Ayia Napa, Cyprus, is so much more than its party reputation and one I would easily visit again. Think turquoise bays, dramatic sea cliffs, open‑air art, and some of the most unique experiences in Cyprus. Visitors can dive at the MUSAN underwater museums, attend a botanical workshop or explore Cyclops Cave. Whether you’re here for sunshine, culture, or a mix of both, this guide covers the best things to do in Ayia Napa and the surrounding area, including easy day trips to Larnaca. All practical, tried‑and‑tested, and perfect for planning your Cyprus itinerary.
About Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Ayia Napa sits on the southeast coast of Cyprus, close to Cape Greco and about 45 minutes from Larnaca. Once a small fishing village built around its 16th‑century Venetian monastery, the town grew rapidly in the 20th century as travellers discovered its sheltered harbour and golden beaches. Today, Ayia Napa blends its historic core with a modern resort feel, offering Blue Flag beaches, coastal nature, and cultural landmarks within easy reach.
Get lost in the biggest maze in Cyprus – CyHerbia Botanical Park
Things to Do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus
1. Discover Cyprus’ Maritime History at the Thalassa Museum
The Thalassa Museum is one of the top cultural attractions in Ayia Napa. It offers a fascinating look at Cyprus’s maritime history. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on marine life, ancient shipwrecks, fossils, and archaeological discoveries. One of my highlights was the life‑size replica of an ancient Greek trading ship.
Thalassa Museum also includes a dedicated exhibition on the Cyprus pygmy hippopotamus, showcasing excavated bones and information about their locations. Entry is a small fee, with discounted tickets available for students. It’s an easy, educational activity for families and adults and a great addition to any Ayia Napa itinerary.
2. Snorkelling at MUSAN Underwater Museum
If you love water activities, then you have to go snorkelling or diving at the MUSAN underwater museum. It is a surreal underwater forest of sculptures designed to create a living reef, the first of its kind. The underwater entrance is approximately 200 metres from Pernera beach. Here, visitors can explore the remaining 93 artworks, situated 8-10 metres below the water’s surface
Clear visibility makes it ideal for snorkelling, diving and free diving most of the year round. This water activity is free to visit, but you must book it through a diving school or diving centre in Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Book a Snorkeling trip or a guided dive to the MUSAN underwater museum.
MUSAN underwater museum – Pic provided by the tourism office
3. Stroll Around Ayia Napa Marina
For a taste of modern luxury, spend some time strolling around Ayia Napa Marina. This stylish waterfront development features elegant yachts, upscale restaurants, cafés, boutique shops, and scenic promenades overlooking the Mediterranean. Whether you’re stopping for a coffee, enjoying a meal by the water, or simply taking in the views, the marina offers a relaxing atmosphere.
I suggest having lunch at Riva Beach House by Frame; they have amazing food and wine. If you have the time, spend it around the infinity pool, taking in the atmosphere and enjoying cocktails.
4. Do a Boat Cruise to Konnos Bay & the Blue Lagoon
One of the best things to do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus is to take a half‑day boat cruise to Konnos Bay and the Blue Lagoon. These trips are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing on deck with a cooked lunch and a cold drink in the sunshine. It’s a fun, easy activity for solo travellers, couples, families, and groups. Konnos Bay is a sheltered cove known for its calm, bright‑blue water, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
Keep an eye out while you’re in the water; you might spot local sea turtles gliding by. The Blue Lagoon is another highlight, with unbelievably clear turquoise water on sunny days. Bring your own snorkelling gear if you prefer using your own set. It is one of the best ways to see the island coastline. We took the Blue Lagoon cruise boat, which can be booked on GYG.
Enjoying drinks on a boat cruise to Konnos Bay and the Blue Lagoon
5. Visit Ayia Napa, Sculpture Park
Ayia Napa Sculpture Park is an open‑air art space set on a clifftop above the sea, just a short walk from the Love Bridge. It is filled with contemporary sculptures carved from local stone, and artists are invited every year to create a sculpture on-site for the park. It is free to enter and offers amazing views across the Mediterranean.
