From Paphos: Famagusta with Salamis and Varosha ‘Ghost Town’

Paphos to Famagusta: A Day of History, Ghost Towns, and Unexpected Perspectives

Traveling through Cyprus often feels like stepping into a living history book, but few experiences capture that essence quite like a guided tour from Paphos to Famagusta, including visits to the Salamis archaeological site and the infamous Varosha ghost town. It’s a full-day adventure that offers a mix of ancient ruins, poignant memories, and striking coastal scenery—all comfortably arranged in a well-organized coach journey.

What we love most about this tour is the opportunity to gain insights from a knowledgeable guide, who brings local history vividly to life—something that’s often missing when exploring independently. The guided walk through Varosha, with its hauntingly frozen streets, really sticks with you, as does the impressive scale of Salamis. That said, one potential drawback is the limited free time at Varosha; if wandering freely and exploring at your own pace is your thing, you might find the scheduled stops a little constrained.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, curious travelers wanting a broad overview of Cyprus’s complex past, and those interested in seeing both ancient sites and modern-day political stories. It’s a long day, but one packed with memorable sights and insights that make it well worth the price.

Key Points

• In-depth guided experience with expert commentary on Cyprus’s history and culture.
• Visiting iconic sites like Salamis ruins, Saint Nicholas Cathedral, and Othello Tower.
• Poignant glimpse into modern history at the ghost town of Varosha, frozen since 1974.
• Comfortable transportation with door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Ideal for those interested in history, politics, and scenic coastal views.
• Limited free exploration time at some stops, especially Varosha, which might be a consideration for independent explorers.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Pickup and Transportation

Starting with up to 63 pickup locations across Paphos, the tour is designed for convenience. The coach is air-conditioned, which is a real boon given the nine-hour duration and Cyprus’s warm climate. The journey begins early, with pickup points conveniently located at major hotels, such as the Alexander The Great Beach Hotel or Sofianna Resort & Spa.

The transport quality is good, and the driver’s professionalism is reflected in the smooth, comfortable ride. The route is planned to optimize time and sightseeing, with a total driving time of about 105 minutes to the first major stop.

The Salamis Archaeological Site

The first highlight is the Salamis ruins, which travelers often describe as stunning. Sitting along the east coast overlooking the Mediterranean, Salamis once served as a bustling city for over a thousand years. The guide provides historical context, explaining how this site was a hub of Greek civilization, with columns, ancient baths, and even a theater for entertainment.

Visitors love the guided tour of Salamis for its depth and clarity. Several reviewers mention how the guide’s storytelling made history meaningful, with one noting, “The ruins of Salamis were amazing and the experience of it all was fantastic.” Expect to spend around 45 minutes exploring these ruins, which are large enough to walk around and absorb at your own pace during the free time.

The Move to Famagusta

After Salamis, the group heads to Famagusta, where the focus shifts to more recent history and poignant sights. The tour includes visits to the Saint Nicholas Cathedral, now a mosque, and Othello Tower, both of which showcase the layered history of the city.

The free time for lunch and exploring allows visitors to wander the old town’s streets, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a meal at a local cafe. Several reviewers appreciate this pause, describing it as a perfect chance to soak up the city’s atmosphere.

The Ghost Town of Varosha

The most emotionally charged part of the tour is the visit to Varosha, the famous ghost town abandoned during the 1974 conflict. Here, the guided walk lasts about an hour, during which guides share stories that evoke both curiosity and sadness. The walled-off streets, empty hotels, and deserted beaches are frozen in time, making this one of the most unique sights you’ll see in Cyprus.

One reviewer mentioned, “The guide’s stories about Varosha were quite sad but very moving.” Some travelers expressed a desire for more free time here, to explore independently or take photos without a guide’s pace.

Final Scenic Stop: Constantia Beach

Before returning to Paphos, the coach makes a brief stop at Constantia Beach, offering a final chance to enjoy the view of the abandoned Famagusta and the serene Mediterranean. The sight of the deserted beach juxtaposed with the empty streets of Varosha makes for impactful photos and reflection.

The Return Journey

The return trip, roughly 1.5 hours, is an opportunity to relax and process the day’s sights. The coach provides a comfortable environment, and the driver ensures a smooth ride back to your hotel.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing and Inclusions

While the tour covers transportation, all entrance fees (Salamis and Othello Tower), and guided commentary, it does not include lunch or extra drinks. The cost may seem high at first glance, but considering the comprehensive itinerary, expert guides, and the convenience of door-to-door service, it offers good overall value.

What to Bring

Travelers should come prepared with passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes (the ruins and city streets involve some walking), a camera for those memorable shots, and extra cash for souvenirs or snacks.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or guests with mobility restrictions, as it involves walking through uneven ruins and city streets. The day is long, so stamina is recommended.

The Review from Real Travelers

Many who took this tour appreciated the expert guidance. One reviewer praised the guide’s storytelling skills, especially regarding the history of Varosha and Salamis. Others highlighted the stunning views and found the storytelling engaging and informative.

However, some expressed a wish for more free time at Varosha. One reviewer wished they could rent bikes or scooters to explore alone, a sign that a bit of flexible time could enhance the experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour For You?

If you’re someone eager to see Cyprus’s ancient ruins and understand its recent history, this tour offers a well-organized, informative day with plenty of photo opportunities and insightful commentary. The guided walk through Salamis and the emotional visit to Varosha make it more than just a sightseeing trip—they make it a meaningful experience.

However, if you prefer to wander freely or dislike long days on a coach, this might not be your ideal excursion. The limited free exploration at some stops means it’s best suited for travelers happy to be part of a guided group.

All in all, this tour balances value, historical depth, and scenic beauty, making it an excellent choice for those interested in Cyprus’s layered past—whether that’s in ancient ruins or modern ghost towns.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately nine hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

What are the main sites visited?
You’ll explore Salamis ruins, Saint Nicholas Cathedral, Othello Tower, and the ghost town of Varosha, plus a quick stop at Constantia Beach.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there’s a generous amount of free time to find a spot for yourself in Famagusta.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, camera, passport or ID, and some extra cash for souvenirs or snacks.

Is it suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Not really—walking over uneven terrain and the long hours make it less suitable for mobility-impaired travelers or pregnant women.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for your trip planning.

In summary, this guided tour from Paphos to Famagusta is a meaningful, scenic, and well-organized way to experience Cyprus’s layered history, from ancient ruins to modern ghost towns. It’s especially good for those eager to learn from expert guides and see the highlights, but keep in mind the limited free exploration time at key stops.