Before visiting, I thought Ayia Napa was all beach clubs and nightlife. After four days exploring the coastline, hidden caves, traditional villages and crystal-clear waters, I discovered a completely different side of Cyprus. My first time visiting this beautiful country I went with Jet2Holidays. This itinerary focuses on beaches, scenery, culture and local experiences. If you are planning a visit to Aiya Napa and want a more local experience then this guide is for you.
How to Get to Aiya Napa with Jet2Holidays:
To get to Aiya Napa we flew with Jet2 from London Stansted airport into Larnaca. There are many frequent Jet2 flights from London Stansted Airport to Cyprus. The flight time was about four and a half hours. This was my second time flying with Jet2 and again the journey was seamless and stress free. I love that you get hand luggage and 22KG included without any extra cost! The flight was very smooth and I got my first Aperol can on a plane so I was very excited! Jet2 always keep it up to date with the best drinks and snacks.
Once you arrive in Larnaca airport you can either get a transfer to Aiya Napa which is about a 40 minutes drive or an hour bus journey. The best part about Jet2Holiday packages is that airport transfers are included which brings you straight to your hotel. They’re ATOL protected and make booking a lot easier, especially if you are travelling to a country where you don’t speak the language.
However, if you’re on a budget you can get the bus for just €2 and it takes about an hour. It’s a lot easier to get to Larnaca if you get a direct flight. Unfortunately, there are no direct Jet2 flights to Larnaca from Republic of Ireland but you can get a flight from Belfast to Paphos and then a transfer from there.
Where to Stay in Aiya Napa:
NissiBlu Beach Resort:
If you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Ayia Napa that combines a beachfront location with modern facilities, NissiBlu Beach Resort is an excellent choice. Just a short walk from the famous Nissi Beach, the five-star hotel makes the perfect base for exploring the east coast of Cyprus while still offering plenty of opportunities to relax.
Location
We spent four nights here during our trip to Ayia Napa, and one of the things I appreciated most was its location. Within minutes, you can walk to one of Cyprus’ most beautiful beaches, Nissi Beach. (As well as that) Ayia Napa’s restaurants, bars and attractions are only a short drive away. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a relaxing beach holiday or a long weekend exploring the area, it’s well positioned for making the most of your stay.
Rooms
The rooms are spacious, contemporary and designed with comfort in mind. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of natural light, while private balconies provide the perfect spot to enjoy the warm Mediterranean evenings. After full days spent exploring beaches, coastal viewpoints and nearby towns, it was always a welcome place to return to and unwind.
Pool and Facilities
NissiBlu Beach Resort offers everything you’d expect from a five-star stay, including a large outdoor swimming pool surrounded by comfortable loungers, beautifully landscaped gardens, an indoor pool, spa and fitness centre. Whether you prefer spending your afternoons by the pool or heading straight to the beach, you’ll have plenty of options.
One of my favourite features was the peaceful atmosphere around the pool. Even during the day, it felt relaxed and never overly busy, making it easy to switch off between activities.
Dining
We only dined in for Breakfast while staying in this beautiful hotel. Breakfast is served as a generous buffet with plenty of choice, including fresh fruit, pastries, cooked breakfast options and made-to-order eggs. There is an omelette station and I had one of these every day. It’s an ideal way to fuel up before a day exploring Ayia Napa and the surrounding coastline. Also they serve champagne at breakfast which is a great way to enjoy your holiday!
Overall Review
I really loved my stay in NissiBlue Resort. I am still thinking about the balcony views from my room! Everything was perfect, the location, facilities, dining etc. The staff were also very friendly and helpful. The small touches were also noted when we were welcomed at checkin with a glass of bubbly as well as the fruit basket and stunning beach bag waiting in our rooms when we arrived.
Day 1: Beaches, Ancient History and Coastal Views
My first full day in Ayia Napa completely challenged my preconceptions of the destination. Before visiting, I mostly associated Ayia Napa with nightlife and beach bars, but I quickly discovered a different side to the resort town. It is a destination filled with stunning beaches, fascinating history, spectacular coastal scenery and with a variety of many activities to do.
Nissi Beach
If you’re on your holidays to Cyprus, it is not complete unless you go to the beach! Start your morning with a stroll on Nissi Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Cyprus. With its soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best beaches in Ayia Napa. Cyprus is very similar to Greece when it comes to beaches, it’s the perfect beach holiday.
