Curious about crossing into Northern Cyprus and seeing the legendary ghost town of Varosha? A day trip to Famagusta is the perfect way to combine history, culture, and a touch of eerie adventure.
In just one day, you’ll step across the border, wander through Famagusta’s medieval old town, and end with a walk (or cycle) through the haunting empty streets of Varosha.
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Hi, I’m Hazel – a travel blogger who’s been exploring Cyprus and beyond for years. I’ve crossed the border into Northern Cyprus myself, visited Famagusta, and walked the ghostly streets of Varosha.
My guides are based on first-hand experience and up-to-date research, so you can plan your trip with confidence knowing what to expect.
This one-day itinerary is designed for travellers staying in Ayia Napa, Protaras, Larnaca, or even Nicosia, who want a smooth and memorable trip without overcomplicating the border crossing.
Morning – Crossing the Border & Exploring Famagusta ☀️
The easiest way to reach Famagusta from the south is via the Deryneia checkpoint, just outside Paralimni. Bring your passport (or EU ID) and expect a quick process at the crossing.
👉 For more detail on requirements, visas, and driving rules, see my Complete Cyprus Border Crossing Guide.
Don’t forget to bring some cash in euros and Turkish lira. If you’re driving, check your hire company’s rules and buy car insurance at the border if needed. Discover Cars can usually help.
Once you’re through the checkpoint, head straight into Famagusta’s old town, a walled city packed with history. Highlights include:
🕌 Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque – formerly St Nicholas Cathedral, this Gothic gem with a minaret is stunning inside and out.
🏰 Venetian Walls & Othello’s Tower – Shakespeare fans will love this 14th-century fortress said to have inspired Othello.
☕ Wandering narrow streets – dotted with ruins, cafés, and souvenir shops.
Grab a Turkish coffee or fresh-squeezed pomegranate juice to fuel your adventure.
Lunch – A Taste of Turkish Cypriot Cuisine 🍽️
By midday, tuck into a proper Turkish-Cypriot meal. Try salads loaded with halloumi, lahmacun (Turkish pizza), or a simple grilled kebab.
There are plenty of small tavernas inside the walls and near the harbour – friendly, casual, and inexpensive.
If you’re short on time, order a takeaway wrap and keep moving – Varosha awaits.
Afternoon – Entering the Ghost Town of Varosha 🏚️
From central Famagusta, it’s a 10-minute drive (or taxi) to Varosha, the abandoned resort district frozen in time since 1974.
Since 2017, parts of Varosha have reopened to visitors. You can now walk or cycle along designated streets, passing decaying hotels, rusting balconies, and eerie silence where tourists once sunbathed. The beachfront is accessible too – golden sand backed by derelict towers.
Parking at Varosha 🅿️
There’s an open parking area near the main Varosha entrance, just beside the beachfront. From here you can walk straight into the ghost town or rent a bicycle on-site. Parking is free, but it can get busy on weekends.
If you don’t want to drive across the border, you can also leave your car in Deryneia (south side) and take a taxi once you cross.
Important tips 📝
- Stay on marked paths – entering buildings is prohibited and unsafe.
- Bring water and a hat – shade is minimal.
- Be respectful – many Greek Cypriots lost homes here, and the atmosphere is deeply moving.
👉 For a deep dive into Varosha’s history and the most common traveller questions, see my Famagusta & Varosha FAQ guide.
Late Afternoon – Optional Salamis Stop 🏺
If you have time before heading back, stop at the ancient ruins of Salamis, just north of Famagusta. Once the island’s capital, it’s a vast site of Roman baths, gymnasiums, and mosaics.
You’ll need about an hour or two, but it’s worth it if you’re into archaeology.
Evening – Return South 🌅
Cross back into the Republic of Cyprus before dinner. Depending on where you’re staying, you could:
- Ayia Napa/Protaras: Enjoy a beachfront sunset cocktail.
- Larnaca: Stroll the palm-lined Finikoudes promenade.
- Nicosia: Dine in the atmospheric old town. 👉 See my Nicosia day trip for more.
Map of This Day Trip 🗺️
Here’s a handy Google Map with all the key stops pinned for your Famagusta day trip.
Practical Tips for Your Famagusta & Varosha Day Trip 📝
- Bring your passport (no passport = no crossing).
- Carry both euros and Turkish lira – cash is easier than cards.
- If driving, sort out insurance at the border.
- Respect the ghost town rules – no entering buildings.
- Combine with Salamis ruins if you want more history.
- Solo travel tip: Famagusta and Varosha are easy to explore alone. The Deryneia crossing is straightforward on foot or by car, and the compact old city is safe and walkable.
Tours to Famagusta & Varosha 🚍
If you don’t fancy driving yourself across the border, there are excellent tours that include the crossing, guides, and transport. These are some popular options:
- Red Bus Varosha Experience from Ayia Napa – relaxed and affordable.
- Famagusta, Salamis and Varosha bus tour – covers the highlights in one go.
- Private Varosha & Kyrenia tour from Nicosia – for a more flexible experience.
Booking a tour takes the stress out of the border crossing and gives you insider knowledge along the way.
⚠️ Important Note on Entering via Northern Cyprus
You’re advised to enter Cyprus through an officially recognised port (like Larnaca or Paphos airports). Entering via Ercan Airport or northern ports is considered illegal entry by the Republic of Cyprus and can cause issues later if you try to cross south.
👉 For full details, see my dedicated guide: Cyprus Border Crossings Explained.
Driving in Cyprus: What to Know 🚗
- Drive on the left – same as the UK.
- Roads are in good condition, though mountain and coastal routes can be winding.
- Signage is in English and Greek, making navigation easy.
- Renting a car is essential if you want flexibility. I recommend booking with Discover Cars to compare the best local deals and pick up at Larnaca or Paphos airports.
🚗 With a car, you’ll have the freedom to explore beaches, villages, and ruins at your own pace – the ultimate way to enjoy your day trip to Famagusta.
Day Trip to Famagusta FAQs ?
A: Yes, you’ll need a valid passport to cross the Cyprus border checkpoints. Make sure it’s in good condition and check if you require a visa before travelling.
A: Yes, you can enter the reopened parts of Varosha independently. There are designated walking and cycling routes, but tours are recommended if you want extra context.
A: One full day is ideal. You can see Famagusta’s old town in the morning, have lunch, then explore Varosha and even add Salamis before returning south.
A: There’s a free parking area near the main Varosha entrance by the beachfront. Alternatively, join a tour and skip parking altogether.
A: Yes, it’s generally safe. You’ll see military personnel, but they don’t bother tourists. Stick to the rules in Varosha and avoid entering derelict buildings.
A: If you want more details about border paperwork and rules, check out my full post on Cyprus border crossings. For Varosha’s moving backstory, I’ve also answered the most-asked questions in my Famagusta FAQ.
Want More? Related Cyprus Posts 📚
Here are some more Cyprus guides to help you plan your trip:
🚧 Cyprus Border Crossings Explained: Which One Should You Use?
🏛️ A Nicosia Day Trip: Exploring Europe’s Last Divided Capital.
💡 Famagusta Border Crossing: FAQs About Visiting Varosha.
🏝️ 12 of the Best Beaches in Cyprus (and Northern Cyprus.
🌅 10 Fantastic Things to Do in Paphos, Cyprus.
🏨 Where to Stay in Cyprus: 11 Best Areas & Hotels.
Pin It For Later – Famagusta Day Trip 📌
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👉 Looking for practical travel tools? Check out my Travel Resources page.
Tags: Cyprus, Europe, Itineraries, Northern Cyprus
