Tour to Kyrenia – St. Hilarion and Bellapais Abbey from Paphos

Kyrenia (Girne) is a top destination on Cyprus' northern coast, known for its beaches, scenic harbor, and rich history. Nestled between the Kyrenia Mountains and the sea, the city boasts charming streets, traditional architecture, and historic sites. A key attraction is Kyrenia Castle, originally built by the Byzantines in the 7th century and later expanded by the Venetians and Ottomans. It now houses a museum showcasing the city’s history. Another highlight is St. Hilarion Castle, perched on a hilltop with breathtaking views. Legend says it inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, making it a perfect spot for photos. Next, we visit Bellapais Abbey, a stunning 13th-century Gothic monument built by the Crusaders. Its well-preserved refectory hosts annual music festivals due to its remarkable acoustics. The Abbey’s history reflects influences from the Genoese, Turks, and British, adding to its cultural significance.

This is a medieval castle in northern Cyprus, named after the hermit Hilarion, who lived here in a hermitage around the 6th century. Later, presumably in the 7th century, a monastery was built on the site of the hermitage. Over time, the monastery was fortified by the Byzantine authorities and used to protect the islands on the northern coast during Arab raids. It is definitely worth visiting the castle of St. Hilarion, both for the picturesque ruins of the medieval castle, and for the incredible views of Kyrenia Bay and the city of Kyrenia. Amazing photos, vivid impressions and exciting emotions are guaranteed to every visitor.

This is one of the must-see places in Northern Cyprus. This powerful fortress is unique in that, having repeatedly changed its appearance, owners and purpose throughout its history, it has survived like no other monument of such an impressive age, and today it can delight tourists with its grandeur, legends and secrets. Inside the castle, visitors can explore various rooms and exhibitions, including the Shipwreck Museum, which displays the remains of a Greek merchant ship from the 4th century BC, discovered off the coast of Kyrenia, and the Torture Museum, which occupies the dungeons of the northern part of the building. The museum's exhibits recreate scenes of the torture of knights imprisoned during the reign of the Lusignans.

Bellapais Abbey is considered the most striking example of medieval Gothic architecture in Northern Cyprus, but unfortunately it is now largely in ruins. Its foundation is attributed to Hugo III, the first king of the Lusignan dynasty. The stunning architecture of Bellapais Abbey, which includes a beautiful cloister, a refectory and a church with magnificent stained glass windows, will not leave you indifferent. The church also houses a rare 14th-century double pulpit, used for sermons to monks and parishioners. Walking around the monastery premises, you can see many artefacts. The premises are impressive for their acoustics and high vaulted walls.

Time for a walk, lunch and rest.

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• All visitors have to pass through the borderline security
• Passport or ID card is required. Please note that the holders of Armenian, Syrian, Nigerian, Turkmenistan, Nepalese and Bangladeshi passports cannot visit the Northern part of Nicosia (need special visa)
• Need comfortable walking shoes

• One day visit to Kyrenia - St. Hilarion from Paphos
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  Pickup included

• Experienced Guide
• Hotel pick-up/drop-off
• Fully insured and air-conditioned Vehicle with Professional Driver
• Time for lunch or rest

• Any private expenses

To ensure a smooth experience, kindly take note of the following: -Double-check your excursion option in the booking -If you provided your accommodation location, you will receive a pickup point and time shortly by email. Please also reply to the email for confirmation -If email is not your first priority communication method please contact the activity provider at +35799247900 (available on WhatsApp, Telegram) -If your accommodation is not listed or you have difficulty choosing a meeting place, please provide the activity provider with the Google Maps location and the correct address (name) at info@eos-tour.com, so that he can suggest you a meeting point and time -For last-minute bookings (less than 12 hours prior), choose yourself meeting point selected from the list and be punctual -Travelers are strongly advised to confirm individually the pickup point and time by contacting the operator -Don't forget Passport or ID card -Be ready 10 min before pickup time -Stay reachable on the tour day for prompt updates -If the vehicle is delayed, call us at +357 99247900 (WhatsApp). -If you fail to arrive at the place and time indicated by EOS TOURS, this will be considered a “no-show” and no refund will be given -No food in the vehicle -Our guide picks you up from the selected meeting point -Contact your booking source for cancellations/refunds

Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by EOS TOURS (Cyprus).
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Asia/Nicosia.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• This Tour is Rated 3 Stars based on 4 valid reviews on VIATOR.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 6 Travelers is accepted for booking.