Full-day Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos

Explore the Hidden Corners of Cyprus with the Full-day Famagusta Tour from Paphos

If you’re in Paphos and craving a day of history, stunning landscapes, and a glimpse into a city frozen in time, this full-day tour to Famagusta and Salamis offers a compelling package. For just under $80 per person, you’ll spend about 11 hours traversing from ancient ruins to a ghost city, with all transportation and entrance fees included. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who, from reviews, seem to make the experience both educational and engaging.

What we really love about this experience is the opportunity to see three different ages of Cyprus — from the 12th-century BC Salamis ruins, through the medieval walled city of Famagusta, to the eerie abandoned Varosha. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it straightforward to join without stressing about logistics.

The main consideration? It’s a long day, with travel crossing the border into Northern Cyprus, so patience and a sense of adventure are helpful. This tour suits history buffs, curious travelers, and anyone interested in seeing a side of Cyprus rarely experienced by most visitors. If you’re ready for a full immersion into Cyprus’s complex past, this trip will leave you with plenty to think about—and plenty of photos.

Key Points

• Historical depth: Visit Salamis, Famagusta’s medieval streets, and Varosha ghost town, covering thousands of years of history.
• Comfortable travel: Air-conditioned coach, with pickup from Paphos hotels, makes for a stress-free day.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Vassos bring history alive with stories and insights.
• Balanced itinerary: Includes both archaeological sites and contemporary reflections, giving a rounded picture of Cyprus.
• Long but rewarding: Expect an 11-hour day, but with plenty of diverse stops and scenic drives.
• Value for money: Entry fees, transport, and guiding included—an accessible way to see much of the island’s highlights.

A Deep Dive into the Famagusta Full-Day Tour

Starting Point: Choirokoitia Coffee Break

Your day begins with a brief stop at Choirokoitia, a modest 20-minute coffee break spot. While not on the main itinerary, this is a good chance to stretch your legs and gather your thoughts before the day heats up. It also sets the tone for a well-organized trip, with the group’s comfort in mind.

Crossing into Northern Cyprus: Strovilia Checkpoint

Next, you’ll pass through Strovilia, where passports or EU IDs are inspected. This border crossing is part of the adventure, offering a real-world taste of divided Cyprus. From reviews, travelers appreciate the ease of border control, but it’s worth mentioning that passport or ID readiness is essential. It’s a reminder that this isn’t just a sightseeing tour — it’s a journey through a region with a complex history.

The Ancient City of Salamis: A Walk Through 1100 BC

The highlights of the day include exploring Salamis, one of Cyprus’s most significant archaeological sites. Spanning back to around 1100 BC, Salamis offers a peek into Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras.

Expect to see:

• Theatre: Once seating 15,000 spectators, this ancient venue still echoes with echoes of performances past.
• Roman Baths & Mosaics: Well-preserved remnants reveal the daily routines of Roman life.
• Gymnasium: Marvel at the marble columns and bathhouses, giving a sense of Roman leisure and discipline.

From reviews, visitors consistently praise Salamis for being “fantastic” and “amazing,” with many feeling it’s worth the travel just to stand amidst ruins that have endured for millennia.

The Medieval Walled City of Famagusta

After Salamis, the tour heads to Famagusta’s old town. This part of the trip is especially compelling for history buffs and those interested in architecture.

You’ll walk through:

• St. Nikolaos Cathedral, now the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, an impressive structure blending Gothic and Ottoman styles.
• The 700-year-old fig tree in the courtyard, a living symbol of resilience.
• The fortified Venetian Walls, which encircle the city and tell stories of centuries of siege and defense.
• Key sites like Othello Tower (linked to Shakespeare’s play), and remains of the Venetian Palace.

Reviews highlight how “well-organized” and “informative” the walking tour is, with guides sharing stories that bring the city’s layered past to life.

Lunch in Famagusta: Authentic Cypriot Turkish Cuisine

While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, it’s strongly recommended. Many previous travelers have enjoyed traditional dishes in local taverns, relishing the chance to taste authentic Cypriot Turkish cuisine. Expect hearty, flavorful dishes, and some guides even suggest that choosing local eateries over tourist spots enhances the experience.

The Ghost City of Varosha

The last major stop is Varosha, abandoned since 1974. Walking through this “frozen-in-time” resort offers a haunting glimpse into the island’s recent history.

Expect to see:

• Deserted hotels and crumbling buildings.
• Streets filled with overgrown vegetation and remnants of leisure and luxury.
• Signage warning visitors to stay on main roads, maintaining a respectful distance from the abandoned structures.

Reviews describe Varosha as “very sad,” with some finding the contrast between its past glamour and current decay difficult but meaningful. It’s a powerful reminder of the ongoing political and social divisions in Cyprus.

Final Reflection and Return

After Varosha, the journey back to Paphos begins. Expect a longer drive, but the views along the way — including scenic mountain passes and coastal vistas — make it worthwhile. Travelers often comment on how “scenic” and “peaceful” the return trip is, giving time to reflect.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable air-conditioned coach, which is appreciated given the long day. The group size is capped at 50, making the experience more intimate and manageable, but it’s still a sizable group, so be prepared for some bus chatter.

According to reviews, the driver and guide team, particularly guide Vassos, are friendly and knowledgeable, creating a relaxed atmosphere despite the long hours.

Price and Value

At just under $80, this tour covers transport, entrance fees, and guiding, making it a good value considering the breadth of sites visited. Some travelers note that while lunch is not included, the cost of individual meals can add up, so bringing some extra cash for food and souvenirs is wise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those with a curiosity about Cyprus’s layered history, especially its Greek and Turkish influences. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy walking tours, archaeological sites, and a touch of political history. If you’re comfortable with a long day on the road and want to see both ancient and modern landmarks, this is a memorable choice.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a leisurely tour — it’s quite full and involves some walking and border crossing. But for anyone eager to understand Cyprus beyond the beaches, it’s a profound journey.

FAQs

Do I need a passport or ID to join the tour?
Yes, all participants must have their EU ID or passport ready for border inspection. It’s important to note that passports are required, and specific nationalities like Turkmenistan, Syria, Armenia, and Nigeria cannot cross.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but it’s highly recommended to dine at local taverns in Famagusta for an authentic experience. Many travelers find the food delightful and worth the extra expense.

How long is the total travel time?
The tour lasts about 11 hours, including border crossing, site visits, and return journey. Expect some extra time at border checks and breaks.

What are the main sites I will see?
You’ll visit the ruins of Salamis, the medieval walled city of Famagusta, including St. Nikolaos Cathedral, and the abandoned Varosha ghost town. You’ll also see a historic monastery and the Roman Baths.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers participate comfortably, the long hours and walking may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for older children or teenagers interested in history.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and some cash for lunch, souvenirs, or tips. A camera is a must for capturing the ruins and ghost town.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for sites like Salamis are included in the price.

Will I have free time during the tour?
Yes, there’s some free time for sightseeing and shopping in Famagusta, but it’s limited, so plan accordingly if you want to explore more.

How does the border crossing work?
Your guide will handle the border procedures, but you’ll need to present your ID or passport. The process is generally smooth, but it can add some waiting time.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you may be offered a different date or full refund.

In short, this tour offers a well-rounded, deeply historical exploration of Cyprus’s past—ancient, medieval, and modern. It’s ideal for travelers who crave more than a typical sightseeing day, eager to understand the island’s complex story through its ruins, city walls, and ghost town. With knowledgeable guides and convenient logistics, it provides a meaningful trip for those prepared for a long day of discovery.