Jewels of Malta & Greek Islands

Today, you'll depart for Malta.

Meals included: In-Flight

Arrive into Valletta Airport, where you will be met and transferred to the hotel accommodation in the picturesque town of Sliema, known for its numerous rocky beaches. Located on a peninsula across Marsamxett Harbour from Valletta, Sliema was once a quiet fishing village, yet it now ranks as one of the country’s main coastal resorts. Malta's cool crowd flock here to eat, drink and shop and if you're looking for a base that mingles cosmopolitan sparkle with quiet backstreets, this is the perfect choice. Lining the coastline is a promenade known as the Sliema Front, a popular meeting place for locals during the summer season and a common area for walkers and joggers. Romantic moon strolls, barbecues and open-air restaurants and cafes have made Sliema the hub of social nightlife. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: AX The Victoria Hotel or similar, Sliema

Meals included: None

Today head out on a guided day tour of Valletta and Birgu.

Malta’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Valletta is nothing short of an open-air museum. Throughout the years, the city has welcomed emperors, heads of state, artists and poets and is now the permanent seat of the Maltese government. Draped with baroque architecture left behind by the Knights of St John, Valletta is a historic jewel. Dotted with quaint cafes and wine bars, the city is today one of Malta’s main tourist attractions. During the tour the guide will walk you around Valletta to see the following sites: Upper Barrakka, Saluting Battery, Auberge de Castille, and St John’s Co-Cathedral (entry included).

Afterwards you may enjoy some free time for lunch (not included). After lunch you will then head down to the waterfront to board the Maltese Dghajsa (traditional water taxi) and enjoy a 30-minute harbour cruise before docking in one of Malta’s famous fortified Three Cities, Birgu. The Three Cities is a collective description of the three fortified cities of Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua in Malta. The oldest of the Three Cities is Birgu, which has existed since the Middle Ages. The other two cities, Senglea and Cospicua, were both founded by the Order of Saint John in the 16th and 17th centuries. The Three Cities are enclosed by the Cottonera Lines, along with several other fortifications.

On arrival in Birgu, enjoy a walking tour of this ancient town, before transferring back to your hotel at the end of the day for an evening at leisure.

Overnight: AX The Victoria Hotel or similar, Sliema

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is free to explore this beautiful island at leisure. Alternatively, you can take part in a half-day optional tour to the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples and the Blue Grotto.

Optional Activity: Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples & Blue Grotto
Today’s tour will begin with a hotel pick and transfer to the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples (entry included), which stand on a hilltop overlooking the sea and the islet of Fifla, not more than 2 kilometres south-west of the village of Qrendi. At the bottom of the hill, only 500 metres away, lies another remarkable temple site, Mnajdra, found above the Southern cliffs. The surrounding landscape is typical Mediterranean scrubland spectacular in its starkness and isolation. The next stop is the Blue Grotto, which are several sea caverns on the southern coast of Malta, west of the Wied iz-Żurrieq harbor. It is located right across the small uninhabited islet of Filfla. Every day from sunrise until about 13:00 a unique sight can be observed here. The location of the cave, combined with the sunlight, lead to the water mirroring showing numerous shades of blue. Several caverns mirror the brilliant phosphorescent colours of the underwater flora; other caverns show a deep dark shade of blue. The Blue Grotto is a popular destination for tourists on the island of Malta. It was also used for a scene of the 2004 film Troy, starring Brad Pitt. You will have the opportunity to take a boat trip around the caves (subject to weather conditions) which is not included and costs approximately €10 per person to be paid on site. This optional tour includes guide, transport, and entrance fees to temples only.

Afterwards, transfer back to your hotel for the remainder of the day at leisure. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: AX The Victoria Hotel or similar, Sliema

Meals included: Breakfast

Today head out on a land safari on the nearby island of Gozo, arguably the best way to see the neighbouring island of Gozo. While on tour you will visit all the places of interest that Malta’s sister island has to offer. The island of Gozo has long been associated with Ogygia, the island home of the nymph Calypso in Homer's Odyssey. In that story, Calypso, possessed of great supernatural powers, and in love with Odysseus, holds him captive for several years, until finally releasing him to continue his journey home.

