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Famagusta, Salamis, and Varosha: An Unmissable Day Trip from Paphos
This 9-hour guided tour from Paphos takes you across the UN-patrolled border into northern Cyprus to visit some of the region’s most compelling historical sites. The journey includes a detailed exploration of the Salamis archaeological site, visits to Famagusta’s landmarks, and a walk through the infamous Varosha ghost town.
The tour is operated by GXG Xplore Cy Tours Ltd (Explore Cyprus) and offers a well-rounded experience, combining guided insights with free time for lunch and personal exploration. It’s designed for those eager to uncover the layered history of Cyprus, with a particular focus on the abandoned Varosha district, which holds a poignant story from the 1974 Turkish invasion. While the tour highlights many captivating sights, potential guests should consider the moderate pace and the need for comfortable shoes.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Duration: 9 hours, with multiple stops and guided visits
- Highlights include: Salamis Ruins, Saint Nicholas Cathedral, Othello Tower, Famagusta, and Varosha Ghost Town
- Transport: Air-conditioned coach with hotel pickup and drop-off from over 60 locations
- Entry Fees: Included for Salamis and Othello Tower
- Guides: Bilingual in English and Polish, known for their knowledge and storytelling
- Limitations: Not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with mobility impairments due to walking requirements
Planning more time in Paphos District? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Hotel Pickups in Paphos
The tour begins with pickups from over 60 hotels and locations in Paphos, including popular hotels like Alexander The Great Beach Hotel and Almyra Hotel. Guests are advised to wait 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, as drivers wait no longer than 5 minutes after the appointed time. The bus picks up from the main road outside the hotel, making it easy to join the trip without hassle.
The coach is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the long day of travel. The extensive list of pickup points means most travelers in Paphos can find a convenient starting location. The journey itself includes a 105-minute coach ride to the first major site, giving travelers time to settle in and enjoy the scenery.
Exploring Salamis Archaeological Site
The tour’s first major stop is the Salamis archaeological site, located along Cyprus’ east coast, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. This site was once the capital of Cyprus for over a thousand years, serving as a central hub in the Greek Kingdom.
Visitors will find the Salamis ruins particularly impressive, with remains that span various periods of Cypriot history. The guide provides insights into the significance of the site, helping visitors understand its role in regional history. The site visit lasts around 45 minutes, during which guests can freely explore the ruins and enjoy the coastal views.
This stop is ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in ancient architecture. The scenery and the remnants of old temples and baths make for a memorable photo opportunity.
Famagusta’s Historic Landmarks: Saint Nicholas Cathedral and Othello Tower
After Salamis, the tour continues to Famagusta, a city with a complex history. The Latin Cathedral of Saint Nicholas is a highlight, offering a glimpse into the city’s religious past and architecture.
The Othello Tower stands nearby, an imposing structure linked to the legendary Moorish general. Visitors can admire its fortified walls and learn about its strategic importance in the city’s defense. Each of these sites is visited during a guided tour, and guests have free time to explore further or grab a coffee.
The overall stop in Famagusta lasts about 3.25 hours, giving you ample opportunity to enjoy lunch, stroll through the old town, or take additional photos of the historic architecture.
More Great Tours NearbyViewing the Haunting Ghost Town of Varosha
One of the most striking parts of this tour is the visit to Varosha, the abandoned district of Famagusta. Behind barbed wire, the ghost town remains untouched since 1974, when it was evacuated during the Turkish invasion.
Guests are led on a guided walk lasting about an hour, during which they see the deserted hotels, shops, and streets that have remained frozen in time. This site offers a tangible reminder of Cyprus’ complex history and the impact of conflict.
The guide provides context and stories behind the empty buildings, creating a poignant and thought-provoking experience. After the guided walk, there’s additional free time of about 1.5 hours for personal exploration or photos, which visitors may appreciate for a more unstructured look at the town.
