Tour to Famagusta-Ancient Salamis and Ghost Town from Paphos

An Authentic Journey Through Cyprus’s East Coast: Famagusta, Salamis, and the Ghost Town

When we think about exploring Cyprus, some images come to mind: ancient ruins, historic castles, and stories of a divided island. This tour to Famagusta, Salamis, and the eerie Ghost Town from Paphos offers a well-balanced glimpse into that world, all packed into roughly nine hours. For $91.92 per person, the experience promises an immersive day with visits to some of the island’s most iconic sites, guided by knowledgeable locals.

What we particularly love about this trip is how it combines history with stark reality—strolling the medieval city walls, wandering ruins that echo with legends, and witnessing the haunting remnants of Varosha. The tour’s small group size—capped at six travelers—enhances intimacy and attention from your guide, making it easier to ask questions and soak in the stories behind each site.

A possible consideration is the long duration—it’s a full day of sightseeing, which might be tiring for some, especially those with small children or limited energy. Also, note that entry fees for Salamis and Othello Castle are not included, so budgeting a bit extra for those is wise.

This tour suits history buffs, photography lovers, and those curious about Cyprus’s complex past. If you enjoy authentic, storytelling-style tours that go beyond superficial sights, this experience will resonate well.

Key Points

• Historical Highlights: Visit the 14th-century Othello Castle and walk along Famagusta’s well-preserved city walls.
• Ancient Ruins: Explore the extensive remains of Salamis, once Cyprus’s largest city, with legends dating back to Homer’s Iliad.
• Haunting Ghost Town: Witness the abandoned Varosha district, a stark reminder of Cyprus’s turbulent history.
• Authentic Experience: Small group of up to six travelers ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed pace.
• Flexibility: Includes free time for lunch and sightseeing in Famagusta, allowing you to tailor your experience.
• Value: At just under $92, the tour covers multiple key sites and includes transportation, making it an efficient way to see a lot in one day.

A detailed look at the tour experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins early, with pickup offered from your hotel, usually around 8:30am. You’ll travel comfortably in a fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver and guide. The small group size means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and your guide will be able to give personalized insights along the way.

First Stop: Salamis

The ancient city of Salamis is often the highlight for history lovers. As you walk among its ruins, you’ll see remnants of grand theatres, baths, and temples that speak to its former grandeur. The site, on the territory of northern Cyprus, is a sprawling open-air museum. You’ll love the way the ruins tell stories of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine times, with tombs and columns scattered across the landscape.

One reviewer noted that Salamis “feels like a real museum, with many ruins and tombs of kings and noble residents.” Although the entry fee isn’t included, the opportunity to walk through an ancient city that legend says was founded by Teucer, a figure from Homer’s Iliad, makes it worthwhile.

Next: Famagusta’s Old Town and City Walls

The fascinating city of Famagusta offers a contrast with its well-preserved medieval fortifications. You’ll get a chance to walk along the city walls, which are in excellent condition. The walls provide sweeping views of the surrounding area, giving you a real sense of the city’s strategic importance historically.

Within the old town, the Othello Castle is a key highlight. Built by the Lusignan dynasty and later fortified by the Venetians, it stands as a testament to Cyprus’s layered history. The castle’s connection to Shakespeare’s “Othello” adds an interesting cultural twist, as the story is inspired by a Venetian general who served in Cyprus. You’ll love the story of the Moorish general Moro and the way the castle’s battlements have witnessed centuries of conflict.

The visit to Othello Castle lasts around 20 minutes, giving enough time to explore the ramparts and imagine the scenes of medieval warfare.

Free Time in Famagusta

After the castle, you’ll have a little over an hour for lunch and leisurely sightseeing. This break lets you soak in the city’s ambiance, enjoy some local cuisine, or browse shops and markets. The flexibility here makes this tour more than just a parade of sights—it’s a chance to experience Famagusta’s vibrant, if scarred, urban life.

The Ghost Town: Varosha

The final, haunting stop is Varosha, the infamous “ghost town” that was a bustling resort before 1974. Today, it’s a stark, abandoned district frozen in time, with empty hotels and deserted streets. It’s a powerful visual reminder of the island’s recent history and a favorite among photographers and history enthusiasts alike.

One traveler described it as “a very eerie sight,” noting the contrast between the past glamour and present abandonment. While visitors cannot enter many buildings, the view from outside is striking and offers a sobering reflection on the island’s divided history.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up back in Paphos after nearly nine hours of exploration. The experience offers a rundown of Cyprus’s multifaceted identity—its ancient past, medieval defenses, and modern scars—all within a manageable day trip.

The true value of this tour

While the price of $91.92 isn’t negligible, considering the transportation, guide, and multiple site visits, it represents good value for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground efficiently. It’s particularly suitable for those who don’t want to rent a car or navigate complex border crossings themselves.

The guided aspect is a real plus: your guide, likely to be well-informed and enthusiastic, will help you understand the stories behind each site, making each ruin and wall come alive. The inclusion of free time allows some flexibility without feeling rushed.

However, keep in mind the long hours and potentially hot weather—comfortable shoes and sun protection are a must. Also, since entrance fees aren’t included, budget an extra €10-€20 for Salamis and Othello Castle.

Who should consider this tour?

If you’re fascinated by history, archaeology, or stories of conflict and resilience, this trip offers a compelling narrative through the sights. It’s ideal for travelers who want an efficient, guided overview of key sites rather than wandering independently. It’s also great if you prefer small groups, which foster more personal interaction.

On the flip side, if you’re traveling with very young children, or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit long. Also, if you’re not comfortable with a busy, full-day schedule or crossing borders, it’s worth considering your stamina and travel documents beforehand.

FAQ

Do I need a passport or ID card?
Yes, you need a passport or ID card to pass through the border security.

Can I visit the sites independently afterward?
Yes, once the guided part ends, you’re free to explore Famagusta at your leisure during the free time.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Salamis and Othello Castle are not included, so bring extra cash.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
It might be too long and involve a lot of walking for small children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) for visiting religious sites.

Is lunch included?
No, you will have free time for lunch, so plan to bring some snacks or enjoy local eateries.

How long is the drive?
The entire day lasts about nine hours, with travel time between sites included.

What’s the maximum group size?
Only up to six travelers, making it a very personalized experience.

Is this tour available year-round?
Most likely, but verify the weather conditions and booking details in advance.

Will I see the entire Ghost Town?
You will see the most prominent parts from outside; access inside buildings is generally limited.

Final thoughts

This tour is a well-curated way to get a broad yet authentic sense of Cyprus’s eastern coast. It balances ancient history, medieval architecture, and modern scars, packaged into a manageable day.

For those who enjoy stories behind the stones, and appreciate having a guide to bring context to each site, this experience delivers. It’s best suited for curious travelers who want to dig into Cyprus’s layered past without the hassle of organizing multiple separate visits or border crossings.

While the day is long and includes some costs you’ll need to budget for, the insights and views you’ll gain are worth it. It’s a chance to reflect on history’s impact while walking through centuries-old ruins and abandoned streets. If you’re after a genuine, story-rich adventure that captures the complexity of this divided island, this tour is a fine choice.