From LARNACA/AYIA NAPA/PROTARAS: Famagusta, Varosha &Salamis

Exploring Cyprus’s Famagusta, Varosha, and Salamis in a single day offers a compelling mix of history, contrast, and coastal beauty. This 9-hour guided tour departs from Larnaca, Ayia Napa, and Protaras, giving visitors a chance to see the famous Ghost Town of Varosha, stroll around the ancient city of Salamis, and enjoy free time in the vibrant Famagusta Old Town. The tour is designed for those interested in history, archaeology, and iconic landscapes, with a flexible approach that includes optional visits and free time for lunch or sightseeing.

The tour’s highlights include exploring Varosha’s abandoned buildings, walking through Salamis’ Greek and Roman ruins, and visiting Saint Barnabas Church and Tomb. It also offers a refreshing swim at Golden Beach, making it well-suited for travelers wanting a mix of cultural exploration and seaside relaxation. Although the tour covers multiple sites, it provides enough free time at key stops, giving visitors the chance to customize their experience, whether it’s sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing.

Key Points

• Visit the Ghost Town of Varosha and see abandoned buildings with free time for swimming.
• Explore the ancient city of Salamis, including its Greek theatre, marble columns, and Roman Baths.
• Tour the Saint Barnabas Monastery and see the Icon Museum and tomb of Saint Barnabas.
• Enjoy 2 hours of free time in Famagusta Old Town, with optional visits to the Venetian Walls, Saint Nicolas Church, and Othello Castle.
• Relax at Golden Beach, with time for swimming and walking along the coast.
• The full-day trip lasts about 9 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time.

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Departing from Larnaca, Ayia Napa, and Protaras

This tour starts with pickup from multiple locations near Larnaca, Ayia Napa, and Protaras, making it accessible for many travelers staying in those areas. The bus journey to Famagusta lasts around 1 hour, providing comfortable transfers between sites. For guests staying in Larnaca, the transfer involves a free minibus to the main coach, simplifying logistics.

Each pickup point is carefully chosen, and the schedule is designed for a smooth experience, with clear timings and organized group movement. The return journey also involves multiple drop-off points, often near the original pickup locations, making the end of the day convenient for travelers.

Exploring Varosha’s Ghost Town and Beach

The tour’s first stop is Varosha’s beachfront, famous for its abandoned buildings left since the Turkish invasion in 1974. Visitors get about an hour for swimming in the clear waters and walking around part of the ghost town. Since the area reopened to the public in 2020 after 46 years, it remains a site of stark contrasts between natural beauty and desolation.

The beach of Varosha features golden sand, ideal for relaxing or taking photos of the eerie yet fascinating abandoned structures. The experience balances the beauty of the beach with the history of the deserted town. Some may wish for more time to explore, but the hour allotted is enough for a quick visit and a swim.

Saint Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum

Next, the tour visits the Monastery of Saint Barnabas, founded by the church founder himself. Here, visitors can see the Icon Museum of the monastery, which displays religious icons, and visit the tomb of Saint Barnabas, who was martyred in the area around 52 AD. The site offers a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to understand the religious significance of the area.

The guided visit lasts roughly 30 minutes. Those who prefer to skip this stop can opt for extra free time in Famagusta, allowing for shopping or exploring the city’s streets. The monastery is an important historic and spiritual site, adding depth to the overall experience.

Discovering the Ruins of Salamis

The ancient Greek city of Salamis was founded around 1100 BC and remains one of Cyprus’s most impressive archaeological sites. The tour includes a guided tour of Salamis’ ruins, featuring an ancient Greek theatre, marble columns, Roman Baths, and a Gymnasium.

Time at Salamis is approximately 40 minutes. Visitors can appreciate the impressive remains and learn about the civilizations that once thrived here. Since the site is extensive, some might wish for more time, but the brief visit provides a solid overview of its historical significance.

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Free Time in Famagusta Old Town

Following Salamis, the trip continues to Famagusta Old Town, where 2 hours of free time allow for lunch (additional cost) and sightseeing. The guides suggest walking around the Venetian Walls that envelop the old city, visiting the Gothic Church of Saint Nicolas, and exploring Othello Castle—a site mentioned in Shakespeare’s play.

This flexible period enables visitors to shop, grab a meal, or simply wander the narrow streets. The optional visits to local landmarks enrich the experience, offering a glimpse into Famagusta’s vibrant history and architecture.

The Fenced-Off Area of Varosha

On the return journey, travelers drive past the fenced and sealed-off area of Varosha, which remains abandoned since 1974. Once a tourist hotspot in the Mediterranean, this zone is now a time capsule, with buildings frozen in time. The sight is both striking and somber, emphasizing the town’s complex history.

This drive-by view allows for reflection on the island’s recent past and adds a poignant conclusion to the day’s explorations. It’s a reminder of the conflicts that have shaped Cyprus and the ongoing significance of Varosha.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour is priced with the option to pay entrance fees for Saint Barnabas and Salamis (totaling EUR 6.00, payable in cash). Passports or EU ID cards are required for entry. As the tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, comfortable shoes and water are recommended.

While photography is permitted, drones are not allowed. Food and drinks are not included, but there are opportunities to purchase refreshments during free time. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, due to the uneven terrain and site access limitations.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day of Cyprus Highlights

This Famagusta, Varosha, and Salamis tour offers a solid overview of Cyprus’s layered history and coastal scenery within a 9-hour window. The guided visits to Saint Barnabas and Salamis combine cultural insight with impressive ruins, while the free time in Famagusta allows for personal exploration or relaxation.

The visit to Varosha’s Ghost Town is a highlight, providing both stunning views and a somber reminder of recent conflicts. The inclusion of Golden Beach for swimming makes this tour appealing for those wanting a mix of history and leisure.

While some may wish for more time at specific sites or easier accessibility, the overall experience is organized and insightful. It suits history enthusiasts, photographers, and coastal lovers alike—especially those curious about Cyprus’s past and present.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 9 hours.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from multiple pickup points near Larnaca, Ayia Napa, and Protaras.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Saint Barnabas and Salamis cost EUR 6.00 in cash and are paid on the day.

Is there free time for lunch?
Yes, 2 hours are allocated in Famagusta Old Town for lunch and sightseeing; food costs are additional.

Can I skip certain sites?
Yes, guests who prefer not to visit Saint Barnabas or Salamis can have extra free time in Famagusta.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to site access limitations.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or EU ID card, camera, and water. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is permitted, but drones are not allowed.

Are there any age or physical restrictions?
The tour involves some walking and standing; it’s best suited for those able to walk outdoors comfortably.

What is the nature of the guide?
The guide provides live commentary in English, explaining the history and significance of each site.

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