I suggest going early or late for the best light. The Ayia Napa Sculpture Park is free to explore and makes a great complement to a visit to the Love Bridge, especially at sunset. Make sure to wear sunscreen as there is shelter.
6. See the Love Bridge at Golden Hour
Seeing the Love Bridge in Ayia Napa is one of the most romantic things to do in the area, especially during the golden hour. This natural rock arch stretches over the sea and glows beautifully at sunset, making it one of the most photogenic spots in Ayia Napa. Local tradition says that if you stand in the middle of the arch, share a kiss, and make a wish, it will come true. It is located near the Ayia Napa Sculpture Park, making it a great evening combo.
The Love Bridge during sunset in Ayia Napa
7. Soap & Face Mist Workshop at CyHerbia Botanical Park
Try a relaxing, hands‑on Soap & Face Mist Workshop at CyHerbia Botanical Park, where you’ll use herbs grown onsite to create your own natural products. It’s a creative way to learn about Cyprus’ botanical traditions and enjoy the scents of the herb gardens. If you have time, explore the botanical gardens, have brunch in the restaurant and wander through the only maze in Cyprus.
The CyHerbia Botanical Park & Labyrinth is open every day except Saturdays. Workshops can be booked online or on arrival. You can also purchase a separate ticket for the woodlands and the maze.
8. Try Authentic Cyprus Meze
For a true taste of Cyprus, try an authentic Cyprus Meze while in Ayia Napa. This traditional multi‑course feast showcases the best of Cypriot food, served as a series of small shared plates. A classic meze highlights the island’s gastronomy with a progression of starters, middle dishes, mains, and dessert. Ideal for anyone wanting a genuine local dining experience.
I recommend two places for traditional Cypriot meze: Ploumin Tavern, located just outside Ayia Napa in Sotira Village, and Taverna Napa in Ayia Napa. These were two of my favourite restaurants in Ayia Napa for authentic food.
Cypriot meze at the Taverna Napa, Cyprus
9. Explore Cape Greko National Forest Park
Cape Greko National Forest Park offers an array of both natural and historical attractions. This protected coastal area features dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and scenic walking trails, making it a paradise for hikers, cyclists, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers. Key highlights include the Agioi Anargyroi Chapel, which has a small cave beneath it, Cyclops Cave, the Agioi Saranta Cave Church, and the Nissia Neolithic Settlement.
The park also boasts hidden coves that are perfect for swimming. To explore the historical sites in Cape Greko National Forest Park, the best options are to hire a car or rent a buggy or quad bike in Ayia Napa. If adventure is your thing, you can book a guided hiking trip around Cape Greko National Forest Park that includes pickup.
10. Wander through the Makronissos Hellenistic Tombs
Makronissos Hellenistic Tombs is one of Ayia Napa’s interesting historical sites, located near Makronissos Beach. This ancient burial complex dates back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The tombs are carved directly into the rock and offer a glimpse into Cyprus’ ancient past, similar to those in Paphos.
Visitors can walk through the underground chambers and admire the impressive archaeological remains. Makronissos Hellenistic Tombs is ideal for travellers interested in history and archaeology. I recommend visiting early in the morning or late afternoon, especially in the summer months. Makronissos Hellenistic Tombs are free to enter every day.
11. Spend the day in Larnaca
A great addition to your Ayia Napa itinerary is a day trip to Larnaca, just 45 minutes away. Visit the 9th‑century Church of Saint Lazarus, climb the walls of Larnaca Castle for panoramic views, and try a hands‑on pottery workshop at Studio Ceramics Cyprus. You can also stroll along the palm‑lined Finikoudes Promenade, then end the day with a cocktail class at Sunmoon Hospitality, where you’ll learn to make the Cypriot Brandy Sour, the island’s unofficial national drink.
If you are flying out of Larnaca late from Ayia Napa, Cyprus, I suggest leaving earlier and spending the day in the resort city before your flight. Another great place to visit for a day is the captial, Nicosia, especially if you like culture.
The 9th‑century Church of Saint Lazarus, important historical site in Larnaca.
