Ayia Napa Holidays

Ayia Napa is a resort town on the south-east coast of Cyprus, which is a four-and-a-half-hour flight from the UK. It’s known for being a bit of a party animal, thanks to its nightclubs, karaoke bars and foam parties. But it’s also got a peaceful side, with cobbled streets, harbourside tavernas and a Medieval monastery.

Blue Flags flutter everywhere in Ayia Napa – all 14 beaches that spool the eight-kilometre coastline have got one. And each of them comes with its own personality. Makronissos Beach leads the way with watersports, while family-friendly Sandy Beach has gently shelving sand. And although not strictly a beach, the rocks by the harbour are perfect for a bit of peace and quiet.

Of course, Ayia Napa goes all out at night. If it’s 2-for-1 drinks, buzzing clubs and foam parties you want, you’ll find it here. But there are also plenty of trendy – and quieter – beach bars for chilled-out cocktails by the sea. And it’s surprisingly well-suited to families, too, with a good line-up of live entertainment and hypnotists.

The capital of Cyprus is just an hour away by car. You can explore the pretty old town within its sandstone Venetian walls, wander around the museums and churches and browse the fabric shops and jewellers. There are also lots of little cafés where you can stop for a reviving Cypriot coffee. As for shopping, the pedestrianised Laiki Geitonia area is top souvenir territory.