Full-Day Famagusta, Ghost City Of Varosi, And Salamis Tour From Paphos

Discover the captivating history and culture of Cyprus on this full-day tour from Paphos. Explore the ancient ruins of Salamis, uncover the blended Venetian architecture in Famagusta, and venture into the eerie ‘ghost town’ of Varosha. Along the way, marvel at the stunning Byzantine monastery of Saint Barnabas. With a blend of historical significance and haunting beauty, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Cyprus’ past that will leave you eager to uncover more.

Key Points

This full-day tour from Paphos explores the historic sites of Famagusta, the abandoned ‘ghost city’ of Varosha, and the ancient ruins of Salamis.
Highlights include the Venetian walls, Saint Nikolaos Cathedral, and the Monastery of Saint Barnabas in Famagusta, as well as the sprawling gymnasium and royal tombs in Salamis.
Visitors can wander the deserted streets and crumbling buildings of Varosha, a once-thriving seaside resort abandoned since 1974 due to the Cyprus conflict.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Paphos city center hotels and the opportunity to immerse in the vibrant culture and history of the region.
The tour operates on Fridays, and a passport is required to cross into Northern Cyprus where Famagusta and Salamis are located.

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Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Paphos, Cyprus takes visitors on an exploration of the historic sites in Famagusta and Salamis.

The tour includes pickup from Paphos city center hotels and round-trip transport.

Travelers will discover the ancient ruins of Salamis, which date back to the 12th century BC.

In Famagusta, they’ll visit landmarks like the Saint Nikolaos Cathedral and the Venetian walls.

The highlight of the tour is exploring the ‘Ghost City’ of Varosha, a deserted section of Famagusta.

Guests will also visit the Monastery of Saint Barnabas and have free time for sightseeing and lunch in Famagusta.

The full tour lasts approximately 12 hours, from hotel pickup to drop-off, and operates on Fridays.

Highlights of Salamis

The ancient ruins of Salamis, dating back to the 12th century BC, captivate visitors with their rich history and well-preserved archaeological site.

Once a thriving city-kingdom, Salamis boasts a wealth of fascinating remnants, including the magnificent theater, the gymnasium, and the royal tombs.

Strolling through the site, travelers can imagine the bustling city streets and the grand processions that would have taken place here centuries ago.

The highlight is the Gymnasium, a sprawling complex that showcases the advanced architecture and engineering of the ancient Cypriots.

Exploring Salamis provides a unique glimpse into the island’s storied past, allowing visitors to connect with the enduring legacy of this remarkable ancient civilization.

Exploring Famagusta

Stepping into Famagusta’s walled old town, visitors uncover a captivating blend of well-preserved Venetian architecture and remnants of the city’s turbulent past.

The imposing Venetian walls, built to defend the city from invaders, now stand as a testament to its strategic importance throughout history.

Amidst the crumbling fortifications, the majestic Saint Nikolaos Cathedral commands attention, its Gothic design a striking contrast to the surrounding structures.

Nearby, the Monastery of Saint Barnabas offers a peaceful respite, its tranquil gardens and ancient relics providing a glimpse into the region’s rich religious heritage.

Wandering the ghost town of Varosha, once a thriving tourist hub, is a poignant experience, the abandoned hotels and homes serving as a somber reminder of the island’s tumultuous past.

Varosha: The Ghost City

Amidst the crumbling Venetian walls and medieval structures of Famagusta lies the eerie, abandoned city of Varosha – a poignant and haunting reminder of Cyprus’ tumultuous past.

Once a thriving seaside resort, Varosha was abruptly abandoned in 1974 during the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. Today, this ‘ghost city‘ stands frozen in time, its streets and homes left untouched for over four decades.

Visitors can peer through the barricades, catching glimpses of decaying hotels, abandoned cars, and nature reclaiming the once-bustling urban landscape. An eerie silence pervades the area, creating an atmosphere of both mystery and melancholy.

