Limassol: Private Tour Famagusta, Salamis and Ghost Town

Exploring Cyprus’ East Coast: Famagusta, Salamis, and the Ghost Town Tour

If you’re keen to explore Cyprus beyond its beaches and vibrant nightlife, this private tour offers an enriching look into the island’s storied past. It’s a full-day journey that takes you through ancient ruins, medieval castles, and a ghost town that tells its own haunting tale.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to walk among the well-preserved ruins of Ancient Salamis, where the echoes of Greek and Roman civilizations still linger. Second, the breathtaking views from Othello Castle, a historic fortress with a panoramic outlook. Third, the opportunity to stroll through Varosha, the abandoned district frozen in time—a truly surreal sight.

A potential snag? The tour lasts around eight hours, which could be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long days of sightseeing. Still, the mix of history, scenery, and a touch of mystery makes it well worth it. This tour suits travelers who love history, photography, and unique stories—those eager to see a side of Cyprus that’s both beautiful and poignant.

Contents show

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering ancient ruins, castles, and ghost towns.
Expert guide with insights to add context to each stop.
Stunning views from Othello Castle and other vantage points.
Authentic experiences like walking through the abandoned Varosha district.
Value for money with hotel pick-up, transportation, and guided commentary included.
Suitable for history buffs, photography lovers, and those interested in Cyprus’ history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Famagusta

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a pick-up from a wide range of hotels and accommodations around Limassol. With over 40 pick-up locations, it’s clear the organizers aim to make this as accessible as possible. The vehicle is fully insured, air-conditioned, and driven by a professional guide, ensuring comfort during the roughly 8-hour adventure.

From the moment you step into the vehicle, you’ll appreciate the convenience of door-to-door service. The group operates privately, so it’s intimate, which means your guide can tailor their commentary to your interests and answer any specific questions.

First Stop: Strovilia and the Journey to Salamis

After a brief 20-minute drive passing through the scenic area of Strovilia, you’ll reach your first major site: Ancient Salamis. This archaeological site, once the largest city in Cyprus, boasts impressive ruins including Roman baths, theaters, and temples. It’s a place that invites you to imagine what life must have been like when Salamis thrived in antiquity.

The reviews highlight how walking through Salamis feels like stepping back in time. One visitor mentioned, “The ruins are surprisingly intact, and the guide’s stories made it even more engaging.” You’ll have around 25 minutes here, giving enough time for photos, exploration, and soaking up the atmosphere.

Exploring Famagusta’s Historic Heart

Next, the tour leads into Famagusta, a city teeming with history. You’ll stop for a brief 20-minute photo session or guided look around. The Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, medieval architecture, and fascinating landmarks.

The highlight is Othello Castle, built in the 14th century by the Lusignan family. From the castle’s observation point, you’ll be treated to sweeping views over the city and coastline—perfect for photo enthusiasts. The castle’s name is linked to Shakespeare, though the story is more romantic legend than historical fact, which adds a layer of intrigue.

Also worth visiting is the St. Nicholas Cathedral, a Gothic gem inspired by Notre Dame. It was later converted into a mosque, reflecting the city’s layered history. Walking along the defensive walls offers the chance to appreciate Famagusta’s strategic importance and panoramic vistas.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Haunting of Varosha: The Ghost Town

The most distinctive part of this tour is the visit to Varosha, the abandoned district often called a “ghost town.” Once a vibrant resort area, it was deserted in the 1974 conflict and has remained untouched since. Walking through the empty streets, with abandoned hotels and shops, feels like stepping into a film set—eerily quiet yet visually stunning.

Visitors often mention the emotional impact of Varosha. One reviewer described it as “surreal and haunting, a stark reminder of Cyprus’s complex history.” The tour allows around 40 minutes here, enough for a guided walk, photographs, and reflection.

There's plenty more to explore in Famagusta

Lunch and Free Time in Famagusta

After exploring, you’ll enjoy a generous 80-minute window for lunch and some rest. The guide might suggest local eateries where you can sample Cypriot dishes or grab a quick bite at a nearby café. This is a good chance to process what you’ve seen so far and take in some local flavor.

Additional Stops and Drop-Off

The tour concludes with a few more photo stops and a scenic drive back to Limassol, arriving at your hotel or accommodation. The total journey ensures you get a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This private tour is priced to include hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation, and an experienced guide. Entrance tickets are not included, costing around 3-5 euros each—quite reasonable for such well-preserved sites. The flexible timing and personalized experience make it a smart option for those who want to explore Cyprus’s history without the hassle of self-driving or group tours with large crowds.

Practical Details

Duration: 8 hours, allowing for a leisurely pace.
Languages: English and Russian guides are available, catering to a broad audience.
Suitability: Not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with mobility issues, due to walking and uneven surfaces.
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and appropriate clothing for religious sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re passionate about history and architecture, this tour satisfies those interests with its detailed visits and expert commentary. Photography lovers will appreciate the scenic vistas from the castle and the eerie beauty of Varosha. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer a private, tailored experience and want to see a combination of ancient ruins, medieval castles, and a modern ghostly site—all in one day.

Those interested in Cyprus’s complex past will find the story of Famagusta and Varosha especially compelling. Plus, the flexible hotel pick-up ensures you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers an engaging, visually stunning journey through some of Cyprus’s most iconic sights. It balances history, scenic views, and a poignant reminder of Cyprus’s recent history with the ghost town of Varosha. The personalized experience, expert guidance, and comfortable transportation make it a great-value option for those eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

While a full day of touring can feel lengthy, the variety of stops keeps it interesting and insightful. Expect to come away with a deeper understanding of Cyprus’s layered past, beautiful photo moments, and maybe a few reflective thoughts about the island’s recent history.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a curious traveler, this tour will likely leave you with unforgettable memories of Cyprus’s East Coast.