Even in May, the beach felt lively without being overcrowded. The shallow water makes it ideal for swimming, while the small islet just off shore creates one of the area’s most recognisable views. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, take a dip in the Mediterranean or simply enjoy the scenery, Nissi Beach is a must-visit during any trip to Ayia Napa.
Makronissos Beach
A short drive from Nissi Beach brought us to Makronissos Beach, another beautiful stretch of coastline that offers a slightly more relaxed atmosphere.The beach is known for its calm, clear waters and golden sand, making it a popular choice for families and visitors looking to escape some of the busier areas of Ayia Napa.
Standing on the shoreline, it was impossible not to notice just how clear the water was, with shades of blue that looked almost unreal. While Nissi Beach may be the most famous, Makronissos Beach quickly became one of my personal favourites.
Makronissos Hellenistic Tombs
Just a short walk from the beach lies one of Ayia Napa’s lesser-known attractions: the Makronissos Hellenistic Tombs. Dating back more than 2,000 years, this archaeological site consists of a collection of ancient rock-cut burial chambers carved directly into the limestone.
While relatively small compared to some of Cyprus’ larger historical sites, it’s a fascinating place to visit and provides an interesting glimpse into the island’s past. The contrast between the ancient tombs and the nearby beaches perfectly sums up Cyprus; history and natural beauty existing side by side.
Aiya Napa Marina
Next, we headed to Ayia Napa Marina, one of the newest and most impressive developments in the region. The marina offers a completely different side of Ayia Napa, with luxury yachts, waterfront restaurants and modern architecture creating a sophisticated atmosphere. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, whether you’re admiring the boats, stopping for lunch or simply taking in the coastal views.
There was also a market with lots of local pieces you can buy. There were vendors selling local jams and stunning jewellery. You have a mix of street food vendors and high-end restaurants around the marina so I recommend spending some time here. As someone who loves finding destinations that combine luxury travel with local experiences, I really enjoyed seeing this side of Ayia Napa.
Ayia Napa Sculpture Park
One of the highlights of the day was visiting Ayia Napa Sculpture Park, an open-air gallery overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. It is completely free to visit and open all year round. About 10-15 sculptures are added a year to the 20,000 square metre park that is located at the crossroads of Cape Gkreko and Kryou Nerou Avenue.
The park features hundreds of sculptures created by artists from around the world, spread across a hillside with panoramic views of the coastline. As we wandered through the exhibits, the combination of art, nature and sea views made it feel unlike any sculpture park I’d visited before. Even if you’re not particularly interested in art, the views alone make it worth the visit.
Have a Traditional Cypriot Meze
No trip to Cyprus is complete without trying a traditional Cypriot meze dinner. We went to X in the nearby village of Sotira. which is a family run restaurant. If you are unfamiliar with meze, it’s one of the best ways to experience Cypriot cuisine. Rather than ordering a single dish, a selection of small plates is brought to the table, allowing you to sample a variety of local flavours.
After a day spent exploring beaches, ancient history and coastal viewpoints, this is the perfect introduction to Cypriot culture and hospitality and a memorable way to end a first full day in Ayia Napa.
Day 2: Blue Lagoons and the Natural Beauty of Cape Greco
If you’re looking for the most unforgettable day of your Ayia Napa itinerary, dedicate it to exploring the spectacular coastline around Cape Greco. From swimming in crystal-clear waters to discovering dramatic sea caves and panoramic viewpoints, this is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of eastern Cyprus.
Start Your Morning with a Blue Lagoon Cruise
Begin your day at Ayia Napa Harbour and set sail along one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Cyprus. As the boat leaves the harbour, you’ll pass rugged cliffs, hidden coves and sea caves before reaching the famous Blue Lagoon. The water here is unbelievably clear, making it one of the best places to swim during your trip.
If you’re visiting Ayia Napa, I highly recommend booking a boat cruise. Seeing the coastline from the water gives you a completely different perspective, and it’s an experience you won’t forget. Depending on the tour you choose, you’ll also have the opportunity to stop at Konnos Bay, a peaceful bay surrounded by pine-covered cliffs. With its calm turquoise water, it’s another fantastic place for a swim and one of the prettiest spots along the coast.
