TransportThe history and culture were fascinating - especially the rather poignant Varosha tour. The driver was excellent, and the guide was very knowledgeable and engaging. The flight over was more comfortable than the coach - legroom was restricted, and there were a few hours of travel. We spent 2hrs of "free" time in Famagusta, which was a little too long. It was gone 7pm by the time we returned to the hotel.
This full-day tour to the northern part of Cyprus takes you to three of the territory's most intriguing spots. You'll discover the ancient city of Salamis, the old town of Famagusta and the ‘ghost town' of Varosha. Elpida, one of our local guides, says "northern Cyprus is a place frozen in time. We can even pinpoint the date – 1974. And the result is an Instagrammable potpourri of unfinished hotels, half-ruined churches and skinny minarets."
Your journey into the past starts all the way back in classical times at Salamis. You'll explore its ruined temples, the partially restored theatre and more. Stavroula, another of our local guides, says "not only is Salamis steeped in ancient myth, but Saint Barnabas, who brought Christianity to Cyprus in the first century, is buried in a nearby monastery."
After free time for lunch, you'll visit Famagusta, whose old town is still protected by intact defensive walls built by the Venetians centuries ago. Your guide will show you sights such as the castle and the Gothic cathedral-turned-mosque. Elpida says "in front of the main entrance is a fig tree that was planted by the Crusaders who built the cathedral – so it's the oldest living thing in Famagusta. To round off the visit, there's a walking tour in the ‘ghost town' of Varosha. This once-popular beach resort lay abandoned for more than 50 years. It's a surreal experience to walk on overgrown streets of crumbling facades with rusted shutters and broken windows.
