A Day Trip to Medieval FAMAGUSTA (Kyrenia, Nicosia or Famagusta )

Unlock the captivating history of Cyprus with a day trip to medieval Famagusta. Depart from the comfort of your hotel in Kyrenia or Nicosia and embark on a journey through time. Explore iconic sites like the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque and the Namik Kemal Prison Museum, all set within the ancient walls of the old town. Explore the archaeological wonders of Salamis and uncover the island’s vibrant past. This personalized experience promises an unforgettable exploration of Cyprus’s rich heritage.

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Key Points

Explore the well-preserved medieval walled old town of Famagusta, with its Cathedral of St. Nicholas and Namik Kemal Prison Museum.
Visit the ancient ruins of Salamis, featuring a grand amphitheater, Roman baths, and Gymnasium complex, providing a glimpse into the island’s rich history.
Discover the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Namik Kemal Zindanı ve Muzesi, offering insights into the island’s tumultuous past.
Set out on a private tour that includes fuel surcharge, bottled water, lunch, and entrance tickets, ensuring a comprehensive and personalized experience.
Enjoy the flexibility of hotel pickup and drop-off from Kyrenia or Famagusta, or an additional cost for other cities, making the tour convenient and accessible.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day private tour offers visitors a chance to explore the historic city of Famagusta and the eastern region of North Cyprus.

Departing from Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta, the tour includes key sites such as the St. Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum, the ancient ruins of Salamis, and the medieval walled old town of Famagusta.

Additional highlights include the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, the NamIk Kemal ZindanI ve Muzesi, and the abandoned quarter of Varosha.

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel and site visits, providing a comprehensive experience of this captivating region.

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Inclusions and Pricing

The private tour includes a fuel surcharge, bottled water, lunch, and entrance tickets for the historical sights. Pricing starts from $320.80 per group (up to 4 people). The details are as follows:

Inclusions	Price
Fuel surcharge	Included
Bottled water	Included
Lunch	Included
Entrance tickets	Included
Hotel pickup/drop-off (Kyrenia or Famagusta)	Included
Hotel pickup/drop-off (other cities)	Extra cost
Cancellation policy	Non-refundable

The tour is a private experience with personalized attention, allowing visitors to explore the medieval wonders of Famagusta at their own pace.

Pickup and Meeting Points

The tour’s pickup and meeting points are centrally located hotels in Kyrenia or the Bella View Art Boutique Hotel in Ozankoy, Cyprus.

The tour departs at 9:00 AM and returns to the meeting point at the end of the day. Visitors have the option to be picked up from their Kyrenia or Famagusta hotels, while those from other cities will incur an additional cost.

The tour is a private experience, so only the booking group will participate. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking.

Salamis Ruins: Exploring the Ancient City

Situated along the northeastern coast of Cyprus, the ruins of Salamis stand as a testament to the island’s rich ancient history.

As part of the tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore this archaeological site, which was once a thriving city-state. The ruins include the remains of a grand amphitheater, Roman baths, and the Gymnasium complex, providing a glimpse into the city’s past grandeur.

Wandering through the site, travelers can envision the bustling marketplace and cultural events that once took place here. With an hour allotted for this stop, visitors can enjoy the captivating history of Salamis.

St. Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum: A Religious Legacy

Nestled within the picturesque landscape of eastern North Cyprus, the St. Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum offer a glimpse into the island’s rich religious history.

This 11th-century Byzantine monastery was once a prominent center of Orthodox Christianity. Today, it houses an impressive collection of ancient icons, frescoes, and religious artifacts.

Visitors can explore the serene monastery grounds and discover the intricate iconography that adorns the walls. The on-site museum provides further insights into the cultural and spiritual significance of these sacred treasures.

A visit to this historic site promises a deeper understanding of Cyprus’s complex past and the enduring influence of its religious traditions.

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Famagusta’s Medieval Walled Old Town: A Step Back in Time

Within the ancient walls of Famagusta, visitors step back in time to the heyday of medieval Cyprus.

Meandering through the winding streets, they discover a well-preserved old town, once a thriving center of trade and commerce under Lusignan and Venetian rule.

Key sights include the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, now the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, and the Namik Kemal Prison Museum, which honors the Ottoman intellectual who was imprisoned here.

Exploring this open-air museum offers a glimpse into the island’s turbulent past, where layers of history have shaped the character of this captivating walled city.

Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque: The Grandeur of Ottoman Architecture

Dominating the skyline of Famagusta’s medieval old town, the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque stands as a magnificent example of Ottoman architectural grandeur.

Completed in 1571, the mosque was originally a 14th-century Gothic Catholic cathedral, later converted by the Ottomans. Its impressive façade features arched windows, intricate stone carvings, and a soaring minaret that can be seen from afar.

Visitors can explore the mosque’s interior, admiring the high ceilings, ornate mihrab, and elegant calligraphic inscriptions.

As a symbol of the region’s diverse history, the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque offers a captivating glimpse into North Cyprus’s rich cultural heritage.

Varosha Abandoned Quarter: The Ghost Town of Famagusta

The Varosha abandoned quarter, once a vibrant seaside resort, now stands as a haunting reminder of the division that has long plagued Cyprus.

Fenced off and inaccessible to the public, this ghost town offers a glimpse into the past. Visitors can peer through the barricades at decaying hotels, abandoned shops, and overgrown streets – a frozen-in-time tableau of Cypriot life before the 1974 conflict.

The scale and extent of the neglect are staggering, leaving an indelible impression on all who witness this eerie, forgotten place.

A poignant symbol of Cyprus’ turbulent history, Varosha remains a sobering sight on any tour of Famagusta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may be suitable for families with young children, as it includes infant seats and the sites are generally accessible. However, the 7-hour duration and some ruins may pose challenges for younger visitors. Careful consideration of children’s needs is advised.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Fit Our Interests?

The tour can be customized to fit your interests. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility in adjusting the itinerary to focus on the sites and activities that are most appealing to you and your family.

What Is the Dress Code for the Religious Sites?

The tour includes visits to religious sites, so modest attire is recommended. Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees, and remove hats when entering religious buildings. The tour guide can provide more specific guidance on appropriate dress for each site.

Are There Any Mobility Requirements or Restrictions?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible and requires moderate physical fitness. Infant seats are available. Travelers with mobility concerns should consider this when booking the tour.

Can We Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

The tour can likely be extended to visit additional sites, but this would incur an additional cost and may require adjusting the itinerary. Travelers should discuss any desired changes with the tour operator prior to booking to ensure availability and pricing.

The Sum Up

A day trip to medieval Famagusta offers a captivating journey through Cyprus’s rich history, from the ancient ruins of Salamis to the grandeur of the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque. With ample time to explore the walled old town and the Varosha abandoned quarter, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in the vibrant past of this Mediterranean island.