Larnaca Highlights with visit to Lefkara and Nicosia from Paphos

If you’re looking to squeeze a lot of Cyprus into a single day without the stress of driving, this Larnaca Highlights tour from Paphos might be just what you need. It promises a full itinerary covering some of the most iconic spots across the southern part of the island—perfect if time is tight but you still want a taste of Cyprus’s charm.

What really stood out to us is how this tour combines convenience with a real cultural punch. First, you get the ease of round-trip transport from Paphos, saving you from parking hassles or navigating unfamiliar roads. Second, the stops are thoughtfully selected, from historic churches to lively city centers. On the flip side, be prepared for a long day—the itinerary is packed, and the drive times mean some locations might feel rushed or a bit hurried.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to cover multiple highlights in one go and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re someone who loves learning about local culture, enjoys sightseeing at a relaxed pace, and values knowledgeable guides, you’ll likely find this experience worthwhile. However, if you prefer slow, in-depth explorations, some stops might feel a bit brief.

Key Points

• All-inclusive transportation means no parking or navigation stress.
• Cultural and scenic highlights like Lefkara’s lace, the Salt Lake, and the Green Line in Nicosia.
• The tour includes free time for sightseeing, photos, and independent exploration.
• Expect a long, full day—comfort in the vehicle is a plus, but seats might be close for shorter travelers.
• The price offers good value for a rundown of Cyprus’s south.
• The guide’s knowledge is often praised, adding depth to the stops.

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour aims to give you a broad overview of some of Cyprus’s most notable sights, all in about nine hours. Starting early from Paphos at 8:00 am, you’ll switch between scenic drives and stops that offer a glimpse into local life, history, and religious sites.

Pickup and Comfort

Your day begins with a pickup from your Paphos accommodation, which is a real convenience—no need to hunt for a meeting point or worry about parking. The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle; this is especially appreciated if the weather is warm. Many reviews mention the vehicle’s cleanliness and comfort, though a few noted the seats can be a bit tight, especially for shorter travelers.

Lefkara: The Lace Village

The first stop is the picturesque village of Pano Lefkara. Famous for its lace (lefkaritika) and silver jewelry, this village is a gem for those who enjoy traditional crafts. You’ll have about an hour here to wander its narrow streets, browse local shops, and soak in the village’s charm. The scenery is often described as quintessentially Cypriot, with Christmas decorations in some seasons adding seasonal cheer.

Travelers love the authentic feel of Lefkara. One reviewer called it “a really beautiful village,” where shop owners are welcoming. It’s a good chance to take some photos, buy souvenirs, and enjoy a break from the busier city stops.

Hala Sultan Tekke and Larnaca Salt Lake

Next, you’ll stop at the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, located on the west bank of Larnaca Salt Lake. This is mainly a photo stop, giving you a chance to admire the mosque’s impressive setting. The Salt Lake itself is often spectacular, especially if it’s filled with water or flamingos, though the tour stops here for around 20 minutes.

Several reviews mention that this stop offers great photo opportunities, though some expected a more detailed visit. Since it’s a quick stop, don’t expect an in-depth tour of the mosque—just a snapshot of its scenic location.

The Church of Saint Lazarus

In Larnaca city center, you’ll visit the Church of Saint Lazarus, a late-9th-century basilica. This church is a highlight for many, both architecturally and spiritually. It’s known for its historical significance and beautiful interior, which visitors find quite impressive.

One traveler commented on liking the church’s architecture and engineering, highlighting how it’s worth the visit. You’ll have about an hour to explore inside, which gives enough time for a quick look around and some photos before the next leg of the journey.

Free Time and Lunch

After the church, you get some free time to wander the city center, grab a quick snack or coffee, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Many enjoy walking along Ledra Street, a bustling area with shops, cafes, and street life. Given the long day, this break is appreciated for stretching your legs and taking in the local vibe.

