Larnaca Highlights With Visit to Lefkara and Nicosia From Paphos

Set out on a captivating cultural odyssey with this full-day tour from Paphos. Explore the charming Lefkara village, renowned for its lace and silver craftsmanship, before crossing the Green Line into historic Nicosia. Discover significant landmarks like the Tomb of St. Lazarus in Larnaca, all guided by knowledgeable experts. This fast-paced adventure offers a rich glimpse into Cyprus’s heritage, making it an experience you won’t soon forget. What secrets and stories await as you explore the heart of this island nation?

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Key Points

This full-day excursion from Paphos showcases cultural and historical highlights of Cyprus, including the picturesque village of Lefkara, the divided capital Nicosia, and the Tomb of St. Lazarus in Larnaca.
The tour offers insights into Cyprus’s rich heritage, with a focus on traditional craftsmanship like handmade lace and filigree silver work in Lefkara.
Transportation is provided via air-conditioned vehicles, with pickup points within a 3-5 minute walk/drive from hotels in Paphos, though specific locations are excluded.
Knowledgeable guides, such as Viola, are praised for their insightful commentary, and the smooth border crossing in Nicosia is highlighted by guests.
While the fast-paced nature of the tour is appreciated, some feedback suggests extending the experience over two days for a more in-depth exploration.

Tour Overview

This Larnaca Highlights tour is a full-day excursion starting from Paphos, showcasing the cultural and historical gems of Cyprus.

The tour covers Lefkara, renowned for its lace and filigree, and Nicosia, where guests can cross the Green Line.

In Larnaca, visitors will see the Tomb of St. Lazarus.

With 32 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, this tour provides insights into Cyprus’s history and culture.

The tour is priced from $53.47 per person and lasts approximately 10 hours, accommodating up to 55 travelers.

Accessibility includes stroller access and infant seats, but the tour isn’t wheelchair-friendly.

Looking for more options in Paphos? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The tour highlights Cyprus’s cultural and historical landmarks, starting with a visit to the picturesque village of Lefkara. Known for its delicate lace and intricate silver filigree, Lefkara offers a glimpse into the island’s traditional craftsmanship.

Next, the tour crosses the Green Line in Nicosia, the island’s divided capital, allowing visitors to experience the unique dynamics between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities.

The final destination is Larnaca, where guests can explore the Tomb of St. Lazarus, a significant religious site.

Throughout the day, the fast-paced tour provides insights into Cyprus’s rich heritage and culture.

Transportation and Pickup Details

To get to the various locations, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle. Pickup points are within a 3-5 minute walk or drive from hotels in Paphos. However, pickups are not available from certain locations, including Royal Blue hotel, Yeroskipou, Club St. George, Aphrodite Hills, Mandria, Pissouri, Argaka, and Polis. Private transfers can be arranged for an additional charge.

Pickup Locations	Accessibility	Private Transfers
Hotels in Paphos	3-5 min walk/drive	Available
No pickups from: Royal Blue, Yeroskipou, Club St. George, Aphrodite Hills, Mandria, Pissouri, Argaka, Polis	N/A	Available

Exploring Lefkara and Its Cultural Heritage

Nestled in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, the picturesque village of Lefkara captivates visitors with its deep-rooted cultural heritage.

Known worldwide for its exquisite handmade lace and filigree silver, Lefkara invites guests to enjoy traditional craftsmanship.

Visitors can watch skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate techniques passed down through generations.

Explore the quaint streets, browse the charming shops, and perhaps even take a lace-making workshop to uncover the secrets behind these priceless treasures.

Lefkara’s timeless allure and preservation of time-honored skills make it a highlight of the Cyprus tour.

Crossing the Green Line in Nicosia

As the tour continues, visitors cross the Green Line, the UN-patrolled buffer zone that divides the island of Cyprus into the Greek Cypriot south and the Turkish Cypriot north.

This historic crossing provides a unique opportunity to witness the island’s complex political and cultural divisions. Guests can observe the checkpoints and barricades that mark the division, gaining a deeper understanding of the ongoing conflict.

The experience offers a thought-provoking perspective on the island’s history and the challenges of reconciliation.

Navigating the crossing smoothly, the tour guides provide context and insights, enhancing the educational aspect of this segment of the journey.

There's plenty more to explore in Paphos

Visiting the Tomb of St. Lazarus in Larnaca

The Tomb of St. Lazarus is a major highlight of the tour. Located in the city of Larnaca, the tomb is said to be the final resting place of Lazarus, a biblical figure who was raised from the dead by Jesus.

Visitors can explore the 9th-century church and its underground crypt, where the tomb is housed. The site offers a glimpse into Cyprus’s rich religious history and the enduring legacy of Saint Lazarus.

Guests often find the experience thought-provoking and insightful, providing a deeper understanding of the island’s cultural and spiritual traditions.

Guest Feedback and Experiences

What do guests say about their experiences on this tour?

Overall, reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides, particularly Viola, for providing insightful commentary. Many enjoyed the visits to historical sites like St. Lazarus Church and the picturesque Lefkara village.

The smooth border crossing in Nicosia was also highlighted. However, some guests felt the pace was too rushed, with limited time at each location.

Concerns were raised about long travel times and crowded coach conditions. Suggestions were made to extend the tour over two days for a more in-depth experience.

Booking Information and Cancellation Policy

How does the booking and cancellation policy work for this tour?

Travelers can reserve now and pay later to secure their spots while maintaining flexibility. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, giving guests the ability to adjust their plans if needed.

This flexible policy ensures travelers can book with confidence, knowing they can easily make changes if their circumstances change.

The reasonable cancellation window provides peace of mind and allows for last-minute adjustments, if necessary.

Ask Away

How Much Walking Is Involved Throughout the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking at each location, with guests expected to cover several kilometers throughout the day. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to fully explore the historical sites and villages visited.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour doesn’t offer customizable itineraries. It’s a pre-set full-day excursion visiting key highlights in Lefkara, Nicosia, and Larnaca. Guests can’t adjust the schedule or locations during the tour, but they can choose from various pickup points in Paphos.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Religious Sites?

The dress code for visiting religious sites on this tour typically requires modest, covering clothing. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops are generally not permitted. Visitors should dress respectfully to enter churches and other holy places.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at the Sites?

The tour generally allows photography at most sites, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disturbing religious services. Certain areas or activities may have restrictions, so it’s best to ask the guide before taking photos.

What Happens if the Border Crossing in Nicosia Is Delayed?

If the border crossing in Nicosia is delayed, the tour guide will work to minimize the impact and adjust the schedule as needed. Participants can expect timely communication and assistance from the guide to ensure the tour proceeds as smoothly as possible.

Final Words

This captivating full-day tour from Paphos offers a rich glimpse into Cyprus’s cultural heritage. Discover the charming village of Lefkara, renowned for its exquisite lace and silver craftsmanship, then cross the Green Line into the historic capital, Nicosia. Explore significant landmarks like the Tomb of St. Lazarus in Larnaca, all while being guided by knowledgeable experts. An unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy Cyprus’s cultural treasures.