Exploring Famagusta and Nicosia from Kyrenia offers a fascinating glimpse into Cyprus’s layered past. For just under $200 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 to 9 hours with a private guide, visiting some of the most iconic landmarks in northern Cyprus. This tour is perfect if you’re eager to see the archaeological marvels, architectural treasures, and the poignant ghost town of Varosha — all without the hassle of self-driving. With pickup included and all entrance fees and lunch covered, it’s a well-rounded, stress-free way to deepen your understanding of the island’s history and culture.
Two things we love about this experience are the personalized attention you get from your private guide and the chance to walk through sites that are both historically significant and visually stunning. The storytelling from your guide — who, from reviews, appears knowledgeable and friendly — really brings the sites alive. Plus, the carefully curated stops, like the ancient city of Salamis and the hauntingly abandoned Varosha, make for a truly memorable day.
One consideration to keep in mind is the long day’s schedule. While 8 to 9 hours is a fantastic way to cover a lot, it’s a full itinerary, so some travelers might find it a bit tiring, especially if they prefer a more relaxed pace. Still, if you’re eager to maximize your time and see as much as possible, this is an ideal tour.
This experience suits those who want both historical insight and authentic sights. If you enjoy guided tours that blend storytelling with visual exploration, and value having all logistics taken care of, you’ll find this tour a real winner — especially if you’re interested in the layered history of Famagusta and Nicosia.
Key Points
- Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide
- All entrance fees and lunch included, offering good value
- Visits to key sites: Salamis, Famagusta’s walled city, ghost town of Varosha, and Nicosia landmarks
- Balanced mix of ancient ruins, historic architecture, and poignant modern sites
- Comfortable transportation, with pickup at a central Kyrenia location
- Long day but rich in sights, ideal for history buffs and culture lovers
Exploring Famagusta & Nicosia: A Complete Breakdown
If you’re craving a comprehensive tour that offers both depth and variety, this private day trip from Kyrenia ticks the boxes. It’s not just about ticking boxes but about experiencing the stories behind each site, and you’ll appreciate how your guide brings history to life.
Planning more time in Kyrenia? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point & Early Morning
The tour begins bright and early at Baldöken Otopark in Kyrenia, with pickup offered. This is key, because it saves you from the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets or public transport. The guide, who reviews praise for being friendly and informative, sets the tone for a day filled with stories, scenic views, and insightful commentary.
First Stop: St Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum
Your first visit is to this monastery and museum, a compact yet fascinating site showcasing Cypriot artifacts dating back to 4000 BC. The museum’s collection of pottery pieces offers a tangible link to the island’s ancient past, and the monastery itself gives a sense of the spiritual history of the region.
Travelers who love archaeology and religious architecture will find this stop especially meaningful. Expect around 30 minutes here, enough to admire the artifacts and get a quick but thorough introduction to the area’s early civilizations.
Second Stop: Salamis Ancient City
Next, you’ll stroll through Salamis, once Cyprus’s largest city, with a history that spans Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, and Romans. The ruins, perched on the east coast, tell stories of a vibrant metropolis. The Roman theater and gymnasium are standout features, showing what life was like during the Roman period — high standards of leisure and culture.
The highlight? The massive Roman theater, which offers not just a glimpse into ancient entertainment, but also some of the best photo opportunities on the tour. Expect about 30 minutes here, and you might hear from your guide how Salamis once supported over 150,000 residents, making it a hub of ancient activity.
Third Stop: Famagusta Walled City
Moving inland, you’ll explore the walled city of Famagusta, often described as an “open-air museum.” The well-preserved city walls and the iconic St. Nicholas Cathedral are the stars here. This is where history feels alive—walking through narrow streets lined with relics of different eras.
You’ll appreciate the free entrance, which makes this stop especially accessible, and the opportunity to wander at your own pace for about 30 minutes. The walls offer a panoramic view of the old city, giving you a sense of the strategic importance of this port city.
Fourth Stop: Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque
This 14th-century Gothic structure, originally St. Nicholas Cathedral, has been transformed into the Lala Mustafa Camii since the Ottoman conquest. Its architecture resembles the grand European cathedrals of France, with soaring ceilings and intricate stonework.
In just about 10 minutes, you get a sense of how religious and political histories intertwine in Cyprus. It’s a powerful site that embodies the island’s layered past, and the fact that it’s free to enter makes it an easy inclusion.
