
Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos
Traveler rating
4.6/5
Based on 286 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos worth booking?
Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos is a 11-hour experience in Paphos, Cyprus, from $78 per person. It scores 80 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 286 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 80 / 100
- Rating
- 4.6/5 (286)
- Duration
- 11 hours
- From
- $78 per person
Uncover the fascinating past of Northern Cyprus on this immersive tour. After a short rest stop, cross the border and visit the ancient city of Salamis, home to a grand theatre, Roman baths with intricate mosaics, and a majestic gymnasium. In Famagusta’s old town, admire the Gothic-Ottoman architecture of St. Nikolaos Cathedral (now Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque) and explore medieval landmarks, including the Venetian walls, Othello Tower, and the ruins of the Venetian Palace. Enjoy an optional traditional Cypriot-Turkish lunch. End the journey in Varosha, the eerie Ghost City abandoned in 1974. Walk through its silent streets and witness the haunting remains of a once-thriving resort. Blending ancient history, medieval charm, and modern-day mysteries, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Cyprus’ rich and complex past. IMPORTANT: Passport or EU ID required. Nationalities: Turkmenistan, Nigeria, Syria & Armenia cannot cross the checkpoint.
What you get
About this experience
Uncover the fascinating past of Northern Cyprus on this immersive tour. After a short rest stop, cross the border and visit the ancient city of Salamis, home to a grand theatre, Roman baths with intricate mosaics, and a majestic gymnasium. In Famagusta’s old town, admire the Gothic-Ottoman architecture of St. Nikolaos Cathedral (now Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque) and explore medieval landmarks, including the Venetian walls, Othello Tower, and the ruins of the Venetian Palace. Enjoy an optional traditional Cypriot-Turkish lunch. End the journey in Varosha, the eerie Ghost City abandoned in 1974. Walk through its silent streets and witness the haunting remains of a once-thriving resort. Blending ancient history, medieval charm, and modern-day mysteries, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Cyprus’ rich and complex past. IMPORTANT: Passport or EU ID required. Nationalities: Turkmenistan, Nigeria, Syria & Armenia cannot cross the checkpoint.
What's included
Included
- Licensed guide
- Pick up and drop off from Paphos city centre hotels
- Air-conditioned coach
- Professional driver
Not included
- Meals and drinks
What you'll see and do
Coffee break at Choirokitia on your way.
20 minutes here
Strovilia check point to pass to North Cyprus. All participants must have their EU ID or passport ready for inspection. After clearance, we continue towards Salamis Ruins
40 minutes here
Salamis
Explore one of the most important ancient cities of Cyprus, dating back to 1100 BC. • Highlights: o Ancient Theatre: Once seated 15,000 spectators. o Roman Baths & Mosaics: Beautifully preserved historical remnants. o Gymnasium: A grand Roman complex featuring marble columns and bathhouses. • Learn about Salamis’ historical importance through various empires, from the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. (entrance fees included)
60 minutes here · Admission included
Famagusta Walled City
Walking Tour of Famagusta Old Town: o Visit St. Nikolaos Cathedral, now the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, featuring a blend of Gothic and Ottoman architecture. o Admire the 700-year-old fig tree in the courtyard. o Stroll through the medieval streets, visiting: The Venetian Walls surrounding the old town. Othello Tower, linked to Shakespeare’s play. The remains of the Venetian Palace.
60 minutes here
Famagusta Walled City
Enjoy a traditional Cypriot – Turkish lunch in one of the local taverns in Famagusta. Savor a variety of authentic dishes.While lunch is not included, it is highly recommended for a delightful local dining experience.
60 minutes here
Famagusta
• A guided walking tour of Varosha, an abandoned luxury resort town frozen in time since 1974. • Learn about its history, sudden evacuation, and partial reopening. • See deserted hotels, crumbling buildings, and eerie streets, offering a unique and thought-provoking experience.
45 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 60 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Fri
- Group size
- Up to 9 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- QUALIDAY
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Passports or EU ID are required
- Passport holders of the following countries are not allowed to cross the green line check points to the North Cyprus unless they have a special visa issued by the authorities of the Turkish-occupied area: 1. Armenia 2. Syria 3. Nigeria 4. Turkmenistan 5. India 6. Bangladesh 7. Nepal 8. Philippines 9. Pakistan 10. Sri Lanka 11. Ukrainian citizens living in Cyprus with a refugee status 12. Greek citizens with the old ID cards handwritten with a pen. Greek citizens are allowed to cross if they have new EU ID cards or a passport.
- Only original documents can be used for crossing. Photocopies of the original documents, or other forms of identification (e.g., driving licenses, temporary residence permits, etc.) cannot be used for crossing.
- If you won't receive a message through Viator for your exact pick up point and time please call us at least one day prior your excursion.
- Not recommended for persons with mobility issues
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 286 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
286 verified traveler reviews for Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
One in a lifetime excursion
Both Salamis and the Walled City were amazing and it was amazing to think you are walking in places that have been uncovered/survived for centuries, the history is phenomenal. The last part Famagusta/Varosha was hard hitting and quite emotional especially if you researched the history, nearly had me in tears seeing the coastline filled with abandoned and decaying hotels that once stood so proud, nevermind the houses and shops 😢😢😢 Our guide was funny/silly but so knowledgeable but he is Cypriot, he got a little bit frustrated with silly questions when in Famagusta as some people just didn't understand the history or accept his answers, which I totally got but he handled it like a Star
Response from the operator: Dear Tracey, thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so happy that you enjoyed exploring Famagusta and Salamis, and that our guide made the experience both informative and memorable. Varosha is indeed a very moving place to visit. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back to Cyprus again soon! Best regards, Qualiday Travel
via Viator
Could be 5 stars
We had a fabulous time on our trip but could be 5 stars if there was more direction/information in Farmagusta & free time in farmagusta ghost town. The ghost town felt really rushed, unfortunately & that was primarily what we were interested in.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your feedback! We're glad you had a fabulous time on the trip. We appreciate your comments regarding the information provided in Famagusta and the time spent in the Ghost Town, and will take them into consideration as we continue to improve our excursions. We hope to welcome you on another tour soon! Best regards, Qualiday Travel
via Viator
Famagusta and Ghost city tour
Overall the experience was very good, the guide had an in-depth knowledge of the history,culture and smaller details of even the passing towns and centres of attraction. It was explained to us the driver of our coach was a refugee from the Northern territory so each visit to Famagusta was a personal reminder of tradegy.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your thoughtful review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the experience and appreciated the guide’s knowledge of Cyprus’s history, culture and the places along the way. Famagusta is a place with a deeply personal history for many people, and we appreciate you sharing this perspective. We hope to welcome you again in Cyprus!
via Tripadvisor
famagusta ghost town
Famagusta ghost town,The tour guild was very knowledgeable. Even on a hot day the tour was worth the experience.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re very happy to hear that you enjoyed the experience and appreciated our guide’s knowledge. We hope to welcome you again on another tour! Best regards, Qualiday Travel
via Viator
Fab famagusta
An excellent tour the trip there did not seem so long as stops on way. I think visit to inside famagusta wall could be shorter, and time added onto the ghost town so you can see more than two roads or have a swim. The guide ermonie (Emma) was great lots of knowledge happy to answer questions an absolute star. Was happy being a solo traveller on this tourr.
Response from the operator: Dear Teresa, thank you for your fantastic review! We're delighted to hear you had an excellent day and that Ermioni's knowledge and enthusiasm made the experience even more enjoyable. It's also wonderful to know you felt comfortable traveling solo with our group. We hope to welcome you on another adventure in Cyprus soon! Best regards, Qualiday
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 11 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Fri
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 100
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by QUALIDAY, who run 8 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 60.1.
See everything QUALIDAY runsWhy this scores 80
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Paphos.
How much does Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos cost?
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Prices start at $78 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Paphos usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos take?
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Plan for about 11 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Paphos is not rushed.
Is Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 80 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 286 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Paphos, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 11-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos?
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Around 100 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Paphos can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Paphos and add a light layer if any part of the 11-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Paphos within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Paphos?
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On Outty we rank every Paphos experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Blue Lagoon Cruise with Sightseeing from Latchi Harbour, Troodos Mountains Villages: All Inclusive Food & Wine Day Tour, Wave Dancer Half Day BBQ Cruise - All Inclusive. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Paphos?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Paphos?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos?
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Included: Licensed guide; Pick up and drop off from Paphos city centre hotels; Air-conditioned coach; and Professional driver. Not included: Meals and drinks. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 39 listed pickup locations in and around Paphos. Be ready about 60 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Not recommended for persons with mobility issues. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Famagusta: Lost Cities & Coastal Secrets from Paphos?
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Across 286 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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