This morning you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the ferry terminal to board the boat to Gozo (approximately 20 minutes sailing). Upon arrival in Gozo, board a 4WD vehicle and discover the magical island of Gozo. Drive to the Mediterranean salinas of Salt Pans, Marsalforn, one of the islands ' highlights, continue down to the red sandy beach of Ramla Bay and then on to Belvedere Point. From here go onto Victoria, Gozos Capital City. Visit the Ggantija Temples Built before the famous standing stones at Stonehenge, the two temples making up this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site have an extraordinary history (entrance included). Continue to the fishing village of Xlendi where lunch will be provided and then back to the ferry terminal. You will arrive back to the hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Overnight: AX The Victoria Hotel or similar, Sliema

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

Today is free to explore this beautiful island at leisure. Alternatively, you can take part in a half-day optional tour of Mdina City.

Optional Activity: Mdina City Tour
Approximately 10 kilometres from Valletta, Mdina is the old capital of Malta whose earliest inhabitants date back to 4000 B.C. The fortified and walled town is known as the ‘Silent City’ due to its quiet and narrow streets. Commanding a magnificent view of the Island, Mdina maintained a strategic position due to its central location, the highest point on the island, and its distance from the sea. Currently only city residents are allowed to bring their cars within the city gates, which lead to the calming effect described by many visitors. Mdina is a pedestrian’s paradise.

Enjoy a guided walk through the city and visit its most famous site, the iconic St. Paul's Cathedral. The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul is a Roman Catholic cathedral, dedicated to St. Paul the Apostle. The cathedral was founded in the 12th century, and according to tradition it stands on the site of where Roman governor Publius met Saint Paul following his shipwreck on Malta. The original cathedral was severely damaged in the 1693 Sicily earthquake; it was dismantled and rebuilt in the Baroque style to a design of the Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà between 1696 and 1705. The cathedral is regarded as Gafà's masterpiece. This optional tour includes guide, transport and entrance fees to Mdina Cathedral.

Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: AX The Victoria Hotel or similar, Sliema

Meals included: Breakfast

Today accordingly with your flight be transferred to Valletta airport for your flight to Athens, Greece. Welcome to Athens, a city rich in diverse experiences from scenic beaches to local eateries offering Mediterranean cuisine. Athens has something for every traveller, whether you're after bustling markets or the opportunity to delve into Greece's ancient history, this is the place.

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you can check in before enjoying the remainder of the day at leisure. (Please note: A city tax is payable directly to the hotel upon arrival)

Overnight: Ilisia Hotel or similar, Athens

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, transfer to the airport for your flight to the beautiful Greek Island of Paros. Upon arrival in Paros, transfer to the hotel, and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (Please note: A city tax is payable directly to the hotel upon arrival) Paros sits in the heart of the Aegean sea and belongs to the Cyclades Islands, such as Mykonos, Santorini and Naxos. It is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, mainly known for its traditional Cycladic architecture and enchanting sandy beaches with crystal clear waters. Paros is best known for its gorgeous capital of Parikia, its white sandy beaches, traditional rural villages and the charm of not being as crowded as its neighbours.

Overnight: Eri Hotel or similar, Paros

Meals included: Breakfast

For the next two days enjoy all that spectacular Paros has to offe, breathtaking views, stunning multi-coloured cliff faces, fantastic beaches and a vibrant dining scene. Paros combines modern with traditional elements in the most unique way, it is a mix of traditional Cycladic architecture, vivid nightlife, magical beaches, enchanting rural villages and historical monuments. Whether you’re after a relaxing holiday or you are more of a thrill-seeker, Paros Island will give you exactly what you want! Boasting a beautiful natural landscape and 120 kilometres of coastline, Paros is one of the most beautiful Greek islands. It has endless golden-sand beaches, verdant mountains and cliff-top villages.

Overnight: Eri Hotel or similar, Paros

Meals included: Breakfast

Today be transferred to the port for boarding the ferry to Crete island (approximately 3.5 hours). Upon Arrival in Heraklion, Crete, be transferred to your hotel for checking in. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Please note: A city tax is payable directly to the hotel upon arrival

Crete is Greece's largest island, famous for its stunning diverse landscapes (beaches, mountains, gorges), rich history, vibrant cities like Chania and Heraklion, and its distinct, healthy cuisine, offering a blend of natural beauty, ancient ruins, and unique culture in the southern Aegean Sea.

Overnight: Hotel Castello City or similar, Heraklion, Crete

Meals included: Breakfast

Today enjoy a day at leisure in Heraklion, the vibrant capital and largest city of Crete. Explore its rich history blending Minoan, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences, with major sites like the ancient Palace of Knossos, the Koules Fortress at the Venetian harbor serving as a hub for exploring Crete's unique culture and landscapes. You may enjoy the long, sandy and popular beaches.