Refreshment Breaks and Scenic Stops
The day includes multiple coach stops, including a 15-minute coffee break and a 15-minute stop for a quick sightseeing or photo opportunity at Constantia Beach, where guests can enjoy views of the abandoned Famagusta area from a distance.
Another key scenic stop is a 30-minute ride after visiting Varosha, allowing for a relaxed pace and a chance to reflect on the sites seen so far. The tour’s itinerary balances guided sightseeing with free exploration, especially at the ghost town and Famagusta’s old town.
Detailed Itinerary and Logistics
The tour features over 60 pickup locations in Paphos, making it accessible for most travelers. The total activity duration is 9 hours, with a mix of travel, guided visits, and free time.
The itinerary includes:
– A 105-minute coach ride to Salamis
– A visit to Salamis Ruins (45 minutes)
– A guided tour of Famagusta, including Saint Nicholas Cathedral and Othello Tower (about 3.25 hours)
– A guided walk through Varosha Ghost Town (1 hour), followed by free time
– Additional stops at scenic spots like Constantia Beach and a 15-minute coffee break
The return journey takes about 1.5 hours, concluding with drop-offs at the same pickup points in Paphos.
Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour provides all entrance fees for Salamis and Othello Tower, along with air-conditioned coach transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off. The full-day guided tour is led in English and Polish, with guides known for their storytelling.
Guests should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for photos, and cash for souvenirs or additional snacks. Lunch is not included, giving flexibility to choose from local cafes during the free time in Famagusta.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or travelers with mobility impairments, due to walking requirements at sites like Salamis and Varosha.
Tour Reviews and Overall Opinion
With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 21 reviews, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of northern Cyprus. Reviewers praise knowledgeable guides, especially for their storytelling ability and insights into Cyprus’ history and the story of Varosha.
Some feedback mentions the pacing, noting that the guided walk around Varosha lasts about an hour, and suggesting that more free time at Varosha might enhance the experience. Still, most agree this tour delivers a comprehensive look at important sites with a thoughtful balance of guided and free exploration.
Famagusta and Salamis: A Rich Historical Journey
The core appeal of this tour lies in its ability to introduce travelers to Cyprus’ ancient past at Salamis, with its impressive ruins along the coast. The Famagusta landmarks, including Saint Nicholas Cathedral and Othello Tower, deepen the understanding of the city’s layered history.
The most unique element is the visit to Varosha, which remains a haunting symbol of conflict and displacement. The guided walk through the abandoned district evokes strong emotions and offers a rare peek into a place frozen in time, making it a truly memorable part of the day.
A Valuable Cultural and Historical Experience
This tour provides a meaningful glimpse into Cyprus’ complex history, combining archaeology, architecture, and the poignant story of Varosha. It suits travelers who appreciate history, culture, and photography opportunities, with enough free time to absorb the sites at their own pace.
While the pacing may feel rushed for some, the overall value lies in the guided insights, the quality of sites visited, and the scenic coastal views. It’s an accessible, well-organized way to explore northern Cyprus from Paphos, especially for those interested in history and storytelling.
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From Paphos: Famagusta with Salamis and Varosha ‘Ghost Town’
“our tour guide was fantastic on telling us the history of Cyprus and about what happened with the ghost town of varosha which was quite sad to hear…”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from over 60 locations in Paphos, with instructions to arrive 10 minutes early.
How long does the coach ride last?
The journey to Salamis takes approximately 105 minutes each way, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenery.
What sites are included in the guided visits?
Guests visit the Salamis Ruins, Saint Nicholas Cathedral, Othello Tower, and Varosha Ghost Town with guided walks and free time.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Salamis and Othello Tower are covered in the tour price.
Is there free time for lunch?
Yes, during the Famagusta stop, guests have leisure time to enjoy a meal or explore the old town.
What is the duration of the free exploration at Varosha?
The guided walk lasts about 1 hour, followed by approximately 1.5 hours of free time.
Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?
No, it is not suitable for pregnant women due to walking and site demands.
What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, camera, and cash for extras or souvenirs.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours before the activity.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in English and Polish.
