Paphos: Choirokitia & Famagusta Guided Tour with Transfers

If you’re looking to unlock some of Cyprus’s best-kept secrets, this full-day guided tour from Paphos offers a thoughtful blend of ancient history, medieval charm, and modern intrigue. While it involves a long day and quite a bit of travel, the journey promises authentic sights, expert guides, and a chance to step into stories that span millennia.

What we love about this tour are the expertly led visits to Salamis, a sprawling ancient city; the vibrant, historic streets of Famagusta Old Town; and the chilling, surreal experience of Varosha, the abandoned seaside resort. The seamless transportation and knowledgeable guides make the experience feel well-organized and enriching.

One potential consideration is the long hours on the coach, which might be tiring for some, especially in warmer months. But if you’re eager to see a wide array of Cyprus’s diverse sights in just one day, this trip will suit you perfectly. It’s especially ideal for history fans, curious travelers, and those interested in modern Cyprus’s conflicts and contrasts.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines ancient, medieval, and modern sites in one day.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Emma and Vasos are highly praised for their insights.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned coaches help ease the long hours.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to ruins, old town streets, and the ghost town provide genuine insights.
• Value for Money: The price covers entry fees, guiding, and transport, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
• Long but Rewarding: The 11-hour schedule is packed, so be prepared for a full day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Thorough Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with a convenient hotel pick-up from over 38 locations in Paphos. The comfortable, air-conditioned coach ensures that those long drives are bearable, and the smooth logistics help keep the day flowing. Multiple reviews mention how well-organized everything was, with everything running on schedule. Our guide, Vasos, and the driver received praise for their professionalism, friendliness, and clear instructions.

The journey involves a fair amount of driving (about 1.5 hours to Salamis, plus additional travel between sites), but most travelers find the stops worthwhile. The coach isn’t the plushest for legroom, but it’s clean and well-maintained, with most reviewers noting that the long hours are offset by the fascinating sights.

Exploring Salamis Archaeological Site

The first major stop is Salamis, an ancient city that dates back to the 12th century BC. Walking through these ruins feels like stepping into a history book — columns, mosaics, and the remains of Roman baths create a vivid picture of life in antiquity.

Reviewers highlight the sheer scale and variety of sites here. For example, Daren appreciated the insights shared by Emma, mentioning the “grand Roman baths, a gymnasium, and an ancient theatre.” The ruins’ sprawling nature means there’s plenty to see, but some visitors wish they had more time to take it all in. With so much to discover, it can be easy to feel rushed, but the guided commentary helps fill in the story of this once-powerful city.

Famagusta Old Town

Next, you’ll visit Famagusta Old Town, a highlight for many. Walking through the medieval streets, you’ll encounter Venetian walls, Gothic churches, and Ottoman mosques. The St. Nikolaos Cathedral, now known as Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, offers a striking example of architectural transformation over centuries.

The guide will point out some fascinating details, like the Othello Tower, linked to Shakespeare’s play, and the ruins of the Venetian Palace. Reviewers like Ami rave about the guide’s enthusiasm and the thorough explanations that make history come alive.

There’s an optional lunch at a local tavern, which many find delightful. You can sample authentic Cypriot-Turkish dishes and relax before heading to the more somber sites.

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The Eerie Ghost Town of Varosha

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to Varosha, the infamous “Ghost Town” since 1974. This was once a stunning seaside resort filled with luxury hotels and bustling streets. Now, it’s a hauntingly silent place frozen in time, with empty buildings, deserted beaches, and the remnants of a once-thriving tourist hub.

Guided walking tours here are poignant and fascinating. Reviewers describe Varosha as “a surreal experience,” and many note how the abandoned furniture and crumbling facades evoke a real sense of history halted abruptly. Wendy mentions wanting more time to explore independently, but the tight schedule means most visitors get just 45 minutes here.

The atmosphere is eerie but unforgettable — a reminder of Cyprus’s complex past. For those interested in modern history or just looking for a picture-perfect but thought-provoking stop, Varosha offers a vivid, emotional peek into the island’s recent conflicts.

Returning and Reflections

After exploring Varosha, the coach heads back toward Paphos. The scenic drive gives you time to process all you’ve seen — from ancient ruins to modern scars. Most reviews agree the day’s length is worth it, with many highlighting the wealth of knowledge shared by guides like Vasos and Emma, and the comfort of the coach as key highlights.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

When you total up the entry fees, guided commentary, and transport costs, this tour provides a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price. Covering such a wide array of sites in one day might seem ambitious, but the well-planned itinerary ensures you get a taste of Cyprus’s diverse past and present without feeling rushed.

The inclusion of expert guides, who are often praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. Their storytelling enriches each location, making history feel alive.

What You’ll Take Away

This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about understanding how Cyprus’s complicated history shapes its landscape today. Walking through Salamis offers a tangible link to the past; exploring Famagusta reveals the cultural layers; and visiting Varosha provides a raw, emotional story of modern Cyprus.

While it demands a full day and some patience with the long coach rides, most reviewers agree that it’s a deeply rewarding experience. The guides’ ability to keep everyone engaged, even on a long, hot day, speaks to their professionalism.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs keen to see Cyprus’s archaeological and medieval sites. It also suits curious travelers interested in the island’s recent political history, especially the story behind Varosha’s abandonment.

If you’re comfortable with a long day of travel and walking, you’ll find this tour packed with meaningful sights and stories. Those expecting a luxury experience might be disappointed by the coach comfort, but most are happy with the value and authenticity for the price.

Final Thought

In short, this guided tour from Paphos offers an insightful mix of ancient ruins, medieval architecture, and modern history — all in one day. With knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics, it’s a smart choice for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning every detail.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from over 38 hotels and locations in Paphos, making access very convenient.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, with starting times varying depending on your pickup location.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, water, sun protection, and a hat. Modest attire is recommended when visiting religious sites, and cash is handy for small vendors.

Are there any restrictions?
This tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, given the walking involved at sites like Salamis and Varosha.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is optional and payable on the spot. Many enjoy the opportunity to try local dishes at a recommended tavern in Famagusta.

How is the guide?
Guides like Emma and Vasos are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging storytelling, making the experience more meaningful.

To sum it up, this full-day guided tour from Paphos is an excellent way to explore Cyprus’s layered history — from ancient ports to modern ghost towns. It’s a well-rounded experience for those who love history, culture, and a touch of the dramatic. If you’re prepared for a long day, the insights and sights make it 100% worth your time.

You can check availability for your dates here: