One Day Visit to Kyrenia – St. Hilarion From Paphos

Discover the captivating history and stunning landscapes of Northern Cyprus on this one-day adventure from Paphos. Venture to the majestic St. Hilarion Castle, which offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline, and explore the well-preserved Kyrenia Castle, a testament to the region’s rich past. Along the way, explore the serene beauty of a Byzantine monastery, where vibrant frescoes adorn the walls. With comfortable transportation and an experienced guide, this tour promises an enriching experience for those seeking to enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of this enchanting destination. What lies beyond the castle walls is a journey worth exploring.

Key Points

• One-day excursion from Paphos that includes visits to two castles and a monastery, lasting approximately 8-9 hours.
• Minimum booking requirement of three participants for tour confirmation, with air-conditioned transportation provided.
• Opportunity to explore the history and cultural heritage of Kyrenia, including the 11th-century St. Hilarion Castle and the 10th-century Kyrenia Castle.
• Guided tour of the Byzantine-era St. Hilarion Monastery, known for its well-preserved frescoes and serene ambiance.
• Mixed customer reviews highlight both positive and negative aspects, with clarity on pricing and tour inclusions recommended for prospective customers.

Tour Duration and Itinerary

The one-day excursion to Kyrenia typically lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, with the tour departing from Paphos.

During this time, visitors will have the opportunity to explore two castles and a monastery.

Air-conditioned transportation is provided, ensuring a comfortable journey.

The minimum booking requirement is three participants, so guests must coordinate with at least two others to secure their spot on the tour.

This comprehensive itinerary allows travelers to enjoy the history and cultural heritage of the region, making it an enriching experience for those seeking to discover the highlights of Kyrenia.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Travelers meet at the Sunfresh Bakery located on Tombs of the Kings Ave 7 in Paphos 4180 for the one-day excursion to Kyrenia. Alternative pickup points may be arranged for hotels not listed, but confirmation of the pickup time and location is required. A reminder will be sent three days prior to the excursion, and no refunds are available for no-shows at the designated pickup point.

Meeting Point	Alternative Pickup	Pickup Confirmation	Reminder Sent	No-Show Refund
Sunfresh Bakery, Tombs of the Kings Ave 7, Paphos 4180	Possible for unlisted hotels	Required	3 days prior	Not available

Cancellation and Refund Policy

A full refund is available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.

However, refunds aren’t applicable for late arrivals or no-shows.

Detailed instructions regarding cancellation and refund policies are included with the ticket information.

If you have any changes or questions about your booking, it’s recommended to contact the operator directly.

It’s important to read the excursion details carefully to ensure clarity on the cancellation and refund policies.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Overall, reviews and feedback on the One Day Visit to Kyrenia tour have been mixed. The tour has a 3.0 rating based on a single review, which highlighted the visits to two castles and a monastery but expressed disappointment over the minimum booking requirement and lack of a guide. The review table below provides more insight into the customer experience:

Rating	Positives	Negatives
3.0/5	Visited 2 castles and a monastery	Minimum booking requirement, no guide
	Air-conditioned transport provided	Entrance fees not included in cost
		Lack of clear pricing information

The operator has acknowledged the feedback and clarified the excursion details, emphasizing the importance of understanding the pricing structure and tour inclusions.

Pricing and Terms

The tour price for the One Day Visit to Kyrenia starts from $83.87, as per the information provided on the booking platform.

The pricing details and terms are clearly outlined, allowing customers to review them before making a purchase. It’s important to note that additional fees may apply for entrance to the sites visited during the tour.

Customers are advised to thoroughly understand the pricing structure to avoid any surprises.

The tour is operated by Viator, a reputable booking platform, ensuring a reliable and transparent booking experience.

Visiting St. Hilarion Castle

Upon arrival at the tour’s first destination, visitors are greeted by the commanding presence of St. Hilarion Castle, a medieval fortress perched atop a rugged mountain. This magnificent structure, dating back to the 11th century, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea.

Highlights	Details
Explore	The castle’s winding paths, towers, and courtyards
Marvel	At the impressive architecture and engineering feats
Learn	About the castle’s rich history as a Byzantine stronghold
Admire	The stunning panoramic vistas from the uppermost reaches
Discover	The serene Monastery of St. Hilarion nestled within the castle walls

The tour allows ample time for visitors to enjoy the captivating history and natural beauty of this iconic Northern Cyprus landmark.

Exploring Kyrenia Castle

After exploring the majestic St. Hilarion Castle, the tour moves on to the next destination – Kyrenia Castle.

This impressive 10th-century fortress stands guard over the picturesque harbor of Kyrenia. Visitors can wander through the castle’s impressive walls, towers and courtyards, learning about its rich history.

The highlight is the shipwreck museum, which houses the remarkably well-preserved remains of a 4th-century BC Greek merchant ship, providing a fascinating glimpse into ancient seafaring.

With its stunning setting and well-preserved architecture, Kyrenia Castle offers a captivating glimpse into Cyprus’ past. Guests are encouraged to take their time exploring this landmark, soaking in its timeless ambiance.

Monastery Tour and Highlights

Following a visit to the impressive Kyrenia Castle, the tour next takes visitors to a historic monastery nestled in the picturesque countryside.

Travelers will explore the serene grounds and marvel at the Byzantine architecture of St. Hilarion Monastery. Inside, they’ll discover the well-preserved frescoes and learn about the monastery’s rich history dating back to the 10th century.

The tour offers a chance to take in the spiritual heritage of the region and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the site.

With its tranquil ambiance and cultural significance, the monastery visit is a highlight of the one-day excursion from Paphos to Kyrenia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Visitors should dress respectfully when visiting religious sites on the tour.

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour does not include a scheduled stop for lunch. However, participants can likely request a lunch break during the excursion, which would likely be accommodated if time and logistics allow. Advance coordination with the operator is recommended.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. It involves visiting two castles and a monastery, which could be challenging for individuals with limited mobility. However, the tour provider should be consulted for specific accessibility details.

Can We Take Photographs Inside the Sites Visited?

Visitors can generally take photographs inside the sites visited, though there may be some restrictions. It’s best to check with the guide or staff upon arrival to ensure compliance with any site-specific photography rules.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the tour duration. The standard tour lasts approximately 8-9 hours and visits two castles and a monastery. Extending the tour would need to be arranged separately with the operator.

Sum Up

The one-day trip from Paphos to Kyrenia offers an enriching experience, allowing travelers to explore the captivating St. Hilarion Castle, the historic Kyrenia Castle, and a serene monastery showcasing Byzantine architecture and well-preserved frescoes. With comfortable transportation and breathtaking views, this excursion promises a memorable day filled with history and picturesque landscapes, perfect for those seeking adventure and culture.