

Ayioi Saranda – Protaras

Situated in a cave in the Fanos area, the chapel of Ayioi Saranda features a stone dome and fragments of 12th-century hagiographies.

Profitis Elias – Protaras

This stone-built, Byzantine-style chapel stands on a steep rock near the heart of Protaras and is a trademark of the area. To visit, you must climb 153 steps, but the view is worth it especially at sunset. The chapel is visible throughout the area, especially at night when illuminated.

Natural Attractions & Parks

Ayia Napa Harbour

Probably the most photographed spot in Ayia Napa, this heart-shaped harbour is located in the centre of the tourist resort. It features moored caiques, fishing boats, and daily cruise boats. The area around the harbour has many popular restaurants and cafes and is a meeting point for both locals and tourists. There are also shops, paved paths, fountains, an open-air theatre, and impressive sculptures. You will also find the small chapel of Ayios Georgios which you can visit and light a candle. It is a must-visit spot with numerous events organised throughout the year.

Lovers Bridge – Ayia Napa

This natural bridge, formed by rocks, is located on the coast in front of the International Sculpture Park. It is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Ayia Napa. Depending on the position of the sun, the colours of the rock and the sea change, giving the place a completely different look. You will definitely fall in love with this bridge.

Sea Caves – Ayia Napa

Between Ayia Napa and Cape Greco, these geological wonders were carved by waves over time, creating a unique natural landscape. The locals call these caves “palaces” for their beauty, and the spot is ideal for diving. They can also be seen from the sea and they are even more impressive.

International Sculpture Park & Park of Mediterranean Plants, Cacti, and Succulents – Ayia Napa

In a rocky and bushy area of 20,000 sq.m., this open-air cultural space features works by over 50 renowned sculptors from around the world. They are systematically enriched through the International Sculpture Symposium.

The panoramic sea view and landscape enhance the beauty of the sculptures, creating a unique setting especially during sunset. The adjacent Park of Mediterranean Plants, Cacti, and Succulents aims to create the largest collection of cacti and succulents in the Mediterranean.

Cave of the Cyclops – Protaras

This natural cave between rocks near Konnos beach is named after mythology, which states that a family of cyclops lived there after being shipwrecked on the island after a sea storm.

Liopetri River – Liopetri

One of the most picturesque places in Cyprus, this is the only natural “fjord” in the country and is surrounded by a protected natural rocky beach. The area is under redevelopment with the aim to create paths and a fishing shelter for mooring fishing boats and yachts. The nearby Liopetri National Forest Park is part of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas for its important protected plants.

Coastal routes

Fig Tree Bay – Protaras

Fig Tree Bay is a beach that can, without exaggeration, be called a miracle of nature. One of the most popular beaches in Cyprus, it takes its name from a fig tree located at the back of the beach, said to have been brought by some of the many conquerors of Cyprus in the 17th century. This sandy beach features blonde sand and the most crystal-clear waters you can imagine. A rocky islet across the coast makes the beach even more special and attracts visitors from every corner of the world. Awarded the Blue Flag every year, Fig Tree Bay is once again included in the Trip Advisor list as one of the 25 best beaches in Europe for 2024, ranking 15th. At night, the islet is illuminated, offering a spectacular view. Before you leave the beach, be sure to take plenty of photos at the instacorner located there.

Coastal Pedestrian Street – Protaras

One of the most emblematic points of the area is the coastal pedestrian promenade of Protaras. This walkway aims to connect the urban centre of Paralimni with the National Forest Park of Cape Greco and, by extension, the entire eastern coastline of the free province of Famagusta with the surrounding areas. Currently covering most of the coastline of Protaras, the pedestrian walkway is ideal for walking and exercise. Along it, there are many restaurants and cafes where you eat, relax and enjoy the scenery.

Museums & Culture

Thalassa Municipal Museum – Ayia Napa

The Thalassa Municipal Museum is dedicated to the sea and its importance in the history of Cyprus. It houses a large collection of archaeological and maritime exhibits, with the “Kyrenia II,” a faithful replica of an ancient shipwreck from Classical times, standing out. A recent addition to the museum is the Municipal Gallery of the Occupied Municipality of Famagusta, where 140 surviving iconic works of leading Cypriot and Greek artists are exhibited. These works either existed in the collection of the Famagusta Municipal Gallery or were hosted in Famagusta Town. Additionally, on the semi-basement floor, you will find the Municipal Museum of Marine Life Tornaritis-Pierides, with exhibits related to the protection of the natural environment, especially the marine environment.

Folklore Museum – Deryneia

An old mansion in Deryneia has been transformed into a faithful representation of a traditional Cypriot house, reflecting the habits, customs, and activities of the local inhabitants. In the museum, you will see the equipment of a traditional Cypriot home, as well as the farming tools used by a traditional farming family.

Open Air Museum of Folk Art of Traditional Crafts – Deryneia

Located opposite the Folklore Museum, this open-air museum features separate exhibition areas for traditional professions such as cabinetmaking, shoemaking, tailoring, blacksmithing, and bricklaying. Traditional agricultural tools are exhibited in the semi-outdoor areas.

Cultural Centre of Famagusta Municipality – Deryneia
This symbolic centre reminds visitors of the Occupied City of Famagusta and the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. Inside the centre, there is a permanent photographic exhibition, and it hosts informative events and workshops on the Cyprus problem.

Museum of Ayia Anna – Paralimni

Located in the centre of Paralimni in an ancient Byzantine church dedicated to Ayia Anna, this museum was declared by the Department of Antiquities in 1985 and contains very interesting ecclesiastical exhibits.

Traditional House – Paralimni

Built in the early 19th century, this traditional house is a typical example of Cypriot architecture and traditional art and life in Cyprus. A tour of the house reveals the roots of Cypriot tradition, folk art, and the occupations of the island’s inhabitants.