Attractions Nearby Ayia Napa, Day Trips and Excursions

(Ayia Napa, Famagusta, Cyprus)

There is so much to do in Ayia Napa without leaving the resort, but with so many alluring attractions close by, the occasional day trip is strongly recommended. Suggested excursions within easy reach of Ayia Napa include the unique city of Famagusta, the lively beach resort of Larnaca, the scenic Troodos Mountains, and the extremely appealing Pernera and Protaras communities.

The Cape Greco area is a truly beautiful part of Cyprus and stands between Ayia Napa and Famagusta. There are some very worthy attractions around Cape Greco, including the wonderful sea caves (best viewed by boat), coastal walking trails and lots of great places to swim.

Cape Greco

The Cape Greco National Park is a popular spot, although do note that it is not possible to reach the end of this peninsula, since the last section has been fenced off by the British and is home to a large radar installation. Cape Greco is located just 7 km / 4 miles from Ayia Napa and is a mere 4 km / 2.5 miles from Protaras, making it the perfect day trip destination.

Deryneia

Deryneia is an interesting and unusual place to visit, since most tourists come here to take a look at the no-man's land area, separating the Republic of Cyprus with North Cyprus. Following the Turkish invasion of 1974, Turkish troops headed towards Deryneia and halted close by, creating this strange political border. Elevated viewing platforms provide the best vantage points, while posters and videos explain the events that are still remembered by many resident Greek Cypriots.

Dhekelia Sovereign Base Area

The Dhekelia Sovereign Base Area encompasses a large piece of eastern Cyprus and is rather British in character, with cafes serving fish and chips, and mugs of tea. This area is occupied by the British military, and although it is not possible to visit the actual base installations, it is possible to drive around the Dhekelia Sovereign Base Area territory and explore the region.

Famagusta

Famagusta is a walled city to the north of Ayia Napa. Formerly a major beach resort until the events of 1974, the Famagusta of today is quite different in its appearance. The adjoining Varosia (Maras) beach strip has been barricaded off and is now a crumbling border zone. However, Famagusta does still offer plenty in the way of tourist attractions, especially around its historical Old Town area. Look out for the Venetian Walls, the Venetian Palace, the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque and Othello's Tower (Citadel).

The Kokkinochoria / Kokkinohoria

The villages of Kokkinochoria are famous on Cyprus for their potatoes. Kokkinochoria literally translates as 'red villages', since the colour of the soil here is rich red and perfect for the farming of both potatoes and the 'kolokasi' root vegetable. The main villages within the Kokkinochoria region include Avgorou, Frenaros, Liopetri, Sotira and Xylofagou, and although they don't really have any attractions to speak of, their rural scenery is quite tranquil and contrasts greatly with the nearby beach resorts. You will also likely encounter the odd Cypriot taverna or two.

Larnaca

Close to Ayia Napa and a relatively short drive to the west, Larnaca is a leading beach resort on the south-eastern coast of Cyprus. Tall palm trees, promenades of cafes and bars, popular sandy beaches and traditional whitewashed Turkish houses all combine to give Larnaca its very own character and appeal. Most people catch at least a glimpse of the city, since Larnaca Airport resides on its outskirts. Larnaca attractions are in good supply and include a fortress, archaeological and medieval museums, historical churches, and remains of the site of Ancient Kition.

Paralimni

Paralimni is situated just 8 km / 5 miles north of Ayia Napa and is a very pleasant family beach resort, that has managed to remain considerably more low-key. Now the capital of Eastern Cyprus, Paralimni is a charming town and is based around its paved central public square, where a selection of shops and eateries are based. The square is also home to old and new incarnations of the Church of Agios Georgios.

Pyla

The village of Pyla is an unlikely attraction in Cyprus and is actually the only part of the island where the Greek and Turkish Cypriots are still living together in perfect harmony. Pyla is to be found within the UN buffer zone and its main attraction is really simply its ongoing peaceful coexistence. A 'referee's' chair stands in the centre of the public square, and in front of the UN watchtower, symbolising peace. Of note, photography is not permitted in Pyla.

Pernera and Protaras

Pernera and Protaras are two adjacent communities, extremely popular with the expat tourists and the general resort crowd. There is a good choice of hotel complexes here, many of which come complete with swimming pools and restaurants. The best selection of shops, bars and eateries in the Pernera / Protaras region line the main street of Protaras. Beach-goers will find lots to write home about here, with the top beaches including Agia Triada, Green Bay, Konnos, Louma, Mouzoura, Pernera, Protaras and Skoutari.