FAMAGUSTA & NICOSIA Private Tour from Kyrenia

The FAMAGUSTA & NICOSIA Private Tour from Kyrenia offers an engaging way to explore some of the most significant historical and cultural sites of northern Cyprus in a single day. Priced at $196.59 per person, this 8 to 9-hour journey is perfect for those who want a personalized experience with a private guide. The tour departs from Kyrenia at 9:00 am and includes pickup service, all entrance fees, and a lunch break, making it a convenient all-in-one package.

This tour caters to visitors interested in history, architecture, and local culture, with the flexibility of a private guide ensuring a tailored pace and personalized insights. The small group size and private nature promise an intimate experience, while the comprehensive itinerary covers key highlights like Salamis, Famagusta’s old city, and Nicosia’s historic district. Though the duration is long, the variety of stops and engaging commentary make it a worthwhile option for curious travelers seeking a deep dive into Cyprus’s past.

Key Points

• Private guided tour exploring Famagusta and Nicosia in one day
• All entrance fees and lunch are included in the price
• Duration of 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am from Kyrenia
• Visit Salamis, Famagusta’s walled city, and Nicosia’s historic center
• Experience Famagusta’s Ghost Town of Varosha and iconic landmarks like Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque and Buyuk Han
• Perfect for history enthusiasts and those wanting a personalized sightseeing day

Starting Point and Time: Convenient Pickup in Kyrenia

The tour begins at Baldöken Otopark on Ziya Rzk Cd 95, Girne 99300 at 9:00 am, with pickup included from nearby hotels. The guide provides a smooth start with quick contact beforehand, ensuring timely collection. The journey then heads directly into the heart of northern Cyprus’s historical sites, with the private transport offering comfort and flexibility throughout the day.

Traveling with a private guide means you skip crowded group tours, and the driver’s friendly professionalism ensures a relaxed atmosphere. The full-day format makes the most of each stop, with all entrance fees covered, so there are no surprises or extra costs.

Exploring St Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum

The tour kicks off at the St Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum, a site rich in religious and archaeological significance. The monastery, now functioning as an icon museum, displays an impressive collection of Cypriot artifacts. Visitors also explore a small but notable archaeological museum featuring pottery pieces dating back to 4000 BC.

Spending around 30 minutes here, the visit offers a glimpse into ancient Cypriot life and religious history. The admission fee is included, making it a hassle-free introduction to the island’s past. The peaceful atmosphere sets the tone for the day, with plenty to see and learn about Cyprus’s early civilizations.

Visiting the Ancient City of Salamis

Next, the tour visits Salamis, the most important ancient city of Cyprus. Located on the eastern coast, Salamis has a history that includes Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, and Romans, reflecting a layered past. At its peak, during the Roman era, Salamis was the largest city in Cyprus, with over 150,000 inhabitants.

Highlights at this site include the Roman theatre and the gymnasium with thermal baths. These remnants showcase the advanced infrastructure and high standard of living during antiquity. The stop lasts approximately 30 minutes, and admission is included. Visitors can appreciate the scale and historical significance of this ancient metropolis, immersed in the ruins that evoke centuries of history.

Exploring Famagusta’s Walled Old Town

The walled city of Famagusta is portrayed as an outdoor museum, surrounded by historic walls that date back centuries. Visitors discover St. Nicholas Cathedral and other monuments within this area, appreciating the architectural variety and historical layers of the city.

This stop provides 30 minutes to walk the narrow streets, admire the medieval walls, and take in the city’s atmosphere. Entry is free, and the site offers plenty of photo opportunities amid well-preserved medieval architecture. The historic city walls and cathedral serve as a vivid reminder of Famagusta’s past prominence and resilience.

The Significance of Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque

Within the old city, the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque stands as the most important monument. Originally St. Nicholas Gothic Cathedral from the 14th century, it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest. This architectural masterpiece is notable as the largest Gothic church remaining in Cyprus.

A brief 10-minute stop allows visitors to appreciate the Gothic style reminiscent of French cathedrals, with the interior architecture and historical layers highlighting the city’s diverse past. The free admission makes it an accessible highlight of the day.

The Ghost Town of Varosha: A Modern Icon

A compelling part of the tour is the visit to Varosha, the abandoned resort area since 1974. Once a bustling tourist hotspot, it now stands as a frozen-in-time ghost town, controlled by Turkish authorities.

This 10-minute stop offers a chance to see the decayed luxury of the resort, evoking a sense of history and change. Though brief, it provides a stark visual contrast to the other sites and a poignant reminder of the island’s divided past.

Discovering Nicosia’s Historic City Walls and Gates

Crossing into North Nicosia, the tour includes stops at the Kyrenia Gate, built in the 16th century by Venetians. This historic gate leads into the old city, surrounded by medieval walls that showcase the city’s strategic importance over centuries.

This 15-minute stop offers insights into Nicosia’s defensive architecture and its history as a crossroads of civilizations. The well-preserved gate is an ideal spot for photos and understanding the city’s layered past.

Visiting Selimiye Camii (St. Sophia Cathedral)

Within Nicosia, the Selimiye Camii stands out as the largest and oldest surviving Gothic church on the island. Originally St. Sophia Cathedral, it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest.

The 15-minute visit highlights the building’s Gothic architecture and religious history. Its interior, resembling French medieval cathedrals, offers a striking visual. The free admission makes this monument an accessible treasure of the city.

Exploring Buyuk Han: The Ottoman Inn

The tour concludes with a visit to Buyuk Han, a 16th-century Ottoman inn located within Nicosia’s city walls. As the largest inn on Cyprus, it reflects the Ottoman architectural style and served as a resting place for merchants and travelers.

Spending 15 minutes here, visitors can admire the original structure and imagine the bustling activity it once hosted. The free entry allows for a quick walk-through, offering a glimpse into Nicosia’s Ottoman past.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The private nature of this tour ensures a personalized experience with just your group. The pickup from Kyrenia is included, and the tour concludes back at the starting point. The timed itinerary balances sightseeing with ample time at each location, though some stops are brief.

All entrance fees and lunch are covered, making this a full-day, hassle-free outing. The most suitable participants are those interested in history, architecture, and cultural stories, with moderate walking involved at several sites. The long duration means good footwear and comfortable clothing are advisable.

Summing Up the Value of the Famagusta & Nicosia Private Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive look at northern Cyprus’s most iconic sites, blending ancient ruins, medieval architecture, and modern history. The private guide adds depth with personalized commentary, and the all-inclusive price simplifies planning.

While the day is packed and slightly long, the variety of stops keeps the experience engaging. The small group or private format appeals to travelers who prefer a tailored, intimate journey. The high ratings and positive reviews reflect consistent satisfaction, especially for those interested in historical storytelling and stunning views.

This full-day sightseeing tour from Kyrenia stands out for its depth, convenience, and coverage of Cyprus’s layered past, making it an excellent choice for history buffs and culturally curious visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
All entrance fees and a lunch are included in the $196.59 per person cost.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs and returns to Baldöken Otopark in Kyrenia.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, with only your group participating.

Are all stops accessible and easy to visit?
Most stops involve walking around historic sites, with reasonable durations; some sites like Famagusta’s Ghost Town are more visual than extensive walking.

Do I need to prepare anything special?
Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended due to outdoor stops; no special preparations are specified.

Can I customize or choose specific stops?
This tour follows a set itinerary, designed to maximize coverage of key sites in one day.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
Most stops are accessible, but the full-day format may be more suitable for travelers with moderate mobility.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done through the provided provider, Sidetur Travel Agency, with bookings generally made 8 days in advance.