Cyprus – Island of the Gods

The Must-sees of the Trip

1. Bath of Aphrodite with wine tasting (excursion package)You drive up into the mountains to the Chrysorroyiatissa Monastery, 850 metres above sea level. With its three ornate entrances and idyllic courtyard, it is known above all for its excellent wine production. Not far from the monastery is the village of Panayia, the birthplace of Makarios III, the first president of Cyprus. Finally, the journey continues via Polis, which lies on the site of the ancient city-kingdom of Marion, to the idyllic fishing village of Latchi and the natural grotto, the “Baths of Aphrodite”, where, according to myth, the goddess of love and beauty bathed and met her lover Adonis.
2. Nicosia (optional)Today’s excursion takes you to Nicosia, also known as Lefkosia in Greek, with a city wall from Venetian times, a divided old town and traces of the Occident and Orient. It is a must for any trip to Cyprus. The Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St. John is located on a historic square with well-preserved murals and jewellery inside. After a city tour through the charming alleyways, you will have free time to stroll through the beautifully restored Laiki Geitonia neighbourhood with its souvenir and craft shops. You will also visit the temporary border, the so-called “Green Line”.
3. Paphos (excursion package)Today’s half-day excursion takes you to Paphos. Firstly, you will drive to the village of Geroskipou, the so-called “sacred garden” of the goddess Aphrodite. Here you will visit the five-domed church of Ayia Paraskevi. You will then discover the city of Paphos, which was once the capital of the island and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will see the royal tombs and the magnificent Roman mosaics in the Houses of Dionysus. Afterwards there is time for lunch in a small typical fish tavern in the old harbour. This is followed by a visit to the monastery of St Neofytos. Afterwards, you will reach a breathtaking stretch of coast with the Aphrodite Rock, called Petra tou Romiou, where, according to Greek legend, Aphrodite was born from the sea foam.