Paphos Tours

The myths of Cyprus come to life on this tour. You'll see where a legend was born, visit the ruins of Kourion, venture to the village of Omodos and cap off the day with a tasting at a family-run winery. Eva, one of our local guides, says of this excursion, ‘You'll wander through layers of history, culture and mythology, and learn about Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The rituals connected with her as well as the plants and seashells associated with her.'You'll dive straight into the past to see Petra tou Romiou, a sea stack where, local legend has it, the goddess Aphrodite was born. The ancient past takes on a more tangible form at Kourion, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Cyprus. Visit its Roman baths and amble into its centrepiece, the Greco-Roman theatre. It's still used for concerts. And up next is the Crusader-built Kolossi Castle, which belonged to the Knights Templar from the 14th century.Lunch is in a family-owned restaurant. It's as famed for its country fare made from locally sourced ingredients as it is for its scenic location in the hills. Then, we'll head to the mountain-nestled village of Omodos, where you'll have free time to wander around skinny cobbled streets lined with Byzantine buildings. And to round off the day, we'll visit the winery. Here, you'll sample some of its award-winning wines, including the commandaria variety, which Richard the Lionheart baptised as the ‘wine of kings and the king of wines'.

Cyprus is all rolling hills dotted with pretty villages. On this adults-only tour, you'll see where a legend was born, visit the ruins of Kourion, venture to the village of Omodos and cap off the day with a wine tasting. Eva, one of our local guides, says of this excursion, ‘You'll wander through layers of history, culture and mythology, and learn about Aphrodite. The rituals connected with her, as well as the plants and seashells associated with her legacy.'You'll dive straight into the past to see Petra tou Romiou — a sea stack where, according to legend, love goddess Aphrodite was born. We keep the theme ancient at Kourion, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Cyprus. Visit the Roman baths and amble into the site's centrepiece, the Greco-Roman theatre. Concerts are still held to this day. The 15th-century Kolossi Castle is up next. This Crusader-built fortress is surrounded by blooming plants.Then, we'll head for a local lunch in a family-run taverna before visiting mountain-fringed Omodos, where you'll wander around skinny cobbled streets lined with Byzantine buildings. It's Eva's favourite village. She says, ‘The charm of the stone houses, the tranquillity and peacefulness – it's as if it has sprung from a fairytale. I love dropping into one of the cafés and seeing locals have philosophical discussions, political arguments and a bit of gossip.' Plus, there's a wine tasting, where you'll learn all about sweet commandaria wine.

Cyprus is full of hidden treasures, and you'll explore some of the island's rural highlights on this full day excursion into the Troodos Mountains. You'll drive into the countryside – where most say the trip is worth it for the views alone – to Lampadistis Monastery and Kalopanayiotis, with a few pleasant surprises in between.

Philippos Yiapanis, a renowned Cypriot sculptor, was born in Famagusta in what is now the occupied Northern part of Cyprus. His life took a tumultuous turn when he was captured and incarcerated during the Turkish invasion, subsequently becoming a refugee in South Cyprus. His artistry is a manifestation of his deep longing for freedom and a vivid representation of local history. On this tour, you will meet the artist who will lead you on an exclusive visit to his museum where around 140 sculptures are on display. As well as discovering the inspiration behind some of his most powerful works, you'll also find out about the recent history of Cyprus and explore the artist's personal experiences, narrated through his compelling storytelling. On arrival at the Art Nest Museum, Philippos will welcome you personally, providing an insight into his life and work, giving you an understanding of the emotions that underpin his creations. You will then take time to explore the open-air sculpture park, and finish with a peek at the artistic process. A tour of the artist's workshop reveals his techniques for working in bronze, chosen to ensure the longevity of his pieces, to reflect the connection between Cyprus and copper, and to represent his enduring hope for unity in his divided homeland. Round off the experience enjoying local cuisine prepared in Kouklia village, reflecting on Cyprus's unique fusion of art, history, and culinary tradition.