Paphos is a fantastic base for exploring Cyprus’s diverse scenery and history in one day. Its strategic location on the southwest coast means you can combine a relaxing boat cruise with visits to ancient ruins or mountain adventures. We love the $1 for its all-inclusive comfort and fun onboard amenities, perfect for those who want a seamless, stress-free day at sea. Meanwhile, the Full-day Famagusta tour offers a deep dive into Cyprus’s storied past, especially if you’re interested in the island’s divided history. For those craving adventure, the Akamas Jeep tour brings you face-to-face with the island’s rugged nature and beautiful waterfalls, making it an excellent choice for active travelers.
This list includes a variety of tours—from luxury boat trips and history-filled excursions to mountain safaris—each with its own flavor. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural insight, or outdoor thrills, you’ll find a full-day experience that suits your interests. Below, we’ll explore each of these options in detail, helping you pick the best tour for your stay in Paphos.
1. Wave Dancer Sunshine Full Day Cruise – All Inclusive
At number 1, the Wave Dancer Sunshine Full Day Cruise truly stands out for its all-inclusive approach and lively onboard atmosphere. For around $87, you get a six-hour cruise starting from Paphos Harbour, with hotel transfers included. The boat is loaded with amenities—think showers, a water slide, and over 100 lounge chairs—making it perfect for lounging or actively enjoying the water.
The itinerary includes stops at St George Island, the Sea Caves, and Coral Bay, with snorkeling equipment provided. The crew whips up a delicious lunch, and soft drinks and snacks are all included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. Many reviews point out how fun and well-organized this trip is, with glowing praise for the staff, food, and entertainment. Guests love the chance to swim in clear waters, relax with drinks, and enjoy the lively atmosphere onboard, highlighted by live entertainment and even magic tricks for the kids.
Bottom Line: This cruise balances fun, comfort, and value, making it ideal for families and anyone wanting a lively day on the water.
2. Full-day Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos
Number 2 on our list is the Full-day Famagusta tour, which offers a deep history lesson in just over 11 hours. For $78, you’ll cross into Northern Cyprus, visiting Salamis Ruins, the ancient Greek city with origins dating back to 1100 BC, and the walled city of Famagusta.
This tour is rich with archaeological highlights—from Roman baths and mosaics in Salamis to the Venetian walls and Saint Nikolaos Cathedral in Famagusta. The guide is often praised as knowledgeable, providing insights into the complex history of the island’s division. The journey includes a quick stop at Choirokoitia, a Neolithic settlement, before crossing the border with EU ID or passports. The day is long but rewarding, especially if you’re interested in Cyprus’s layered past.
Guests comment on how humbling and educational the experience is, with some noting the long drive but overall feeling it was worth it. The tour covers many highlights, making it ideal for history buffs or travelers eager to see a different side of Cyprus.
Bottom Line: If you’re fascinated by archaeology and the island’s geopolitical story, this tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized day.
3. Full Day Tour in Akamas Adonis Waterfalls and Blue Lagoon
Number 3 is the Akamas Jeep tour, which features highlights like the Blue Lagoon and Adonis Waterfalls. With a price of roughly $70, this eight-hour trip takes you into Cyprus’s rugged northwest, where you’ll venture by Jeep into the wilds. The tour includes stops at the Sea Caves, Avakas Gorge, and Lara Beach, with snorkeling gear provided for swimming in the clear waters.
What makes this tour unique is the mix of nature and fun—from walking through limestone gorges to relaxing at the Blue Lagoon, where swimming is the main event. The guides are known for their humor and knowledge, making it a lively and engaging experience. The reviews highlight the adventure and scenery, though some mention it can feel a bit rushed, especially at the waterfalls and Blue Lagoon.
This tour is perfect for outdoor lovers who want to see the island’s natural beauty with some off-road excitement. It’s a family-friendly option, though it involves some rough terrain and a full day on the go.
Bottom Line: For active travelers craving a full day immersed in nature, this jeep adventure offers great value with memorable stops.
4. Full Day Troodos Guided Safari Tour with Pick Up
At number 4, the Troodos Safari Tour combines scenic mountain views with cultural landmarks. For about $65, it lasts around 8.5 hours, beginning with a photo stop at the water dam and including visits to the Venetian Bridge, Kykkos Monastery, and Troodos Waterfalls. The tour also takes you to Omodos Village, known for its crafts and wines, and offers a taste of local traditions.
What sets this trip apart is the off-road safari experience—the guide, Vasos, is praised for his friendliness, humor, and knowledge. Guests have enjoyed stopping at Aphrodite’s Rock during sunset and exploring local villages, often remarking on the personal touch of a private or small group setting. The scenic mountain views and cultural stops make this a great choice for those wanting a mix of nature, history, and local life.
Guests say it’s a great way to see the island’s interior without the hassle of driving, though some mention it’s a long day. It suits active travelers interested in mountain scenery and local culture.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for a full day of mountain scenery, cultural stops, and off-road fun—perfect for curious explorers.
5. Grand Tour Full Day Jeep Safari from Paphos
Number 5 is the Grand Tour Jeep Safari, a full-day adventure into the Troodos Mountains, priced at about $108. It includes hotel transfers, visits to Aphrodite’s Rock, Omodos Village, and a famous waterfall. You’ll also stop at a local coffee shop and sample Cypriot wine—a taste of local life.
