Full-Day Famagusta, Ghost City of Varosi, and Salamis Tour From Paphos

This full-day excursion from Paphos offers an intriguing exploration of Northern Cyprus’s captivating past. Visitors will discover the ancient ruins of Salamis, wander the eerie ‘Ghost City’ of Varosha, and visit the iconic landmarks of Famagusta. From the majestic theater and ornate Roman baths to the abandoned buildings reclaimed by nature, this tour provides a unique and thought-provoking experience for those interested in uncovering the fascinating history that shapes this island nation. Where will this journey through Cyprus’s past take you?

Key Points

• Explore the historic sites of Northern Cyprus, including the ancient ruins of Salamis dating back to the 12th century BC.
• Visit iconic landmarks in Famagusta like the Saint Nikolaos Cathedral, Venetian walls, and the haunting ‘Ghost City of Varosha’.
• Discover the impressive Gymnasium Complex, majestic theater, and ornate Roman baths within the Salamis archaeological site.
• Experience the eerie, abandoned buildings and decaying infrastructure of the ‘Ghost City of Varosha’, frozen in time since the 1974 Turkish invasion.
• Tour the serene Monastery of Saint Barnabas, a testament to Cyprus’s rich religious heritage with its Byzantine-era architecture and lush gardens.

Tour Overview

The Famagusta and Salamis tour whisks visitors away from Paphos for a day of exploring historic sites in Northern Cyprus.

This full-day excursion takes travelers to the ancient ruins of Salamis, dating back to the 12th century BC. The tour also includes a visit to the landmarks of Famagusta, such as the iconic Saint Nikolaos Cathedral and the impressive Venetian walls.

The highlight of the day is exploring the eerie ‘Ghost City’ of Varosha, a formerly thriving seaside town that’s been abandoned since the 1970s.

Along the way, there’s free time for sightseeing, lunch, and a stop at the Monastery of Saint Barnabas. With round-trip transportation and entrance fees included, this tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into Cyprus’ captivating history.

Highlights of Salamis

Sprawling across an expansive coastal plain, the ancient ruins of Salamis offer visitors a captivating glimpse into Cyprus’ rich history dating back to the 12th century BC. As the once-thriving capital of the island, Salamis boasts a wealth of archaeological wonders just waiting to be explored.

Key highlights include:

1. The impressive Gymnasium Complex, where athletes trained in the ancient world.
2. The majestic theater, which could seat up to 15,000 spectators.
3. The ornate Roman baths, complete with intricate mosaics and stunning architectural details.

Wandering through these evocative ruins, visitors can almost feel the pulse of everyday life from millennia ago, making Salamis a must-see destination on any tour of Cyprus’ historic sites.

Exploring Famagusta

Famagusta, a city steeped in history and intrigue, beckons visitors to uncover its captivating past.

Once a thriving Lusignan-era metropolis, this coastal gem now stands as a haunting reminder of Cyprus’ tumultuous history, its abandoned streets and buildings earning it the moniker of the ‘Ghost City of Varosha.’

Travelers will explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the majestic Saint Nikolaos Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the imposing Venetian walls that once protected the city from invasion.

The tour also takes visitors to the Monastery of Saint Barnabas, a serene spiritual sanctuary amidst the ruins.

With time to wander and soak in the eerie atmosphere, Famagusta offers a truly unique and thought-provoking experience.

Varosha Ghost City

Shrouded in eerie silence, Varosha’s abandoned high-rises and crumbling infrastructure stand as a haunting testament to the city’s tragic past.

Once a thriving resort town, this ‘Ghost City’ has been frozen in time since the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus.

Visitors to the restricted zone can catch glimpses of:

• Decaying hotels and restaurants, their interiors long since reclaimed by nature.
• Abandoned schools and hospitals, a poignant reminder of the lives once lived here.
• Eerie streets devoid of any human activity, save for the occasional stray animal.

Exploring Varosha is a sobering experience, a powerful reminder of the profound impact of war and displacement on a community.

Monastery of Saint Barnabas

The Monastery of Saint Barnabas stands as a testament to Cyprus’s rich religious heritage, its imposing Byzantine-era structure overlooking the rugged coastal landscape.

