The Kyrenia and Famagusta Tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Northern Cyprus. Departing from your hotel in Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta, this private tour whisks you away to explore iconic sites such as the medieval Kyrenia Castle and the well-preserved Famagusta Walled City. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll explore the captivating stories that have shaped this fascinating region, uncovering the secrets of ancient ruins and Gothic architecture. As you journey through the contrasting landscapes, you’ll encounter the haunting remnants of Varosha, leaving you intrigued and eager to uncover more about this remarkable destination.
This experience made our list of the 5 Best Tours In Kyrenia.
Key Points
- This full-day private tour explores the history and landscapes of northern Cyprus, visiting sites like ancient Salamis, Kyrenia Castle, and the Famagusta Walled City.
- The tour includes transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle, entrance tickets, and a professional guide to provide insights into the region’s heritage.
- Highlights include the impressive ancient ruins of Salamis, the medieval Kyrenia Castle with its maritime museum, and the haunting ghost town of Varosha in the Famagusta Walled City.
- The tour offers flexibility to explore at your own pace, with pickup and drop-off at selected hotels in Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta.
- The tour is highly rated by previous visitors, who praise the personal and knowledgeable guide and the memorable experiences in the historic sites.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This full-day private tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of northern Cyprus’s rich history and captivating landscapes.
Travelers will discover the ancient Roman ruins of Salamis and the eerie abandoned city of Varosha. Key highlights include the imposing Kyrenia Castle, the serene Bellapais Monastery, and the captivating St. Barnabas Monastery.
Explore the well-preserved Famagusta Walled City, a testament to the region’s storied past. Convenient transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience, while the included entrance tickets and professional guide provide valuable insights throughout the day.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kyrenia.
Transportation and Convenience
The private car and driver provided for this tour offer maximum comfort and convenience for travelers.
Avoiding the hassles of renting a car, guests are picked up and dropped off at their selected hotels in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour includes:
- A dedicated driver to navigate the area and provide a smooth, stress-free journey.
- No need to worry about directions, parking, or finding your way around.
- The ability to focus on the sights and enjoy the tour without the distraction of driving.
- The flexibility to move at your own pace and make the most of your time in northern Cyprus.
Inclusions
The tour includes a professional guide to provide insights and historical context throughout the day.
Bottled water is provided to ensure travelers stay hydrated during the tour.
Entrance tickets to all historical sites on the itinerary, including Kyrenia Castle, Bellapais Monastery, St. Barnabas Monastery, and the Famagusta Walled City, are included in the tour price.
Lunch is also provided, allowing travelers to sample local cuisine and refuel for the remainder of the day’s activities.
With these comprehensive inclusions, the tour offers a hassle-free and enriching experience exploring the highlights of northern Cyprus.
Booking Details
The tour starts at 9:00 am, providing ample time to explore the key sites throughout the day.
The tour includes the following booking details:
- Only the Ledra Palace Border crossing in Nicosia is included.
- Confirmation is received at the time of booking.
- The tour is non-refundable, and there are no refunds for cancellations.
- The price starts from €350.00 per group (up to 4 people).
These booking details ensure a seamless and well-organized tour experience for visitors exploring the ancient sites of northern Cyprus.
Reviews and Feedback
Boasting a stellar 4.8 rating based on 4 reviews, the Kyrenia and Famagusta Tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from past participants.
Travelers consistently praise the tour’s personal and knowledgeable guide, who brings the history and culture of northern Cyprus to life.
Many highlight the memorable experience of exploring the captivating Famagusta Walled City, a true highlight of the tour.
Reviewers enthusiastically recommend this tour to future visitors, praising it as a must-do activity that provides a comprehensive and enriching introduction to the region’s fascinating heritage.
Exploring Ancient Salamis
Nestled along the northeastern coast of Cyprus, the ancient ruins of Salamis stand as a testament to the island’s storied past. Established in the 11th century BC, this once-thriving Greco-Roman city offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Visitors can explore:
- The impressive theater, which could seat up to 15,000 people.
- The baths, with their intricate mosaics and architectural features.
- The gymnasium, a hub of social and educational activities in ancient times.
- The necropolis, a sprawling cemetery that reveals insights into Salamis’ burial customs.
This archaeological site, with its well-preserved ruins, provides a captivating journey through the annals of Cypriot civilization.
Visiting Kyrenia Castle
Atop a rocky promontory, Kyrenia Castle commands a striking presence along the northern coast of Cyprus. The medieval fortress dates back to the 10th century, with a history intertwined with the island’s tumultuous past.
Visitors can explore its impressive stone walls, towers, and gatehouses, which offer panoramic views of the picturesque harbor below. Inside, the castle houses an intriguing maritime museum, showcasing ancient shipwrecks and artifacts recovered from the Mediterranean Sea.
Guests can wander through the castle’s atmospheric courtyards, discovering hidden passages and imagining the lives of its former inhabitants. A highlight is the Shipwreck Museum, which displays the well-preserved remains of a 4th-century BC merchant ship, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient seafaring.
Discovering Famagusta Walled City
What makes Famagusta Walled City so captivating? As one of the highlights of the northern Cyprus tour, this historic site transports visitors back in time.
The imposing medieval walls, towering bastions, and ornate Gothic architecture create an atmosphere of grandeur and mystery.
Key features include:
- The Othello Castle, where Shakespeare’s famous tragedy is set.
- The Cathedral of St. Nicholas, now the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
- The Venetian Palace, once the seat of power, now a poignant reminder of the city’s tumultuous past.
- The ghost town of Varosha, a once-thriving seaside resort now frozen in time, offering a haunting glimpse into the island’s complex history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option for a Private Tour for a Solo Traveler?
The tour offers a private option for solo travelers. While the listed price is for a group of up to 4 people, the private tour can be booked for individual travelers at the same rate.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Destinations?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional destinations. The private tour allows for flexibility, and travelers can discuss their specific interests with the tour provider to create a personalized itinerary.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Guests should also bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for protection from the Mediterranean sun.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
The tour has no specific age restrictions or requirements. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, though young children may require additional supervision. The tour is designed to accommodate a wide range of participants.
Can the Tour Be Rescheduled or Modified Closer to the Date?
The tour cannot be rescheduled or modified closer to the date as it’s a non-refundable booking. However, travelers should confirm their reservation and preferences with the tour operator well in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Recap
The Kyrenia and Famagusta Tour offers an immersive exploration of Northern Cyprus’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With visits to iconic sites like Kyrenia Castle and the Famagusta Walled City, travelers can uncover the region’s captivating past while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and the expertise of a professional guide. Whether you’re staying in Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta, this comprehensive tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to discover the enchanting wonders of Northern Cyprus.