12. Explore the Beaches of Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Nissi Beach
Spend the day on Nissi Beach, a Blue Flag beach and one of the best in Europe. It is popular with visitors for its renowned powdery white sand, shallow turquoise waters, vibrant atmosphere and watersports. Along the shoreline are resorts, restaurants and the famous Nissi Bay Beach Bar. You can relax on the sunny beaches, do water sports, drink cocktails or simply soak in the atmosphere.
Makronissos Beach
Makronissos Beach is a great choice if you want clear, turquoise water and soft sand without the crowds of Nissi. Located near Makronissos Hellenistic Tombs, the beach is split into smaller coves, offering plenty of space to relax and swim. It’s one of the best Ayia Napa beaches for families, thanks to its calm, shallow water and popular with the locals. Don’t forget to take your beach towel along for the sun loungers.
Protaras Beach
Protaras Beach (also known as Fig Tree Bay) is just a short drive from Ayia Napa on the east coast of Cyprus. Its crystal‑clear turquoise water and soft golden sand make it perfect for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing on the beach. Just off the shoreline is Fig Tree Island, which you can swim to and a floating jetty, where you can hire water equipment like jet skis and paddle boards. Book a one-hour guided Jet Ski Safari to the Blue Lagoon from Protaras Beach.
Konnos Bay
Konnos Bay is considered one of the most beautiful beaches near Ayia Napa. It is located between Cape Greco and Protaras, and you can get there by bus or car. The sheltered cove is surrounded by pine‑covered cliffs, giving it a more natural, scenic feel compared to the busier beaches. It’s also the starting point for many boat trips to the Blue Lagoon. Book a half-day Adults-Only All-Inclusive Morning Catamaran Trip from Ayia Napa/Protaras to the Blue Lagoon.
One of the many beautiful beaches around Ayia Napa, Cyrus
Where to stay in Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Set on the edge of iconic Nissi Beach, the five‑star NissiBlu Beach Resort is one of Cyprus’s most stylish coastal stays, offering contemporary design and sweeping views of turquoise water. It’s ideal for travellers who want luxury with easy access to Ayia Napa’s beaches, restaurants, and coastal walks.
Relax by the pool, enjoy the spa, or choose from several excellent dining options. Rooms are modern, spacious, and designed to maximise those signature sea views. I enjoyed sitting out on the balcony taking in the views of Nissi Beach. If you’re booking with NissiBlu Beach Resort Jet2holidays, you’ll enjoy seamless flights, transfers, and great‑value packages, making it a standout choice for luxury holidays with Jet2holidays for both couples and families.
Book your car hire in Ayia Napa
How to get to Ayia Napa from the UK
Larnaca Airport to Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa is easy to reach from the UK, with most visitors flying into Larnaca International Airport, the closest airport to the beach resort. Then it is a 40‑minute transfer away. If you’re travelling from London or the South East, Flights from London Stansted Airport offer one of the most convenient routes into Cyprus.
Flights to Larnaca with Jet2 are a straightforward and reliable way to reach Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Jet2 operates direct flights from Stansted to Larnaca several times a week, with a journey time of around 4 hours and 40 minutes. Once you arrive, getting to Ayia Napa is simple. Taxis and private transfers are available outside the terminal. Alternatively, you can take the Kapnos shuttle service, which runs regular routes between Larnaca Airport and Ayia Napa. If you book a Jet2 package, the transfer will be included.
The sunset view from my balcony at NissiBlu Beach Resort
Other articles on Coastal Cities you may be interested in
Here are some other travel guides to coastal Mediterranean cities you might like. Alternatively, check out the content below on Cyprus:
- Travel Guide on Things to Do in Marmaris, Turkey
- Culture Things to Do in Malta and Gozo
- 11 Best Things to Do in Santander, Spain
Have you been to Ayia Napa, Cyprus, before? Please feel free to share your experience in the comments below. Here are other tourist attractions and activities in Ayia Napa, available through Viator.
If you’re planning a holiday in Cyprus, Jet2 is one of the most reliable options for direct flights and package deals, making it easy to reach Ayia Napa’s beaches and attractions.
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Disclaimer: Although I was on a press trip with Jet2holidays to Cyprus, all views are my own.
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