From Paphos: Taste of Cyprus (Private)

Planning a day in Paphos and craving a taste of local life? This private “Taste of Cyprus” tour promises an intimate journey through the island’s culinary and cultural gems. It’s perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing — you get a full, personalized experience that combines food, wine, history, and hospitality.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the customized nature means your group is small, ensuring personalized attention from guides like Andreas or Sofia, who know the ins and outs of the region. Second, the combination of food and wine offers a genuine taste of local traditions, not just the typical tourist fare. And third, the serene visits to monasteries and olive oil farms provide a peaceful yet insightful glimpse into Cyprus’s spiritual and agricultural roots.

A possible downside? The price of €20 per person for the brunch and wine tasting might seem a bit steep for some, especially considering that similar activities can often be booked directly at the harbor for a lower cost. However, the convenience of door-to-door pickup, exclusive access, and insider guidance can justify the premium for many travelers.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balance of culture, delicious food, and scenic drives — especially those eager to explore beyond the usual sights in comfort and style.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a private group, led by knowledgeable guides.
• Culinary highlights include a traditional Cypriot brunch and organic wine tasting.
• Cultural visits encompass a monastery and olive oil factory.
• Flexible itinerary that balances scenic drives with authentic experiences.
• Cost consideration: €20 per person covers brunch and wine tasting, with optional extra purchases.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, immersive day without the rush of larger tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with Convenience: Hotel Pickup in Paphos

From the moment your day begins, the tour’s pickup service in Paphos takes away the stress of navigation. The friendly driver will meet you at your hotel reception, giving you a comfortable start. This private setup ensures your experience is tailored from the get-go, unlike larger group tours that might stick to rigid schedules.

Scenic Drive and First Stop: The Traditional House for Brunch

After a short 45-minute drive, you’ll arrive at Sofia and Andreas’s traditional house — a warm, rustic place filled with the aroma of home-cooked Cypriot dishes. This is a highlight for many, as it offers a genuine taste of local hospitality. The hour-long brunch includes freshly made dishes, often with ingredients sourced locally, bringing authentic flavors straight to your plate. One reviewer noted, “The warm atmosphere and genuine hospitality made us feel like we were visiting family.”

Exploring the Akamas Peninsula

Next, a 105-minute drive takes you into the stunning Akamas Peninsula National Park. This area is famed for its rugged landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. While the tour focuses on culinary delights, the scenic drive offers a chance to appreciate the “wild beauty of Cyprus,” as one guest described. Although this part is primarily about sightseeing, the guides often share stories and insights into the region’s ecological importance, enhancing your experience.

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Wine Tasting at Tsangarides Organic Winery

Your journey continues to the family-owned Tsangarides Winery, where a 45-minute tasting session awaits. Here, you’ll sample organic wines, learning about the sustainable methods used in production. Guests often comment on the guides’ extensive knowledge, adding depth to the tasting. One reviewer praised the experience: “We appreciated how much the guides explained about each wine’s flavor profile and the organic farming techniques.” You also get the chance to purchase your favorite wines, making it a practical souvenir from your trip.

Olive Oil and Cultural Heritage in Statos

After wine, a short 45-minute drive to Stagona Olive Oil Factory lets you see the process of making premium olive oil. Tasting their products enhances your appreciation for this staple of Cypriot cuisine. The visit offers insights into olive farming and processing, which many travelers find fascinating. The combination of flavors and craftsmanship showcases Cyprus’s agricultural heritage firsthand.

Visiting the Monastery of Panayia Chrysorogiatisa

The final cultural stop is the monastery, located in the hills, offering a peaceful conclusion to your busy day. Guides often share stories about its history and significance, making it more than just a sightseeing photo-op. Guests describe the monastery as “serene,” and highlight the beautiful surroundings that create a tranquil atmosphere for reflection.