The tour is led by a passionate guide, Rick, who is commended for his knowledge and humor. The itinerary combines scenic off-road drives with time in authentic villages, making it appealing for those who want to blend nature with cultural insights. The lunch is typically a local delicacy, and plentiful shopping stops allow for souvenirs.
While the price is higher, many find it worthwhile for the comprehensive experience and personalized service. The reviews highlight the scenic drives and the friendly guide, making it ideal for travelers wanting a mix of adventure and cultural discovery.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a full-day, guided mountain safari with good food and local experiences, this tour hits the spot.
6. Full Day Blue Lagoon Cruise (Paphos to Latchi) – Sea Star
Number 6 offers a six-hour boat cruise aboard the Sea Star. For $80, you’ll sail along the Paphos coastline, passing Coral Bay, Sea Caves, and St George’s Island. The cruise features two swimming stops where you can snorkel or simply relax in the sun, plus a buffet lunch with seasonal fruits and drinks.
Many reviews mention how helpful and friendly the crew are and praise the unlimited drinks and good food. The ship provides plenty of deck space, ideal for sunbathers, and the scenery is a highlight—especially the Sea Caves and the island views. The return to Paphos is smooth, making it a relaxing escape from land-based touring.
This cruise is perfect for those who want a leisurely day on the water without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. It suits families and couples who enjoy snorkeling, sunbathing, and scenic sailing.
Bottom Line: For a relaxing, scenic boat trip with great food and swimming, this cruise offers excellent value.
7. Cyprus’s History and Charm Full-Day Private Tour from Paphos
Number 7 is a private tour, priced at around $394, perfect for those wanting a tailored experience. Starting with pickup in Paphos, the tour visits Kourion, Kolossi Castle, and the vibrant Limassol city, finishing with a stop at Aphrodite’s Rock for photos.
This private experience offers flexibility and personalized attention, with a knowledgeable guide ready to customize the day based on your interests. The focus is on archaeological sites and scenic cityscapes, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate, leisurely pace.
Guests appreciate the comfort and exclusivity, with some noting it’s a pricey but worthwhile option for couples or small groups seeking a private, in-depth exploration. The itinerary allows for more time at each stop than group tours, especially if you love archaeology and local culture.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a personalized, flexible day of sightseeing with a focus on history and culture.
8. Sea Star Full Day Blue Lagoon Cruise from Paphos
Number 8 is similar to the earlier Sea Star cruise, but it’s a smaller group with a more intimate feel. Priced at about $91, it offers sunbathing, snorkeling, and lunch in a relaxed setting, with reviews praising the friendly crew and good food. It’s a shorter six-hour trip focusing on scenery and swimming.
The itinerary highlights the same places, like Coral Bay and Saint George’s Island, with multiple swim stops. The live commentary adds an educational touch, and the hotel pickup makes logistics easy. With smaller groups, you get a more personalized experience, especially if you prefer a calmer, more relaxed cruise.
Bottom Line: This cruise suits those who want a quieter, more personal boat trip with plenty of swimming and sunbathing.
9. From Paphos: Nicosia The Last Divided Capital Full Day
Number 9 offers a full-day exploration of Cyprus’s divided capital, costing about $66. It’s ideal for history and politics enthusiasts, with visits to St. John’s Cathedral, the Green Line, and Ledra Street. The tour starts with a drive from Paphos, crossing into Northern Nicosia.
Guides provide insights into the island’s complex history, and the walking tour through both sides of the city is well-reviewed. It’s a long day, but the chance to see the city’s divided architecture and cultural sites makes it worthwhile. Some reviews mention the long drive but also praise the informative nature of the experience.
This tour is best for history buffs or travelers interested in geopolitics, offering a unique perspective on Cyprus’s recent past.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a thought-provoking and educational day in Nicosia.
10. Cyprus’s History and Charm: Full-Day Private Tour from Paphos
The final tour combines history, scenic views, and local culture in a private setting. For around $394, it includes visits to Kourion, Kolossi Castle, and Limassol, with a personal guide. Highlights include Aphrodite’s Rock and local market shopping.
This private tour is perfect for small groups or couples wanting a bespoke experience. The itinerary offers flexibility, allowing more time at places that interest you most. Guests appreciate the personalized service and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path sites like Limassol.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who prefer a customized, relaxed day with a focus on history and local flavor.
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Paphos
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and fitness level. If you love relaxing on the water, a boat cruise like the Wave Dancer Sunshine will suit you. For those fascinated by history, the Famagusta tour or the Nicosia trip provide in-depth insights. Active travelers should consider the Akamas Jeep or Jeep Safari, which combine nature with adventure.
For a more personalized experience, the private Cyprus’s History and Charm offers flexibility but at a higher price point. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the shorter cruises or guided tours that include plentiful highlights without breaking the bank.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Paphos offers a wide spectrum of full-day tours—from luxurious boat cruises and cultural explorations to mountain safaris and private guided journeys. Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or history, there’s something here to make your visit memorable. Consider your priorities, pick your experience, and book early to ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip.