If you’re considering a day trip from Ayia Napa, Protaras, or Larnaca to explore the northern side of Cyprus, this Famagusta and Salamis tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact journey, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have, and I want to share what you can expect — both the highlights and the potential quirks.
What we really like about this tour is the chance to walk through the famous ‘Ghost Town’ of Varosha and explore the sprawling ruins of Salamis, two sites that tell very different stories about Cyprus’s past. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to make the experience richer and more engaging. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is a long day — around eight hours in total — so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full, active itinerary. If you’re after a relaxed, leisurely day, this might feel a little rushed at times.
This trip is perfect for history buffs, curious explorers, and those eager to see the stark contrasts of Cyprus—from ancient ruins to a modern ghost town, all with a good dose of local storytelling.
This experience made our article of Which Kakopetria Tours To Choose? We Rank The 2 Best.
Key Points
- Well-organized itinerary covering Famagusta, Salamis, Monastery of Saint Barnabas, and the Ghost Town of Varosha.
- Knowledgeable, friendly guides who give detailed explanations and keep the group informed.
- Long day but packed with sights; be prepared for a 8-hour commitment with some early morning pickup.
- Good value considering entry fees and guided tours; food and drinks are extra.
- Comfortable transportation with a reputable provider, including pick-up and drop-off.
- Some stops are brief (like Salamis and Famagusta) — perfect if you’re a quick explorer but might leave some wishing for more time.
The Detailed Breakdown: What Makes This Tour Stand Out
Planning more time in Kakopetria? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting off with the Pickup and Journey
The tour begins bright and early — pickups start around 7:30AM from a variety of locations, including hotels, supermarkets, and bus stops in Larnaca and Ayia Napa. Expect the coach to be comfortable, with reviews highlighting a smooth ride and clear communication about pick-up times, which is a plus if you’re someone who values reliability.
The drive to Famagusta is about an hour, giving you a chance to settle in and perhaps review some notes or take in the scenery. Since the bus is air-conditioned and well-maintained, it’s a comfortable way to start what will be a full day.
Crossing into the North and First Stops
The border crossing is a quick pass-by, about 10 minutes. It’s worth noting that you’ll need your passport or ID card, and it’s a straightforward process, but make sure your documents are valid — especially if you’re traveling with minors or in a group. The tour organizers seem clear about restrictions — certain passport holders, like Armenians, Syrians, Nigerians, and Turkmenistan, may need special visas.
Visiting Saint Barnabas Monastery
The first real stop is at the Monastery of Saint Barnabas. Here, you’ll get a guided tour and some free time, approximately 30 minutes. This monastery is a peaceful spot, with history dating back centuries. Travelers often comment on how knowledgeable guides make the visit more engaging — telling stories about the monastery’s significance and its ties to early Christianity.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring Salamis Ancient City
Next up is Salamis, a sprawling archaeological site with ruins dating back to the 11th century BC. Expect a guided tour that covers the ruins of baths, theaters, and temples, along with some free time to wander and soak in the atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how impressive Salamis is — the scale, the preservation, and the stories embedded in the stones.
However, the time here is about 40 minutes, which some travelers feel is tight for fully exploring such a vast site. As one reviewer put it, “20 minutes at Salamis isn’t enough,” especially if you want to really take photos or read some of the panels. But overall, most agree it’s a good overview.
Famagusta Old Town and Free Time
After Salamis, you’ll head into Famagusta, spending around 1.5 hours in the Old Town. This is enough time for a quick stroll, some shopping, or grabbing a bite. The city walls, Gothic churches, and the Venetian Walls are standouts. Many reviewers enjoy walking around the old streets, soaking in the atmosphere, and experiencing the blend of medieval architecture and modern life.
You can also choose to visit the Church of Saint Nicolas or the Othello Castle — these optional extras are not included in the tour price, but they’re worth considering if you’re into history and architecture.
Walking the Ghost Town of Varosha
The highlight for many is the visit to Varosha, the famous abandoned district of Famagusta. Since it’s only recently reopened for visitors, walking through the “Ghost Town” feels like stepping into a different world. You get about 45 minutes guided time here, which is enough to see the deserted hotels, shops, and streets that tell a story of a divided city.
Reviewers love the stark contrast — the lively, bustling city that once was versus the eerie silence of Varosha. Many mention that walking through the empty streets feels both fascinating and a little haunting.
Returning and Final Stops
After Varosha, the tour crosses back into the south, passing the border again, and the journey home is about 20 minutes. The drop-off locations are conveniently spread across Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Larnaca.
What Travelers Say: Honest Reviews and Insights
The overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 269 reviews suggests most participants find this trip valuable. People emphasize the expert guidance as a real strength — guides who are friendly, informative, and eager to share stories about Cyprus’s divided past and present. One review from Rosalind fondly describes her guide Olga: “She kept a group of 30+ strangers together with the protectiveness of a mother hen and the authority of a school teacher.” That kind of personal touch really makes a difference.
The long day can be a challenge, especially if the heat is intense — many reviews from June mention how hot it was, so bringing water and sun protection is advised. The pace is generally brisk, with some people wishing for slightly longer in Salamis or Famagusta to soak it all in, but most appreciate the well-organized schedule.
A common theme is the value for money — entry fees for archaeological sites and guided commentary are included, which adds to the overall experience. The cost seems reasonable considering the depth of the sightseeing and the comfort of the transportation.
Pros
- Knowledgeable guides who keep things engaging
- Comfortable, air-conditioned bus
- Well-paced itinerary with balanced exploration and free time
- Fascinating contrast between ancient and modern sites
- Easy border crossing with clear instructions
Cons
- Some stops are quite brief, especially at Salamis and Famagusta
- The day is long, so it might not suit everyone
- Limited time in Famagusta’s old town for those wanting a thorough walk-around
- Extra costs for optional activities, such as visiting the churches or castle
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those eager to see the contrasts of Cyprus in one day. If you like guided tours that are packed but informative, you’ll appreciate the detailed commentary and smooth organization. It’s also a good choice if you’re comfortable with a full schedule and don’t mind a long day on the bus.
However, if you prefer slow-paced exploring or are sensitive to heat and long travel times, you might want to consider options with more flexibility or shorter itineraries.
Final Thoughts
Taking this tour offers a unique window into Cyprus’s divided history and its ancient past. The combination of walking through the abandoned streets of Varosha, exploring the ruins of Salamis, and strolling in Famagusta’s old quarter makes for a memorable experience — especially when guided by knowledgeable and friendly hosts.
While the day is busy and the stops brief, the value lies in the expert explanations, the fascinating sights, and the stories that bring Cyprus’s history alive. It’s a solid pick for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.
If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and want to see some of the most iconic and contrasting parts of Cyprus, this trip very likely won’t disappoint.
Ayia Napa/Protaras/Larnaka: Famagusta and Salamis Day Trip
“The coach trip was comfortable. Our guide was very informative. Informed about toilet stops and most stops also had drinks available to buy but I w…”
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my passport for this trip?
Yes, you’ll need your passport or ID card to cross the border into the north and back into the south. Make sure it’s valid and easily accessible.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen), and your passport are essential. Also, consider bringing water, especially if you’re visiting in warm weather.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. There are opportunities to buy refreshments during stops, but many travelers recommend bringing your own water and snacks.
How long is the bus ride?
The journey from your pickup point to Famagusta is about an hour each way, with some additional driving time to and from specific sites.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed as a family tour, children who are comfortable with long days and walking will generally enjoy the experience, especially the ancient ruins and ghost town.
Can I visit the optional sites like Othello Castle or Saint Nicolas Church?
These are optional extras and are not included in the tour price. If you’re interested, you might want to explore them during your free time or separately.
How much time do I get at each site?
Most stops range from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. Salamis is about 40 minutes, Famagusta Old Town about 90 minutes, and Varosha around 45 minutes. Some travelers wish for more time, especially at Salamis.
Is the tour fully guided?
Yes, you’ll have a licensed guide providing commentary throughout the day. The guide is quite knowledgeable and friendly, adding context to every site.
What’s the overall value of this tour?
Given the entry fees, guided commentary, and comfortable transport, many reviewers feel it’s good value, especially for the depth of sightseeing covered.
If you’re ready to uncover some of Cyprus’s most intriguing sites and hear the stories behind them, this trip offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to do so. Just pack your curiosity and some sun protection — you’re in for an interesting day.
You can check availability for your dates here: