Paphos: Tour to Troodos, Kykkos Monastery, Omodos and Winery

Paphos: Tour to Troodos, Kykkos Monastery, Omodos and Winery — An Authentic Cypriot Day Trip

This full-day tour from Paphos takes you into the heart of Cyprus’s mountains, monasteries, and villages, with a local guide leading the way. You’ll visit Troodos Mountains, the Kykkos Monastery, explore the picturesque village of Omodos, and enjoy a wine tasting at Lambouri Winery. The experience typically lasts around 8 hours, with pickup and drop-off included, making it a convenient way to see some of the island’s most celebrated sights without the hassle of driving yourself.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with cultural insights. The guide’s knowledge helps bring these historic and natural sites to life, and the chance to taste local wines adds a delicious touch to the day. We also appreciate the focus on authentic villages and monasteries, rather than more commercialized stops, giving you real insight into rural Cyprus.

A potential consideration is the bus or minibus itself. Some reviews mention that the vehicle can feel a bit worn, and adjusting seat belts might be a minor hassle. But overall, comfort doesn’t seem to be a major issue, given the short drives between stops.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural sites, and local food and wine experiences. If you’re eager to explore Cyprus’s mountain villages and learn about its religious and historical significance, this trip offers a well-rounded taste of both.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Mountain Scenery: Expect lush forests and panoramic views of Troodos Mountains.
• Cultural and Religious Sites: Visit the Kykkos Monastery and the Tomb of President Makarios.
• Authentic Villages: Omodos is charming with cobbled streets and vineyards, perfect for strolling and photos.
• Wine Tasting: Lambouri Winery offers a chance to sample famous Commandaria and traditional Zivania.
• Flexible and Informative: Guided by knowledgeable locals, with plenty of interesting facts and stories.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup/drop-off and a relaxed pace, with some minor vehicle comfort considerations.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Scenic Drive and Mountain Air

From the start, the tour whisks you away from the coast into Cyprus’s mountainous interior. The journey itself is a highlight, as your vehicle winds through Troodos’s forests and quaint villages. We loved the way the landscape shifts from coastal to mountain terrain, with the cool air and pine trees offering a refreshing change of pace from Paphos’s warmer climate.

The scenery is breathtaking, especially if you’re lucky with weather—crisp, clear days reveal the full extent of the lush valleys and distant hills. The driver and guide keep the atmosphere lively, sharing tidbits about the local flora and the history of the mountains.

Omodos: A Classic Mountain Village

Our first stop was Omodos, a picture-perfect village at the foot of Troodos. Narrow cobbled streets, stone houses, and vineyards make it feel like stepping into a postcard. We loved that the tour spends around 40 minutes here—just enough time to stroll, snap photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

One of the major highlights is Timios Stavros Monastery, where you can see the Holy Cross relic and the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. The guide shared interesting details about the monastery’s significance and history, making the visit more meaningful. The village also offers some local shops with handmade crafts and tapas-style snacks, which are perfect for a quick snack or souvenir.

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Kykkos Monastery: The Religious Jewel

Next, we headed to Kykkos Monastery, one of the most famous and wealthiest monasteries in Cyprus. Founded in the 11th century, it houses an icon of the Virgin Mary painted by St. Luke, which many visitors find profoundly moving. The view from the monastery terrace is spectacular—lush green hills stretching into the distance.

The guided tour here is brief but packed with insights—covering the monastery’s history, its treasures, and its role in Cypriot culture. Be prepared for a dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered, so plan accordingly. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning surroundings make it a highlight for many.

The Tomb of Archbishop Makarios III

On nearby Mount Throni, the tour visits the Tomb of Cyprus’s first president, Archbishop Makarios III. This site is both a significant pilgrimage destination and a peaceful spot to reflect amid breathtaking mountain views. The 40-minute stop includes a guided walk that offers insights into Makarios’s legacy and the island’s recent history.

Lunch and Free Time in Troodos

The tour includes about 70 minutes for a lunch break and shopping in the mountains—perfect for trying local mezes, fresh produce, or a simple meal at a mountain tavern. The setting is quiet and scenic, with options to relax or browse for souvenirs like local honey or crafts.

Lambouri Winery and Wine Tasting

The final stop is Lambouri Winery, where we sampled Commandaria, a Cypriot sweet wine with centuries of tradition, along with Zivania, a local spirit. The guide explained the wine-making process and regional differences, making the tasting both educational and enjoyable.

Many reviews praise the wine tasting experience, noting that the selection is excellent and the staff friendly. It’s a fitting end to the day, giving you a taste of Cyprus’s famous wines and the chance to purchase a bottle to take home.

The Return Journey

The drive back to Paphos takes about an hour, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s sights. The tour concludes at your pickup point, with many travelers feeling they’ve gained a well-rounded glimpse into Cyprus’s natural beauty, history, and culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, wine lovers, and those who enjoy scenic drives. It’s particularly suitable if you prefer a relaxed guided experience with plenty of interesting commentary. Travelers who appreciate authentic villages and religious sites will find plenty to enjoy, and the mix of nature, history, and local flavors makes it a rich, balanced day.

If you’re after a more active or adventurous trip, or want to explore outside of the main highlights, you might find this tour a touch traditional. However, for those seeking an authentic taste of rural Cyprus with minimal hassle, it hits the mark.

Detailed Review: In-Depth Look at the Experience

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses a fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle, which is essential for comfort during the warm Cypriot days. While some reviews mention the minibus feeling a bit worn (with minor issues like seat belt adjustments), most travelers found the vehicle adequate for the short drives involved. The group size tends to be manageable, ensuring you’re not lost in a crowd, and the pickup/drop-off service is a major plus—avoiding the stress of navigating unfamiliar streets.

The Guide: Knowledge and Enthusiasm

Several reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with some mentioning a guide named Tatjana who was particularly engaging. We loved how guides shared stories, facts, and personal insights, making each site more meaningful. The guides’ ability to answer questions and provide context enhances the overall experience and gives you a more immersive understanding of Cypriot culture.

Pacing and Duration

The day is well-structured, with stops spaced out to prevent fatigue. The overall duration of 8 hours balances sightseeing with enough free time in villages and at the winery. The 40-minute visits to monasteries and tombs offer enough time to explore without feeling rushed, though some might wish for longer at certain stops.

Food and Drink

While lunch isn’t included, the 70-minute window provides ample opportunity to enjoy local cuisine, whether at a mountain tavern or a café. The wine tasting at Lambouri Winery** is often praised for its quality, and the opportunity to purchase local wines is a bonus. Reviewers appreciated the selection and the informative staff, making it a highlight for many.

Authenticity and Cultural Value

This tour shines in its focus on authentic sites—not just tourist spots but places deeply tied to Cypriot identity. Visiting Omodos, the monasteries, and the tomb offers a layered experience that balances religion, history, and everyday village life. It’s a chance to see how Cypriots live and worship amid breathtaking scenery.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Benefit Most?

This tour offers excellent value for those wanting a comprehensive, culturally rich day outside of the bustling coastal towns. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, wine aficionados, and nature lovers who like guided experiences with local flavor. The mix of scenic views, religious and historical sites, and wine tasting provides a well-rounded introduction to Cyprus’s inland treasures.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and enjoy learning about local traditions, this trip will leave you with lasting memories. However, if you’re looking for a more active or personalized experience, you might want to explore other options. For most visitors wanting a balanced, informative, and enjoyable day, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle. Some reviews mention the minibus being a bit worn, but overall, it provides adequate comfort for the short drives.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’ll have about 70 minutes at the mountain village for a meal or snacks. It’s a good chance to try local dishes and explore a bit on your own.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers find it suitable, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the walking involved at some stops and the nature of the sites.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around villages and monasteries. Also, remember to cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.

Can I buy wine or souvenirs?
Yes, the winery offers local wines like Commandaria and Zivania for purchase. There are also small shops in Omodos selling crafts and local products.

How much free time do I get?
You’ll have about 40 minutes in Omodos, 40 minutes at Kykkos Monastery, and 70 minutes for lunch and shopping, plus additional time at the winery.

This tour offers a true taste of Cyprus’s mountains, spiritual sites, and rural charm. It’s a perfect choice for travelers eager to explore beyond the coast, indulge in local wines, and connect with the island’s rich cultural fabric—all in a single, well-organized day.

You can check availability for your dates here: