Famagusta is one of the most striking places in Cyprus and one of the most unusual. The old walled city holds Venetian ramparts, Gothic churches and a harbour that was among the richest in the Mediterranean in the Middle Ages, while next to it stands Varosha, a seafront quarter of hotels and apartment blocks that was fenced off in 1974 and left empty for decades. Parts of the quarter have been open to visitors since 2020, and walking its quiet streets is a strange, memorable experience. A little further north lie the ruins of ancient Salamis, a Greek and Roman city with a gymnasium, columns and a theatre beside the sea. This day trip from Paphos packages the three into one long, well-organised outing and is rated 4.6 from nearly 300 reviews. The city lies in the north of the island, in the area administered by the Turkish Cypriot authorities and outside the control of the Republic of Cyprus government. The tour crosses the line at a crossing point, where a passport check is part of the process, so every traveller must bring a passport, not a copy. Opinions on the political situation differ widely on the island, and guides generally keep to the history, but it is worth reading about it beforehand so the day makes sense. This is a long day, and from Paphos a large part of it is spent on the road, so it suits travellers who enjoy history and do not mind a packed schedule. In return you see a side of Cyprus that most south-coast visitors never reach, and you do it without driving or arranging the crossing yourself.
How it works
You are collected from a Paphos meeting point or hotel zone on the morning of the tour and return in the evening, with the border crossing and the sights handled by the guide. Check the pick-up details, what is included and the days the trip runs on the page for your date, and note that entry fees at some sites may be paid separately in cash. Bring your passport and a little cash.
What to expect
In Famagusta you walk within the old walls and see the main sights from outside and, where allowed, inside, including the great Gothic cathedral that became a mosque. At Varosha you walk along the open streets, with the shuttered buildings visible on either side and a strong sense of a place stopped in time. At Salamis you walk through the columns of the gymnasium and the baths and look out over the sea. The tour moves quickly, so expect short stops rather than long visits.
Making the most of it
Wear comfortable shoes and a hat, carry water, and layer up in winter, when the east coast can be breezy. Dress modestly for the mosque. Do not photograph military installations or the checkpoint area. If the long drive worries you, consider basing yourself in Larnaca or Ayia Napa for a day or two, from where Famagusta is much closer, although the Paphos departure works well if you have limited time.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day coach excursion with a crossing into the northern part of the island and stops in Famagusta old town, Varosha and Salamis.
Best time
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable for a long day of walking; winter is mild but can be breezy on the coast.
How long
A full day, with a long drive each way from Paphos.
Tips
Bring your passport, some cash for entry fees, comfortable shoes and water, and dress modestly for the mosque.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History-minded travellers who want to see something very different from the south-coast resorts.
- Families
- Suits older children who can handle a long day; very young children may find the drive tiring.
- Couples
- A memorable shared day out for couples who like ruins and unusual places.
- Pair with
- The Nicosia Green Line walk for a deeper look at the division of the island.
- Time needed
- A full day from morning pick-up to evening return.
Good questions
Do I need my passport?+
Yes. The tour crosses into the northern part of the island and a passport check is part of the crossing, so bring your actual passport, not a photocopy.
Is it safe and is Varosha open?+
Parts of Varosha have been open to visitors since 2020, and the tour follows the permitted streets. Stay with your guide and do not photograph military areas.
How long is the journey from Paphos?+
It is a long drive, and much of the day is spent travelling. If you are staying in Larnaca or Ayia Napa, the same sights are much closer.
Are entry fees included?+
This varies by date and by site, so check what is included on the ticket page and carry some cash for any fees paid on the day.
What should I wear?+
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection and a layer for breezy days, with shoulders and knees covered if you plan to enter the mosque.