This revered site is dedicated to Saint Barnabas, one of the Twelve Apostles and a native of Cyprus. Visitors can explore the monastery’s ornate interiors, admiring the intricate frescoes and icons that adorn the walls.

The complex also houses a museum showcasing religious artifacts and relics, offering insights into the island’s deep-rooted Christian traditions.

Beyond the monastery, the surrounding grounds provide a serene oasis for reflection and contemplation, with lush gardens and panoramic vistas of the sparkling Mediterranean.

A visit to the Monastery of Saint Barnabas is a captivating blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.

Logistics and Requirements

This full-day tour from Paphos provides convenient hotel pickups, allowing travelers to embark on the journey with ease. The tour operates on Fridays, giving visitors a chance to explore the historic sites of Famagusta and Salamis. However, crossing into Northern Cyprus requires a valid passport, so participants should ensure they’ve the necessary documentation.

The tour highlights include:

1. Discovering the ancient ruins of Salamis, dating back to the 12th century BC.
2. Visiting Famagusta landmarks such as Saint Nikolaos Cathedral and the Venetian walls.
3. Exploring the ‘Ghost City’ of Varosha in Famagusta.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t recommended for individuals with mobility issues, and a minimum number of travelers is required for the tour to operate. Plus, the tour may be canceled due to poor weather or insufficient bookings.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers have the flexibility to cancel their bookings up to 24 hours before the tour without incurring any penalties.

However, the tour operator reserves the right to cancel the excursion due to factors such as poor weather conditions or insufficient participant numbers.

If the tour is canceled, customers will receive a full refund. This cancellation policy provides peace of mind for travelers, allowing them to book the tour with confidence.

While the operator strives to run the tour as scheduled, they understand that unexpected circumstances may arise, and they’re committed to handling any changes or cancellations in a fair and transparent manner.

Customers can rest assured that their money is protected if the tour can’t proceed as planned.

What to Expect

Participants can expect a full-day excursion that immerses them in the rich history and captivating landscapes of Cyprus. The tour begins with a pickup from their Paphos city center hotel, setting out to explore the ancient ruins of Salamis and the intriguing ‘Ghost City’ of Varosha in Famagusta.

Step back in time at the impressive ruins of Salamis, dating back to the 12th century BC.

Discover the architectural wonders of Famagusta, including the stunning Saint Nikolaos Cathedral and the imposing Venetian walls.

Venture into the eerie, abandoned streets of Varosha, a once-thriving seaside resort now frozen in time.

Throughout the day, you will have ample opportunities to soak in the sights, savor local cuisine, and enjoy the captivating history of this corner of Cyprus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit Famagusta on My Own Without a Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore Famagusta on their own without booking a tour. However, they’ll need a valid passport to cross into the Turkish-occupied northern part of Cyprus where Famagusta is located. Independent travelers may find it more convenient to join an organized tour.

What Should I Bring for the Tour?

For the tour, travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the historic sites and scenic landscapes. It’s also wise to pack snacks, water, and any necessary medications. Dressing in layers is recommended.

Are There Any Restroom Stops During the Tour?

The tour includes several scheduled stops, providing ample opportunities for restroom breaks. Participants can expect access to facilities at the major historical sites visited, such as Salamis and Famagusta, as well as during the lunch break in Famagusta.

Can I Extend My Time in Famagusta or Salamis?

Travelers can request to extend their time in Famagusta or Salamis, but it’s subject to the tour operator’s approval and may incur additional fees. The standard tour duration is fixed, so any extensions would need to be arranged separately.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Covered in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes pickup, entrance fees, and round-trip transport. However, travelers should budget for additional costs such as meals, souvenirs, and any optional activities or upgrades they wish to partake in during the free time in Famagusta.

Recap

This captivating full-day excursion from Paphos offers a unique opportunity to explore Northern Cyprus’s rich history.

Visitors will explore the ancient ruins of Salamis, the iconic landmarks of Famagusta, and the eerie ‘Ghost City’ of Varosha, providing a thought-provoking experience for those interested in Cyprus’s past.

The tour’s diverse itinerary promises a captivating journey through the island’s captivating heritage.