Top things to do in Ayia Napa: 5 activities to enjoy this autumn-winter
The seaside haven of Ayia Napa is one of the most popular destinations in Cyprus for good reason. The beaches are rated as the best on the island, the hotels in the region are second to none, and there’s a wide array of entertainment and dining options to inspire the senses and satiate the taste buds. There are countless things to do in this vibrant resort, but there’s a common misconception that the seaside town is just a summer destination. On the contrary, however, many locals and travelers find Ayia Napa even more appealing once the high season ends.
First and foremost, the milder yet sunny days are ideal for outdoor activities. Even during the thick of winter, temperatures generally hover around a pleasant 15-25 degrees in the daytime. What’s more, numerous museums and historic sites beckon the curious traveler, with tales to tell about the area’s past and culture.
Kick back by quiet beaches
The daring at heart can enjoy a dip in Ayia Napa’s refreshing waters throughout the cooler months. But even if you don’t want to take the plunge, you can still enjoy basking in the sunshine by the glistening blue. In fact, the autumn and winter months offer the perfect opportunity to experience some of the best beaches on the island sans the crowds. From the dreamy Makronissos, to the powdery white sands of world-famous Nissi Beach, there are plenty of spots to carve out a quiet slice of paradise to call your own. Take a good book with you and you’ll be in seventh heaven in no time. Find out more about the best beaches to visit in the area here.
Make a day of it at a museum
Want to get to know more about the island’s seafaring history? Head straight to the Thalassa Museum. A great place to entertain the whole family, the exhibits take you on a colourful journey through time. And you’re bound to be blown away by the museum’s main exhibit: the ‘Kyrenia II’ vessel, a life-size replica of the ancient ship of Kyrenia from the Classical period (400 B.C.). If you’re still looking for top things to do in Ayia Napa, venture a little further afield to the Avgrorou Folk Art Museum. Step foot into this village gem and prepare for a great glimpse of the island’s culture and traditions. Make sure you check out the rare 19th-century wood-carved furniture, priceless traditional textiles, and embroideries.
Explore stunning historic sites
No one really wants to be out and about exploring in the middle of the summer sizzle. But once the autumn-winter months set in, culture vultures and history buffs begin to gravitate towards Ayia Napa’s stunning outdoor sites. If you’re looking for top things to do in Ayia Napa, the town’s imposing monastery beckons. Dating to the 15th century, this Venetian monastery stands on the grounds of a Medieval Castle built around 1500 AD. Don’t leave the monastery before taking a snap of the ancient sycamore tree on the grounds. It’s actually believed to be over 600 years old! For more historic splendor, the Markronissos Tombs await. Right beside the water’s edge, these rock-cut tombs were once used in the Hellenistic and Roman periods and lie behind a small sanctuary and ancient quarry.
Get your heart racing with outdoor pursuits
If you love to get moving in nature, look no further than the rugged Cape Greco National Park. Laced with nature trails, the park boasts dramatic scenery. And it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a power walk or leisurely cycle. The routes within the park are well signposted, one of which forms part of the E4 European Long-Distance Trail. The rocky Cape Greco headland is also known for its striking sea caves and the picture-perfect whitewashed church of Agoi Anargyroi. Avid birdwatchers are also in for a treat here; the area is renowned as a key migration site for countless birds.
Wine, dine, and relax in the finest style
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, the gorgeous Ayia Napa Marina is the place to be. Attracting visitors throughout the day, the commercial village is the heart of all the action, home to revered restaurants with a reputation as some of the finest on the island. Be sure to tuck into a hearty mid-day delicacy by the Med at Le Deli Robuchon, now serving a delicious new brunch menu. Or stop off for a treat at Sueno Azul, the marina’s waterfront surf’n’turf restaurant. For the finest French fare with a modern twist, L’Atelier Robuchon is not to be missed. Culinary offering aside, you can also take it easy with a hot drink in hand at Coffee Berry or strike a pose in front of the highly Instagrammable Event Center!
Find out more about restaurants, cafes, shops, and sites to see within Ayia Napa Marina’s commercial village here.
