Cyprus... The island of Aphrodite

This itinerary highlights important sights and allows us to sample the culture of the island and its people. We will have most of our meals out in small, neighborhood, family operated restaurants. 

DAY 1-Depart New York for our flight to Cyprus. Dinner on board.

DAY 2-Upon arrival our hosts will meet us and accompany us to our hotel in Limassol. The rest of the day is free for swimming and relaxing. Tonight we will enjoy a dinner of local delicacies in a famous neighborhood taverna. 

DAY 3-Today we visit Khirokitia, a site possessing neolithic ruins which date from 7500 B.C.; then on to the scenic mountain village of Lefkera. Here women have for centuries made beautiful lace by hand. Continuing on we reach Nicosia where we will visit the archaeological museum. Overnight Limassol.

DAY 4-This morning is free for strolling around Limassol. This afternoon we will have an excursion to Kolossi to visit the Castle of the Knights Hospitaller  which dates from c. 1200, and then on to Kourion to the ancient Roman theatre.  Afternoon arrival in Paphos. 

DAY 5-Paphos  is the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty. We will have the day free to explore this charming village, to swim, or to visit the Paphos Museum. Overnight Paphos.

DAY 6-Today we will enjoy a full-day excursion to the mountain village of Troodos and a visit to the monastery of Troodhitissa. We will also have the opportunity for tasting local vintages at the winery at Omodhos. Overnight Paphos.

DAY 7-Today takes us to the sights around Paphos village: the remarkably preserved mosaics of the House of Dionysos; the Tombs of the Kings at the sea's edge;  the Pillar of St. Paul where the apostle was chained and scourged; and the church of Aghia Kyriaki. Overnight Paphos. 

DAY 8-This morning we will travel back to Limassol, visiting en route the archaeological sanctuary at Kouklia; Petra tou Romiou, the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite; and the Temple of Apollo. Tonight, a farewell dinner at a neighborhood taverna.

DAY 9-This morning we will be driven to the Larnaka airport and assisted with check-in for our flight home from exotic Cyprus.