Protaras has become a favorite spot for travelers craving more than just sun and sand. It’s also a great place to enjoy lunch experiences that combine scenic views, local flavors, and fun excursions. Whether you want a laid-back cruise with turtles and stunning coastlines or a full-day mountain jeep safari, Protaras offers options that go beyond typical seaside eateries. For a truly memorable meal with a view, the Luxury Yacht stands out with its gourmet Cypriot BBQ and sparkling sea vistas. But if it’s a relaxing day on the water with the chance to see turtles that appeals to you, the Medusa Cruises Turtle Cruise offers an unbeatable combination. Here, you get to enjoy both the sights and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for families and couples alike.
Protaras is more than just beaches; it’s a place where you can indulge in unique lunch experiences that include sightseeing, adventure, and local cuisine. Each tour on our list offers a different flavor of how to enjoy your midday meal — from sailing on the coast to exploring mountain villages. Let’s dive into what makes each of these options special.
1. Medusa Cruises: 4-Hour Turtle Chill-Out Cruise / Lunch
This 4-hour cruise combines relaxation with adventure and is perfect if you’re seeking a peaceful day on the water. You’ll board a comfortable boat and explore the coast of Protaras and Ayia Napa, with highlights including the Famagusta Viewpoint, where you witness the haunting ghost town of Varosha, and the iconic Fig Tree Bay. But the real star is the stop at Green Bay, known for its excellent diving and turtle sightings. You’ll have the chance to snorkel and swim in the calm waters of Konnos Bay, equipped with snorkeling gear provided on the boat.
Guests repeatedly praise the friendly crew who share stories about the local area—adding a layer of understanding to the scenic views. The highlight of this cruise is the swim with turtles, which many mention as a highlight of their trip. The boat also serves a light lunch, making the experience both relaxing and satisfying for about $29.03 per person. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 95 reviews, emphasizing the combination of friendly service, scenic stops, and fun swimming spots.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers a relaxed, scenic day with good snorkeling, an interesting historical stop, and the chance to see turtles—ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting a gentle day on the water.
2. ADULTS 16+ LUXURY YACHT – from Protaras Cypriot lunch & 1 drink
At number 2, the Luxury Yacht offers a more upscale experience. This is the biggest yacht in Protaras, and it’s designed for those who want comfort, style, and a gourmet meal. For around $40.33, you get a 3.5-hour cruise that sails along the coast, past Cape Greco’s famous sea caves and the Blue Lagoon—a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling.
What makes this tour stand out is the authentic Cypriot BBQ served onboard, complete with homemade potato fries made from local ingredients. The boat provides plenty of deck space for sunbathing, and the crew’s friendly attitude enhances the relaxed luxury vibe. During the trip, you’ll also sail past the border to the occupied zone and visit the Agioi Anargyroi Chapel, a distinctive landmark on the coastline.
Guests note the excellent service and scenic views, with reviewers calling it a “gorgeous trip” and praising the food and scenery equally. “The crew was nice and helpful,” one reviewer says, highlighting the attentive service and beautiful boat. This experience is best suited for travelers who want a taste of luxury with a focus on good food, scenic cruising, and swimming.
Bottom Line: The luxury yacht provides a refined yet relaxed way to combine sightseeing, swimming, and a traditional lunch, perfect for those who prefer a more upscale experience.
3. From Protaras: Full-Day Grand Tour Jeep Safari with Lunch
For around 8 hours, the Full-Day Jeep Safari takes you deep into Cyprus’ countryside, far from the beach crowds. This adventure tour is ideal if you want to experience the island’s rural charm, mountain waterfalls, and traditional villages. You start with a pickup from your hotel, then hop into a sturdy 4×4 vehicle and head into the Troodos Mountains.
The tour includes visits to the picturesque village of Lefkara, famous for its traditional needlecraft called “lefkaritiko,” and the small village of Lofou, where you can walk through narrow streets and enjoy Cypriot coffee in a local kafeneio. Lunch is served at a local tavern, and the scenery along the way is second to none. The reviews highlight the informative guides and the fun off-road driving, with one traveler mentioning, “Tasos and the other drivers were fun and informative.”
This tour is perfect for those who enjoy adventure, authentic local experiences, and want to break away from the usual beach day. The price includes all the stops, lunch, and wine tasting, making it a good value for a full day out.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an active, scenic, and cultural experience that includes a hearty local lunch, this jeep safari offers an authentic way to see Cyprus beyond the coast.
4. Troodos Mountains 4×4 Tour with Meze Lunch from Protaras
Finally, the Troodos Mountains 4×4 Tour offers a full-day trip into some of Cyprus’ most rugged landscapes. For about $106.93, you’ll explore mountain vineyards, waterfalls, and traditional villages with a small group. The highlight is stopping at Pano Lefkara, where you can walk through the quaint streets famous for handmade lace and silverware, and taste local meze—a variety of small traditional dishes—paired with local wine or soft drinks.
The tour also includes visits to Platres and Lofou, with time to stroll through narrow alleys and enjoy the mountain scenery. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making this a more personalized experience. Reviews mention the spectacular views and the delicious lunch, with one noting the “brilliant trip of the mountains and villages” that created lasting memories.
This tour is best suited for travelers who love outdoor adventure, scenic drives, and enjoying a generous traditional meze lunch in a mountain setting. It’s more expensive but offers a comprehensive day of exploring inland Cyprus.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a full-day adventure with great food and mountain scenery, this tour delivers an authentic, active experience with a delicious local meal included.
How to Choose Your Lunch Experience in Protaras
Choosing between these tours depends on what you’re after. If you prefer a relaxing day on the water with a chance to see turtles, the Medusa Cruises is a great pick. For a bit of luxury paired with scenic sailing, the Luxury Yacht offers upscale comfort and great food.
If you want to explore inland Cyprus, then the Full-Day Jeep Safari provides a full day of cultural and scenic highlights. And for mountain lovers, the Troodos Mountains 4×4 Tour offers a hearty experience with authentic food.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer sea, adventure, or mountain landscapes. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Protaras’s lunch experiences are as varied as the landscape itself. Whether you want a relaxed boat cruise with turtles, a luxurious yacht ride with authentic Cypriot BBQ, or an adventurous day exploring mountain villages, there’s something for all. The Medusa Cruises is perfect for families seeking a gentle day on the water, while the Full-Day Jeep Safari suits those who want to see the real Cyprus inland. For a combination of scenic coastal cruising and fine dining, the yacht tour is a memorable choice. And mountain enthusiasts will love the rugged charm of the Troodos tour with its hearty meze lunch.
Whatever your style, booking early will ensure you enjoy these excellent options. Each offers a different perspective of Cyprus’s rich landscape and flavors—so pick one that best suits your interests and get ready for a delicious, fun-filled day in Protaras.