Varosha stands as a sobering testament to the human cost of conflict, a powerful reminder of the fragility of civilization.

Monastery of Saint Barnabas

Nestled among the ancient ruins of Famagusta, the Monastery of Saint Barnabas stands as a testament to the island’s rich religious heritage. Established in the 5th century AD, this revered Eastern Orthodox Christian site honors the patron saint of Cyprus, who’s believed to have introduced Christianity to the island.

Visitors can explore the monastery’s stunning Byzantine architecture, including its intricate frescoes and well-preserved religious artifacts. The monastery also houses a museum that showcases a collection of icons, manuscripts, and other sacred relics.

The Monastery of Saint Barnabas offers a glimpse into Cyprus’ spiritual past and is a must-visit destination for those interested in the island’s history and culture.

Byzantine-style chapel with stunning frescoes
Museum housing a collection of religious artifacts
Tomb of Saint Barnabas, the patron saint of Cyprus
Picturesque gardens and courtyard

Sightseeing and Lunch

After exploring the Monastery of Saint Barnabas, the tour provides ample free time for sightseeing and lunch in the historic city of Famagusta.

Visitors can wander the well-preserved Venetian walls, admiring the striking architecture and bustling atmosphere of this captivating destination.

Stroll along the narrow streets, discovering charming cafes, local shops, and ancient landmarks like the impressive Saint Nikolaos Cathedral.

With the freedom to explore at your own pace, you can soak up the rich culture and history of Famagusta over a leisurely lunch.

Whether you choose to dine on traditional Cypriot cuisine or international fare, this break offers a chance to refuel and learn about the vibrant heart of the city.

Logistical Information

The tour’s logistics make it accessible to a wide range of travelers. It departs on Fridays from hotels in Paphos’ city center, providing convenient pickup for participants.

The full-day excursion lasts approximately 12 hours, from hotel pickup to drop-off. Crossing into Northern Cyprus requires a valid passport, so travelers must ensure they’ve the necessary documentation before embarking on the tour.

The tour includes the following logistical details:

Duration: Approximately 12 hours
Pickup location: Paphos city center hotels
Tour operation: Fridays
Passport requirement: Necessary to cross into Northern Cyprus

The tour may be canceled due to poor weather or insufficient bookings, and travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel the tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Plus, the tour may be canceled due to poor weather conditions or insufficient bookings. In such cases, the tour operator will promptly notify participants and issue full refunds.

This cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility and accommodate unforeseen circumstances. It’s important for travelers to review the policy carefully and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the Famagusta, Varosi, and Salamis tour from Paphos.

Participants should also be aware that a minimum number of travelers is required for the tour to operate, so early booking is recommended.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Visit the Turkish-Occupied Areas of Famagusta?

Yes, the tour includes a visit to the Turkish-occupied areas of Famagusta, including the Varosha district, known as the ‘Ghost City’. This allows visitors to explore the abandoned buildings and streets of this restricted area.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting Religious Sites?

When visiting religious sites in Cyprus, it’s generally respectful to wear modest, conservative clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Visitors should avoid revealing or casual attire to avoid offending local customs.

Is There an Option to Visit the Nicosia Buffer Zone?

This tour does not include an option to visit the Nicosia buffer zone. The tour focuses on exploring the historic sites of Famagusta and Salamis in Northern Cyprus. Visiting the buffer zone would require a separate tour or independent travel arrangements.

Can We Rent a Car and Drive Ourselves Instead of a Tour?

Yes, visitors can rent a car and drive themselves instead of taking a tour. Driving offers more flexibility to explore at your own pace, but you’ll need a passport to cross into Northern Cyprus.

Are Any COVID-19 Restrictions Currently in Place for This Tour?

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, travelers on this tour may need to follow certain safety protocols, such as wearing masks and practicing social distancing. Specific requirements may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the latest updates.

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