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

Exploring the captivating medieval town of Famagusta is a must-do for history enthusiasts visiting Cyprus. This comprehensive day trip transports visitors back in time, revealing the region’s rich cultural heritage through visits to iconic sites like the stunning St. Barnabas Monastery and the ancient Salamis Ruins. Beyond the historical landmarks, the tour also uncovers the haunting tales of Famagusta’s "Ghost Town," leaving travelers intrigued and eager to discover more.

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Key Points

Explore the medieval town of Famagusta, located in eastern North Cyprus, on a full-day private tour departing from Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta.
Visit key historical sites, including the St. Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum, the ancient ruins of Salamis, and the walled old town of Famagusta.
Discover the "Ghost Town" in Famagusta, showcasing the area’s history frozen in the 1970s, for an immersive experience into North Cyprus’s past.
Enjoy personalized attention from a knowledgeable driver/guide and have lunch included to refuel during the tour.
Experience a highly recommended tour, with 100% of previous travelers recommending it for an enriching exploration of medieval North Cyprus.

Overview of the Tour

This full-day private tour provides travelers with the opportunity to explore the captivating medieval town of Famagusta and the eastern region of North Cyprus.

Departing from Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta, the tour offers personalized attention with a private guide, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s history and culture at their own pace.

With 100% of previous travelers recommending the tour, it promises an enriching experience, from visiting the St. Barnabas Monastery and Salamis Ruins to discovering the walled city of Famagusta, including highlights like the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque.

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Highlights of the Itinerary

The day’s itinerary features several captivating highlights.

At the St. Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum, visitors spend 2 hours learning about the life of Saint Barnabas and seeing his tomb.

Next, they explore the ancient ruins of Salamis for an hour, marveling at the well-preserved gymnasium, theatre, and Roman baths.

Finally, a walking tour of Famagusta’s walled old town reveals the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, the Namik Kemal Prison and Museum, and the poignant "Ghost Town" – a time capsule frozen in the 1970s.

This immersive history tour provides an unparalleled window into North Cyprus’s storied past.

St. Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum

Situated just outside the walled city of Famagusta, the St. Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum is a must-visit destination on this comprehensive tour.

Visitors will spend two hours exploring the site, where they’ll learn about the life of St. Barnabas, the patron saint of Cyprus. The highlight is a visit to the saint’s tomb, which is housed within the monastery’s impressive Byzantine-style architecture.

The adjacent icon museum boasts an impressive collection of religious artwork, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

With admission included, this stop provides a fascinating introduction to North Cyprus’s spiritual history.

Salamis Ruins

Excavated ruins of the ancient port city of Salamis lie along the northeastern coast of Cyprus, just a short drive from Famagusta. Wandering the site, visitors can explore the well-preserved remains of the gymnasium, theater, and Roman baths. A table below highlights key features of the Salamis Ruins:

Feature	Description
Gymnasium	Massive structure where ancient athletes trained and competed.
Theater	Grand amphitheater that could seat over 15,000 spectators.
Roman Baths	Elaborate bathing complex with hypocaust heating system.
Necropolis	Ancient burial grounds holding countless tombs and sarcophagi.
Agora	Bustling marketplace at the heart of the ancient city.

After an hour exploring this archaeological gem, the tour continues into the Famagusta Walled City.

Famagusta Walled City

Visitors to the Famagusta Walled City step back in time, immersed in the captivating medieval atmosphere of this remarkably well-preserved fortified town.

The walking tour showcases the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, a former Gothic cathedral turned Ottoman mosque. Nearby, the Namik Kemal Prison Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s more tumultuous past.

Beyond these landmarks, the winding streets and historic buildings of the ghost town evoke a sense of mystery and abandonment.

Travelers can explore this living museum at their own pace, uncovering the rich history and architectural wonders that make Famagusta’s walled city a remarkable destination.

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Tour Inclusions

The tour includes an array of conveniences to enhance the overall experience.

Fuel surcharge and bottled water are provided, ensuring comfort throughout the day. A knowledgeable driver/guide accompanies guests, bringing the historical sites to life with their expertise.

Hotel pickup and drop-off from select accommodations in Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta offer seamless transportation.

Lunch is included, allowing travelers to refuel between exploring the ancient ruins and medieval old town.

Admission tickets to the St. Barnabas Monastery, Icon Museum, and Salamis Ruins are also covered, providing convenient access to these historical gems.

Pricing and Reviews

The tour is priced at $320.91 per group, which can accommodate up to 4 individuals. This non-refundable tour garners an impressive 5.0 rating based on 14 reviews.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guide, enjoyable lunch, and engaging history of the region. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.

A moderate fitness level is required, as the tour involves group participation and exploration of historical sites on foot. The tour provides a comprehensive and personalized experience for visitors seeking to discover the medieval wonders of Famagusta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, the tour package includes bottled water. However, bringing your own food and drinks is not explicitly mentioned, so you may want to check with the tour operator to confirm if you can bring your own provisions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. However, the itinerary can be customized within the existing timeframe, allowing travelers to explore the key sites at their own pace with the private guide.

Can the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Local Restaurants?

The tour guide can provide recommendations for local restaurants in the area. They have extensive knowledge of the region and can suggest the best authentic dining options to enhance the overall experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

Unfortunately, the tour does not offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price of $320.91 per group (up to 4 people) is fixed regardless of the age or number of travelers.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

The private tour has a maximum group size of 4 people. The price of $320.91 covers the entire group, so larger groups can split the cost to make it more affordable per person.

The Sum Up

A day trip to medieval Famagusta promises an immersive cultural experience. Visitors will marvel at the Monastery, uncover the ruins of Salamis, and explore the haunting walled city. With expert guidance, a delightful lunch, and all admissions included, this journey offers an unforgettable glimpse into Cyprus’ rich history and captivating heritage.