Ayia Napa – Protaras

Ayia Napa – Protaras, Cyprus

Once only a small fishing village, Ayia Napa has become one of the world's best travel destinations, known as a cosmopolitan resort area. Located on the eastern coast of Cyprus, it is a town of great beauty, full of history and culture, with friendly and hospitable people. Nearby Protaras is a popular resort area with some of the world's best golden beaches, crystal clear waters and lively entertainment. Whether you are looking for fascinating history, vibrant culture and nightlife, astounding natural beauty or a relaxing beach vacation, together these areas make up one of the Mediterranean's most desirable destinations.

Population:

Currency:

Euro, 1 EUR = 100 cents

Emergency Numbers:

112 / 199

Opening Hours:

Newspapers:

Cyprus Observer (in English)
Cyprus Telegraph (in English)
Famagusta Gazette

Ayia Napa

The name Ayia Napa is derived from a Venetian-era monastery of the same name, located in the centre of the town, next to the square that acts today as a nightlife hub. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. "Napa" is archaic and means "wooded valley" or dell, since in ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.

Geographically, Ayia Napa lies near Cape Greco on the eastern part of Cyprus, just south of Famagusta, and forms part of a larger area known as Kokkinochoria ("Red Villages", a name derived from the red colour of the soil). Ayia Napa is about 8 kilometres (5 mi) from Protaras, a town that has recently seen similar development, but still manages to remain low-key and remains more favourable for families and local Cypriot.

Protaras-Paralimni

Protaras-Paralimni is situated on the southeastern fringe of Cyprus and has the privilege of seeing the first sunrise in Europe. Paralimni, the main town, combines the advantages of a traditional village with the conveniences of a contemporary town, and there is an air of timelessness in the Town Center.

Protaras, the tourist area, extends along the eastern coast of Paralimni and stretches for 10km from the district of ‘Kapparis’ to the location of ‘Konnos’. Hundreds of windmills grant its landscape a quaint, tranquil beauty. Fantastic beaches with crystal clear waters are found along this coast, most of them accredited with the prestigious Blue Flag status.

The lengthy seaside promenade is perfect for a sunset stroll or a leisurely bicycle ride, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the area further. Visit the harbors of Agia Triada and the picturesque Agios Nicolaos. Follow a nature trail or one of the cycling paths and enjoy seamless views of the sea. Along them you’ll discover rare species of flora and fauna and you'll be greeted by little chapels, such as Agioi Saranta, which is set in a mountain cave, or Agios Ioannis, a little chapel hidden in a valley. The ascent of the 153-steps leading to the chapel of Profitis Elias will definitely reward you with breathtaking views of Protaras.

Hotels, self-catering apartments, a wide range of restaurants, taverns, pubs and clubs are here to cater to the needs of even the most demanding tourist. Therefore, whether you choose to simply soak up the sun, explore the underwater world, wander the quaint streets of Paralimni, visit Byzantine churches or enjoy yourself in a club, once you are in Protaras-Paralimni a world of choices awaits you!

Beach Life

Discover numerous golden beaches with crystal clear waters, each of them awarded a Blue Flag, and indulge in the warmth of the sun. Enjoy swimming, water sports and a cruise around the coast of Ayia Napa. Explore the wild natural beauty of Cape Greco, and do some biking or hiking on nature trails with wildflowers and fauna.

For more information on the many beaches in the area, visit:
http://www.visitfamagusta.com.cy/discover-cyprus/beaches/ayia-napa.html

Do & See

There is a wealth of attractions and places to visit, both beautiful and interesting. Be sure to visit the Monastery and the Old and New Church dedicated to Virgin Mary, the picturesque harbor, the Municipal Museum ‘’Thalassa’’, the Makronissos Archaeological Tombs, the Venetian Aqueduct, and the rural churches and chapels all around town, as well as the Sculpture Park, the Love Bridge, and the iconic ‘’I Love Ayia Napa’’ sculpture in the Central Square.