Kyrenia, St. Hilarion Castle & Bellapais Abbey Tour from Paphos

3.8
(6 reviews)
Paphos, Cyprus

9 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Cross into Northern Cyprus and discover one of the Mediterranean's most enchanting destinations on this full-day Kyrenia day trip from Paphos.
Nestled between the dramatic Kyrenia Mountains and the sparkling sea, Kyrenia is a city where centuries of history and timeless charm come together in perfect harmony.
Your first stop is the dramatic St. Hilarion Castle — a medieval fortress with breathtaking panoramic views, said to have inspired Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Next, explore the magnificent Kyrenia Castle — built by the Byzantines in the 7th century, later shaped by Venetians and Ottomans, now housing a fascinating cultural museum. Stroll the charming Kyrenia harbour and sip a coffee overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean.
The day ends at the serene Bellapais Abbey — a breathtaking 13th-century Gothic masterpiece whose ancient walls carry stories of Genoese, Turkish, and British rule.

What's Included

Experienced local guide
Time for leisurely lunch break and rest
Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off
Fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver
St. Hilarion Castle
Bellapais Abbey
Lunch and additional beverages (available to purchase locally)
Any personal or private expenses

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

*Your pickup begins 30 minutes before the official tour departure time. Please note that the pickup time and tour start time are different — your exact time and location will be confirmed in your ticket.
*Hotel pickup: For most hotels in Paphos we collect directly from the reception.
*Not staying at a hotel? Simply arrange a convenient meeting point with the operator after booking — we'll make it easy for you.
*Please arrive 10 minutes early at your selected meeting point.
*Stay reachable on the tour day for any last-minute updates.

Itinerary

Duration: 9 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Saint Hilarion Castle

    Climbing to St. Hilarion Castle is like stepping straight into a fairy tale. Named after the hermit Hilarion who sought solitude here in the 6th century, this extraordinary medieval fortress clings dramatically to the clifftops of the Kyrenia Mountains — each ancient gate, crumbling watchtower, and stone staircase revealing more breathtaking views than the last. Legend says fairies once roamed these heights — and standing at the top, gazing across the shimmering Mediterranean, it's not hard to believe. Said to have inspired Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle, this is one of the most magical spots in all of Cyprus.

    40 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Kyrenia Castle

    Step into the irresistible charm of Kyrenia — where ancient stone arches frame colourful souvenir shops, sleek yachts bob alongside traditional fishing boats, and the laughter from waterfront cafés mingles with centuries of history. At the heart of it all stands the magnificent Kyrenia Castle — a fortress that has survived Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman rule, reinventing itself through every era while losing none of its grandeur. A place of legends, secrets, and stories that refuse to be forgotten.

    40 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Kyrenia Harbour

    Take your time and soak up the magic of Kyrenia Harbor — stroll along the waterfront, savour fresh seafood at a harborside taverna, or simply sit back with a coffee and watch the boats drift by. One of the most picturesque harbors in the entire Mediterranean — and a perfect moment to breathe it all in.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Bellapais Monastery

    Perched high in the Kyrenia Mountains with sweeping views of the sparkling Mediterranean, Bellapais Abbey is one of the most hauntingly beautiful spots in all of Northern Cyprus. This stunning 13th-century Gothic masterpiece — built by Crusaders and shaped by centuries of Genoese, Turkish, and British rule — wraps you in a profound sense of timeless peace. Wander through sun-dappled arches and serene courtyards and understand why writers, musicians, and dreamers have been drawn here for generations.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Our vehicle seats up to 6 passengers. As the car is cosy rather than spacious, please consider your comfort needs before booking.
  • All visitors must pass through borderline security.
  • A valid passport or ID card is mandatory. Please note that holders of Armenian, Syrian, Nigerian, Turkmenistan, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi passports require a special visa to enter Northern Cyprus.
Supplied by EOS TOURS (Cyprus)
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Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Car Tours
Small Group
Additional fees
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

3.8 Based on 6 6 reviews
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