Famagusta City Tour with Salamis and Varosha 'Ghost Town'
Excursions & day trips

Famagusta City Tour with Salamis and Varosha 'Ghost Town'

from
$71.00
Free cancellation
Language: English
Mobile voucher accepted
Duration: more than 8 hours

This experience meets the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria. By choosing this experience you can protect the places you love, care for the environment and support local communities.

Do this because
  • Visit Turkish-occupied northern Cyprus and discover a land stuck in a time warp
  • Discover the walled old town of Famagusta and see sights such as the Gothic mosque
  • Enjoy a guided walking tour among the crumbling ruins of the ‘ghost town' of Varosha
  • Walk among the ruined temples and the theatre of the ancient city of Salamis
  • Expert local guide with an unrivalled knowledge of northern Cyprus and its history
What to expect

This full day tour to the occupied northern part of Cyprus takes you to three of the territory's most intriguing spots. You'll discover the ancient city of Salamis, the old town of Famagusta and the ‘ghost town' of Varosha. Elpida, one of our local guides, says, ‘Northern Cyprus is a place frozen in time. We can even pinpoint the date – 1974. And the result is an Instagrammable potpourri of unfinished hotels, half-ruined churches and skinny minarets.'

Your journey into the past starts all the way back in classical times at Salamis. You'll explore its ruined temples, the partially restored theatre and more. Stavroula, another of our local guides, says, ‘Not only is Salamis steeped in ancient myth, but Saint Barnabas, who brought Christianity to Cyprus in the first century, is buried in a nearby monastery.'

After free time for lunch, you'll visit Famagusta, whose old town is still protected by intact defensive walls built the Venetians centuries ago. Your guide will show you sights such as the castle and the Gothic cathedral-turned-mosque. Elpida says, ‘In front of the main entrance is a fig tree that was planted by the Crusaders who built the cathedral – so it's the oldest living thing in Famagusta.' To round off the visit, there's a walking tour in the ‘ghost town' of Varosha. This once-popular beach resort lay abandoned since the Turkish invasion and was only opened to visitors in 2020. It's a surreal experience to walk on overgrown streets of crumbling façades with rusted shutters and broken windows.

Read more
What's included
  • check Transport
  • check English-speaking guide
  • check Entrance and border fees
  • check Full insurance cover in the occupied northern area
What to remember
  • Just so you know, because of local restrictions at Strovillia checkpoint, only passport holders from EU member states, the UK, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland can travel to and from the occupied northern part of Cyprus
  • You'll need your passport/ID card to cross the border into the occupied northern part of Cyprus
  • Lunch is not included
  • Please note, single parent families or those travelling without both parents need to provide extra documentation for anyone under the age of 18 when travelling into the occupied north of Cyprus. This includes a 'letter of authorisation' from the missing parent, as well as supporting documents including birth certificate of the child, passport copy of the missing parent or a copy of a court order. Templates of these letters are readily available on search engines however we recommend you consult a lawyer prior to travelling on holiday
  • This experience doesn't follow our general cancellation policy. If you need to cancel, you must do so at least 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
  • Not suitable for guests with reduced mobility
Read more
Provider
TUI CYPRUS LTD
Booking fee
Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 1 day before the experience begins.

What people say about this experience

0%
0%
0%
0%
0%

You might also like

Paphos Ocean Vision Half Day Cruise
Excursions & day trips

Paphos Ocean Vision Half Day Cruise

This four-hour cruise is all about kicking back and seeing Cyprus from a whole new perspective – with an ice-cool drink in your hand, of course. You'll make waves towards Ricco's Bay onboard the Ocean Vision - a family-friendly mega yacht complete with four decks, slide and glass bottom. It's all topped off with a buffet lunch and a swimming stop thrown in, too.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Nat Geo Day Tour: Philippos Yiapanis, from Turmoil to Triumph
Excursions & day trips

Nat Geo Day Tour: Philippos Yiapanis, from Turmoil to Triumph

Philippos Yiapanis, a renowned Cypriot sculptor, was born in Famagusta in what is now the occupied Northern part of Cyprus. His life took a tumultuous turn when he was captured and incarcerated during the Turkish invasion, subsequently becoming a refugee in South Cyprus. His artistry is a manifestation of his deep longing for freedom and a vivid representation of local history. On this tour, you will meet the artist who will lead you on an exclusive visit to his museum where around 140 sculptures are on display. As well as discovering the inspiration behind some of his most powerful works, you'll also find out about the recent history of Cyprus and explore the artist's personal experiences, narrated through his compelling storytelling. On arrival at the Art Nest Museum, Philippos will welcome you personally, providing an insight into his life and work, giving you an understanding of the emotions that underpin his creations. You will then take time to explore the open-air sculpture park, and finish with a peek at the artistic process. A tour of the artist's workshop reveals his techniques for working in bronze, chosen to ensure the longevity of his pieces, to reflect the connection between Cyprus and copper, and to represent his enduring hope for unity in his divided homeland. Round off the experience enjoying on the spot, local cuisine prepared in a nearby village, reflecting on Cyprus's unique fusion of art, history, and culinary tradition.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Nat Geo Day Tour: Two Sides, One Story: Co-Existence in Cyprus
Excursions & day trips

