Ancient Kourion, Kolossi Castle, Omodos & Winery Tour from Paphos

Explore Cyprus’s Ancient Ruins and Historic Castles on a Full-Day Tour from Paphos

This 8-hour tour from Paphos offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cyprus’s rich heritage, combining archaeological sites, medieval castles, a traditional village, and a winery visit. Priced at $112.21 per person, it includes hotel pickup (from selected hotels), admission fees, a local lunch with wine, and guided commentary. With a 4.5-star rating based on four reviews, the tour is praised for its variety and engaging guides, especially for those interested in Cyprus’s history, architecture, and local culture.

A highlight is the visit to Kourion, where the Greco-Roman amphitheater remains in use today, offering a glimpse into ancient entertainment. The crusader-built Kolossi Castle adds medieval charm, while the village of Omodos provides a taste of local village life and the chance to sample ancient commandaria wine. The tour is practical, includes most costs upfront, and offers round-trip transfers, making it an accessible choice for visitors based in Paphos.

However, participants should be prepared for a busy schedule and bring comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for visiting religious sites. This tour suits those eager for a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, all within a well-organized day from Paphos.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Kourion, Kolossi Castle, and Omodos village with admission fees covered
• Lunch with wine at a local family-run restaurant, plus a wine tasting session
• Round-trip transfers from select hotels simplify logistics
• The tour duration is approximately 8 hours, with a well-paced schedule
• Most travelers find the mix of history, architecture, and local flavors very satisfying
• Adults only, requiring comfortable shoes and modest attire for religious sites

Visiting Kourion’s Ancient Amphitheater and Archaeological Ruins

The tour begins at Kourion, an archaeological site famous for its well-preserved Greco-Roman amphitheater still used for performances today. Visitors have about 2 hours to explore the ruins, walk through the ancient city, and admire the panoramic views of the coastline. The admission fee is included, making it an easy start to the day’s journey into history. This site offers a vivid sense of Cyprus’s ancient past in an open-air setting.

Discovering the Medieval Charm of Kolossi Castle

Next, the itinerary takes travelers to Kolossi Castle, a 15th-century fortress built by the Crusaders. Spending around 3 hours here, visitors can explore the stone walls, towers, and courtyards while learning about its strategic importance and historical role. Admission is included, and the castle’s preserved state provides a tangible connection to Cyprus’s medieval period. The castle’s commanding position and impressive architecture are highlights of this part of the tour.

Sampling Local Flavors in Omodos Village and Its Winery

The journey continues to Omodos, a picturesque village known for its old-world charm and vibrant community life. Here, a local lunch is served at a family-run restaurant, featuring traditional Cypriot dishes along with Cypriot wine. Following lunch, a wine tasting session at a nearby winery introduces visitors to commandaria, an ancient sweet wine with a rich history. The 3-hour stop allows for relaxed exploration of the cobbled streets, artisan shops, and the chance to buy local produce.

Wine Tasting and Lunch in the Heart of Omodos

The wine tasting at Omodos’s winery is a key highlight, emphasizing Cyprus’s long-standing winemaking traditions. Visitors sample a variety of wines, with a particular focus on commandaria, believed to be one of the world’s oldest wines. The lunch at the family restaurant pairs authentic dishes with the wines tasted, offering an immersive experience into Cypriot culinary culture. This part of the tour balances gastronomy with history, providing a delicious break in the schedule.

Logistics: Pickup, Drop-Off, and Group Size

The tour begins promptly at 8:20 am with hotel pickup from select Paphos hotels. After the day’s sightseeing, transportation returns travelers to their accommodations, streamlining the experience. The group size is limited to 25 travelers, ensuring the guide can offer personalized attention and engaging commentary throughout the day.

Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers should dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the Monastery of Holy Cross in Omodos, covering shoulders and knees. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking through archaeological ruins and cobbled streets. The tour operates in good weather, with a full refund available if canceled due to poor conditions. Bring money, especially if wishing to buy souvenirs or additional drinks, and a camera to capture the scenic views and historic landmarks.

The Guide and Experience Quality

The tour features a guide who is knowledgeable and personable, with reviews highlighting Lisa’s expertise and humor. She explains the history and significance of each site clearly, making complex history accessible and engaging. The inclusion of admission fees, lunch, and wine tasting offers excellent value for money, especially given the full-day scope.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $112.21 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive package that covers entrance fees, lunch, wine tasting, and transportation. The reviews suggest that the experience is both enjoyable and well-organized, with many emphasizing the quality of the food and wine and the engaging storytelling of the guide. For those interested in Cyprus’s historical sites and local culture, this offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore without hassle.

Suitable Audience for This Tour

This tour appeals most to adults eager to combine history, culture, and culinary experiences in one day. It suits those who appreciate guided tours with included extras like lunch and wine tasting. The pace is moderate, and the stops are manageable, making it ideal for visitors looking for a full but not overly strenuous day out from Paphos.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day of Heritage and Flavors

Participants looking for an organized, engaging way to explore Cyprus’s historic sites and local traditions will find this full-day tour from Paphos offers excellent value. The visit to Kourion provides a vivid window into the ancient world, while Kolossi Castle and Omodos village bring medieval and traditional Cypriot life alive.

The lunch and wine tasting are authentic and flavorful, delivering a taste of local culture, while the guides’ knowledge and humor make the experience memorable. The ease of logistics, with hotel pickup and included transportation, means travelers can relax and enjoy the day without worries. This tour is a strong choice for history buffs, food lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Cyprus’s heritage in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from select hotels in Paphos.

How long is the tour?
The entire tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You visit Kourion, Kolossi Castle, and Omodos village, including a wine tasting and lunch.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, admission fees for Kourion and Kolossi Castle are included in the tour price.

What should I wear?
A modest dress code applies for religious sites; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Is alcohol included during the tour?
Yes, wine tasting at the winery is included, and lunch features wine as well.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What is the group size limit?
The tour groups are limited to 25 travelers.

How do I confirm my pickup time?
Once booked, the tour provider contacts you to confirm the exact pickup time and location.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is adults only.