Cyprus is a fascinating island that offers much more than its famous beaches. Its rugged mountains, historic sites, and local traditions make it an excellent destination for exploring through guided tours. We particularly love the Cyprus: Troodos Mountains Villages and Wineries Tour for its combination of scenic beauty, delicious food, and authentic wine tastings. Whether you’re a foodie, history lover, or just looking for a day out in nature, Cyprus’s tours deliver memorable experiences with a local touch.
Not surprisingly, many of these tours focus on the island’s renowned wine culture and mountain villages, but there are also excellent options for cheese-making, historical exploration, and private custom trips. For travelers who want a taste of everything, the variety of tours here means there’s something to fit different interests, budgets, and schedules.
Quick Overview
This guide highlights five of the best tours in Cyprus, covering wine tasting, cheese making, city visits, and private excursions. Each offers a unique look at Cypriot life, from the lush Troodos Mountains to the busy streets of Nicosia. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Cyprus: Troodos Mountains Villages and Wineries Tour
At number one, this 8.5-hour tour takes you through the charming villages and award-winning wineries of the Troodos Mountains. The tour’s highlight is a full traditional meze lunch, paired with tastings at three top wineries. Your local guide will point out historic sights and scenic vistas as you travel the winding mountain roads, stopping in villages that seem frozen in time.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance of wine tasting and culture. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and the quality of the wines—some of which can only be purchased on the tour. The tour is perfect for food lovers and wine enthusiasts who want to experience Cyprus’s rich viticulture and rural charm. One reviewer called it “absolutely amazing from start to finish,” noting the knowledgeable guide and the abundance of delicious wine.
The value for money is excellent considering the inclusion of a hearty lunch, tastings at three wineries, and visits to picturesque villages. If you’re looking for a full day that combines nature, culture, and local flavors, this is a top pick.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded experience for wine lovers and those wanting to explore the scenic mountain villages of Cyprus.
2. Troodos Mountains Halloumi Making: All Inclusive Workshop & Tour
For those interested in Cypriot cuisine and traditional crafts, this 7.5-hour tour offers a hands-on experience making halloumi cheese. The tour starts with a visit to a local home where you’ll learn how to prepare halloumi and anari cheese using age-old methods. After mastering the craft, you’ll sit down for a brunch of cheese and local specialties.
What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on culinary traditions. It’s limited to small groups, making the experience intimate and engaging. Visitors often rave about the warmth of the family hosting the cheese-making and the opportunity to taste various local products like honey, sweets, and donkey milk at different stops around the village of Lefkara. One reviewer called it “a fantastic day,” citing the interactive cheese-making and the authentic village atmosphere.
This workshop is particularly suited for foodies and curious travelers who want to get their hands dirty and learn a tangible skill. The tour’s all-inclusive pricing covers transfers, food, and activities—offering excellent value. A minor potential drawback is that it requires some physical participation, which may not suit everyone.
Bottom Line: Ideal for culinary enthusiasts eager to learn how to make cheese and sample local treats in a small group setting.
3. From Paphos: Nicosia Tour in Polish
Number three on our list is a full-day trip to Nicosia, the divided capital of Cyprus. This 8-hour tour includes visits to the St Johannes Cathedral, Ledra Street, and the Choirokoitia archaeological site. The tour departs from Paphos and offers a practical way to see the city’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide who speaks Polish.
This tour is a good choice for travelers interested in history, culture, and the unique political landscape of Cyprus. The guided walk through Nicosia provides insights into the division between Greek and Turkish Cypriots, with plenty of time for shopping and exploring at your own pace. The itinerary also includes a visit to the Choirokoitia Neolithic site, adding an archaeological dimension to the day.
While some reviews mention the organization as “very good,” the main appeal is the chance to see Nicosia in one day, with transportation sorted out for you. It’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown rather than an in-depth tour of every site.
Bottom Line: A good option for cultural and history buffs who want a guided day trip to explore Cyprus’s politically divided capital.
4. Nikosia: Must-See attractions Private walking tour
This private 3-hour tour offers a tailored walk through Nicosia’s key sights, including the Leventis Museum, St. John’s Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace. The walk is highly customizable, allowing you to focus on specific interests like history, architecture, or local life.
What sets this tour apart is its personalized approach. The guide is a local with knowledge of the hidden corners and best viewpoints, giving you a more intimate experience compared to larger group tours. The short duration makes it perfect for a quick city exploration or for those with limited time.
A reviewer mentioned “a nice tour with the story of Nicosia,” highlighting the guide’s ability to make the city’s complex history understandable and engaging. It’s best for travelers wanting a flexible, private experience that can adapt to their interests and pace.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private walk ideal for those wanting a personalized introduction to Nicosia’s main attractions.
5. The Real Cyprus: Private Mini Bus Tour With Local Guide
Finally, this 8-hour private mini bus tour is perfect for groups—from families to corporate teams—who want to explore Cyprus at their own pace. With a 14-seater vehicle and a dedicated local guide, you can customize your day, discovering hidden spots and local favorites.
The tour’s focus on savoring Cypriot cuisine and uncovering lesser-known sites makes it a flexible option. It includes local cafe stops, scenic photo opportunities, and shopping, with the ability to tailor the itinerary to your group’s interests. Travelers particularly appreciate the ability to design a day that suits their specific needs.
Reviews mention the guide’s ability to show off Cyprus’s best and the tour’s suitability for various group types, from families to bachelor parties. The main advantage is flexibility, but it requires planning ahead and knowing what you want to see.
Bottom Line: The best choice for groups wanting a customizable, private experience that showcases both Cyprus’s highlights and hidden gems.
How to Choose Your Ideal Tour in Cyprus
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and schedule. For a wine-focused day in the mountains, the Troodos Mountains Villages and Wineries Tour is hard to beat. If food and cheese excite you, the Halloumi Making workshop offers a unique hands-on experience.
Want to explore Nicosia’s historic and political sites? The guided city tour or private walk both deliver different levels of depth and customization. For those with a large group or specific interests, a private mini bus tour allows for complete flexibility.
Think about your budget, time available, and whether you prefer a guided group or a personalized experience. Booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Cyprus offers a range of tours that cater to different tastes—wine lovers, history buffs, foodies, and private travelers alike. If you want a comprehensive mountain and vineyard experience, the Troodos Villages and Wineries Tour is a top pick. For a more interactive, local experience, the halloumi cheese-making workshop is hard to beat.
For those interested in city life and history, Nicosia’s guided and private tours provide a quick yet thorough look at the divided capital. And if flexibility and group size are your priorities, the private mini bus experience offers the most room for customization.
No matter your interests, these tours help you see the real Cyprus beyond the beaches. To get the most out of your visit, consider booking early and choosing a tour that fits your style and schedule. Cyprus’s diverse offerings will ensure you leave with memorable stories and tasty souvenirs.