Description
A Time-Travel Ticket with a Side of Sea Salt
Ever wanted to swim in paradise with a view of history frozen in time?
That’s precisely what I did when I joined the Famagusta & Salamis Day Tour from Ayia Napa, Larnaca, and Protaras — and trust me, it’s not your average sightseeing trip.
Imagine starting the Day with a swim in crystal-clear waters, gazing at abandoned 1970s hotels, wandering through ancient Greek ruins, and finally strolling along medieval walls with a souvlaki in hand.
This tour mixes beach day, ghost town, and time travel — all rolled into one.
Payment and Booking
You will pay only a tiny part of the amount through PayPal (a deposit) at the time of payment.
That way, we can reserve a spot for you on the tour and ensure your place is guaranteed.
You will pay the remaining balance (the tour cost) to the driver/guide (in cash) at the beginning of the tour.
First Stop: The Eerie Beauty of Varosha “Ghost Town”
You know those places that give you chills in the best way possible? That’s Varosha. Once a luxury beach resort town, now a sealed-off time capsule from 1974.
You’ll get about an hour to walk through the reopened parts of this hauntingly fascinating area or go for a refreshing dip at the stunning “Golden Beach.”
Swimming while ruins loom behind you like history whispering in your ear is surreal.
Ancient Wonders Await: Salamis Ruins (Optional, but Worth It)
If you’re a sucker for ancient civilizations (guilty!), Salamis is going to blow your flip-flops off. Think Roman baths, towering marble columns, and an open-air theater out of a toga party.
You can explore Salamis and the nearby Saint Barnabas Monastery, where the founder of the Cypriot Orthodox Church is buried.
The guided tour adds layers of meaning to the stones and statues.
Entrance is €6 for adults, and kids up to 12 are free—cash only, though.
Or: More Famagusta Time for the Free-Spirited
Not in the mood for ruins? No worries. If you skip Salamis and the monastery, you’ll get a generous 4 hours in Famagusta Old Town.
That’s enough time for sightseeing, shopping, and feasting on local delicacies at your own pace.
I recommend circling the Venetian Walls and checking out the Gothic Church of Saint Nicholas.
Yes, Othello’s Castle is real and moody, as Shakespeare mentioned.
Saint Barnabas Monastery: A Holy Pit Stop
Those who join the optional add-on will get a peek into the spiritual side of Cyprus.
The monastery of Saint Barnabas isn’t just peaceful — it’s home to an impressive icon museum and the saint’s tomb.
A place that feels sacred yet welcoming, with stories etched into its stone walls.
Back Through Time — One Last Glimpse at the Ghost Town
As the bus rolls out, we pass through the sealed-off zone of Varosha again.
This time, you see it differently. With the salt still on your skin and the sun setting behind you, it feels like you’ve lived a whole story in a single day.
Past, present, tragedy, and beauty blend in a uniquely Cypriot cocktail.
Significant Bits to Know Before You Go
Please bring your original passport or EU ID. No photocopies, no exceptions.
Some nationalities may not be able to join due to border restrictions — please check before booking.
Bring your swimwear and a towel. You’ll regret it if you don’t.
Entrance to Salamis & Saint Barnabas is optional and not included (€6, cash only).
Why This Tour is a Must
You won’t find another tour that lets you swim in paradise, walk through an abandoned resort town, explore ancient ruins, and eat lunch inside medieval walls — all in one Day.
It’s historic, it’s scenic, it’s deliciously different. Whether you’re a history nerd, a beach bum, or a curious traveler, this trip delivers big.
| Duration | Full Day (approx. 8–9 hours) |
|---|---|
| Language | English-speaking guide |
| Highlights | Swim at Varosha Ghost Town beach. An optional visit to Salamis ruins and Saint Barnabas Monastery. Free time in Famagusta Old Town, Venetian Walls, Saint Nicholas Church, and Othello Castle. |
| Includes | Air-conditioned bus, Licensed guide, Border crossing assistance |
| Not Includes | Salamis & Saint Barnabas entrance (€6 adults), Lunch, Personal expenses |
| Important Info | Bring your original passport or EU ID. Swimwear is recommended. Due to crossing rules, some nationalities are not eligible to join; entrance fees must be paid in cash only. |
| Pickup Option | Free transfers from Protaras, Ayia Napa, and Larnaca (via minibus connection) |
Why Book with us?
- Best Price Guarantee
- The Best-Guided Tours by the Best Tour Companies in Ayia Napa
- An Easy Booking System (with PayPal)
- Pay with only a tiny Deposit to reserve your seat (And the Balance in cash on tour)
- WhatsApp, Facebook, and Email Support
- A 24-hour Free Cancellation
Cancellation Policy:
- You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours of the start time are non-refundable. Changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not accepted.
- Weather Policy: If the experience is canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
- Minimum Travelers: If the experience is canceled due to the number of travelers not being met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- If the client fails to meet the designated time and location for the tour and does not wait as instructed, we will not refund the deposit payment.
- The order confirms that you have read and agreed to our terms and cancellation policy.
Got a Question?
Do not hesitate to contact us. We are experts in Ayia Napa and are here to discuss our tours with you and answer any questions you may have.
- Email: GuideToAyiaNapa@gmail.com
- WhatsApp: +972545450010
- Facebook Messenger: Guide to Ayia Napa on Facebook
Book Your Adventure Now!
This tour is a top seller for a reason, and spots fill up fast.
Book now through our website and pay a small deposit to secure your place.
The rest? You’ll pay in cash on the Day of the tour.
It’s easy, flexible, and unforgettable!
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