Overnight: Hotel Castello City or similar, Heraklion, Crete

Meals included: Breakfast

Today head to Chania a picturesque city on the northwest coast of Crete Island, on the way stop at the historic city of Rethymnon, on the northern coast of Crete, famous for its beautifully preserved Venetian Old Town, Venetian Harbour with its lighthouse, and the imposing 16th-century fortress (entry excluded). It offers a charming blend of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, narrow cobblestone streets and delicious local food. Continue to Chania famous for its beautiful and well-preserved historic Old Town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture.

It's a major tourist destination known for its charming waterfront restaurants, boutique hotels, vibrant markets, and rich history, offering a blend of ancient ruins, cultural sites, and natural beauty. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (Please note: A city tax is payable directly to the hotel upon arrival) Today travel approximately 140 kilometres.

Overnight: Hotel Arkadi or similar, Chania, Crete

Meals included: Breakfast

Today enjoy a full day at leisure in the beautiful location and beaches of Chania.

Overnight: Hotel Arkadi or similar, Chania, Crete

Meals included: Breakfast

Today be transferred to the airport for your flights to Athens. Arrive back into Athens and transfer to the city centre to enjoy a half day guided tour of the majestic archeological site pf the Acropolis (entry included). The Acropolis is an ancient citadel located on a high rocky outcrop above the city of Athens. It’s home to several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. Afterwards check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure in the Greek capital city.

Overnight: Ilisia Hotel or similar, Athens

Meals included: Breakfast

Today at the appropriate time be transferred to the airport for the return flight back to Australia.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note: Some flights may arrive in Australia +1 day later.

Meals included: None

Today, you'll depart for Malta.

Meals included: In-Flight

Arrive into Valletta Airport, where you will be met and transferred to the hotel accommodation in the picturesque town of Sliema, known for its numerous rocky beaches. Located on a peninsula across Marsamxett Harbour from Valletta, Sliema was once a quiet fishing village, yet it now ranks as one of the country’s main coastal resorts. Malta's cool crowd flock here to eat, drink and shop and if you're looking for a base that mingles cosmopolitan sparkle with quiet backstreets, this is the perfect choice. Lining the coastline is a promenade known as the Sliema Front, a popular meeting place for locals during the summer season and a common area for walkers and joggers. Romantic moon strolls, barbecues and open-air restaurants and cafes have made Sliema the hub of social nightlife.

Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: AX The Victoria Hotel or similar, Sliema

Meals included: None

Today head out on a guided day tour of Valletta and Birgu.

Malta’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Valletta is nothing short of an open-air museum. Throughout the years, the city has welcomed emperors, heads of state, artists and poets and is now the permanent seat of the Maltese government. Draped with baroque architecture left behind by the Knights of St John, Valletta is a historic jewel. Dotted with quaint cafes and wine bars, the city is today one of Malta’s main tourist attractions. During the tour the guide will walk you around Valletta to see the following sites: Upper Barrakka, Saluting Battery, Auberge de Castille, and St John’s Co-Cathedral (entry included). Afterwards you may enjoy some free time for lunch (not included).

After lunch you will then head down to the waterfront to board the Maltese Dghajsa (traditional water taxi) and enjoy a 30-minute harbour cruise before docking in one of Malta’s famous fortified Three Cities, Birgu. The Three Cities is a collective description of the three fortified cities of Birgu, Senglea and Cospicua in Malta. The oldest of the Three Cities is Birgu, which has existed since the Middle Ages. The other two cities, Senglea and Cospicua, were both founded by the Order of Saint John in the 16th and 17th centuries. The Three Cities are enclosed by the Cottonera Lines, along with several other fortifications. On arrival in Birgu, enjoy a walking tour of this ancient town, before transferring back to your hotel at the end of the day for an evening at leisure.

Overnight: AX The Victoria Hotel or similar, Sliema

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is free to explore this beautiful island at leisure. Alternatively, you can take part in a half-day optional tour to the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples and the Blue Grotto. Optional Activity: Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples & Blue Grotto - Today’s tour will begin with a hotel pick and transfer to the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples (entry included), which stand on a hilltop overlooking the sea and the islet of Fifla, not more than 2 kilometres south-west of the village of Qrendi. At the bottom of the hill, only 500 metres away, lies another remarkable temple site, Mnajdra, found above the Southern cliffs. The surrounding landscape is typical Mediterranean scrubland, spectacular in its starkness and isolation. The next stop is the Blue Grotto, which are several sea caverns on the southern coast of Malta, west of the Wied iz-Żurrieq harbor. It is located right across the small uninhabited islet of Filfla.

Every day from sunrise until about 13:00 a unique sight can be observed here. The location of the cave, combined with the sunlight, lead to the water mirroring showing numerous shades of blue. Several caverns mirror the brilliant phosphorescent colours of the underwater flora; other caverns show a deep dark shade of blue. The Blue Grotto is a popular destination for tourists on the island of Malta. It was also used for a scene of the 2004 film Troy, starring Brad Pitt. You will have the opportunity to take a boat trip around the caves (subject to weather conditions) which is not included and costs approximately €10 per person to be paid on site. This optional tour includes guide, transport, and entrance fees to temples only. Afterwards, transfer back to your hotel for the remainder of the day at leisure. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: AX The Victoria Hotel or similar, Sliema

Meals included: Breakfast

Today head out on a land safari on the nearby island of Gozo, arguably the best way to see the neighbouring island of Gozo. While on tour you will visit all the places of interest that Malta’s sister island has to offer. The island of Gozo has long been associated with Ogygia, the island home of the nymph Calypso in Homer's Odyssey. In that story, Calypso, possessed of great supernatural powers, and in love with Odysseus, holds him captive for several years, until finally releasing him to continue his journey home.

This morning you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the ferry terminal to board the boat to Gozo (approximately 20 minutes sailing). Upon arrival in Gozo, board a 4WD vehicle and discover the magical island of Gozo. Drive to the Mediterranean salinas of Salt Pans, Marsalforn, one of the islands ' highlights, continue down to the red sandy beach of Ramla Bay and then on to Belvedere Point. From here go onto Victoria, Gozos Capital City. Visit the Ggantija Temples Built before the famous standing stones at Stonehenge, the two temples making up this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site have an extraordinary history (entrance included). Continue to the fishing village of Xlendi where lunch will be provided and then back to the ferry terminal. You will arrive back to the hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Overnight: AX The Victoria Hotel or similar, Sliema

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

Today is free to explore this beautiful island at leisure. Alternatively, you can take part in a half-day optional tour of Mdina City.

Optional Activity: Mdina City Tour
Approximately 10 kilometres from Valletta, Mdina is the old capital of Malta whose earliest inhabitants date back to 4000 B.C. The fortified and walled town is known as the ‘Silent City’ due to its quiet and narrow streets. Commanding a magnificent view of the Island, Mdina maintained a strategic position due to its central location, the highest point on the island, and its distance from the sea. Currently only city residents are allowed to bring their cars within the city gates, which lead to the calming effect described by many visitors. Mdina is a pedestrian’s paradise. Enjoy a guided walk through the city and visit its most famous site, the iconic St. Paul's Cathedral. The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul is a Roman Catholic cathedral, dedicated to St. Paul the Apostle.

The cathedral was founded in the 12th century, and according to tradition it stands on the site of where Roman governor Publius met Saint Paul following his shipwreck on Malta. The original cathedral was severely damaged in the 1693 Sicily earthquake; it was dismantled and rebuilt in the Baroque style to a design of the Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà between 1696 and 1705. The cathedral is regarded as Gafà's masterpiece. This optional tour includes guide, transport and entrance fees to Mdina Cathedral. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: AX The Victoria Hotel or similar, Sliema

Meals included: Breakfast

Today accordingly with your flight be transferred to Valletta airport for your flight to Athens, Greece. Welcome to Athens, a city rich in diverse experiences from scenic beaches to local eateries offering Mediterranean cuisine. Athens has something for every traveller, whether you're after bustling markets or the opportunity to delve into Greece's ancient history, this is the place. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you can check in before enjoying the remainder of the day at leisure. (Please note: A city tax is payable directly to the hotel upon arrival)

Overnight: Ilisia Hotel or similar, Athens

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, transfer to the airport for your flight to the beautiful Greek Island of Paros. Upon arrival in Paros, transfer to the hotel, and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (Please note: A city tax is payable directly to the hotel upon arrival) Paros sits in the heart of the Aegean sea and belongs to the Cyclades Islands, such as Mykonos, Santorini and Naxos. It is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, mainly known for its traditional Cycladic architecture and enchanting sandy beaches with crystal clear waters. Paros is best known for its gorgeous capital of Parikia, its white sandy beaches, traditional rural villages and the charm of not being as crowded as its neighbours.

