Troodos Mountains: Monasteries, Omodos Village & Food Day Trip

Summary

Cyprus monasteries icons village bread and Troodos wine in a mountain day

You’ll walk monastery halls scented with incense, taste Cypriot village bread still warm from the oven, sip strong local wine in Pedoulas, and wander Omodos’ cobbled lanes. With a local guide sharing stories along winding Troodos roads, this day trip from Paphos lets you feel both Cyprus’ spirit and its flavors — long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

“You can smell the incense before you even step inside,” our guide Maria said, pausing at the old wooden doors of Panayia Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery. She was right — it hit me first, that mix of beeswax and something older, maybe frankincense? The place is tucked up in the Troodos Mountains above Paphos, stone walls holding centuries of silence. I tried to take a photo but honestly, the light inside made everything glow too much for my phone to handle. Maria showed us a tiny gold icon behind glass — people crossed themselves as they passed by. I just stood there for a bit, not sure what I was supposed to feel but feeling it anyway.

We wound higher up narrow roads (if you get carsick, maybe don’t sit at the back), stopping at Kykkos Monastery next. Gold mosaics everywhere — almost too much for tired eyes. There’s a museum with old manuscripts and robes; if you’re into history it’s worth the extra euros. Maria explained how pilgrims still come from all over Cyprus just to see the Virgin Mary icon. Some locals pressed their foreheads against the glass case, whispering prayers so quietly I felt like I shouldn’t listen in. Outside, mountain air sharper than I expected for Cyprus — pine trees and distant bells echoing somewhere down the valley.

Lunch in Pedoulas was optional but… come on, who skips Cypriot food? We crowded around a long table with souvla (that slow-grilled pork), salty halloumi that squeaked between my teeth, warm bread that tasted like someone’s grandmother had made it that morning. The local red wine was stronger than I thought; Li from our group tried to say “cheers” in Greek and everyone laughed (her version sounded more like sneezing). After that we wandered Omodos village — cobbled streets, lace shops where old ladies waved us in but didn’t mind if we just looked. The Timios Stavros Monastery here feels quieter than the others; less gold, more shadows and cool stone under your hands.

I bought some sticky walnut bread from a bakery where the baker handed it over with flour on his hands and a nod — barely any English but plenty of warmth. On the drive back to Paphos I watched sunlight flicker through pine branches and thought about how many layers Cyprus has — not just beaches but all these hidden stories stacked up in the hills. Still think about that view from Throni sometimes; it’s hard to explain why it sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore monasteries and mountain villages

• Visit Panayia Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery
• See Archbishop Makarios’ tomb in Throni
• Discover Kykkos Monastery and museum
• Optional lunch in Pedoulas village
• Explore Omodos village and Timios Stavros Monastery
• Taste local baked goods in Omodos

Top questions

How long is the Troodos Mountains day trip from Paphos?

The tour lasts approximately one full day including travel time between stops.

Is lunch included on this Troodos monasteries tour?

Lunch in Pedoulas is optional and not included in the price; you can choose to join or explore on your own.

Are entrance fees included for Kykkos Monastery Museum?

No, entrance fees for the Kykkos Museum are not included in the tour price.

Is hotel pickup available for this Troodos day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for Paphos City Center hotels.

Can children join this monastery & village tour?

Yes, children can join; infants can ride in prams or strollers and infant seats are available if needed.

What should I wear when visiting monasteries in Cyprus?

No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed inside churches or monasteries; dress modestly.

Is this tour suitable for people prone to travel sickness?

The tour includes narrow mountain roads with bends; it may not be recommended if you suffer from travel sickness.

Will there be wine tasting on this Omodos village tour?

Yes, complimentary wine tasting is offered during lunch in Pedoulas village.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from central Paphos hotels, travel by air-conditioned coach through winding mountain roads with live commentary from your licensed local guide. You’ll visit historic monasteries and villages with free time to explore, plus an optional Cypriot lunch with local wine tasting before heading back as evening falls.