Sunny beautiful island of Cyprus attracts many tourists, its cities - a real paradise for those who are looking for relaxation, inspiration and noisy entertainment. As you know, most of the resort towns are located on the island's territory and they are all simply wonderful. Famous tourist areas in Cyprus are Paphos and Ayia Napa . They have many differences, both in infrastructure and in entertainment. We will tell you the pros and cons of these cities - so you can easily decide what to choose: Paphos or Ayia Napa.
Beaches
A lot of families with young children come to Paphos or Ayia Napa to rest. They are attracted by clean air, a wide coastline and amazing landscapes. In Paphos there are many stony beaches, the exit to which is not always so easy to find. It is famous in this city known for the whole of Cyprus Coral Bay, where the settled sandy beach is located. On it day after day there is a huge number of tourists and locals, so those who seek peace and quiet, it will not become an ideal place. But for a naughty, noisy company, Coral Bay is a water entertainment center, because there are many water transport points on the beach. In addition, there are bars, discos and clubs on the sunny coast, which all visitors will like.
In Ayia Napa, a completely different situation with the beaches. There are a lot of them, but the shore is covered mostly with soft golden sand. The beaches of Ayia Napa are considered one of the best in Cyprus. Very popular are: Nissi Beach (where often noisy parties) and Makronisos Beach (suitable for families with children). You will find in Ayia Napa a lot of beaches that belong to hotels, and everyone gets a high enough rating from tourists. If you are accommodated in one of these hotels, then visiting the coast will be absolutely free. All the beaches in Ayia Napa unites, of course, comfort, cleanliness, picturesqueness and developed infrastructure. The city authorities carefully monitor that the shore is clean and safe for mischievous youth and for the youngest visitors.
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sights
One of the most striking attractions of Paphos was the bathhouse of Aphrodite . Be sure to visit it if you are in town, and bathe in its waters. Legends say that water in this place has the magic ability to rejuvenate the body. Even if you do not believe in it, then you can simply enjoy the stunning natural scenery. Another highlight of the city is the wonderful Park of Birds and Animals , where many species of tropical birds have settled: tuccas, flamingos, owls and parrots. In the enclosures of the park there are giraffes, antelopes and camels. The administration of the park arranges special shows every day. This place will appeal to adults and children and will give many good impressions. Fans of diving also have a lot to see in Paphos. For example, you can sink to the seabed at the rocky coast and get acquainted with the centuries-old underwater caves.
A natural landmark in Ayia Napa is Cape Greco, which is located near the rocks. Here you can visit the real caves-castles, which created nature itself. Probably, no one will remain indifferent after visiting the merry Luna Park . This is really an amazing place, it has a lot of interesting attractions for children and adults. You can have fun with the whole family and in the thematic Aquapark Water Word , in it you will find many unusual slides and spend an excellent time. Every day in the Sea Park of Ayia Napa, wonderful performances are performed, in which the main role is played by beautiful marine animals - dolphins. Here, as in any dolphinarium, you can simply swim with them, such an occupation will be to everyone's liking. Impressive tourists in Ayia Napa and the Park of Dinosaurs - a themed reserve, which housed statues of dinosaurs of enormous size (half the real ones). This place is liked by all children.
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Historical places
For tourists who want to get acquainted with the history and sights of Cyprus , it's really hard to choose between Paphos and Ayia Napa. In Paphos you will find such objects: the Archaeological Park of Kato, the Royal tombs , the monastery of St. Neophyte the Recluse , the Port Fortress. In the city you can visit two remarkable museums: the Archaeological Museum of Kuklia and the catacombs of Saint Solomon . In them you will learn ancient history and get acquainted with valuable archaeological finds.
In Ayia Napa, the main historical sites are: Covo Greco Forest Park, Cape Greco, pirate caves and grotto caves, the monastery of Ayia Napa , the Church of St. George, the Monastery of the Virgin Mary, the ruins of Makronisos .
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Nightlife and Entertainment
Paphos, in comparison with Ayia Napa, is quite a quiet city. But still there is in this city street Bar Street, which is famous for its busy nightlife. It has many bars and restaurants, as well as the most vibrant club-bar of the city - Robin Hood Bar.
Ayia Napa is a city that "comes to life" at night. On every beach and in the city you will find a lot of discos, clubs and bars. Ayia Napa is the center of nightlife in Cyprus, in fact, therefore, mostly young people come to it.
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