Day Tour to Famagusta, Ghost Town & Ancient Salamis

Experience the Cyprus Past: A Full-Day Tour to Famagusta, Ghost Town & Ancient Salamis

If you’re looking to get a real sense of Cyprus beyond the beaches and resorts, this day tour from Paphos offers a compelling journey through history and memory. It’s designed for those who want more than just a sightseeing checklist — you’ll step into stories that have shaped the island, from ancient ruins to modern conflicts.

What we especially appreciate about this trip is how it balances a variety of sites: the awe-inspiring ruins of Salamis, the historic streets of Famagusta’s old town, and the eerie silence of Varosha, the abandoned ghost town left frozen in time since 1974. Plus, the guide’s personal stories bring a human touch that makes the experience feel authentic and emotional.

Of course, a full-day tour lasting around 11 hours means you’ll spend quite a bit of time on the bus and walking, which may be tiring for some. Also, visiting a politically sensitive area like Strovilia requires showing your passport, so be prepared for that part of the journey.

This experience suits travelers who crave a deeper understanding of Cyprus’s layered history, appreciate guided insights, and don’t mind a long, immersive day that covers a lot of ground. It’s especially good for those interested in archaeology, history, or current affairs related to the island’s division.

Key Points

• Authentic stories from guides add emotional depth to the experience.
• Ancient and modern sites provide a comprehensive view of Cyprus’s layered past.
• Long day but well-organized, with enough time at each stop to explore.
• Cost offers solid value considering the diverse sites and guided commentary.
• Includes all fees and taxes, so no surprise costs.
• A meaningful experience especially suited to history buffs and those interested in Cyprus’s political history.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect on This Day Trip

The tour kicks off early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Paphos. The comfortable, air-conditioned coach makes the long day manageable, and the small group size (up to 50 travelers) helps keep things intimate and manageable.

Stop 1: From Paphos to Choirokoitia

Our first stop is a quick drive to Choirokoitia for a coffee break, giving everyone a chance to stretch their legs and soak in some local scenery. No entrance fee here, so just enjoy the chance to chat with fellow travelers or simply relax before hitting the road again.

Stop 2: Strovilia Checkpoint

Next, we cross into the northern side of Cyprus at Strovilia. This border crossing is straightforward — you’ll show your passport. This part of the trip offers a glimpse into the more political side of the island, and travelers have noted how the guide explains the significance of these points with care. Expect about an hour and 15 minutes here, enough to appreciate the border’s symbolism without feeling rushed.

Stop 3: Salamis Ruins

The ancient city of Salamis is a highlight that truly stands out. It’s a sprawling archaeological site dating back to around the 12th century BC, with remnants from Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods. We loved the way the guide highlighted the grandeur of the Roman amphitheater, the well-preserved mosaics, and the gymnasium. Expect about an hour and 15 minutes here — enough time to wander, snap photos, and soak in the history.

Reviewers often mention how the Salamis ruins feel alive with stories of centuries past. As one said, “The ruins reveal the remnants of a once-great city, including a well-preserved amphitheater and intricate mosaics,” which truly captures the site’s impressive scope.

Stop 4: Famagusta Old Town

After lunch (not included), we head to Famagusta’s historic center. Here, the Gothic-style St. Nicholas Cathedral, now the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, stands as a testament to the city’s layered past. The architecture is stunning, and the guide offers insights into its significance across different eras.

Travelers have mentioned that the free time here is about 2.5 hours, which is ample for wandering the cobbled streets, grabbing a bite, or browsing the local shops. It’s a lively area with a palpable sense of history, and the guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the stories woven into every corner.

Stop 5: The Ghost Town of Varosha

The most haunting part of the day is a guided tour through Varosha, the abandoned resort district of Famagusta. Since 1974, this area has been fenced off, with deserted hotels and streets frozen in time. Guides usually describe Varosha as “a poignant reminder of conflict,” and visitors can explore the empty streets, buildings, and beaches.

Reviewers often refer to this as a moving experience. One said, “It’s eerie how quickly things are left behind, and you can feel the silence and sadness of what was once a thriving tourist spot.” End the visit at Constantia beach, where the contrast of natural beauty against the ghost town’s silence is striking. Expect about 45 minutes here.

Return Journey

After this emotional visit, we cross back into the south, stopping for a short coffee break before returning to Paphos. The return trip takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes, giving you a chance to reflect on the day.

Is This Tour Worth the Cost?

At approximately $65 per person, this tour offers a lot. It covers a wide range of sites that tell the story of Cyprus from ancient times to recent history. The inclusion of all taxes and fees makes it straightforward, and the guided aspect means you’ll get context and personal insights that you might miss on your own.

Many reviews highlight the guide Eva as a key part of the experience. One reviewer mentioned, “Eva’s personal stories made the trip memorable,” which suggests that a good guide truly enhances the day. Her own experiences during the Turkish invasion give these sites a human face.

While the day is long, most travelers felt it was well organized, with enough time at each stop to enjoy and absorb the atmosphere. The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the trip — with multiple sites, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, it’s a far more enriching experience than piecing together these locations on your own.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s quite a bit of walking on uneven ground, especially at Salamis and Varosha.
• Bring your passport, as crossing into the northern part of Cyprus is part of the route.
• Prepare for a long day, but know you’ll have opportunities to sit and rest on the coach.
• Lunch is not included, so plan ahead or bring snacks and water.
• The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness — no strenuous activity, but some walking is involved.
• The group size (up to 50) means you’ll have space to ask questions and interact with your guide but still feel part of a manageable group.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not specifically geared towards families, the tour’s long hours and extensive walking might be more suitable for older children or teenagers interested in history.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Yes, there’s no lunch included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to grab something during your free time in Famagusta.

How much time is spent at each site?
Generally, you’ll have about an hour and 15 minutes at Salamis, 2.5 hours in Famagusta, and 45 minutes exploring Varosha, plus some brief stops for coffee and border crossing.

Are there any hidden costs?
All fees and taxes are included, but extras like coffee, tea, or souvenirs are not. It’s wise to budget a little extra for personal purchases.

Is the guide’s commentary personal?
Yes, according to reviews, guides like Eva share personal stories and insights, adding depth to the historical sites.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This day tour from Paphos offers a balanced look into the ancient and recent history of Cyprus. You’ll visit some of the most significant archaeological sites, explore a historic city, and witness the haunting remnants of Varosha — all with the help of knowledgeable guides who bring their personal experiences into the narrative.

It’s a trip that rewards curious travelers willing to spend a full day on the road, eager to understand the complexities that have shaped the island. The value for money, combined with the emotional stories and stunning sights, makes it a compelling choice for anyone interested in a meaningful exploration of Cyprus’s past.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a deeper perspective on this divided island, this tour gives you a nuanced, humanized look at Cyprus’s enduring legacies. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your passport, and prepare for an enriching, thought-provoking day.