Ayia Napa was historically a small fishing town in eastern Cyprus. Saint Napa is the English translation, which is attributed to the patron saint of the town.
Tourists visit this place to enjoy the Blue Flag beaches during daytime and have a blast at the town’s pubs and night clubs. However, Ayia Napa has been witnessing a lot of change in recent years. Having said that, many opportunities remain for visitors to explore. Therefore, 8 of the best things to do in Ayia Napa are presented next.
1. Nature Lovers and Hikers’ Trails
Walks on the beach in Ayia Napa can heal many anxieties and depressions. After all, if sun rays, water waves and sand trails cannot impact your wellbeing, then we do not know what actually can!
However if a coastal stroll is not your cup of tea, then we might suggest the more adrenaline pumping activity of hiking in the famous Cape Greco area. In this colourful spot, you get to hike in between two natural giants of lush green land and deep blue sea.
2. Explore Nearby Towns
A hop on the local bus route will set you back EUR 5 but will push you forward many miles to traverse. Actually, you can buy the whole day pass ticket and explore as many places in one day. This includes Gape Greco mentioned above. Alternatively, you can buy the one week ticket for less than EUR 12.
Also, you can visit the nearby town of Protaras that is gaining a lot of popularity especially among families and people who value their quiet time.
On the other hand, the final bus station you may reach will be Paralimni. This is a lovely town lying on a higher elevation that might cool you down a bit after a long day at the beach.
3. Pamper Yourself with Beach Massages
Haven’t gifted yourself lately, well a massage will suffice this. Many beachside spas are present in Ayia Napa and a lot of professional therapists are ready to help you with your muscle tensions.
Many massage professionals come to Ayia Napa from neighboring Greece, Bulgaria and Romania. Again, these three countries are known for ancient therapeutic methods and herbal medication.
At the same time, other therapists present the exotic eastern massages of Asia, namely Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese professionals.
Between the West and the East, you will sure find your sweet spot for a lovely massage by the sea waves.
An alternative method for a peace of mind while travelling is to always have your travel insurance sorted before departure.
4. Take the Plunge in the Lovely Pools of the Resorts
We get it, some people hate the idea of sand sticking to their feet each day on public beaches. Others cannot stand the long hours of scorching suns. For this purpose, many resorts were erected around the peninsula of Ayia Napa.
Be sure to book your pool entrance or hotel stay in advance, especially in the peak season of May till September. In fact, the hotels witness surges during these months.
5. Street Food Stands are a Must
Many street food vendors offer lovely snacks that might do as an afternoon or evening cheat meal. These foods include corn, boiled or barbecued. Try it with a hint of lemon and salt for a burst in flavour. Moreover, if a bit of calories are not a big deal, then order the butter brushed cones for a richer taste.
However, for hunger strikes, a Gyros sandwich would be a lovely idea, right? You get to choose between three types of meats, mainly beef, chicken and pork. As many locals would suggest the pork version, we believe it is a personal preference and your choice to make.
Nonetheless, we can advise you with a hidden gem to try authentic Cypriot and Greek Gyros when in Ayia Napa. As many readers might not know Greek, this shop is located next to Coffee Island facing Magic World and close to Subway in the town’s main square.
The Greek name of the shop is something along the lines of “Το Καραμελωμτνο Κρεχ…. “ With a large smiling face, atop a huge gyros skewer painting. This is a must try!
6. Hit the Park at Night
Park Paliatso is one of the most exciting parks in Europe. If you are not a park lover and do not enjoy the idea of strong rides, then we may suggest a walk in the park and simply enjoy watching the exciting games. It is well worth the visit and you can access it for free as well, no strings attached.
Oh speaking of strings and ropes, don’t forget to watch the popular slingshot!
7. Boat Excursions and Boat Parties
Many boats depart during early morning hours from Ayia Napa marina harbour and return in the afternoon. The destination will depend heavily on your personal style of a boat trip.
Some boats offer sightseeing excursions of caves and nearby coastal towns, while having a hearty lunch on board. On the other hand, other boat trips are loaded with alcoholic drinks and loud music, for an unforgettable boat party experience.
One of the ships is the famous Black Pearl Pirate Boat, which will surely stand out when you visit the harbour. This ship is famous for firing canons half journey while at sea, which draws a lot of tourists attention from neighboring beaches.
A new fine living and luxury destination is the Ayia Napa Marina, a project that will be delivered in the near future, for an exceptional Mediterranean experience.
8. Ayia Napa Sculpture Park, an Act of Fascination
This park may come as a sweet surprise to tourists in Ayia Napa. Many glimpse it out of the bus or car windows on their way to Ayia Napa Waterpark.
This sculpture park is the brainchild work of many Cypriot and other European artists. The pieces of art are perfectly placed at elevated hills to gain the maximum exposure. Visit the park during daytime and get the best selfies while being brushed with a breeze of fresh air under the sunny sky of Ayia Napa. Speaking of that, make sure to check the famous piece of ‘Breeze in the Park’ by the famous Italian artist Strefano Sabetta .
