When you picture Ayia Napa’s nightlife, chances are, the infamous strip pops into your head. Yes, this corner of Cyprus hosts night long parties to rival anything you might find in Ibiza. But there’s a quieter side of Napa that rarely spends time in the limelight. We’ve covered the best of both worlds. For those looking to dip a toe in the bars and clubs of Ayia Napa square – we’ve got chic cocktail bars for you to quietly slip away to – or to start your night off. Truth be told, the best nights in Ayia Napa combine a little of everything.
Clubs
Castle Club
The Castle Club has had more than its fair share of free promo over the years. Yes, it’s been the place to party for over two decades, but there’s a reason DJ Mag keeps piling on those spots in its World’s Top 100 lists. This club draws big names, throws the biggest parties and never once stops to ride on the wave of its success. Every winter, the club gets revamped and renovated ready for a new season of revellers. From a tiny one room start up, the Castle Club has become Ayia Napa’s superclub. 14 bars, 5 dance arenas and a chill out terrace are just the start of this venue’s sprawling space Drop in to dance to a mix from one of the 20 resident DJs or fly in to catch a set from the big hitters. Names like Paul Oakenfold, Tiesto, Judge Jules and David Morales tend to draw a crowd. Book your spot early.
Club Black n’ White
The Castle Club might dominate the dance, trance and electronic scene, but if you’re looking for RnB, reggae, garage and hip hop, it has to be Club Black n’ White. Since the mid 80s, this venue has racked up genre-specific awards, welcomed international DJs through the doors and earned its place as a legendary Ayia Napa nightlife spot. Open seven nights a week in the summer season, Club Black n’ White stands out as being among the few venues that stay open year round. So, if you’re nipping over to Napa for a winter warmer, your Friday and Saturday nights are sorted.
Orbzii tip: In summer, Friday nights in Napa are all about Club Black n’ White’s Switch event. The event sees DJs fly in to spin the best urban beats. Expect to see names like CJ Beatz, Devon Kosoko and Phat Cat in the lineup.
Bars
Senior Frog’s
The neon-hued nights at Senior Frog’s are classic Napa. Crowded, chaotic and crazy, this party bar is where things get silly – rather than wild. The entertainment crew keeps the vibe in the bar fun, rather than feisty, with stellar cocktails, classic karaoke and hilarious comedy nights. The in-house gift shop, where you can buy Senior Frog’s branded merch says a lot about the popularity of this venue that’s the last place in Ayia Napa you’ll ever expect to take itself seriously. Yes, the nightly karaoke sees more crooners than chart toppers – but the drinking games and spontaneous vibe more than makes up for it. Behind the layer of fun and non-stop party atmosphere, there’s a dedicated crew keeping this venue among the top Ayia Napa nightlife spots. Not an easy task.
Cafe Central
Not every Ayia Napa nightlife venue comes with pre-packaged hedonism and free shots. For a chilled start to your night, take a seat at Cafe Central. As well as being one of the best places to eat in Ayia Napa, this chic all day dining nook slips into a sophisticated spot to enjoy shisha, cocktails and supper. The extensive menu hits all the right ‘something for everyone’ notes – vegans included. And, the drinks list flirts with high end spirits – think Grey Goose and Hendricks, while adding a little something from Ayia Napa’s strip to the mix. Yes, you can down a Jägermeister here, but you’re far more likely to choose from the signature cocktail selection. If a Kinky Floss (a blend of Greek liqueurs, pineapple puree and lime juice) doesn’t hit the spot, there’s always the faithful negroni to fall back on.
Perhaps more pleasingly, there’s a huge menu of soft drinks to choose from too. Helpful if you’re tee total, pacing yourself or having a quiet one.
The Alternative Ayia Napa
Hotel Bars
Alion
Flitting between Ayia Napa hotels to check out their bars is one of the best ways to sample some of the area’s low key night spots. The 5 star Alion Beach Hotel has two bars to choose from – the iPANEMA Lounge Bar and the Amethystos Bar. Both serve cocktails, sophisticated interiors and chilled vibes all night long. For a little samba swing with your Pisco Sour, the iPANEMA Lounge Bar pairs cocktails, rums and tequila with a seductive soundtrack that might well seduce you into taking a look at the South American inspired menu. If that’s not for you, the Amethystos Bar and Verandah menu is strictly drinks only. Though, prepare to spend a minute or ten reading through the pages of this well stocked bar’s repertoire. Live music, sunsets and stars are also on the menu, if you’re setting the scene for a romantic night.
NissiBlu
The bars at NissiBlu could serve any number of nightlife purposes. But you’re likely to find yourself starting the night here – either at the sunset bar or the lounge lobby bar. Both are chic nooks tucked away in this 5 star, family friendly hotel. But the live music in each venue could see you skipping off to Ayia Napa harbour to find a quieter spot to enjoy. The Nissi Beach location means you’re not short on nearby options, if you’re looking for something a little livelier, or the hotel bars make an ideal place to stop off if you’ve strolled the sands to admire the sunset.
Orbzii tip: Neither bar serves what you might describe as a square meal. But, if you pick the lounge bar, don’t miss the chance to pair your nightcap with an indulgent dessert from Alion’s restaurants.
Sunset Cruises
One way to swerve the antics on the Ayia Napa strip? Hop aboard a sunset cruise, leaving the bass-thumping shores behind. Just choose wisely. There are plenty of party boats waiting to set sail for the sunset too. To really push the boat out (sorry) choose a charter company such as Deep Blue Crew. For €650 you – and up to 20 friends, can hire their 75ft cruiser for an evening of swimming, snorkelling, champagne and strawberries. For something a little more budget friendly, Paphos Sea Cruises sails the Mediterraneneo III catamaran out of Green Bay for adults only sunset cruises. Scenic views of Cape Greco and Green Bay aside, the champagne, cocktails and drinks are balanced nicely with a buffet dinner – meaning things should never get too rowdy on this cruise.
Ayia Napa Harbour
The harbour might only be a 15 minute walk from the central clubs and nightlife on Ayia Napa’s strip, but the ambience here couldn’t be more different. A clutch of small seafood tavernas – and cafes, cater to those looking for sea views, sunset strolls and sushi. After a meal – and a few cocktails, the promenade leads you west, allowing you to explore the beaches with a few less sunbathers.
Orbzii tip: If you’re not a fan of chain restaurants, swerve a seat at Ocean Basket and plump for a local spot instead. The South African seafood chain’s food is well liked, but you won’t find another Vassos Fish Tavern anywhere other than Ayia Napa.
Ready to explore the best of Ayia Napa‘s nightlife? Download the Orbzii app today and book your perfect getaway.
