The Archaeology of Ancient Cyprus 7942

The Archaeology of Ancient Cyprus 7942

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8 Days From

$2530

The Archaeology of Ancient Cyprus 7942

8 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom

Visiting: Limassol, Khirokitia, Nicosia, Paphos, London

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BCYP

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Moderate

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $2530

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the rich archaeological tapestry of Cyprus with "The Archaeology of Ancient Cyprus 7942" tour. This immersive experience takes you to the heart of ancient history, starting with the Neolithic village of Khirokitia and the intriguing settlement of Tenta. Explore the Amathous Archaeological Site and the vibrant capital, Nicosia, with its extensive collection of Cypriot artifacts. Discover the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion, the Sanctuary of Apollon Hylates, and the legendary Aphrodite's Rock. In Paphos, delve into the UNESCO-listed Archaeological Park and Museum, and the Tomb of the Kings. Enjoy comfortable coach travel, professional guidance, and delightful local cuisine, all while staying in well-appointed accommodations. This tour promises a seamless blend of history, culture, and relaxation, offering free days to unwind and explore at your own pace. Conclude your adventure with a farewell dinner, celebrating the timeless allure of Cyprus.

Highlights

  • This exceptionally well-preserved Neolithic walled village of Khirokitia

  • A visit to Amathous Archaeological Site

  • A full day discovering the Cypriot capital - Nicosia

  • Visits to Kourion Archaeological site, Sanctuary of Apollon Hylates and Aphrodite’s Rock

  • Archaeological sites in Paphos including the Archaeological Park and Museum and Tomb of the Kings

  • Explore the Cyprus Archaeological Museum in Nicosia

  • Discover the intricate mosaic floors at the Roman villas in Kato Pafos (Paphos) Archaeological Park

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: Limassol

Accommodation Name: Mediterranean Beach Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

We depart from London to Cyprus and upon our arrival we transfer to our hotel in Limassol. Later this evening, we reconvene for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2

Location: Khirokitia

Accommodation Name: Mediterranean Beach Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the site of Khirokitia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This exceptionally well-preserved Neolithic walled village is home to over 60 stone round houses. Following this we visit the village of Kalavasos, situated on the west bank of the Vasiliko River. Here the settlement of Tenta is of special interest, an aceramic Neolithic settlement that dates back to 7000BC and is one of the most significant sites on the island. According to local tradition its name dates to 327AD when St. Helen – mother of Constantine the Great stayed in a tent (tenta) at this location during her visit to the island following the discovery of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem. Our last visit of the day is to the Amathous Archaeological Site, which has yielded some interesting finds such as the Agora, public baths, the Temple of Aphrodite, early Christian Basilicas and several tombs.

Day 3

Location: Nicosia

Accommodation Name: Mediterranean Beach Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today we have a full day discovering the Cypriot capital of Nicosia. A settlement since the Bronze Age, the city has been continuously inhabited for almost 5000 years. We have a visit to the Cyprus Archaeological Museum which is home to the world’s most extensive collection of Cypriot archaeology. We have lunch in a local taverna with wine included, followed by some free time to explore the old town, including the well-preserved Venetian walls, built in an (ultimately futile) attempt to defend the city from the Ottoman invasion. There is also the chance to cross the green line into Turkish Cyprus at the Ledra check point.

Day 4

Location: Nicosia

Accommodation Name: Mediterranean Beach Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is yours to spend at your leisure.