Nat Geo Day Tour: Two Sides, One Story: Co-Existence in Cyprus

Get a fresh perspective on the latest events in Cyprus on this National Geographic Day Tour led by two journalists, one Greek-Cypriot and one Turkish-Cypriot, who will give you rare, behind-the-scenes insights. Start by exploring the restored village of Moutallos. Immerse yourself in its stories as you meander through the narrow alleys and witness the transformation of the area, with rehabilitated buildings that bear remnants of Turkish names, symbolizing respect for the other community. Pause for a photo stop at the historic Agia Sophia mosque, formerly a Christian church. The tour then leads you to Ibrahim's Khan, a refurbished Ottoman inn. It now houses craft units and a theater. The main entrance showcases exquisite creations of embroidery, jointly made by women from both communities, illustrating their desire for cooperation and reunification. In the courtyard of the Khan, engage in an interactive debate directed by your two journalist guides —one Greek-Cypriot and one Turkish-Cypriot. Together, you'll explore Cyprus' recent past, investigating the causes behind the enduring division and contemplating potential paths toward unity. See the contrast between old and new as you embrace the mix of vendors and workshops in the Khan's surroundings. Then, admire the renovated Ottoman Baths, part of a heritage preservation project. Conclude by savoring the simple yet true flavors that are offered in family homes, accompanied by a cup of Cypriot, Turkish, or Greek coffee.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Off-Road Akamas Peninsula Tour 
Activities

Off-Road Akamas Peninsula Tour 

With exclusive access to the wild side of western Cyprus, this guided quad or buggy safari tours will take you to all the key sights. Experience the Paphos Sea Caves, Chapel of Agios Georgios, Akamas Peninsula and even indulge in a turtle watching session at Lara Bay, topped off with a refreshing swim.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Caledonia Waterfalls Tour with Lunch
Activities

Caledonia Waterfalls Tour with Lunch

The lush, cool forest that carpets the Troodos Mountains is an ideal escape near Paphos. A perfect contrast to the beach, you'll journey along a scenic route into the hills, where your destination is the village of Platres. Here, you'll set off on a 3km hike along the stream to the Caledonia Falls, followed by a traditional lunch at Psilo Dendro restaurant. Andri, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘You'll enjoy the journey as much as the destination on this hike, which follows and criss-crosses a stream over a series of little bridges all the way to the waterfall.'We'll get the tour started on a refreshing note with a stop at Kolossi Fruit Garden. Here you'll have the chance to try some fresh lemonade and buy fruit before continuing further into the mountains to the pretty hilltop village of Platres. This is the starting point for the nature trail, which traces the bubbling Kryos Potamos stream through the trees. You'll be glad of sturdy footwear as you head along the scenic trail, which is quite uneven in places with some rocks, roots and rivulets to keep it interesting.It's a forest walk in dappled shade, leading through a variety of gnarly trees including pines and strawberry trees. Once you reach the Caledonia Falls, you'll be able to take a break - and have a paddle if you wish - at the shaded freshwater pool, then continue to the famous Psilo Dendro restaurant with its very own trout farm. Relax over lunch – needless to say, trout is a speciality – and end the day on a high.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Pafos Zoo Tour
Excursions & day trips

Pafos Zoo Tour

From tigers, lions and giraffes to penguins, monkeys and more, Pafos Zoo is a giant playground where kids can run wild and discover over 500 species of animals. You'll spend a few hours exploring the zoo at your own pace, and with transfer from your hotel included, everything's planned for a great family day out.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Paphos Half-day BBQ Cruise
Excursions & day trips

Paphos Half-day BBQ Cruise

The sunshine and laidback Mediterranean feel of Cyprus are what visitors the world over come to enjoy, and this half-day BBQ cruise lets you do just that. Departing from Paphos harbour you'll spend four hours out at sea with the chance to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and completely chill-out with live entertainment and an on-board BBQ.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Cyprus Night Cruise on the Ocean Vision with Fireworks
Excursions & day trips

Cyprus Night Cruise on the Ocean Vision with Fireworks

Add a touch of magic to your holiday with this traditional Cypriot evening cruise. After the chance to see a blazing sunset over the Med, you'll really be spoiled. There's a delicious buffet dinner, plus live entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display to end the night.Casting off from Paphos harbour, you'll cruise along to Riccos Bay and drop anchor in the best spot to watch the sunset. Grab yourself a drink from the bar and you can raise a toast as the sun falls over the horizon – and when the stars come out, the fun begins.There's traditional Cypriot music and a live performance to keep you entertained and you'll be served up a tasty buffet dinner of hot and cold dishes. Then, it's time for the showstopper – a fabulous fireworks display that lights up the sky. And to keep the party vibes going, we'll continue with music all the way back to shore.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Fassouri Waterpark Ticket
Excursions & day trips

Fassouri Waterpark Ticket

A day enjoying the watery thrills and relaxation awaits at Cyprus's largest waterpark. Fasouri Watermania provides splashy fun for all ages, with hair-raising rides, dedicated kids' and sun-lounging areas, and a range of great restaurant options.

free cancellation
Entrance Fees Included
Blue Lagoon Sea Star Cruise
Excursions & day trips

Blue Lagoon Sea Star Cruise

The mesmerising Blue Lagoon is Mediterranean perfection. On this full day cruise, you'll sail along the Akamas peninsula to swim, snorkel and have a barbecue lunch in one of the most idyllic locations in Cyprus. What's more, there's a live performer onboard.First up is the star of the show – the Blue Lagoon. Take the plunge with your snorkelling equipment to spot crabs and starfish just under the surface. Then, refuel with a tasty barbecue.Making our way towards Paphos, you'll spot sea caves and secluded bays roll by as well as St George's Isle. Admire the picturesque coastline of the Akamas peninsula while you relax and soak up the sunrays. And on the way back, we'll stop for a swim at either Lara Bay – a beach that's home to turtles – or the islet of Geronisos, depending on the weather.

free cancellation
Available in:

en