Explore Cape Greco National Forest Park
After your cruise, head to Cape Greco National Forest Park, one of Cyprus’ most breath taking natural attractions. Located between Ayia Napa and Protaras, the protected park is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, sea caves, scenic walking trails and incredible Mediterranean views. Though protected as a nature reserve it get busy with locals on motorbikes and dune buggies. If who loves nature and photography, this is a place you’ll want to spend plenty of time exploring.
Visit Agioi Anargiroi Chapel
Perched on the cliff edge, the whitewashed Agioi Anargiroi Chapel is one of the most photographed landmarks in Cape Greco. The bright white chapel contrasts beautifully with the deep blue sea below, creating one of the area’s most iconic viewpoints. Be sure to wander along the nearby coastal paths too, where you’ll discover even more incredible photo opportunities and also lots of cats! We made so many fur friends in this spot.
Discover Cyclops Cave
Just below the Agioi Anargiroi chapel lies Cyclops Cave, a fascinating natural cave steeped in local legend. According to mythology, the cave was once home to a Cyclops, giving it an extra layer of intrigue. Whether you’re interested in the story or simply want to admire the rugged coastline, it’s well worth stopping here while exploring Cape Greco.
Stop at Fig Tree Bay
Continue your journey to Fig Tree Bay in nearby Protaras, one of the most celebrated beaches in Cyprus. Its calm, shallow water and golden sand make it an ideal place to relax for a while or enjoy another swim. If you’re extending your stay in Ayia Napa, Fig Tree Bay is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
Stroll Along Protaras Seafront
Before heading back, take some time to explore the Protaras seafront. The palm-lined promenade offers beautiful coastal views and plenty of cafés where you can stop for a drink while overlooking the Mediterranean. It’s a much quieter atmosphere than Ayia Napa and makes a lovely addition to your day exploring the region.
End the Day at Love Bridge
Before returning to your hotel, stop at Love Bridge, one of Ayia Napa’s most recognisable natural landmarks. Formed naturally over thousands of years, the impressive rock arch stretches out over the Mediterranean and is one of the area’s most photographed locations. If you’re visiting in the late afternoon, you’ll often be rewarded with beautiful golden light, making it an ideal time for photos.
After a full day exploring the coastline, head back to your hotel to relax before enjoying dinner in Ayia Napa. For me, this was the perfect way to end the day. Standing above the Mediterranean as the sun began to set, it was easy to understand why Cape Greco is considered one of the most beautiful places to visit in Cyprus.
Day 3: Explore the Cultural Side of Cyprus
After two days spent discovering Ayia Napa’s spectacular coastline, spend your final full day exploring a different side of Cyprus. From botanical gardens and hands-on workshops to the historic streets of Larnaca, today’s itinerary is all about slowing down and experiencing the island’s rich culture.
Visit CyHerbia Botanical Park
Start your morning at CyHerbia Botanical Park, a peaceful retreat surrounded by fragrant herbs, colourful flowers and beautifully landscaped gardens. If you’re looking for a break from the beaches, this is the perfect place to slow down and experience another side of Cyprus.
One of the highlights of visiting CyHerbia is taking part in one of its hands-on workshops. During my visit, I learned how to make my own natural soap and face mist using ingredients inspired by the surrounding gardens, giving me a greater appreciation for the plants that thrive in Cyprus. It was such a fun experience and it’s a great souvenir to bring home.
I was also fascinated to learn more about how essential oils are produced. It takes around two hours to complete the distillation process, but the most surprising fact was just how much plant material is required. Around 22 kilograms of plants are needed to produce a single 120ml bottle of essential oil. So basically the weight of a suitcase you can bring on a Jet2Holiday! Every plant produces a different quantity of oil, making these tiny bottles far more valuable than they first appear.
If you’re interested in natural skincare, gardening or simply learning something new, this is an experience that’s well worth adding to your Ayia Napa itinerary. This is also where you can find only Hedge Maze in Cyprus, with over 600m of twisting paths in between tall hedges. It is 2000 square metres of green space is a fun activity for all ages.
Explore Larnaca
Next, make your way to Larnaca, one of the oldest cities in Cyprus and an easy day trip from Ayia Napa. Unlike the lively beach atmosphere of Ayia Napa, Larnaca offers a slower pace of life, where history and modern life blend seamlessly together. Start with a stroll along the palm-lined Finikoudes Promenade before making your way to the beautiful Church of Saint Lazarus. Dating back to the 9th century, the church is renowned for its impressive Byzantine architecture and beautifully preserved interior.