Overnight: Eri Hotel or similar, Paros

Meals included: Breakfast

For the next two days enjoy all that spectacular Paros has to offer - breathtaking views, stunning multi-coloured cliff faces, fantastic beaches and a vibrant dining scene. Paros combines modern with traditional elements in the most unique way, it is a mix of traditional Cycladic architecture, vivid nightlife, magical beaches, enchanting rural villages and historical monuments. Whether you’re after a relaxing holiday or you are more of a thrill-seeker, Paros Island will give you exactly what you want! Boasting a beautiful natural landscape and 120 kilometres of coastline, Paros is one of the most beautiful Greek islands. It has endless golden-sand beaches, verdant mountains and cliff-top villages.

Overnight: Eri Hotel or similar, Paros

Meals included: Breakfast

Today be transferred to the port for boarding the ferry to Crete island (approximately 3.5 hours). Upon Arrival in Heraklion, Crete, be transferred to your hotel for checking in. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (Please note: A city tax is payable directly to the hotel upon arrival).

Crete is Greece's largest island, famous for its stunning diverse landscapes (beaches, mountains, gorges), rich history, vibrant cities like Chania and Heraklion, and its distinct, healthy cuisine, offering a blend of natural beauty, ancient ruins, and unique culture in the southern Aegean Sea.

Overnight: Hotel Castello City or similar, Heraklion, Crete

Meals included: Breakfast

Today enjoy a day at leisure in Heraklion, the vibrant capital and largest city of Crete. Explore its rich history blending Minoan, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences, with major sites like the ancient Palace of Knossos, the Koules Fortress at the Venetian harbour serving as a hub for exploring Crete's unique culture and landscapes. You may enjoy the long, sandy and popular beaches.

Overnight: Hotel Castello City or similar, Heraklion, Crete

Meals included: Breakfast

Today head to Chania a picturesque city on the northwest coast of Crete Island, on the way stop at the historic city of Rethymnon, on the northern coast of Crete, famous for its beautifully preserved Venetian Old Town, Venetian Harbor with its lighthouse, and the imposing 16th-century fortress (entry excluded). It offers a charming blend of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, narrow cobblestone streets and delicious local food. Continue to Chania famous for its beautiful and well-preserved historic Old Town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture.

It's a major tourist destination known for its charming waterfront restaurants, boutique hotels, vibrant markets, and rich history, offering a blend of ancient ruins, cultural sites, and natural beauty. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (Please note: A city tax is payable directly to the hotel upon arrival) Today travel approximately 140 kilometres.

Overnight: Hotel Arkadi or similar, Chania, Crete

Meals included: Breakfast

Today enjoy a full day at leisure in the beautiful location and beaches of Chania.

Overnight: Hotel Arkadi or similar, Chania, Crete

Meals included: Breakfast

Today be transferred to the airport for your flights to Athens. Arrive back into Athens and transfer to the city centre to enjoy a half day guided tour of the majestic archeological site pf the Acropolis (entry included). The Acropolis is an ancient citadel located on a high rocky outcrop above the city of Athens. It’s home to several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. Afterwards check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure in the Greek capital city.

Overnight: Ilisia Hotel or similar, Athens

Meals included: Breakfast

Today transfer to Athens airport for your onward flight to Larnaca, Cyprus. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your oceanfront hotel in Limassol. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Poseidonia Beach Hotel or similar, Limassol

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Today the day starts with a visit to a local winery in the Omodos village. The pretty, wine producing village of Omodos sits at an altitude of 810 metres on the Troodos Mountains range, in the beautiful area of ‘Krassohoria’. Famous for its wine, Zivania spirit, handmade narrow-knit lacing and ‘arkatena’ bread, its quaint environs are perfect for agritourism. Despite its small size, Omodos has many interesting sights. Located within proximity of one another, are the cobbled square, old stone-built houses, local wineries, a Medieval wine press and the monastery of Timios Stavros (Holy Cross), with its old icons and impressive woodcarvings. Continue with a stop at Troodos Square.

