Paphos: Tour Kyrenia – St. Hilarion and Bellapais Abbey

Travelers seeking a full taste of Northern Cyprus’ highlights will find this day trip from Paphos both engaging and fulfilling. Covering iconic landmarks like Kyrenia Castle, St. Hilarion, and Bellapais Abbey, the tour offers a blend of history, panoramic views, and scenic landscapes—all in one well-organized package. The experience is especially appealing for those interested in cultural sights and stunning vistas, with a comfortable journey managed by knowledgeable guides.

One of the features we love about this tour is its small-group format, limited to just six participants, which encourages a more intimate and personalized experience. The guides are praised for their expertise and interesting commentary, adding depth to each stop. A potential consideration is the long duration—around nine hours—so it’s best suited for travelers with a good level of physical comfort and patience for a full day away from the hotel.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Northern Cyprus’ most significant sites without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple visits. It’s particularly suited for history buffs, scenic lovers, and those who appreciate engaging guides. If you’re after a smooth, informative trip with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and cultural insights, this experience might just be the perfect fit.

Key Points

• Expert guides provide engaging commentary, enriching the experience
• Stunning panoramic views at St. Hilarion Castle and along the coast
• Visit iconic landmarks like Kyrenia Castle and Bellapais Abbey
• Small group size ensures a more personal and relaxed atmosphere
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Long but rewarding day designed for those who enjoy full-day excursions

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

This day trip from Paphos to Kyrenia is a well-rounded way to see some of Northern Cyprus’ most famous sites. It’s operated by EOS TOURS, renowned for their professional approach and detailed planning. The tour lasts around nine hours, beginning with a pick-up at centrally located points in Paphos—think hotels like the Atlantis, Avanti, or Almyra, with options to suit various preferences.

What makes this trip stand out is the combination of cultural exploration and scenic beauty. From the moment you’re picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll notice how the guides set the tone with their knowledge about Cyprus’ history and local stories. The journey itself is made more enjoyable thanks to interesting commentary, which keeps the long drive lively and informative.

One of the highlights for many travelers is the visit to St. Hilarion Castle, perched high above Kyrenia. As the tour describes, the castle’s impressive ruins and breathtaking views are worth the trek. You might recognize its silhouette as the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle—a detail that often surprises visitors.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Pickup and Departure

The tour begins with your pickup from one of over 80 locations in Paphos, including hotels and apartments. The process is smooth, with detailed instructions sent via email. Expect to arrive at your meeting point about 30 minutes before departure, giving you time to settle in and prepare for the day ahead.

Stop 2: Transit to Kyrenia (2.5 hours)

The journey from Paphos to Kyrenia takes around two and a half hours, a perfect window to chat with your guide, enjoy the scenery, or simply relax. The route offers glimpses of Cyprus’ varied landscapes—olive groves, pine forests, and the mountains that frame the northern coast. The vehicles are air-conditioned, making the long ride comfortable.

Stop 3: St. Hilarion Castle (40 minutes guided tour + scenic views)

Perched high on a hill, St. Hilarion is a medieval fortress that exudes fairytale charm. Once you arrive, you’ll join a guided tour, which adds context to the ruins, including stories of Crusaders and pirates. The walk involves some uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended. But the payoff is the spectacular panoramic views of the Mediterranean, with clear skies offering great photo opportunities.

Stop 4: Short Stop (25 minutes)

A brief stop allows the group to stretch and take in the scenery. It also helps break up the journey, especially after the castle visit.

Stop 5: Kyrenia (100 minutes—lunch, sightseeing, free time)

The heart of the day is in Kyrenia, a lively harbor town known for its charming streets and maritime vibe. You’ll have ample time to explore, with a guided walk to appreciate the town’s history and architecture. The harbor itself is a highlight, with colorful boats bobbing in the water and plenty of cafes for a relaxed lunch. Many travelers note that the views of the castle and the sea are picture-perfect.

Stop 6: Kyrenia Castle

This fortress is a key highlight, steeped in history and filled with exhibits illuminating the city’s past. Walking through its ramparts and chambers, you’ll gain insight into the various civilizations that have controlled Kyrenia—from Byzantines to Venetians and Ottomans.

Stop 7: Transit to Bellapais Abbey (20 minutes)

The scenic drive takes you to the Bellapais Abbey, a Gothic ruin perched on a hill overlooking Kyrenia. The abbey’s striking architecture, combined with its tranquil setting, makes for a memorable visit. The guided tour provides historical background and points out the ruins’ most interesting features, including the acoustics of the refectory, which still host music festivals today.

Stop 8: Bellapais Abbey (30 minutes sightseeing)

You’ll have a bit of free time to wander the ruins, take photos of the breathtaking views, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Many visitors find Bellapais to be the most visually striking part of the trip, with its atmospheric stone walls and the sea shimmering in the distance.

Return Journey (about 2.4 hours)

The trip back to Paphos wraps up with a comfortable ride, giving you time to reflect on the day or chat with fellow travelers about their favorite moments. The guides often share additional insights during this leg, enhancing your understanding of Cyprus’ complex history.

Drop-off at Your Accommodation

Your day ends with convenient drop-off at one of the many designated locations in Paphos. The process is straightforward, and the company emphasizes punctuality and service quality.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While entrance tickets (€2 each) are not included, the overall fee covers transportation, expert guiding, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the convenience of having multiple sites covered in one day. Considering the cost of individual visits and transportation, this package offers a practical way to see top sights without hassle.

The guided nature means you’ll gain deeper insights into the sites that self-guided visits might miss. Plus, the small group size means more personal attention, more flexibility with questions, and fewer crowds competing for photos.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

From the reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides enhance the experience significantly. One reviewer, Uwe, mentioned how the interesting commentary made the long journey shorter, illustrating how good guides can turn travel time into a learning opportunity. Expect guides to share stories about the sites’ pasts, local legends, and the cultural fabric of Cyprus.

Many travelers emphasize the stunning views—both from St. Hilarion and along the coast—making this tour especially appealing for photographers and landscape lovers. The combination of historical sites and scenic beauty** makes it a well-rounded day for those who enjoy cultural exploration and natural vistas.

A good tip is to wear comfortable shoes for walking around the castles and ruins and to bring essentials such as passport or ID, sun protection, and water. The tour explicitly disallows pets, smoking, and food in the vehicle, so plan accordingly.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to learn about Cyprus’ diverse past, as well as scenic lovers looking for spectacular views. It suits travelers comfortable with a long day on the road and walking around outdoor sites. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children or pregnant women, this might require some extra planning or choosing a different activity.

The Sum Up

In summary, this tour from Paphos to Kyrenia and its highlights offers an enriching blend of history, scenery, and cultural insights, all in one day. The small group format and expert guides create a more personalized, engaging experience, making it particularly appealing for travelers who appreciate detailed storytelling and stunning vistas. The mix of castle ruins, abbey remains, and charming harbor town ensures that you’ll walk away with a broad understanding of Northern Cyprus’ allure.

While the long travel time might be a challenge for some, many find that the value and depth of the experience make it worthwhile. Whether you’re a history buff, a landscape lover, or simply looking to see a different side of Cyprus, this tour balances sightseeing with comfort and expert commentary.

If you’re after a day that combines scenic beauty, cultural richness, and expert guidance, this trip is a strong contender. It’s perfect for those eager to explore Northern Cyprus without the stress of planning each stop—leaving you more time to enjoy the sights and create lasting memories.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at various locations in Paphos. You should arrive at your designated meeting point about 10 minutes early.

How long is the drive from Paphos to Kyrenia?
The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, giving you a comfortable window for sightseeing and resting during the trip.

What sites are visited during the tour?
The main stops are St. Hilarion Castle, Kyrenia town and its castle, and Bellapais Abbey. You’ll also enjoy scenic views along the way.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
The tour is not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to the outdoor walking involved.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets (€2 each) are not included but are inexpensive, and the guided experience adds plenty of context.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water. Be prepared for outdoor walking in sunny weather.

This detailed guide aims to help you understand what to expect from the Paphos to Kyrenia tour, so you can decide if it matches your travel style. With its engaging guides, stunning views, and well-curated stops, it offers a memorable way to explore Northern Cyprus’ highlights in a single day.