Day 5

Location: Paphos

Accommodation Name: Mayfair Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast we check out of our hotel and head to our first visit of the day, the Kourion Archaeological site which is one of Cyprus’s most important city-kingdoms from antiquity. Built on a hillside, overlooking the valley of the River Kouris, the site has revealed evidence that suggested the inhabitants of Kourion believed they were descendants of Argean immigrants. This once thriving kingdom was decimated in a severe earthquake in 365AD. The centrepiece of the site is the impressive Greco-Roman theatre that was built in the 2nd century BC and further extended during the 2nd century AD. Other remains include the private villa ‘House of Eustolios’ where we can see the remains of 5th century mosaic floors and a bathing complex. More impressive mosaic floors can be found in the ‘House of Achilles’ and the ‘House of the Gladiators’ – named after the images depicted in the mosaics.
Our next visit is to the Sanctuary of Apollon Hylates (God of the Woodland). The sanctuary was built around 100AD and was one of the most important religious centres in Cyprus.
The final stop of the day is Aphrodite’s Rock, the goddess’s mythical birthplace. According to legend the Greek Goddess of Love and Beauty (known to the Romans as Venus), was born from the sea foam here and was escorted on a shell to the beach, an iconic scene frequently depicted in Western art.
We later head to our hotel in Paphos where the evening is at leisure.

Day 6

Location: Paphos

Accommodation Name: Mayfair Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today we have a long but rewarding day. Our first visit after breakfast is the Archaeological Park at Kato Pafos (Paphos), which has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1980. Here we discover sites and monuments from the 4th century through to the Middle Ages, while most of the remains date to the Roman period. There are four Roman villas which house intricate mosaic floors to discover, as well as the Asklepieion, the Odeon, the Agora and the Saranta Kolones Castle.
We then head to Paphos Archaeological Museum. Here we explore the collection of finds from the region dating from the Neolithic Age to 1700 AD. Separated into five rooms covering different periods of time, the first room covers the Neolithic, Chalcolithic and Bronze Age, the second the Iron Age and classical period and the third presents the Hellenistic and Roman periods. In the fourth room we find items from the late Roman and Christian periods and the final room showcases artefacts from the Byzantine periods and Middle Ages.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we depart for the Tomb of the Kings, near Paphos, an elaborate rock-cut necropolis which dates from the 3rd century BC and features frescoed walls and Doric columns. Another of Cyprus’s most significant sites that has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage site list since 1980.
This afternoon we visit Lemba Archaeological Project, home to prehistoric projects in western Cyprus for over 30 years.

Day 7

Location: London

Accommodation Name: Mayfair Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today is yours to spend relaxing. Later this evening we enjoy a farewell dinner with wine at a local restaurant.

Day 8

Location: London

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our return flight to London

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Meals as per the itinerary

    Meals are provided according to the itinerary, including some lunches and dinners.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Travel throughout the tour is provided by comfortable coach, ensuring a smooth and relaxing journey between the various archaeological sites and attractions.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits to the archaeological sites and attractions mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    A professional tour manager will accompany the group to provide guidance and assistance throughout the tour.

What's Not Included

Accommodation details are not provided in the tour information.

Mode of Transport

Travel throughout the tour is provided by comfortable coach, ensuring a smooth and relaxing journey between the various archaeological sites and attractions.

Accommodation

Accommodation details are not provided in the tour information.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is used during the tour?

    Travel throughout the tour is provided by a comfortable coach, ensuring a smooth and relaxing journey between the various archaeological sites and attractions.

  • What is included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes accommodation, meals as per the itinerary, comfortable coach travel throughout, all visits as outlined in the itinerary, and the services of a professional tour manager.

  • What can I expect on the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, you will depart from London to Cyprus and upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Limassol. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

  • What activities are planned for the day in Nicosia?

    In Nicosia, you will visit the Cyprus Archaeological Museum, have lunch in a local taverna, and have free time to explore the old town, including the Venetian walls. There is also an opportunity to cross the green line into Turkish Cyprus at the Ledra checkpoint.

  • What are some of the key archaeological sites visited on the tour?

    Key archaeological sites visited include the Neolithic village of Khirokitia, the Amathous Archaeological Site, the Kourion Archaeological site, the Sanctuary of Apollon Hylates, Aphrodite’s Rock, the Archaeological Park at Kato Pafos, and the Tomb of the Kings.

  • Is there any free time during the tour?

    Yes, there is a day allocated for leisure on Day 4, and the evening of Day 5 is also at leisure. Additionally, Day 7 is a day for relaxation before a farewell dinner in the evening.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Tuesday

Mar 25, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025
$2615

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Mar 25, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025
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Including UK Flights

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Nov 05, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025
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Nov 05, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025
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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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