From Paphos to Divided Nicosia (North Cyprus walk in) and Larnaca

Discover Cyprus’s Historic Cities from Paphos

This full-day tour costs $74.35 per person and lasts around 8 hours, offering an in-depth look at some of Cyprus’s most captivating cities. Starting in Paphos, the trip includes convenient hotel pickup and ends with a chance to explore Nicosia and Larnaca with an experienced guide. The tour is ideal for those eager to see Cyprus beyond its beaches, delving into the island’s history and culture.

While the itinerary covers notable attractions with free admission, it’s important to note that lunch is not included. The experience relies on a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and a professional driver to make the day smooth. The tour generally appeals to travelers with an interest in history, walking tours, and city exploration. Be prepared for some walking and crossing the border into the divided capital of Nicosia.

Key Points

• Price: $74.35 per person, with pickup included from your Paphos hotel
• Duration: Approximately 8 hours
• Includes: Guided visits, transport, and free time in Nicosia
• Stops: Hala Sultan Tekke, Larnaca Salt Lake, Church of St. Lazarus, and Nicosia’s Venetian walls and cathedral
• Important: Passport or ID required, cover shoulders and knees at religious sites, and comfortable walking shoes recommended

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Transport

The tour begins early at 8:30 am with hotel pickup arranged within Paphos, making logistics straightforward. A fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle transports the group comfortably throughout the day, allowing you to relax between city stops. With a maximum group size of 19 travelers, the trip feels intimate enough for questions and personalized attention, though some reviews mention issues with vehicle comfort.

Visiting the Islamic Shrine of Hala Sultan Tekke

The first stop takes you to the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, an important Islamic monument built over the tomb of Ummü Haram. This site is still actively used for worship and holds significant spiritual importance in the Muslim world. Visitors typically spend about 20 minutes here, admiring the mosque’s architecture and learning about its historical significance.

The admission is free, and the site offers a peaceful setting along the Salt Lake, which itself is a scenic highlight. The mosque’s connection to the Prophet Muhammad’s sister or a follower from Medina adds a layer of historical intrigue that guides explain with clarity.

Exploring the Larnaca Salt Lake’s Natural Beauty

Next, the tour visits the Larnaca Salt Lake, a natural attraction that has historically been a source of salt for centuries. Known as “white gold”, the lake has contributed to Cyprus’s economy and now presents a picturesque landscape. Visitors walk along the lake’s coast for about 15 minutes, soaking in the scenic views and perhaps spotting flamingos during certain seasons.

This stop is perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike. The admission is free, and the walk along the coast leaves a refreshing impression of the island’s natural beauty.

The Byzantine Museum of Saint Lazarus and the Church of St. Lazarus

The Byzantine Museum of Saint Lazarus houses treasures from the 9th-century Church of St. Lazarus, which is renowned worldwide. Known for miracles and healing rites, the church attracts pilgrims from various countries. The museum visit lasts about 30 minutes, providing an opportunity to see relic fragments and learn about the church’s spiritual significance.

The Church of St. Lazarus itself is a highlight, with its medieval architecture and historical relics. Entrance is free, making it accessible for those interested in Christian history and religious architecture.

Walking Tour Through Nicosia’s Divided Streets

The most striking part of the tour is the walking exploration of Nicosia, the last divided capital in the world. The guide leads you through Venetian walls of the 16th century and the Cathedral of John the Baptist, offering insights into the city’s complex history.

You’ll walk along narrow alleys like Laiki Geytonia, see medieval buildings, and visit the checkpoint where the border between the southern Greek Cypriot and northern Turkish Cypriot areas stands. The Hagia Sophia Cathedral, dating back to the 13th century and later converted into a mosque, is a focal point of this section.

The two-hour walk includes free time in the Northern Nicosia district, where you can explore independently and enjoy lunch. The guide provides context and background, making this a rewarding experience for history enthusiasts.

Crossing the Green Line and Entry Requirements

Crossing from the Republic of Cyprus to Northern Cyprus involves passing through border security—a standard procedure for all travelers. A passport or ID card is required; specific passport holders (Armenian, Syrian, Nigerian, Turkmenistan, Nepalese, Bangladeshi) may face restrictions unless they have a special visa.

Travelers should dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering shoulders and knees at mosques and churches. The border crossing is straightforward, but passenger pass-through times may vary.

Practical Considerations and Group Size

The tour is designed for groups up to 19 participants, fostering a more personal experience. The vehicle’s comfort level has been a point of mixed feedback: some reviews report tight squeeze or discomfort, especially for larger groups or longer journeys. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes due to the walking involved.

Most travelers find the guided commentary engaging, especially when learning about each city’s history and landmarks. The timing allows for sufficient exploration and rest between stops, though some may find the vehicle space limited.

Flexibility and Additional Costs

The tour includes lunch and rest time in the Northern part of Nicosia, but lunch is not included in the price. Travelers should budget extra for meals, snacks, or personal expenses. The full refund policy allows cancellations 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if plans change.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This day trip suits history buffs, culture seekers, and those curious about the divided city of Nicosia. It’s ideal for visitors who want an organized way to see multiple cities without renting a car. However, individuals sensitive to vehicle comfort or long walking periods should consider their physical readiness.

Final Notes on the Tour Experience

The guides are generally described as knowledgeable, adding value through informative commentary. The free attractions visited, such as the Salt Lake and religious sites, offer authentic glimpses into local heritage.

While some criticisms mention vehicle comfort issues and the lack of included lunch, these are balanced by the convenience of hotel pickup, the variety of stops, and the chance to experience Cyprus’s layered history firsthand.

Cyprus’s Divided Capital and Historic Cities: An Honest Summary

This full-day tour from Paphos provides a comprehensive look at Cyprus’s history, culture, and natural beauty. It highlights key sites like Hala Sultan Tekke, Salt Lake, and Nicosia’s Venetian walls, offering insightful guided commentary throughout.

The value lies in the organized transportation, expert guides, and access to notable landmarks—though vehicle comfort and lunch arrangements are areas to consider. The group size fosters a personal atmosphere, making it suitable for travelers eager to learn and explore without the hassle of independent travel.

Anyone interested in history, religious sites, or the unique division of Nicosia will find this tour worth considering. It provides a balanced mixture of guided insight and free exploration, making it a practical way to see Cyprus’s key cities in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. There is time for lunch and rest in Northern Nicosia, but travelers should budget extra for meals.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Hala Sultan Tekke, Larnaca Salt Lake, Church of St. Lazarus, and Nicosia’s Venetian walls and cathedral.

What is the physical activity level?
The tour involves walking through historic sites and exploring city streets, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Do I need a passport or ID?
Yes, a passport or ID card is necessary to cross into Northern Cyprus. Certain passport holders may need a special visa.

How long is the walking tour in Nicosia?
The guided walk lasts about 2 hours, with some free time for independent exploration and lunch.

How is the vehicle comfort?
Some reviews mention tight seating or discomfort in the vehicle, especially for larger groups or longer drives.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available if done 24 hours in advance, with options for a full refund.

What language is the guide likely to speak?
While not explicitly stated, the guide provides insightful commentary, suggesting English-speaking guides are standard.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it suits most adults and older children comfortable with walking and border crossing procedures.