Fifth Stop: The Ghost Town of Varosha
A poignant moment awaits at Varosha, the abandoned resort district that has been off-limits since 1974. Once a bustling tourist destination, it’s now a ghost town frozen in time. The eerie silence and vacant hotels make it one of the most evocative sites on the tour.
From the viewpoints around the perimeter, you’ll see a cityscape of empty buildings and sandy streets. It’s a stark reminder of Cyprus’s divided history, and many travelers find it both unsettling and profoundly moving. Expect about 10 minutes here, but the stories your guide shares will linger longer.
Transition to Nicosia: The City Walls and Landmarks
The journey continues to Nicosia, where you’ll pass through the historic Kyrenia Gate — a surviving remnant of Venetian fortifications from the 16th century. It’s a good spot for photos and to understand how the city was once protected.
The Gothic Charm of Selimiye Camii
This former cathedral, known as Saint Sophia, is the largest surviving Gothic church in Cyprus. Its architecture is striking, resembling French medieval cathedrals, and it’s a testament to the island’s diverse cultural influences. As a converted mosque, it also exemplifies how religious sites have been repurposed over centuries.
A brief 15-minute stop allows you to appreciate the grandeur of this site, which has been a key landmark since the 13th century. Entrance is free, so it’s a highlight for those interested in architecture and religious history.
Final Stop: Buyuk Han
To wrap up your day, you’ll visit Buyuk Han, an Ottoman-era caravanserai that’s still remarkably intact. Built in the 16th century, it’s a lively hub of the old city, with ancient arches and courtyards that make you feel like stepping back in time. The inn’s traditional architecture, along with nearby shops, makes it a lovely place for a quick stroll or to imagine what life was like along the old trade routes.
Again, no entrance fee, and your guide’s stories will deepen your appreciation for Ottoman influence in Cyprus.
The Practicalities: What to Expect
The tour is designed for comfort and convenience. Pickup is offered at a central Kyrenia location, so you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics. The group is private, meaning it’s tailored for your party — ideal if you value personalized attention. The total duration of 8-9 hours keeps it comprehensive without feeling rushed.
All entrance fees and lunch are included, which adds excellent value, especially since some sites, like the Famagusta walled city and Selimiye Mosque, are free to enter. The guide, praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, will tell stories that add context beyond just the sights.
Given the long day, wear comfortable shoes and prepare for some walking. The sites vary in accessibility; most are outdoors and involve some uneven terrain, typical of archaeological and historic sites.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip is perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, and anyone eager to understand the complexities of Cyprus’s past. If you’re interested in ancient ruins, religious architecture, or the poignant ghost town of Varosha, you’ll find plenty to fascinate. The private nature and all-inclusive approach make it ideal for travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience with insightful storytelling.
It’s especially suited for those who enjoy visual and narrative engagement—the guide’s commentary, combined with the stunning views and evocative sites, makes for an enriching day.
The Sum Up
This private tour from Kyrenia to Famagusta and Nicosia offers a deep dive into the island’s historic landscape while providing the comfort of a personalized experience. From ancient Salamis to the hauntingly empty streets of Varosha, every stop has its story, and your guide will help you connect the dots.
The value is clear: all entrance fees and a traditional lunch are included, making the day both educational and practical. It’s a comprehensive way to get beyond guidebook highlights and to see the layers of history that have shaped Cyprus.
Ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with storytelling, and those who appreciate a well-organized, intimate experience. If you’re curious about Cyprus’s past and want a day filled with stunning scenery and meaningful sites, this tour is a solid choice.
FAQ
What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $196.59 per person, which includes all entrance fees and lunch, offering good value given the variety of sites visited.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, providing ample time to explore each site without feeling rushed.
Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, pickup is offered at a central Kyrenia location, and transportation between stops is included, making it very convenient.
Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your party participates, allowing for a more personalized experience.
What sites will we visit?
You’ll visit St Barnabas Monastery, the ancient city of Salamis, the walled city of Famagusta, the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, the ghost town of Varosha, Nicosia’s city walls and landmarks, including Selimiye Mosque and Buyuk Han.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are included, except for some sites that are free, like the Famagusta walled city and Selimiye Mosque.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. The sites involve outdoor walking and some uneven terrain.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional lunch is part of the package, making this a hassle-free day.
Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private experience, your guide can tailor the pace and focus slightly, within the tour’s structure.
This detailed, authentic tour review aims to help you decide if this trip fits your interests and travel style. With its rich mix of archaeological sites, historic architecture, and poignant reminders of Cyprus’s divided past, it’s a memorable way to spend a day exploring northern Cyprus.