There are shops and markets selling traditional Cypriot products such as soutzoukos, commandaria wine, Cypriot rusks and different varieties of honey-coated nuts which are highly popular in Troodos. We continue with Kakopetria Village. Kakopetria village is located on the foothill of the Troodos Mountain. The community has about 1300 permanent inhabitants. It is full of vegetation, amidst the banks of the Kargotis and Garillis rivers. The two rivers join inside the village and form the river Klarios, which crosses the valley of Solea and then flows into the Morfou Bay, in Pentagia. In the afternoon return to Limassol and spend the rest of the evening at leisure.

Overnight: Poseidonia Beach Hotel or similar, Limassol

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

After breakfast, begin another discovery day. First stop is the goat farm of “Loulla” where you will have the chance to see the farm and also watch the traditional way of making the ‘Halloumi Cheese”, which you will taste it too. Continue to Choirokoitia, UNESCO heritage site. The Neolithic settlement of Choirokoitia, occupied from the 7th to the 4th millennium B.C., is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the eastern Mediterranean. Its remains and the finds from the excavations there have thrown much light on the evolution of human society in this key region. Since only part of the site has been excavated, it forms an exceptional archaeological reserve for future study.

Your tour continues with Hala Sultan Tekke or the Mosque of Umm Haram, a Muslim shrine on the west bank of Larnaca Salt Lake, near Larnaca, the next stop will be Larnaca town. Phinikoudes Beach is situated in the centre of the coastal promenade in Larnaca and was named after the small palm trees (phinikoudes) which were planted there in 1922 and which nowadays have grown into big trees. The palm trees are spread throughout the main road and contribute to the already beautiful scenery. The area is very popular for its cafes, bars, restaurants and is in front of the main shopping centre of Larnaca. Then, visit St. Lazaros church. Located in its own square in the town centre, the magnificent stone church of Agios Lazaros is one of the most remarkable examples of Byzantine architecture in Cyprus and lies over the tomb of the saint.

Overnight: Poseidonia Beach Hotel or similar, Limassol

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Lefkosia or Nicosia (English name) Nicosia is the largest city on the island of Cyprus. It is located near the centre of the Mesaoria plain, on the banks of the river Pedieos. Nicosia is the capital and seat of the government of Cyprus, it is the only divided city left in the world today since part of the city has been under Turkish occupation since 1974. First stop will be Cyprus Handicraft centre. The Cyprus Handicraft Centre is an outlet for producing and selling traditional folk art and crafts. Visitors can see the artisans engaged in the traditional crafts at the workshops, such as embroidery and lace making, tapestry, weaving, basketry, woodcarving, pottery, metalwork (copperware and silver), leather and garment making.

Continue along the Green Line, the capital’s dividing board line. Passing by the newly restored Famagusta Gate, we proceed to the Archbishops Palace and St. John’s Cathedral. The tour continues to the picturesque Old Quarter of “Laiki Yitonia” where you will have time to stroll around the historical city and visit the borders. To walk through the old city is to step backwards in time. Narrow streets and old houses with ornate balconies jut from weather-beaten sandstone walls, smelling of jasmine flowers in those long summer evenings, and craftsmen in small workshops plying their trades unchanged for centuries. In the late afternoon return to Limassol.

Overnight: Poseidonia Beach Hotel or similar, Limassol

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Today pass-through Limassol town (seaside road) and after through the wine growing region around Limassol and through the fragrant citrus plantations lemons, oranges, and grapefruits, the rugged coastline reveals the ruins of Curium, a city built in 1200 BC with its huge amphitheatre overlooking the bay of Akrotiri. Passing through the sovereign base of Episkopi, look down upon the most famous landmark in Cyprus - “Aphrodite’s Rock”, the birthplace of the Goddess of Love & Beauty. It is located off the shore along the main road from Paphos to Limassol. The combination of the beauty of the area and its status in mythology as the birthplace of Aphrodite makes it a popular tourist location.

Continue with Paphos town. Paphos is a city on the southwest coast of the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. Inhabited since Neolithic times, it has several sites relating to the cult of goddess Aphrodite, whose mythical birthplace was at Old Paphos (Kouklia). In Paphos, visit St. Paul’s Pillar, the ruins of the basilica of Chrysopolitissa. The present church of Chrysopolitissa is shared by the Anglican and Catholic congregation, who hold regular services at the invitation of the local Orthodox priest. Visit also Paphos Archaeological Park with the beautiful mosaics at the house of Dionysos (the God of Wine). Return back to Limassol and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Poseidonia Beach Hotel or similar, Limassol

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Today at the appropriate time be transferred to the airport for the return flight back to Australia.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note: Some flights may arrive in Australia +1 day later.

Meals included: None