Northern Cyprus Hidden History

Overview
Cyprus offers year-round sunshine, picturesque landscapes, ancient ruins, and medieval walled towns. Uncover thousands of years of history on this relaxing holiday.

Highlights

• Just You Tour Manager as your host & Specialist Local Guide
• Return direct flights from Heathrow with British Airways
• A dedicated Just You representative to greet you at all UK airports
• 7 nights in a 4-star hotel
• 15 included meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners including a welcome drink & farewell dinner
• Overseas transfers, other transportation & porterage

Itinerary

Day 1: UK – Larnaca
Depart on your flight to Larnaca today. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in the ancient town of Kyrenia.

Day 2: Kyrenia
After breakfast, join your Tour Manager for an included guided tour of Kyrenia Town. Discover the horseshoe-shaped Venetian harbour and Kyrenia Castle, which houses a fascinating Shipwreck Museum. During free time, you may choose to visit the museum, which displays one of the oldest trade ships in the world. The afternoon is free, allowing you to relax by the pool. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a welcome drink followed by dinner.

Day 3: Kyrenia – at Leisure
Today, our optional excursion takes us to the ancient city of Salamis, known for its impressive ruins. Highlights include the Roman bath house with original mosaics, a gymnasium with a colonnade, and a restored Roman amphitheatre. We’ll then visit the medieval walled town of Famagusta, exploring sights like the 14th-century St Nicholas Cathedral, the Venetian Palace, St Barnabas Monastery, the abandoned quarter of Varosha, and the Royal Tombs dating back to around the 7th century BC.

Day 4: St. Hilarion Castle & Bellapais Monastery
Our included excursion takes us through the picturesque countryside of the Kyrenia Mountains (Five Finger Mountains). We’ll visit St. Hilarion Castle with its stunning views, followed by a visit to Bellapais village to explore the ruins of its 13th-century monastery, a fine example of Renaissance Gothic architecture.

Day 5: Kyrenia
After breakfast, we’ll drive to Kozan village, west of Kyrenia, to see how locals make halloumi cheese and bread. Afterward, enjoy a lovely lunch at the Kozan Restaurant, known for its great atmosphere. We will return to the hotel in the afternoon.

Day 6: Kyrenia – at Leisure
Our optional excursion today takes us on a scenic drive to Guzelyurt on the west coast, where we’ll visit St Mamas Church and the Archaeological Museum. We’ll then explore the remains of the ancient city of Soli, including intricate mosaics in the basilica floor, before heading to the ruined Palace of Vuni. Our final stop is the small harbour village of Gemikonagi, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch.

Day 7: Kyrenia – at Leisure
Spend a day at leisure or join our optional excursion to Nicosia, with lunch included. The capital of Cyprus is divided by the ‘Green Line’ into the Turkish and Greek Cypriot communities. A stroll through the Old Town will reveal 16th-century walls, cafés, charming squares, and historic monuments such as St. Sophia Cathedral and the Kyrenia Gate. After the guided tour, enjoy time to explore with fellow travellers or indulge in shopping.

Day 8: Larnaca – UK
Today, we’ll transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK.