Ayia Napa

Description

Located at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus is the lively resort of Ayia Napa. This previously sleepy village has now become a premier nightlife location. It has seen quite a lot of development in the past couple of years and is now home to numerous modern hotels, restaurants and shops. One of the major reasons Ayia Napa is visited is for its bar and club scene. However, for those not interested, there are several other sites, attractions and activities that will keep them occupied. Tourists can visit the many beautiful beaches and other natural attractions in Ayia Napa, explore the many ruins and museums in the area; including the beautiful 16^th century Venetian Monastery, participate in a plethora of outdoor activities, and can even go on a cruise. Muslim visitors will find it difficult to locate Halal-friendly facilities, including Halal restaurants and mosques, in Ayia Napa.

Ayia Napa has something for everyone; visitors are sure to never get bored. Tourists should visit the museums and historic attractions in the area as well as go on tours to learn more about the resort town. Ayia Napa also boasts some stunning sandy beaches including Nissi beach. Located only three kilometers west of Ayia Napa, Nissi Beach is a renowned blue flag beach that is a must-visit. Its turquoise waters draw in visitors from all over the world and during the summer, the beach can get quite crowded. Holiday makers will be presented with a variety of outdoor activities here and it is the ideal place for watersport enthusiasts. It provides the perfect setting to paraglide, jet ski, paddleboat and swim, and is even perfect for those looking to just laze around. A popular way for visitors to get around Ayia Napa and to get from the town to Nissi beach is to rent a moped, a buggy or a quad bike. 

Another way to learn more about the area would be to take a boat tour on the renowned emerald green waters. These tours are freely available and last from half a day to one whole day. Sights on a boat tour in the area usually include; the Ghost Town of Famagusta, the beaches and bays between Ayia Napa and Protaras, interesting sea caves and so much more. Visitors will also get the chance to go snorkeling, swimming and cliff jumping and may also come across wild dolphins, while on the boat.

A few great places to take kids include; Waterworld Water Park and Parko Paliatso. Ayia Napa also offers some great diving spots that are ideal for both; beginners and experienced divers. There are also areas for visitors to go bungee jumping, go-karting, cycling and paintballing. Tourists looking to get in a bit of shopping can visit the many shops and boutiques in the area, and will not be disappointed.

Nearby Airports

The nearest airport to Ayia Napa is Larnaca International Airport, which is located approximately 5 kilometres from the center of Larnaca and approximately an hour away from Ayia Napa. Visitors can hire a cab from the airport to Ayia Napa; which is approximately a 30 to 50 minute drive.

Halal Restaurants

There are no known Halal restaurants in Ayia Napa. Muslim visitors may be able to get some advice on where to dine at by making inquiries at the local mosque. They can also stick to vegetarian and seafood options offered at local non-Halal restaurants after ensuring that the food served does not consist of any non-Halal item. Muslims must also be aware that most restaurants in Ayia Napa do serve alcohol. 

Mosques

There is one known mosque in Ayia Napa, namely; Masjid Syedna Ibrahim. This mosque serves the small community of Muslims in Ayia Napa and is frequented by Muslim tourists. Apart from conducting the five daily prayers, the mosque also has Jumu’ah prayers on Fridays. 

Things to Do and See in Ayia Napa

• Nissi Beach
• Boat Cruise
• Outdoor activities
• Waterworld Water Park
• Cape Greco National Park
• Parko Paliatso
• Ayia Napa Monastery
• Thalassa Museum