When it comes to choosing a destination for a romantic holiday in Cyprus, Protaras and Ayia Napa are often at the centre of the debate. Both cities offer plenty of holiday options, but choosing between them may depend on your preferences. In this article, we'll look at the pros and cons of each city to help you decide on the location for your perfect holiday.
Protaras: The perfect place for a relaxing holiday
Pros
Located in the south-east of Cyprus, Protaras is renowned for its crystal clear waters and tranquil atmosphere. It is ideal for couples looking for privacy and tranquillity. There is none of the raucous nightlife typical of Ayia Napa, making Protaras attractive to those who want to enjoy romantic walks along the coast and dinners in cosy restaurants. One of the main attractions of Protaras is its famous beach, Fig Tree Bay. This beach is regularly included in lists of the best beaches in Europe due to its cleanliness and beautiful sandy shores. For couples who appreciate nature and tranquillity, this place will be a true paradise.
Examples of Hotels
- Capo Bay Hotel - Situated on the shores of Fig Tree Bay, this hotel offers stunning sea views and first class leisure facilities. The rooms are contemporary in style and the hotel has a spa centre and several restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
- The Cavo Maris Beach Hotel is another hotel ideal for couples. It offers spacious rooms with sea views and a variety of activities including water sports and tennis. Personally, I have stayed here a couple of times with my family and we really enjoyed it. I would give it a solid 4 stars, but for the surrounding nature, the manicured gardens and the quality of the food you can give it all 5 stars.
Cons
The quiet atmosphere of Protaras may not suit those looking for an active nightlife. Evening entertainment is limited and most bars and restaurants close early. Also, if you're planning to spend a lot of time travelling around the island, it's worth remembering that Protaras is a little further away from the main towns and attractions than Ayia Napa.
Ayia Napa: the epicentre of nightlife and entertainment
Pros
Known as the 'nightlife capital' of Cyprus, Ayia Napa offers a wide range of entertainment and activities. The town is ideal for couples who want to combine beach relaxation with a vibrant party scene. Nightclubs, bars and discos make Ayia Napa an attractive destination for young couples who love the nightlife. Ayia Napa's beaches are also well worth a visit. Nissi Beach, one of the most popular beaches on the island, is known for its parties and outdoor activities. Here you can enjoy music from the best DJs, beach games and water activities. There are also several museums in Ayia Napa, including the Underwater Sculpture Museum and the Open Air Sculpture Museum. 
Examples of hotels
- NissiBlu Beach Resort is a popular hotel close to Nissi Beach. It offers stylish rooms with sea views, a large swimming pool and a variety of restaurants. It is ideal for those who want to be in the middle of the action but still relax in comfortable surroundings.
- Adams Beach Hotel is a five star hotel with direct access to Nissi Beach. It has several pools, including one with waterslides, making it a popular choice for young couples looking for fun and outdoor activities. I also tried the beauty salon here and was pleased with the quality of the service.
Cons
However, the raucous nightlife of Ayia Napa can be a disadvantage for those looking for a quiet holiday, at least after 2am. Noisy parties and large numbers of tourists can create a sense of hustle and bustle, especially in high season. In addition, hotel and restaurant prices in Ayia Napa tend to be higher than in Protaras, which should be taken into account when planning your budget.
Which one to choose?
Ultimately, the choice between Protaras and Ayia Napa depends on your preferences. If you are looking for tranquillity, privacy and romance, Protaras is the perfect choice. Its quiet beaches and cosy hotels provide all the ingredients for an unforgettable holiday for two. If you prefer active holidays, late night parties and a variety of entertainment, Ayia Napa has everything you need for a busy and vibrant holiday. This town never sleeps and there is something for everyone.
Whatever you choose, Cyprus will provide you with an unforgettable experience and plenty of holiday options. Choose what you like best and enjoy every moment of your holiday.
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