From Paphos: Discover Famagusta
Famagusta District, Cyprus
This full-day tour to the northern part of Cyprus takes you to three of the territory's most intriguing spots.
Guided walking tour of northern Cyprus's historic sites including Varosha, Famagusta, and Salamis, suitable for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
This full-day tour explores the northern part of Cyprus, visiting the ancient city of Salamis, Famagusta’s walled old town, and the abandoned ‘ghost town’ of Varosha. Northern Cyprus remains largely unchanged since 1974, offering a unique glimpse into a past era with unfinished hotels, ruined churches, and minarets.
The tour begins at Salamis, where you will see ruined temples and a partially restored ancient theatre. Salamis is also notable as the burial site of Saint Barnabas, who introduced Christianity to Cyprus in the first century.
After free time for lunch, the journey continues to Famagusta. Here, you will walk along defensive walls built by the Venetians and visit key landmarks such as the castle and a Gothic cathedral converted into a mosque. Nearby is a fig tree planted by Crusaders, the oldest living thing in Famagusta.
The final stop is the ‘ghost town’ of Varosha, an abandoned beach resort with overgrown streets, crumbling buildings, and rusted shutters. This surreal environment remains untouched for over 50 years, reflecting the area’s complex history.
Highlights
- Guided walking tour of Varosha’s abandoned ruins
- Visit Famagusta’s Venetian defensive walls and Gothic mosque
- Explore ancient temples and theatre of Salamis
- Discover northern Cyprus’s historical sites and atmosphere stuck in time
Includes
- English-speaking guide
- Transport
- Entrance fees
- Full insurance cover in the northern area
Excludes
- Lunch and drinks
Important Information
- Single parents or guardians traveling without both parents must provide a letter of authorisation plus supporting documents (birth certificate, missing parent’s passport copy, or court order) for minors under 18. Legal advice is recommended.
- Bring a valid passport or EU ID card.
- The tour is weather-dependent; cancellations due to poor conditions offer an alternative date or refund.
- Only passport holders from EU member states, the UK, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland can cross the Strovillia checkpoint to northern Cyprus due to local restrictions.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
To ensure your visit runs smoothly, bring your valid identification, dress comfortably for walking, and consider booking ahead, especially during peak seasons.