Returning to Paphos

The day wraps up with a 30-minute drive back to your hotel, giving you time to relax and reflect on the rich experiences you’ve enjoyed. Many guests leave feeling they’ve gained a deeper understanding of Cyprus’s traditions, flavors, and landscapes.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Flexibility

This tour runs for about 8 hours, with starting times varying based on your preferences. It’s designed to be flexible, so you can enjoy as much or as little time at each stop as you like. The private nature means it’s easy to customize with your guide, whether you want to linger longer at the vineyard or skip certain parts.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in a comfortable Jeep or SUV, allowing access to scenic and sometimes rugged routes. With a private group, you won’t be sharing space with strangers, which makes for a more relaxed experience. Guides like Andreas and Sofia are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often sharing personal stories that enrich the visit.

Cost and Inclusions

The total cost includes hotel pickup and drop-off, visits to the monastery and olive oil factory, and the scenic drives. The €20 per person fee covers the brunch and wine tasting, which many consider good value considering the quality and authenticity of the food and drinks. Additional expenses would be personal purchases or extra drinks.

What to Bring and Know

A camera is a must — the scenery and food presentation are worth capturing. The tour is in English and Greek, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women, likely due to the physical nature of some stops. Cancellations are flexible, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The Authenticity and Value of the Experience

This tour offers more than just pretty sights — it’s a taste of real Cyprus, delivered through authentic food, wine, and stories. Guests often mention how guides like Andreas and Sofia bring the places to life with their extensive knowledge and friendly approach. The brunch at a local house sets a warm tone for the day, making you feel like a guest rather than a tourist.

The wine and olive oil tastings are thoughtfully included, providing not only delicious samples but also educational moments about sustainable farming practices. This hands-on approach means you’re walking away with a better understanding of Cyprus’s agricultural soul.

While some travelers find the €20 fee for brunch and wine tasting a tad high, many agree that the convenience and quality justify the extra cost. The private setting creates a relaxed atmosphere where questions are welcomed, and personal interests can be catered to.

The limited reviews highlight a mixed perception of pricing—some see it as excellent value, especially with personalized service, while others note lower prices available elsewhere. Considering the overall experience, it’s a choice that balances convenience, authenticity, and comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates a personalized, relaxed pace and values authentic local experiences, this tour is a perfect fit. It suits travelers eager to explore Cyprus’s culinary traditions, culture, and scenic landscapes without the hustle of larger groups.

It’s especially suitable for those interested in wine and olive oil, and who want to learn about the island’s agricultural practices firsthand. It’s also a good pick for visitors seeking a peaceful cultural experience combined with good food and scenic drives.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more structured, self-guided visit, you might find the price and the guided aspect less appealing. Also, expect some physical activity during visits, so it’s not ideal for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with the vehicle rides and walking involved at some stops. However, keep in mind the tours are designed for adult interest in food, wine, and culture.

How much do I need to budget for additional purchases?
You should budget around €20 per person for the brunch and wine tasting, but there’s also the option to buy wines from the vineyard or olive oil products if you wish.

What should I bring?
A camera is essential to capture the scenic views and delicious food. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the monastery and olive oil factory.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are often flexible and can tailor the schedule slightly to suit your interests or time constraints.

Is it a full-day tour?
Yes, it lasts around 8 hours, including travel, stops, and free time at each location.

Will I see any wildlife or sea creatures?
No, this tour focuses on land-based cultural and culinary highlights. If wildlife or sea excursions interest you, consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This Taste of Cyprus private tour from Paphos offers a balanced mix of culinary delights, cultural insights, and scenic drives. It’s ideal for travelers wanting an intimate, authentic experience that emphasizes local traditions over tourist traps. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach turn each stop into a story, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

The inclusion of a traditional brunch, organic wine tasting, and visits to historical sites makes this tour a comprehensive snapshot of Cypriot life. While the price might be a consideration, most guests seem to find the value in the personalized service and authentic experiences provided.

If you’re eager to discover Cyprus through its food, wine, and peaceful landscapes, this tour is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: