Traveling to Cyprus offers a mix of sunny beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant towns—and if you’re curious about the northern side of the island, a tour to Kyrenia (or Girne, as it’s called locally) is a fantastic way to explore its highlights. While I haven’t taken this specific trip myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and details that make it clear this is a well-loved excursion, especially for those interested in castles, monasteries, and stunning coastlines.
What really stands out about this tour are the breathtaking views from St. Hilarion Castle and the opportunity to walk through centuries-old structures like Kyrenia Castle and Bellapais Abbey. Plus, the guide’s commentary sounds like it adds a lot of value, making the journey both scenic and educational. The tour’s duration of about 9 hours means you’ll get a solid taste of Northern Cyprus in a single day, though it’s worth noting the long drive from Paphos—something to consider if you’re prone to travel fatigue.
One potential consideration is the cost of entrance tickets, which aren’t included and are just a couple of euros each. For some, this might feel like an extra hassle, but considering the price of the tour overall, it’s a small addition for access to these historic sites. This tour suits travelers who love history, scenic landscapes, and cultural exploration, particularly those who prefer guided outings with a small group for a more intimate experience.
Key Points
- Highlights include Kyrenia Castle, St. Hilarion, and Bellapais Abbey, all packed with history and stunning sights.
- The tour is about 9 hours, making it suitable for a day trip but with a long transfer time from Paphos.
- Small group size (up to 6 participants) offers a more personalized experience.
- The guide’s commentary is highly praised, adding context and interest to the sites.
- Cost includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, though the exact pick-up points vary.
- Entrance fees are minimal, around 2 euros, not included in the ticket price.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
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The Journey Begins: Pick-Up and Transportation
The tour starts early, with pick-up options from over 80 locations across Paphos. While that might sound overwhelming, it’s designed to make things easier for a variety of travelers. The transportation is a fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle, and you’ll be accompanied by a professional driver and a guide who evidently knows their stuff.
Travel times between stops are carefully scheduled—about 2.5 hours before reaching St. Hilarion Castle, one of the first major highlights. The long drive can seem like a lot at first glance, but it also means you’ll get a chance to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The driver’s commentary about Cyprus’s history, culture, and local stories is frequently praised, making the time pass quickly and engagingly.
St. Hilarion Castle: The Medieval Marvel
Perched high above the landscape, St. Hilarion Castle is often the star of this tour. Its dramatic ruins are said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, and it’s easy to see why—imagine exploring ancient stone walls with expansive views over the sea and mountains. You’ll spend roughly 40 minutes here on a guided tour, enough to get a good feel for the place and take some memorable photos.
Visitors rave about the views, describing them as “breathtaking,” and the guide’s insights help bring the history of this fortress to life. The castle’s strategic position and centuries of history make it a worthwhile stop, especially if you enjoy exploring castles or scenic viewpoints.
Scenic Drive to Kyrenia
After St. Hilarion, there’s a short 25-minute drive to the charming port city of Kyrenia. This part of the journey gives you a chance to see more of the landscape—olive groves, pine forests, and coastal vistas—setting the stage for what’s to come.
More Great Tours NearbyKyrenia and Its Harbor: A Picturesque Stop
Once in Kyrenia, you’ll get about 100 minutes to explore, enjoy lunch, and soak in the atmosphere. The harbor is a lively spot with boats, cafes, and a bustling feel, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The area is historically vibrant, with narrow streets and traditional buildings, giving you a real sense of local life.
The visit includes Kyrenia Castle, which houses a museum showcasing the city’s cultural heritage. Here, you’re free to wander and soak up the history, with the added bonus of stunning views over the marina and sea. This part of the tour is especially appreciated for the relaxed pace and scenic surroundings.
One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide kept us engaged with stories about the castle and the city,” which shows how a knowledgeable guide can elevate the experience.
Bellapais Abbey: A Gothic Gem
Next, about 30 minutes away, lies Bellapais Abbey, a highlight for many. Built in the early 13th century, this Gothic monastery offers striking architecture and sweeping views of the Mediterranean. The walls tell stories of various rulers—Genoese, Turkish, English—and the ruins are quite atmospheric.
You’ll get a guided tour here, with about 30 minutes to explore the grounds. The acoustics in the refectory are renowned, and the site often hosts music festivals, adding to its cultural charm. The layout of the ruins and the panoramic views over Kyrenia and the sea make this a memorable part of the trip.
Return Journey and Final Drop-Off
After Bellapais, it’s about a 2.4-hour drive back to Paphos. During this time, travelers often reflect on the day, and the guide’s commentary continues to add value, providing insights into Cypriot history and culture.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
We think one of the biggest strengths of this tour is the combination of history and scenery, wrapped into a manageable day. The guided approach means you get context for each site, which helps turn ruins and scenic overlooks into stories and memories.
The small group size (limited to 6 participants) is another plus, making it easier to ask questions, get personalized attention, and avoid feeling lost in a crowd. Reviewers frequently mention the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, which really make the experience more engaging.
The Value of the Price
Considering the full-day itinerary—including hotel pick-up and drop-off, guided tours, and scenic drives—the price seems reasonable. Entrance fees are minimal (~2 euros), so the bulk of the cost is for transportation, guide services, and the convenience of a day trip that covers quite a bit of ground.
Potential Downsides
The main downside is the long drive from Paphos, which could be tiring if you’re not used to extended travel. Also, since entrance tickets are not included, you’ll need to have small change ready for those sites. For some, the schedule might feel a bit rushed, especially if you prefer more time at each stop, but overall, the pacing seems well-balanced.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip suits history enthusiasts, scenery lovers, and culture seekers who enjoy guided experiences. If you’re interested in castles, monasteries, and coastlines, and prefer a day that’s organized but not overly crowded, this is a good pick. It’s not ideal for young children or those with mobility issues, given the walking involved and the uneven terrain at sites like St. Hilarion.
FAQ About the Tour
Are meals included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. There’s time for lunch in Kyrenia, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to dine at local cafes.
How long is the drive from Paphos?
The total driving time is approximately 5 hours (round-trip), with the longest stretch being the return journey. It can be tiring, so bring water and a good playlist.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not specifically designed for children under 12, and some sites involve walking over uneven terrain, so children should be prepared for that.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, passport or ID, and water are recommended.
Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance fees (about 2 euros each) are payable on-site.
Do I need to be aware of border restrictions?
Yes, travelers with Armenian, Syrian, Nigerian, Turkmenistan, Nepalese, or Bangladeshi passports may have restrictions due to crossing into Northern Cyprus.
Paphos: Tour Kyrenia – St. Hilarion and Bellapais Abbey
“An absolutely must-see tour to three of the most beautiful places in Northern Cyprus. Despite the somewhat long journey from Paphos, we did not reg…”
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a well-organized day that combines history, scenic views, and the chance to see some of Northern Cyprus’s most iconic sites, this tour hits the mark. The small group and knowledgeable guide ensure a personal touch, making it a worthwhile experience for those who enjoy learning as they explore.
While the long travel times from Paphos might be a consideration, many reviewers feel the sights and stories make it worthwhile. The mix of medieval castles, beautiful abbeys, and bustling harbor towns creates a well-rounded snapshot of what this part of Cyprus has to offer.
This tour is best for curious travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning multiple transport connections. If you’re comfortable with a full day’s travel and eager to learn about Kyrenia’s history and enjoy spectacular views, this trip could be a highlight of your Cyprus adventure.
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