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

If you’re visiting Paphos and craving a taste of the island’s mountain scenery, spiritual sites, and rural villages, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cyprus’s traditional life. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that combines natural beauty, historical monasteries, and local wines, all within a manageable 8-hour window.

What we particularly love about this trip is its variety. You’ll be strolling through charming villages like Omodos, marveling at breathtaking views from the Troodos Mountains, and exploring significant religious sites like Kykkos Monastery. Plus, the wine tasting at Lambouri Winery is a delicious way to end the day, especially if you’re a fan of Cyprus’s famed Commandaria or local spirits like Zivania.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves a fair amount of driving—roughly 8 hours in total—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic bus rides and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing. This experience suits those interested in culture, history, nature, and wine—perfect for curious explorers wanting an authentic taste of Cyprus beyond the beaches.

Key Points

• Scenic Drive Through Troodos Mountains: Expect lush forests, panoramic vistas, and fresh mountain air.
• Visit to Omodos Village: Walk cobbled streets, see vineyards, and explore the Timios Stavros Monastery.
• Kykkos Monastery: Home to the revered icon of the Virgin Mary and stunning views from the monastery terrace.
• Historical Significance: Visit the Tomb of Archbishop Makarios III, Cyprus’s first president, set in beautiful mountain surroundings.
• Wine Tasting Experience: Sample Cyprus’s famous Commandaria, Zivania, and other local wines at Lambouri Winery.
• Comfortable Transportation & Guided Insights: Fully insured air-conditioned vehicle with a professional guide makes the day smooth and informative.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from a variety of pickup points in Paphos, including major hotels, resorts, and designated meeting spots. Pickups usually start about 30 minutes before the departure time, so arriving a bit early helps ensure a smooth start. The vehicle is fully insured and air-conditioned, which means you’ll be comfortable amid the roughly 8 hours of travel and sightseeing.

Many reviewers, like Joanna, appreciated the professionalism and knowledge of the guides—one particularly praised Tatjana for her thorough explanations. While the minibus might be slightly worn, the overall comfort and the helpful guidance make up for it.

Scenic Drive & First Stop: Omodos Village

Your day begins with a scenic drive through the Troodos mountains, where the landscape transitions from lush forests to quaint villages like Pedoulas and Prodromos. The first notable stop is Omodos, a picturesque village famous for its traditional charm, cobbled streets, and vineyards.

Here, you’ll spend around 40 minutes walking around, soaking up the atmosphere, and visiting the Timios Stavros Monastery. This monastery is especially significant because it reportedly houses a piece of the Holy Cross and the Holy Rope. Reviewers like Berle found their guide Tatjana’s storytelling about the village and monastery “fantastic,” adding a layer of depth to the visit.

Kykkos Monastery — A Spiritual and Architectural Highlight

Next, the tour takes you to Kykkos Monastery, founded in the 11th century. It’s one of the wealthiest and most famous monasteries in Cyprus, renowned for its icon of the Virgin Mary, which is said to have been painted by St. Luke himself.

You’ll spend around 40 minutes inside, absorbing the spiritual ambiance and marveling at the monastery’s beautiful murals and architecture. The terrace offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making it a favorite photo spot for many. It’s worth noting that visitors are expected to keep shoulders and knees covered, a small but important detail for respectful sightseeing.

The Tomb of Archbishop Makarios III

A short drive from Kykkos leads to the Tomb of Cyprus’s first president, Archbishop Makarios III, set on Mount Throni. This site is more than just a burial place; it’s a pilgrimage spot with panoramic mountain scenery.

Tour guides usually provide context about Makarios’s role in Cypriot history, enriching the experience. Joanna, one of the reviewers, highlighted how peaceful and scenic this visit was, emphasizing the importance of understanding Cyprus’s political history alongside its natural beauty.

Lunch Break and Free Time in Troodos

After the historical sites, the tour offers about 70 minutes for lunch, shopping, or just relaxing in the mountains. While the tour doesn’t include a set lunch, the free time allows you to purchase snacks, local specialties, or explore small shops. Many find this break refreshing, as it offers a chance to enjoy the mountain air, take photos, or chat with fellow travelers.

Wine Tasting at Lambouri Winery

The day wraps up with a visit to Lambouri Winery, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour and sample some of Cyprus’s best wines. Expect to taste Commandaria, a sweet dessert wine with centuries of history, along with other local varieties like Zivania—Cyprus’s traditional spirit.

Multiple reviews, like Joanna’s, praised the quality of the wine and the knowledgeable staff, making this stop both enjoyable and educational. It’s a fitting conclusion, as you can purchase your favorites to take home.

Return to Paphos

After the winery visit, the bus heads back to Paphos, with most drops-off points being hotels or convenient locations around the city. Expect to arrive after about an hour’s drive, feeling satisfied but a little tired—well worth it for the variety of experiences packed into this tour.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

Timing & Duration: The tour lasts around 8 hours, starting in the morning and ending in the late afternoon. Confirm your pickup time when booking, and arrive at the designated meeting point early.

Price & Value: While the tour covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and wine tasting, it doesn’t include lunch. The cost is reasonable considering the sights and experiences—you’re paying for convenience, insightful commentary, and access to some of Cyprus’s most iconic sites.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for walking around villages and monasteries. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is advised, as well as water and perhaps a light jacket for the mountain cooler temperatures.

Accessibility & Restrictions: The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, mainly due to the walking involved at sites and the vehicle setup.

Cultural Respect: Remember to cover shoulders and knees in monasteries—they’re places of worship and respect.

Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews

Reviewers highlighted how guides like Tatjana made the day more engaging, offering detailed background stories that enriched the visits. They also appreciated the stunning views and the chance to taste authentic local wines—something you might not get if exploring independently.

One reviewer mentioned the small wear and tear on the minibus, but the overall experience, comfort, and guide professionalism outweighed this minor issue. Another noted how the stops at Aphrodite’s Rock and the villages provided a genuine feel of rural Cyprus, far from the tourist-heavy spots.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and wine lovers who want an immersive day in Cyprus’s countryside. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic drives, exploring monasteries, and discovering traditional villages, all with a knowledgeable guide to fill in the details.

Travelers who prefer a flexible, guided experience with all logistics taken care of will find this offers excellent value. If you’re after a full, varied day that packs in scenic views, historical insights, and local flavors, this is a strong choice.

However, if you prefer more active or independent exploration, or have mobility constraints, you might want to consider other options or private tours.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The full tour lasts about 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and tasting.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there’s around 70 minutes to find your own in the Troodos area.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it appropriate for older children who can handle a full day of walking and bus rides, but check with the operator if you have young kids.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, along with sun protection and a hat. In cooler months, bring a jacket for the mountains.

Can I buy local products?
Yes, the tour includes a wine tasting at Lambouri Winery, where you can buy bottles directly.

Is the pickup service convenient?
Most hotels and major resorts are included as pickup points; arrive a bit early and confirm your pickup location when booking.

This day trip offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and local flavor—perfect for those wanting to see Cyprus beyond the beaches. With knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and a chance to taste authentic wines, it’s a memorable way to experience the island’s cultural richness.