From there, spend some time wandering through Larnaca’s charming streets, where you’ll discover independent boutiques, hidden cafés, colourful alleyways and traditional buildings full of character. I always think the best way to experience a city is simply by exploring on foot, and Larnaca is no exception. Around every corner you’ll find something new, whether it’s a quiet courtyard, a local shop or another great place to stop for a coffee.
Learn to Make a Traditional Brandy Sour
If you’re looking for a fun way to experience Cypriot culture, a cocktail-making workshop is something a little different. We stopped at Sunmoon Creative space and it was the perfect spot for. We had a delicious lunch and then went straight into drink making.
During the class, I learned how to make one of Cyprus’ most famous drinks, the Brandy Sour. Originally created on the island, this refreshing cocktail has become a staple in bars across Cyprus and is surprisingly easy to recreate at home.
We also had the opportunity to try Zivania, a traditional Cypriot spirit often referred to as the island’s moonshine. At 43% alcohol, it’s certainly not for the faint-hearted but being Irish of course I could handle it! Tasting this locally produced drink was a memorable way to learn more about Cyprus’ food and drink culture. YAMAS (how to say cheers in Cyprus)
Take a Pottery Class
Finish your afternoon with a pottery workshop, where you’ll have the opportunity to create your own ceramic piece under the guidance of a local artisan. We went to Studio Ceramics and it was a great experience especially with a group. The bonus was they have a gorgeous cat (like most places in Cyprus) and it felt like being back in art class in school.
If you’re looking for a souvenir that’s a little more meaningful than something you’ll find in a gift shop, this is a fantastic experience. Not only do you leave with something you’ve made yourself, but you also gain an insight into one of Cyprus’ traditional crafts and the skill that goes into every handmade piece.
End Your Final Evening at Avra Restaurant
Round off your final evening in Ayia Napa with dinner at Avra Restaurant, where fresh Mediterranean ingredients and traditional Cypriot hospitality come together for a memorable final meal. After three days spent discovering the beaches, hidden coves, historic towns and local traditions that make this corner of Cyprus so special, it’s the perfect way to reflect on an unforgettable long weekend before heading home.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Aiya Napa worth visiting?
Yes, Ayia Napa is well worth visiting if you’re looking for beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, scenic coastal walks and easy day trips. While it’s often known for its nightlife, I discovered a completely different side of the destination, from the dramatic landscapes of Cape Greco to cultural experiences in nearby Larnaca.
Is a long weekend enough time in Ayia Napa?
A long weekend is the perfect amount of time to experience many of Ayia Napa’s highlights. In three full days, you can relax on some of Cyprus’ most beautiful beaches, take a Blue Lagoon cruise, explore Cape Greco and even enjoy a day trip to Larnaca. If you have longer, you’ll have more time to unwind, but a long weekend is enough to get a great taste of the region.
What is the best time to visit Ayia Napa?
The best time to visit Ayia Napa is between April and June or September and October. During these months, you’ll enjoy warm temperatures, fewer crowds and ideal conditions for sightseeing, boat trips and beach days. If you go in July or August the temperature is very hot so bear that in mind.
Is Ayia Napa only for nightlife?
Not at all. Although Ayia Napa has a reputation for its nightlife, I was surprised by how much more the area has to offer. From stunning beaches and boat cruises to historic sites, nature parks and cultural experiences, there is plenty to do even if you have no interest in partying.
Why are there so many cats in Cyprus?
One thing you’ll quickly notice when visiting Cyprus is the number of cats. Cats have lived on the island for centuries and are thought to have originally been brought to Cyprus to help control snake populations. Today, they can be found almost everywhere, from beaches and archaeological sites to hotel grounds and city streets. If you’re a cat lover like me, spotting friendly feline residents is an unexpected bonus of visiting Cyprus!
Conclusion:
This long weekend itinerary will is the perfect way to experience Aiya Napa as a local. It is certainly more than its reputation as a party destination. I thoroughly enjoyed my first time in Cyprus and it certainly won’t be my last! It such an incredible country with great weather, friendly locals, incredible food and drink and variety of activities depending on how you prefer to travel. Jet2 Holidays have the best packages to Visit Cyprus so I highly recommend taking a look.