Nicosia: The Divided Capital

The highlight for many is the visit to Nicosia, the divided capital where the Green Line marks the border between the Greek Cypriot south and Turkish Cypriot north. The tour includes about two hours of free time in the old quarter, Laiki Geitonia, and along Ledra Street.

You’ll walk over the Green Line and see firsthand the contrast of the city’s two sides. The border crossing in Nicosia is often described as a unique experience—some say it’s “like going from a UK high street to a bazaar,” as one review put it. It’s a quick, straightforward process, but you’ll need your passport.

During this time, you can explore the narrow streets, browse shops, or grab lunch—many local eateries are nearby. The area is lively, and the mix of modern and traditional offers plenty to see.

The Tomb of St Lazarus

Back in Larnaca, the tour visits the Tomb of St Lazarus, where you can go inside the crypt for a quick look. It’s a significant religious site, and many find it an interesting historical spot. The guide provides explanations, making it more engaging.

The Value of the Tour

Priced at around $57.82 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price—covering multiple sites, including transportation, guides, and some free time. Reviewers consistently mention the good value, especially for those who want to see a broad swath of Cyprus in one day without worrying about logistics.

Though some found the day very long—one reviewer called it “a long day”—most appreciated the well-organized itinerary and the chance to visit diverse locations. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide like Viola can really deepen the experience, providing context and answering questions as you go.

The Drawbacks

While the experience is generally well-received, a few common concerns emerge. Some travelers felt that the drive times to Nicosia and back are quite lengthy, making the day feel rushed or tiring. One reviewer noted, “Getting back to the hotel eleven hours later after seeing hardly anything,” highlighting that the schedule can be tight.

Another point is the comfort of the coach; a couple of reviews mention that the seats can be cramped, which could be an issue for shorter or larger travelers. Also, since it’s a fast-paced tour, some stops might feel hurried, leaving little time to soak in each place fully.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Cyprus’s southern highlights in just one day. If you’re not 100% comfortable with long bus journeys or prefer more leisurely explorations, this might feel a bit rushed.

It’s especially suitable if you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable hosts and don’t mind a busy schedule. History buffs or those interested in cultural sites will find plenty to enjoy, while the scenic village and city stops provide some great photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

This Larnaca Highlights tour from Paphos offers a practical way to see a lot of Cyprus in a single day. The focus on convenience and cultural insights makes it a strong choice for visitors with limited time, especially since it includes round-trip transportation and expert guides.

The variety of stops—from Lefkara’s craftsmanship to the historical streets of Nicosia—means you’ll walk away with a well-rounded impression of the island’s diversity. The value for money is good, given the breadth of sites covered, though the long hours and tight schedule require a certain level of endurance.

If you’re a traveler who loves seeing many places in one go, appreciates guided commentary, and is okay with a busy day, this tour will serve you well. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to consider spreading out these visits over two days.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from Paphos is included, in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately nine hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the evening.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there will be free time for you to grab something in Nicosia or Larnaca.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your passport, especially for crossing into Nicosia, and comfortable shoes for walking around the sites.

How much free time do I get?
Expect around an hour in Lefkara, an hour at Saint Lazarus Church, and about two hours in Nicosia for sightseeing and lunch.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the stops are generally suitable for older children and teenagers interested in history and culture.

What are the main highlights?
You’ll visit Lefkara for its crafts, see the Salt Lake and Mosque, explore Saint Lazarus Church, walk through Nicosia’s old quarter, and visit the Tomb of St Lazarus.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, there are shops at several stops, especially in Lefkara and Nicosia, where you can purchase local crafts.

What’s the guide’s role?
The guide provides commentary, historical context, and answers questions, greatly enriching the experience. Many reviews praise guides like Viola for their knowledge.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers an efficient, culturally rich glimpse of Cyprus, perfect for travelers eager to maximize their day. While it’s not without its long hours and tight schedule, the overall value and variety make it a solid choice for many visitors.