Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

The stunning subtropical isle of Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean (after Sicily and Sardinia) and has a curiously divided personality. Located 174 miles east of Greece and 47 miles south of Turkey, Cyprus has long been influenced heavily by both of these ancient cultures. Greek culture has been here since antiquity, and a Turkish presence arrived with the Ottoman invasion in 1570 and has been here ever since. The island is also physically split, with the Republic of Cyprus covering the predominant southern portion of the island and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus – which is not recognized by the UN – in its northernmost third. Both cultures contribute to making this unique place a cultural and historical delight.

Your tour begins when you put on your walking shoes and board your motorcoach for the short and extremely scenic ride to the old port town of Paphos. You'll enjoy views of the island's distinctive Cyprus trees, as well as carob and olive plantations along the way. Your first stop is the Petra Tou Romiou (Rock of the Roman), also known as Aphrodite's Rock. This is the mythological birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite (Venus, to the Romans), the goddess of beauty and love, who is said to have emerged, fully grown, from the sea. Legend has it that a naked swim around the rock leads to fertility, but the waters can be rough here, so it's best to keep this one a photo opportunity only!

Next, you're off to the awe-inspiring House of Dionysus, a restored 14-room Roman villa that dates back to the 2nd century. The house gets its name from the subject of a number of its incredible floor mosaics. Dionysus, the Greek god of wine (and debauchery!), is depicted in a number of the house's many artworks displaying mythological scenes, which were uncovered only 50 years ago. This house, perched on a hill overlooking town, is believed to have belonged to a wealthy member of the Roman ruling class of that time. You can also take a peek at the House of Aion, another archaeological site nearby, which also contains mosaics from the same era. These stunning archaeological treasures are adjacent to the Paphos lighthouse, which can be seen from all over the island!

From here, you'll travel from the past to the present day with some free time to explore the picturesque town of Paphos. A beautiful seaside town with a remarkable history, the entire town is on the World Cultural Heritage List! Here, you can stroll about, picking up souvenirs or a bite to eat, with time to explore such sights as St. Paul's Pillar, where St. Paul was allegedly tied and whipped in 45 A.D. for preaching Christianity.

After a day packed with history and spectacular scenery, you'll be ready to relax on the short ride back to the ship with some knowledge of mythology to share with others.