Europe · Cyprus
This comprehensive itinerary traverses the entire island of Cyprus, a veritable open-air museum where history unfolds in layers from prehistoric times through to the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras.
This comprehensive itinerary traverses the entire island of Cyprus, a veritable open-air museum where history unfolds in layers from prehistoric times through to the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras. The journey winds between the Republic of Cyprus and the northern region, providing a profound perspective on the historical and cultural complexities of this Mediterranean crossroads.
The route visits the island's most significant archaeological sites, from the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos to the majestic Kolossi Castle, the ancient seat of the Knights Templar, and the UNESCO-listed frescoed churches of the Troodos Mountains. Exploration includes the capital, Nicosia, the last divided city in Europe, where Byzantine and Islamic monuments coexist within an urban landscape dating back to the Bronze Age.
Based in Larnaca, the programme balances visits to coastal hubs such as Limassol and Kyrenia with immersions into the mountainous hinterland and traditional villages like Omodos and Kakopetria. This experience seamlessly blends classical archaeology and medieval architecture with the discovery of the island's long-standing winemaking traditions.
8 days in the programme
Depart on an international flight and arrive in Larnaca, the starting point for your exploration of the island of Aphrodite Depart on an international flight and arrive in Larnaca, the starting point for your exploration of the island of Aphrodite. Transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.
A day dedicated to discovering the eastern coast A day dedicated to discovering the eastern coast. Visit the ancient city-state of Salamis before continuing to Famagusta, home to the striking Gothic cathedral converted into a mosque, a testament to the island's shifting rulers. Return to Larnaca for the night.
An excursion to the northern part of the island An excursion to the northern part of the island. The day features a visit to the atmospheric St. Hilarion Castle, perched on the Kyrenia Mountains, and the harbour town of Kyrenia. Continue to Bellapais to admire the Abbey of Peace before returning to Larnaca.
Visit Nicosia, the divided capital housing treasures from the Bronze Age through to the Byzantine and Islamic periods Visit Nicosia, the divided capital housing treasures from the Bronze Age through to the Byzantine and Islamic periods. The programme includes the Church of St. Lazarus in Larnaca and, in Nicosia, the Cyprus Museum and an exploration of both the northern and southern sectors of the city. Return to Larnaca.
A day spent in the mountainous Troodos interior A day spent in the mountainous Troodos interior. Visit the villages of Galata, Kakopetria, and Kalopanayiotis, famous for their small, frescoed churches. These masterpieces of Byzantine art are protected as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Return to Larnaca in the evening.
Transfer towards the Limassol area Transfer towards the Limassol area. Visit the spectacular and remarkably intact Kolossi Castle, once the headquarters of the Order of St. John and later the Templars. Continue to the archaeological site of Kourion and the village of Omodos, one of the best-preserved villages on the island, renowned for its wine production. Overnight stay in the Limassol or Larnaca area as per the programme.
The itinerary moves westwards to Petra tou Romiou, the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite The itinerary moves westwards to Petra tou Romiou, the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite. After a stop at Kouklia, reach Paphos to admire the world-famous mosaics, including Leda and the Swan, and the majestic Tombs of the Kings. Return to Larnaca for your final night.
Transfer to Larnaca airport in good time for your onward flight.
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