From Paphos: Discover Famagusta

Discover Famagusta: A Full-Day Tour from Paphos

This 12-hour guided tour departs from Paphos and ventures into the northern part of Cyprus, offering a fascinating look into places that feel frozen in time. Priced with the convenience of reserve now & pay later, the tour is suitable for those eager to explore historic sites, ancient ruins, and a striking abandoned town.

The tour is led by English-speaking guides, with hotel pickup included—though the exact time depends on your hotel location. It’s an immersive journey through history, architecture, and a surreal landscape of crumbling facades and overgrown streets. With a solid 3.8/5 rating from 27 reviews, most participants appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the value of visiting such iconic locations in a single day.

However, some reviews mention pacing issues and short stops, which travelers should consider. This tour fits best those who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and want a rundown of Salamis, Famagusta’s old town, and the ghost town of Varosha.

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Key Points

• Full-day experience lasting approximately 12 hours from Paphos.
• Visits to three major sites: the ancient city of Salamis, Famagusta’s walled old town, and the ghost town of Varosha.
• Guided walk through the ruins of Varosha, an abandoned seaside resort.
• Explore Famagusta’s historic old town, including the Venetian walls, castle, and Gothic cathedral-turned-mosque.
• Learn from local guides Elpida and Stavroula, who share insights about the history and significance of each site.
• Includes hotel pickup and flexible booking options, with full refund possible if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Salamis: The Ruined Ancient City of Cyprus

The tour starts with a visit to Salamis, an archaeological site that dates back to classical times. Here, ruined temples, the partially restored theatre, and other ancient structures reveal the city’s past grandeur. Salamis is more than just stone and rubble; it’s a place where visitors can imagine the bustling life of a once-thriving city that played a key role in Cyprus’s history.

Saint Barnabas, the figure credited with bringing Christianity to Cyprus, is buried nearby, adding a spiritual dimension to the visit. The site’s mythological background and ancient architecture make it a highlight of the tour, especially for those interested in history and archaeology.

Famagusta’s Walled Old Town and Its Venetian Defenses

After exploring Salamis, the journey continues to Famagusta’s old town, still protected by well-preserved Venetian walls. The castle at the entrance is a key sight, and the Gothic cathedral-turned-mosque provides a vivid example of Cyprus’s layered history.

A special mention is the fig tree planted by Crusaders in front of the cathedral’s main entrance. Elpida, the guide, notes it as the oldest living thing in Famagusta, adding a botanical curiosity to the historical walk. The old town offers a chance to see historic buildings, narrow streets, and lively squares, providing a tangible sense of the city’s medieval past.

Walking Tour of Varosha: The Ghost Town of Famagusta

The tour’s most surreal stop is the abandoned neighborhood of Varosha, once a bustling beach resort. After over 50 years of abandonment, walking through the overgrown streets with crumbling facades, rusted shutters, and broken windows feels like stepping into a time capsule.

The guided walk offers insights into why Varosha was deserted and the land’s current status as a land stuck in a “time warp”, according to local guides. It’s a photo-worthy, Instagrammable location that evokes curiosity and reflection. The tour makes it clear that Varosha is a place of contrasts—its beauty and decay coexist in a haunting landscape.

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Logistics and Practical Details

The tour departs from Paphos, with hotel pickup included. The exact pickup time depends on your hotel, and the provider will contact you beforehand to confirm. Travelers need to bring passport or EU ID card and comfortable shoes for walking.

Note that luggage or large bags are not allowed, and unaccompanied minors require additional documentation. For travelers from certain countries, crossing into the northern part of Cyprus is only possible with passport holders from EU, UK, Iceland, Norway, or Switzerland.

The tour experiences are subject to weather conditions; if canceled due to bad weather, an alternative date or refund is offered. Participants should be aware that mobility impairments and wheelchair access are not suitable for this experience.

How the Tour Paces and Guides Explain the Sites

The tour is led by local guides Elpida and Stavroula, who are praised for their knowledge and storytelling. Elpida describes northern Cyprus as being “frozen in time” since 1974, which adds context to the sights like Varosha.

Some reviews mention timing and pacing issues—with stops like the 45-minute rest at the beginning and limited time at Salamis—but most appreciate the depth of explanation and the insight into local history provided by the guides.

Food, Rest Stops, and Lunch Breaks

After the morning visits, the group has free time for lunch in Famagusta, which allows for some personal exploration or a quick meal. The tour’s schedule includes a 2-hour break in Famagusta, giving ample opportunity to enjoy local cuisine or wander through the old town.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Offers

This all-in-one guided tour provides a thorough look at Salamis, Famagusta, and Varosha in one day, offering great value for those wanting a rundown. Other similar experiences might focus on fewer sites or offer private guides, but this tour’s inclusion of Varosha’s eerie streets makes it particularly memorable.

Links to comparable experiences are available, such as from Paphos to Salamis and Varosha or coastal secrets of Cyprus, but this full-day package balances it all in a single, well-organized trip.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour matches well with history enthusiasts, photographers, and those curious about Cyprus’s divided past. The guided walks and historical commentary make it suitable for visitors comfortable with walking and standing for periods.

Because of the pacing and the short time at each site, it’s best for those who don’t mind a full schedule and want to see multiple iconic locations in one day.

Final Thoughts on the Famagusta Discover Tour

The From Paphos: Discover Famagusta tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of a land caught in a moment of history, from ancient ruins to eerie ghost streets. The knowledgeable guides and well-chosen stops provide a compelling experience for history lovers and photo enthusiasts alike.

While some may find the timing tight or wish for more time at key sites, the overall value lies in the diverse, dramatic sights packed into one day. The hotel pickup, flexible booking, and clear logistical information make it an accessible choice for those wanting an organized, insightful adventure.

This tour is an effective way to explore Cyprus’s northern treasures with an emphasis on history, architecture, and the haunting beauty of Varosha.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup, guided visits to Salamis, Famagusta’s old town, and Varosha, along with guides speaking English.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 12 hours from pickup to drop-off.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or EU ID card and comfortable shoes for walking.

Are there any restrictions on who can join?
Yes, luggage or large bags are not permitted, and unaccompanied minors need extra documentation. Crossing into northern Cyprus requires passport holders from specific countries.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What is the significance of the fig tree in Famagusta?
The fig tree planted by Crusaders is the oldest living thing in Famagusta, located in front of the main entrance of the cathedral.

Will there be time for lunch?
Yes, the schedule includes free time for lunch after visiting Famagusta.

What are the weather considerations?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are poor. Participants will be offered an alternative or refund.

How do guides make the sites engaging?
Elpida and Stavroula share stories and insights about each location, including historical, mythological, and local details that bring the sites to life.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby