Pafos and Kourion Tour From Protaras, Aya Napa, Larnaca, Limassol

Explore the captivating history of Cyprus on the Pafos and Kourion Tour. Departing from Protaras, Ayia Napa, Larnaca, and Limassol, this comprehensive day trip immerses travelers in the ancient wonders of Kourion and Paphos. Witness the stunning mosaics of the House of Dionysus, the grand Kourion Amphitheater, and the intricate Tomb of the Kings – all while enjoying convenient transportation and a delicious lunch. But the true highlight might just lie beyond these iconic sites, waiting to be discovered by the curious explorer.

This experience made our list of the 13 Best Tours In Ayia Napa.

Key Points

• This tour explores the historic sites of Pafos and Kourion, notable archaeological destinations in Cyprus, departing from various locations in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• The tour includes entrance to the House of Dionysus, featuring stunning mosaics, and has a maximum group size of 50 for guided tours at Kourion.
• Transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and gratuities are included, with varying pickup times from Protaras, Ayia Napa, Larnaca, and Limassol.
• Participants need a moderate fitness level, and the tour is stroller-accessible but not wheelchair-accessible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
• Highlights of the tour include exploring the well-preserved ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman city of Kourion and the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors a chance to explore the historic sites of Pafos and Kourion, two of Cyprus’s most renowned archaeological destinations.

Departing from Protaras, Ayia Napa, Larnaca, and Limassol, the tour provides an air-conditioned ride to these ancient wonders.

With a maximum group size of 50, travelers can expect a guided tour of the impressive ruins at Kourion.

The tour also includes entrance to the House of Dionysus, a Greek-Roman villa with stunning mosaic floors.

Lunch is provided, and gratuities are included in the price of $48.52 per person.

While the tour lasts approximately 8-9.5 hours, it requires a moderate level of fitness to fully enjoy the experience.

Inclusions and Pickup Details

The Pafos and Kourion Tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation.

Pickup and drop-off from assigned meeting points are provided, allowing for convenient travel to and from the tour locations. The guided tour at Ancient Kourion offers an in-depth exploration of this historic site.

The tour includes:

1. Lunch
2. Entrance fees for the House of Dionysus (€4.50)
3. Gratuities

Pickup times vary depending on the location: Protaras (7:30-7:50 AM), Ayia Napa (8:00-8:20 AM), and Larnaca (8:45 AM at the Intercity Bus Stop Finikoudes / Palm Tree Avenue).

Pickup time confirmation is sent one day prior to the tour.

Physical Requirements and Cancellation Policy

A moderate physical fitness level is required for the Pafos and Kourion Tour. The tour takes place in the hot Mediterranean summer, so sun protection is highly recommended. While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible, though infants must sit on laps. Participants should be aware that there’s a possibility of cancellation after confirmation, but in such cases, alternatives or full refunds will be offered. Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any penalties.

Fitness Level	Sun Protection	Accessibility
Moderate	Recommended	Stroller accessible, no wheelchairs
Cancellation Policy
Free up to 24 hours before
Alternatives or full refund if cancelled after confirmation

Exploring Ancient Kourion

Nestled on the southern coast of Cyprus, the ancient Greco-Roman city of Kourion beckons visitors to explore its well-preserved ruins.

The tour includes a guided visit to this archaeological gem, allowing guests to uncover its storied past.

Highlights of the experience include:

1. Marveling at the magnificent Kourion Amphitheater, which once hosted grand performances and spectacles.
2. Discovering the exquisite floor mosaics in the House of Dionysus, revealing the opulence of Kourion’s elite.
3. Standing atop the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, where ancient worshippers paid homage to the god of nature.

Immersed in the grandeur of Kourion’s bygone era, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage.

Visiting Paphos Archaeological Sites

After exploring the ancient ruins of Kourion, the tour continues to the captivating archaeological sites of Paphos.

Visitors have the opportunity to wander through the extraordinary Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park boasts incredibly well-preserved Roman mosaics, showcasing intricate designs and mythological scenes.

Nearby, the Tomb of the Kings impresses with its elaborate underground tombs, carved out of solid rock. These ancient burial sites provide a window into the sophisticated funerary practices of the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

With its wealth of historical treasures, Paphos offers an immersive journey through Cyprus’ rich past.

Stopping at Aphrodite’s Rock

The tour makes a captivating stop at Aphrodite’s Rock, a legendary site that holds deep cultural and mythological significance.

Visitors can:

1. Gaze upon the dramatic coastal scenery and azure waters where, according to Greek mythology, the goddess Aphrodite emerged from the sea.

2. Explore the rocky shoreline and snap photos of this iconic natural landmark, which has been a pilgrimage site for centuries.

3. Spend time reflecting on the ancient legends and the enduring allure of this enchanting location on the Mediterranean.

The stop at Aphrodite’s Rock offers a chance to connect with Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage and appreciate the timeless beauty of this legendary site.

Feedback From Previous Participants

Participants have shared a mix of feedback on their experiences with the Pafos and Kourion Tour. While some praised the knowledgeable and passionate guide, others noted issues like delayed buses and limited exploration time in Paphos. The tour’s highlights and disappointments are summarized in the table below.

Positive Feedback	Negative Feedback
Knowledgeable and passionate guide	Delayed bus and lack of communication
Good English proficiency of the guide	Lengthy monologue from the guide
Enjoyable experience overall	Limited exploration time in Paphos
Specific mentions of Kourion and Paphos archaeological sites	Aphrodite’s Rock and confectionery visit deemed underwhelming

Since You Asked

What Languages Does the Guide Speak?

The tour guide speaks English, as the description states the tour includes a "Guided tour at Ancient Kourion" and customer reviews mention the guide’s "good English". The guide’s linguistic abilities are not explicitly detailed beyond this.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer customization options. It’s a pre-set itinerary, with pickup/drop-off locations and inclusions specified. Travelers can’t choose their own sites or activities during the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on this tour. The tour package includes a lunch, and bringing outside items is not permitted. The tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle and all necessary inclusions for the experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Guests should also pack sun protection like hats and sunscreen, as the tour visits outdoor archaeological sites.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

Photography is generally permitted throughout the tour, though visitors should be mindful of any site-specific restrictions. It’s recommended to check with the guide for guidance on appropriate photography etiquette at each location.

The Sum Up

The Pafos and Kourion Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Cyprus’s remarkable historical sites. Travelers will marvel at the stunning ancient ruins, vibrant mosaics, and breathtaking coastal landscapes. With convenient transportation, a delicious lunch, and positive feedback from previous participants, this tour provides an enriching and unforgettable experience for anyone interested in the rich heritage of Cyprus.