From Ayia Napa & Protaras: Famagusta and Salamis Guided Tour

Famagusta District, Cyprus



Learn more about the history of Cyprus on a visit to the Turkish-controlled northern region of the island. Visit the archaeological site of Salamis & see the abandoned town of Famagusta.

Salamis, Famagusta, and Varosha Guided Tour in Northern Cyprus

This guided tour explores Salamis, Famagusta old town, and the ghost town of Varosha, ideal for history enthusiasts visiting northern Cyprus.

Highlights

  • Explore Salamis, an ancient Greek city-state on Cyprus’s east coast
  • Visit the 5th-century Monastery of St Barnabas, an important pilgrimage site
  • Discover Famagusta old town with significant historical remains
  • Take a guided tour of Varosha, the abandoned former resort town
  • Learn from an expert local guide with extensive knowledge of Cyprus history

Description

This tour covers multiple historical layers of northern Cyprus, including ancient, medieval, and modern periods. Key sites include the classical city of Salamis, Famagusta old town, and the ghost town of Varosha.

Salamis, once the capital of Cyprus for over a thousand years, features ancient roads, temples, and a partially restored amphitheatre that hosted performances and festivals. The tour continues to the 5th-century Monastery of St Barnabas, where visitors can view a Byzantine icon museum.

Afterward, take a short guided walk through Varosha, a seaside resort abandoned for over 50 years. Following free time for lunch, explore Famagusta, historically one of the wealthiest Mediterranean cities. Highlights include the Venetian castle and the Gothic cathedral converted into a mosque.

Includes

  • Transport
  • Professional guide
  • Full insurance cover for travel in northern Cyprus
  • Admission fees

Excludes

  • Food and drink
  • Souvenirs
  • Optional gratuities

Important Information

  • Single-parent families or travellers without both parents must provide additional documentation for minors under 18, including a letter of authorisation from the absent parent, birth certificate, passport copy of the absent parent, or court order. Consult a lawyer before travel.
  • A valid passport or EU ID card is required on the day of travel.
  • There is no access inside Othello's Tower during the tour.
  • The itinerary is subject to change.
  • Due to local restrictions at Strovillia checkpoint, only passport holders from EU member states, the UK, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland can travel to and from northern Cyprus.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Book in advance and bring your valid passport or EU ID card. The best time to visit is during mild weather months for comfortable outdoor exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes visits to the ancient city of Salamis, the 5th-century Monastery of St Barnabas, Famagusta old town, and the abandoned resort town of Varosha in northern Cyprus.
An expert local guide with extensive knowledge of Cyprus history leads the tour.
Salamis is located on the east coast of Cyprus near Famagusta.
Yes, the tour includes a guided visit to Varosha, the abandoned former resort town in northern Cyprus.
Tour duration varies, so check the tour provider's website for current details.
Yes, the 5th-century Monastery of St Barnabas is a key stop on the tour.
It is recommended to book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons in Cyprus.
You will learn about Cyprus's ancient Greek history, religious sites, and the modern historical significance of Famagusta and Varosha.
Most tours include transportation from central locations in Ayia Napa and Protaras; check the specific tour details for confirmation.

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