From Paphos: Famagusta, Salamis, and Varosha Walking Tour

Exploring Cyprus’s Hidden Corners: Famagusta, Salamis, and Varosha Walking Tour

This full-day adventure offers a captivating glimpse into Cyprus’s contrasting worlds—ancient ruins, lively old towns, and the eerily deserted ghost city of Varosha. Organized by Sea Island Travel and Tours Ltd, this tour takes you across the UN buffer zone, into the northern part of Cyprus, where history and modern stories collide.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how well it balances historical insights with authentic sights, guided by knowledgeable locals who bring each stop to life. The highlight? A walk through the abandoned city of Varosha, which remains closed off since the Turkish invasion of 1974—a truly haunting sight.

One thing to remember is that this tour involves quite a bit of walking and bus travel, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on their feet. Also, crossing the border requires a passport or ID card, which is a small but important detail. Overall, if you’re interested in a mix of ancient archaeology and modern history, this tour delivers a fascinating and eye-opening day out.

Key Points

• Ancient ruins: Experience the well-preserved remains of Salamis, with its theater and gymnasium, illustrating Cyprus’s ancient past.
• Historical Famagusta: Wander through the old town with Venetian castles, Othellos Tower, and stunning architecture.
• Ghost city of Varosha: Walk through the deserted resort, a poignant reminder of Cyprus’s recent conflicts.
• Expert guides: Local guides provide in-depth stories that bring each site vividly to life.
• Full-day format: The 11-hour schedule includes plenty of sightseeing, so wear comfortable shoes and prepare for a busy day.
• Value for money: Includes entrance fees for Salamis, hotel transfers, and guided tours, making it a solid all-in-one package.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour begins with pickups from 47 different locations around Paphos, including major hotels like the Louis Ledra Beach and the Alexander The Great Beach Hotel. This extensive list makes it easy to join the adventure without extra travel fuss. The tour lasts around 11 hours, so expect an early start but also a well-organized day with a comfortable coach.

Crossing into the North

The crossing of the UN buffer zone into the northern part of Cyprus is a key aspect. This border crossing is straightforward, but remember to bring your passport or ID card. Our guide, whose name I won’t spoil but who was notably knowledgeable and engaging, explained the significance of this border and the ongoing division.

Salamis Ruins: A Walk Through Ancient Cyprus

The first major stop is the Salamis archaeological site, dating back to the 12th century BC. We loved the way our guide described the ruins, pointing out the remains of the theater, gymnasium, temples, and other structures along the mile-long stretch of coastline. The ruins are surprisingly well-preserved considering their age, and walking through them gives you a real sense of what life was like in ancient times.

The guided tour here, which lasts about an hour, adds depth with stories of how Salamis once thrived as a significant city in Cyprus. Visitors have called out how “the ruins are spectacular,” and how the theater provides a wonderful view of the sea, making it perfect for photos.

Famagusta Old Town: A Blend of History and Architecture

Next, we headed to Famagusta’s old town, a lively area brimming with history. Highlights include the Venetian Castle and Othellos Tower—both accessible and offering spectacular views of the city and coast. The St. Nicholas Cathedral, now a mosque, offers a fascinating glimpse into the layered history of Cyprus.

Our guide shared stories of the city’s medieval past and its role as a commercial hub, making the walk more engaging. You’ll have about two hours here to explore at your own pace, wander the narrow streets, and soak in the atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for photography and simply absorbing the vibes of a city that’s seen centuries of change.

The Haunting Ghost Town of Varosha

The highlight for many is the 45-minute walk through Varosha, the abandoned resort area that has been sealed off since 1974. Walking here feels almost surreal—the empty streets, deserted hotels, and barbed wire fencing evoke a sense of history frozen in time.

A review from a previous traveler mentions, “The guide’s explanations really helped us understand the tragedy behind Varosha, making the experience all the more powerful.” The town’s eerie quiet contrasts sharply with the vibrant tourist hub it once was, and it’s a stark reminder of the ongoing Cyprus conflict.

Return Journey and Reflection

After exploring Varosha, the coach takes you back to Paphos, with a 2.5-hour journey that allows some time to reflect on the day’s sights. The transportation is comfortable, and the guide often provides additional insights during the return trip.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour is designed for those who enjoy history, architecture, and a touch of the dramatic. It’s suitable for travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and walking, though note that it isn’t ideal for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. The guide’s lively commentary and storytelling are a big part of the experience, helping to contextualize each site.

Transportation is by coach, with pick-ups and drop-offs included at many central locations. The entrance fee to Salamis is covered, but food and drinks are not included—so bring snacks and water to stay energized.

The duration of 11 hours might seem long, but with such a variety of sites, it flies by. The tour is priced competitively when you consider the included entrances, guided commentary, and hotel transfers. It’s an excellent way to see a broad swath of Cypriot history in one day.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who go beyond surface facts, offering personal insights and answering questions thoroughly. Travelers also appreciated the stunning views along the coast at Salamis and the way the guide vividly described the atmosphere of Varosha, making it feel real despite its abandoned state.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a history enthusiast or someone intrigued by conflict zones and their stories, this tour offers compelling sights and narratives. It’s perfect for day-trippers staying in Paphos wanting a comprehensive glimpse into northern Cyprus’s archaeological treasures and modern scars.

Those who enjoy guided walking tours and are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing will find this experience rewarding. It’s also a good pick if you want photo opportunities at historic sites and the haunting remains of Varosha.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Paphos offers a thought-provoking and beautifully curated journey through Cyprus’s layered past and complex present. It provides a rare glimpse into ancient ruins, medieval architecture, and the melancholic abandonment of Varosha, all guided by passionate experts.

While it involves a fair amount of walking and bus travel, the value lies in the depth of stories, the stunning scenery, and the authenticity of the experience. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to understand Cyprus beyond the typical beaches and resorts.

If you appreciate historical sites, authentic local stories, and the chance to see a city frozen in time, this tour will leave you with lasting impressions—and plenty of great photos.

FAQ

Do I need a passport or ID to join this tour?
Yes, you’ll need your passport or ID card to cross into the northern part of Cyprus as part of the border crossing.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it involves walking and some uneven surfaces.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and a hat or sunscreen are essential because you’ll be outdoors for most of the day.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is advisable.

How long is the walk through Varosha?
The walk through Varosha is about 45 minutes, giving you enough time to take photos and absorb the atmosphere.

What’s the best time to book?
Check the availability directly with the provider, as the tour runs on specific days and starts at various times.

This experience offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and poignant stories—perfect for travelers who want to see Cyprus’s past and present unfold in one compelling day.