From Paphos: Famagusta, Salamis, and Varosha Walking Tour

If you’re looking to step beyond the usual tourist spots and get a real feel for Cyprus’s layered past, this tour might just be the ticket. It’s a full-day adventure that takes you from the ancient ruins of Salamis to the lively streets of Famagusta, and then into the eerie silence of Varosha, the ghost town frozen in time since 1974. It’s a long day, but packed with sights that tell stories—some ancient, some modern, and some still unfolding.

What I appreciate about this experience is its ability to combine history, culture, and a bit of the surreal into a manageable day. First, you get to walk through the remains of Salamis, a city founded in the 12th century BC. Then, exploring Famagusta’s old town offers both picturesque streets and historical landmarks like the Venetian Castle and Othello’s Tower. Finally, the walk through Varosha offers a poignant glimpse into the aftermath of conflict, with its deserted hotels and abandoned streets.

One thing to keep in mind: it’s a full-day tour with a lot of walking and some crossing into the northern part of Cyprus, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and physical activity. Also, it’s not ideal for anyone with mobility issues or wheelchair users. But if you enjoy history, stunning views, and a bit of adventure, this tour offers a compelling way to connect with Cyprus’s complex story.

Key Points

• Historical richness: Walk through ancient Salamis ruins and explore Famagusta’s medieval sites.
• Unique experience: Visit the abandoned city of Varosha, a haunting reminder of recent history.
• Expert guides: Learn about the area’s history from knowledgeable guides.
• Full-day adventure: Expect around 11 hours of travel, sightseeing, and walking.
• Transport included: Comfortably move between sites by coach, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Practical tips: Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, water, and your camera for photos.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Through Cyprus’s Layers of History

This tour offers a solid overview of some of the most compelling sights in the Nicosia district, especially if you’re eager to understand Cyprus’s complex past. From the moment you’re picked up at your Paphos hotel, the day is designed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed.

Salamis Ruins – Stepping into the Past

Our first major stop is the ancient city of Salamis, built in the 12th century BC. The guide points out ruins of various structures, including a theatre and gymnasium, giving you a tangible sense of what life was like thousands of years ago. We loved the way the ruins are spread along the shoreline, with some parts still remarkably intact, making for stunning photo opportunities.

What makes Salamis special is the way it’s a real glimpse into history; you’re walking where ancient Cypriots once did. The ruins tell stories of Hellenistic and Roman influences, and the guide’s commentary helps you understand the significance of each site. As one reviewer noted, “The site is quite extensive, and the guide was very knowledgeable—made the history come alive.”

Famagusta Old Town – A Vibrant Mix of Past and Present

Next, you’ll wander through Famagusta’s old town, where medieval walls enclose a maze of streets with shops, cafes, and historical sites. The Venetian Castle and Othello’s Tower are standout landmarks offering insight into the city’s strategic importance over centuries. The guide explains how Famagusta was once a thriving port and a cultural hub.

Walking through the narrow streets, you’ll get a sense of the lively atmosphere that still characterizes this port city. There’s also a visit to St. Nicholas Cathedral, now a mosque, which highlights the layered religious history. Travelers often comment on how the guide’s stories make the sites more meaningful—”We loved the detailed history and the views from the castle walls.”

Varosha – The Ghost City

The highlight for many is the walk through Varosha, the abandoned town that’s been sealed since the Turkish invasion in 1974. As you stroll through the deserted streets and crumbling hotels behind barbed wire, there’s an undeniable sense of melancholy mixed with curiosity. It’s a stark reminder of conflict and displacement, and many visitors find it an emotionally powerful experience.

One reviewer shared, “Walking through Varosha was surreal; it’s like stepping into a ghost film but real. It’s sad but fascinating.” The guide’s explanations help frame the significance of the site, making it more than just an eerie walk—it’s a living history lesson.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practicalities and Experience Details

The tour’s logistics are straightforward, with hotel pickup from 47 different locations in Paphos, making it accessible for many travelers. The coach ride between sites is comfortable, and the schedule allows ample time at each stop—about an hour at Salamis, two hours exploring Famagusta, and 45 minutes for Varosha. The overall duration is approximately 11 hours, so you should prepare for a long day.

The cost covers entrance fees for Salamis and a guided tour, plus transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off. What you’re paying for is a comprehensive, guided experience that makes navigating these sites much easier than trying to do it on your own. Keep in mind, food and drinks aren’t included, so packing water and some snacks is recommended.

One thing to consider is that the tour is quite physically active, with a fair amount of walking and some uneven surfaces at Salamis and Varosha. If mobility is a concern, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

The Guide – Your Key to a Rich Experience

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and passion. One traveler mentioned, “Our guide was incredibly informative, making history come alive with stories and context.” This personal touch elevates the experience, transforming it from just sightseeing into a meaningful learning journey.

Value for Money

Given the full day, experienced guide, transportation, and entrance fees included, many reviewers feel this tour offers good value. It’s not a cheap outing, but the depth of information and access to sites you might struggle to visit independently justify the price. Plus, the convenience of pickup and drop-off makes it stress-free.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers interested in history, culture, and a bit of adventure. It’s perfect for those who enjoy walking, are comfortable with long days, and want a guided narrative to make sense of the sites. If you’re curious about the recent and ancient past of Cyprus, this tour will satisfy your questions.

It’s less ideal for travelers with limited mobility or those who prefer a more relaxed pace. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling solo and want the company of a group with a knowledgeable guide.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cyprus’s layered past, from ancient ruins to modern scars. The chance to walk through Salamis and stand amid the ruins, explore Famagusta’s lively streets, and confront the haunting silence of Varosha makes for a memorable day.

While it’s a long day with some physical demands, the guided approach ensures you get context and stories that bring the sites to life. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Cyprus’s history and a handful of stunning photos to remember the experience.

If history, stunning scenery, and a touch of the emotional are what you’re after, this tour is a solid choice. It’s a meaningful journey that balances education with visual beauty—a real window into Cyprus’s complex story.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While many parts are walkable, the full-day schedule and walking distance might be tiring for young children. It’s best for older kids comfortable with a physically active day.

Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, bring your passport or ID card because you’ll need it to cross the UN buffer zone into the northern part of Cyprus.

How much walking is involved?
Expect a lot of walking, especially at Salamis and Varosha. Comfortable shoes are a must.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s a good idea to bring water and perhaps a snack or two for the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing, and don’t forget sunscreen and a hat to stay protected from the sun.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to the walking involved.

If you’re eager to explore a mix of ancient marvels and modern history with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a compelling way to experience Cyprus’s past firsthand. It’s a day that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

You can check availability for your dates here: