Paphos: Choirokitia & Famagusta Guided Tour with Transfers

Experience the Layers of Cyprus History on a Full-Day Guided Tour from Paphos

This full-day adventure, priced around mid-range, takes you through some of Cyprus’s most fascinating sites—Salamis Archaeological Site, Famagusta Old Town, and the haunting Varosha Ghost Town—all in one packed itinerary. Starting early from Paphos, you’ll cross into Northern Cyprus, explore ancient ruins, medieval streets, and an abandoned resort city that feels like a time capsule.

What we loved about this tour is the detailed storytelling from guides like Emma, who bring the history alive with engaging anecdotes, and the unexpected contrast between the ancient and the modern ruins. The scenery along the way, especially the scenic drive back, offers ample opportunities for reflection and photos. However, since the day is quite long and involves multiple stops, it might be a challenge for travelers with limited stamina or those who prefer more relaxed paces.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, culture lovers, and those interested in modern Cyprus’s complex story. Keep in mind, it’s a full 11-hour day with some walking and standing, so it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or prefer less time on the road. If you’re eager to see these iconic sites with a knowledgeable guide, this trip offers great value and authentic experiences.

Key Points

In-depth archaeological exploration at Salamis, with Roman baths, mosaics, and a theater.
Authentic medieval Famagusta with Venetian walls, Gothic churches, and Ottoman mosques.
Eerie Varosha Ghost Town, frozen since 1974, offering a poignant glimpse into recent history.
Comfortable transportation and a professional, friendly guide enhance the experience.
Long day, approximately 11 hours, requiring good walking shoes and some patience.
Flexible booking options including free cancellation and pay later make planning easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Paphos: Choirokitia & Famagusta Guided Tour

This tour offers a thorough immersion into Cyprus’s layered history, blending ancient sites, medieval architecture, and a sobering reminder of modern conflicts—all within one day. It’s a well-organized trip that balances sightseeing, storytelling, and reflection, making it a compelling choice for travelers eager to understand the island’s complex story.

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Starting from Paphos: Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with pick-up from one of 38 designated hotel locations in Paphos. The pick-up process is described as smooth, with guides like Emma receiving praise for their knowledge and engaging manner. The transportation is by air-conditioned coach or minibus, which is crucial considering the long day and warm weather in Cyprus.

Traveling cross-border involves a brief border crossing, but the logistics are handled smoothly. This setup allows you to relax and prepare for a day packed with history and sights. The long drive is broken with stops at scenic or historical points, ensuring you are not overwhelmed by the distance.

Exploring Salamis: A Hidden Gem of Ancient Cyprus

The first major stop is the Salamis Archaeological Site, a sprawling ruin dating back to around 1100 BC. It’s a highlight for many because of its remarkable preservation—columns, mosaics, Roman baths, an ancient theater, and remnants of a gymnasium. As you walk through the ruins, you’ll get a sense of what life was like in a city that flourished under Greek, Roman, and Byzantine rule.

One reviewer, Daren, mentions that Emma’s storytelling made the site come alive, especially as she explained the stories behind the mosaics and ruins. However, some travelers express a desire for even more time at Salamis, noting how much there is to see and how long the site deserves to be explored.

Medieval Famagusta: A City of Contrasts

Next, the tour ventures into Famagusta Old Town, a city layered with history. Walking through its medieval walls, you’ll encounter Gothic churches like St. Nikolaos, now known as the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, and Ottoman mosques. The Othello Tower, linked to Shakespeare’s play, adds a romantic touch to the storybook streets.

The ruins of the Venetian Palace are a highlight, offering a glimpse into the city’s prosperous medieval period. Your guide will point out architectural details and share stories about the city’s turbulent history—conquered by Venetians, Ottomans, and now divided.

There’s an optional lunch in Famagusta, offering traditional Cypriot or Turkish dishes—an excellent way to experience authentic flavors after a morning of exploration. Reviewers appreciate this break and say it adds to the overall value of the trip, making the long day more manageable.

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The Eerie Remains of Varosha

Perhaps the most haunting part of the tour is Varosha, the abandoned luxury resort city since 1974. Walking through its deserted streets lined with crumbling hotels, you’ll witness a snapshot of what was once a flourishing seaside destination. The silence and decay create a surreal atmosphere that many find emotional and thought-provoking.

Multiple reviews mention the power of this experience—some describe it as a poignant reminder of recent history. While some wished for more time to wander freely and take photos, guides ensure you see the key sights during a guided walk.

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Scenic Return and Reflection

After exploring Varosha, the journey back to Paphos involves a scenic drive, providing ample time for reflection on the day’s impressions. The coach is generally comfortable, though some reviewers note that legroom could be improved. Nevertheless, the expert guidance and the diversity of sites visited make this a worthwhile long day.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll do a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces at Salamis and Famagusta.
Bring water, sun protection, and a hat: The Cyprus sun can be intense, especially in summer.
Carry some cash: Small vendors and cafes may not accept cards.
Have your passport or ID: Necessary to cross the border into Northern Cyprus.
Plan for a full day: Prepare for an early start and a long day, especially if you’re not used to hours of walking or sitting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want an authentic and comprehensive look at Cyprus’s ancient and modern past. If you’re fascinated by archaeology, medieval architecture, or recent history—particularly the division of the island—this tour offers a meaningful way to connect with it all. It’s also great for those who enjoy guided storytelling, as Emma and others bring the sites to life with their insights.

However, if mobility is a concern or if you prefer a more leisurely pace with less walking, this might be a long day. The length and intensity are worth it for many, but it’s best for those prepared for a full 11-hour adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
This tour involves quite a bit of walking and standing, especially at Salamis and Varosha, so it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or very young children.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and some cash for small purchases. A camera is also recommended for capturing the ruins and ghost town.

How long is the bus journey?
The total driving time is around 4.5 hours, including stops and border crossing. The actual sightseeing time is about 6.5 hours.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and payable on the spot. You can choose to eat at a local tavern in Famagusta, where traditional Cypriot-Turkish dishes are available.

What is the tour guide like?
Guides like Emma receive high praise for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the history tangible and interesting.

Are the sites accessible for all?
While the coach is comfortable, walking on uneven surfaces and narrow medieval streets may be challenging for some. Modest attire is recommended for religious sites.

What about the border crossing?
Border formalities are handled by the guides; expect a brief stop. Make sure you have your passport ready.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserve now and pay later options provide flexibility.

How much does the tour cost?
Pricing is generally considered good value given the extensive itinerary, expert guides, and transportation included.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you’re eager to see a mix of ancient ruins, medieval history, and the haunting Varosha ghost town in one day. It offers immersion, storytelling, and a chance to reflect on Cyprus’s complex past.

To sum it up, this guided tour from Paphos offers a comprehensive experience for those interested in Cyprus’s archaeological treasures, medieval architecture, and modern history. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and well-organized itinerary make it a worthwhile investment for curious travelers. While it is a long day, the diversity of sights and stories ensures you walk away with a richer understanding of the island’s layered history—and plenty of memorable moments. If you’re prepared for a full schedule and eager to see these iconic locations, this tour is a compelling way to deepen your Cyprus experience.