Discover the highlights of Cyprus – an island full of intriguing culture and stunning coastal views.

Over the course of this guided holiday, we’ll uncover the remnants of once-mighty kingdoms scattered across the countryside, from the architectural legacy of the Venetian and Ottoman periods to Bronze Age tombs and Neolithic dwellings.

We’ll start with a tour of Limassol, taking in historic sites like the archaeological park of Curium and venture into its surrounding vineyards for a wine tasting in a local cellar.

We’ll take an excursion to Paphos, one of the most important archaeological regions on the island and visit the country’s capital, Nicosia, the only world capital spanning two countries.

We’ll also have plenty of time at leisure to discover Limassol on our own or relax on the island’s beautiful beaches.

What You’ll Love

• Explore the fascinating history & picturesque landscape of Cyprus on this 7-night holiday (4* Half Board)
• Hear the history of the medieval town of Limassol on a half day guided walking tour
• Visit Cyprus’ capital city, Nicosia, & cross into Northern Cyprus on a full day excursion
• Sample regional flavours on a wine tasting excursion to a local winery in Omodos
• Spend a full day exploring the Paphos region, home to the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite
• Enjoy plenty of leisure time to relax at our beachfront hotel or explore at your own pace
• Flights & transfers

Subject to availability. Single supplements apply. To check latest availability, call 0131 608 1238 quoting “DC Thomson Travel”

Itinerary

Day 1 – Travel to Cyprus

On arrival in Paphos, you will be met our local representative who will assist you in the transfer to your hotel.

Day 2 – Limassol

Begin your adventure with a full day guided sightseeing tour of Limassol and Omodos. Start with a walking tour through the old city of Limassol, passing by the medieval fort built in the 14th century. It was here that according to tradition, Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre. Afterwards, take a drive through the Phassouri citrus plantations to the archaeological park of Curium to visit the Greco Roman Theatre, House of Eustolios and the ruins of the Cathedral of Curium, an early Christian basilica dating back to the 5th century.

Continue on your journey driving through the vineyard area of Limassol to see one of the most beautiful and traditional villages of the island, Omodos. Here you will have free time for lunch. After lunch, you will visit the Monastery of the Holy Cross at the village square. There will also be an opportunity to partake in some wine tasting and Shushukko tasting in one of the village’s wine cellars before returning to your hotel.

Day 3 – At Leisure

You will have the day at leisure to discover Limassol at your own pace. Your guide will be delighted to suggest places of interest.

Day 4 – Paphos

After breakfast, depart for Paphos, one of the most important archaeological regions on the island. Start your day with a visit to ‘Petra tou Romiou’, the place where, according to Greek mythology Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and love was born. After a short break, continue onwards to Kato Pafos to see the Chrysopolitissa Church built in the 13th century. Within the compound is St Paul’s Pillar, where, according to tradition, St Paul was flogged. Next is a visit to the Tombs of the Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage site of underground tombs dating back to the 4th century BC.

Enjoy a guided tour to the Archaeological Park where the Houses of Dionysus, Aion and Thysseus are located. The mosaic floors of these noblemen’s villas are considered among the finest in Eastern Mediterranean. Your final visit of the day will be the Monastery of St Neophytos before returning to your hotel.

Day 5 – At Leisure

Enjoy a day at leisure. Take a relaxing walk on the beach, or why not visit the historical centre with its very own castle that hosts the Medieval Museum of Cyprus. The museum has exhibits from all over the island. There is plenty to explore and your guide will be delighted to suggest places of interest.

Day 6 – Nicosia

This morning, set off to the capital of the island, Nicosia. Nicosia is located at the centre of the island. Its history can be traced back to the Bronze Age; it boasts a Royal Palace and over 50 churches. Today Nicosia is the only divided capital city in the world. You will visit the St John Cathedral, the Byzantine Museum and the Archaeological Museum. There will be free time in the old part of the city within the Venetian Walls to explore and have lunch at your leisure.

After lunch, take a guided walking tour of the famous Ledra Street, pass the checkpoint and visit the North part of Nicosia. You will also visit the Saint Sophia Gothic Cathedral built in the 13th century and the Buyuk Han before your return back to Limassol.

Please Note – Important Passport Information

It may be possible to visit the Northern (Turkish) part of Nicosia during free time on this excursion. EU passport holders must bring their passport or European ID card with them. Non-EU passport holders require a visa to enter.

Day 7 – At Leisure

Take advantage of a final day at leisure, to enjoy some more sightseeing, shopping and relaxing by the sea

Day 8 – Return Home

After breakfast, transfer from your hotel to Pathos Airport for your flight home, with guide assistance.