How to Plan Your Private Full-Day Famagusta & Ghost Town Tour from Limassol
Are you planning a visit to Limassol and looking for a unique and unforgettable tour with a touch of history, culture, and architecture? Why not book the Private Full-Day Famagusta & Ghost Town Tour? This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to explore the hidden gems of Cyprus and learn about the country’s rich history. In this post, we will guide you on how to plan your tour step by step, so you can have a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
Tour Highlights
The Private Full-Day Famagusta & Ghost Town Tour is designed to give you a glimpse of Cyprus’s historic and cultural heritage. Here are some of the highlights of the tour:
- Visit St. Nicholas Cathedral in the medieval wall city
- Explore the ancient city of Salamis and witness the largest Roman amphitheatre in Cyprus
- Discover the ghost town of Varosha and St. Barnabas Monastery
The Full Description of the Tour
The following is a detailed description of the places you will visit during the Private Full-Day Famagusta & Ghost Town Tour:
St. Barnabas Monastery
The tour will start with a visit to St. Barnabas Monastery, which is now an icon museum and the tomb of St. Varnabas. The monastery is located in the Salamis area and is considered one of the most important Christian sites on the island. St. Barnabas, who was one of the twelve apostles, is believed to have been martyred in Salamis.
Ancient City of Salamis
Next, you will drive to see the ancient city of Salamis, which dates back to B.C. and has the largest Roman amphitheatre in Cyprus. Salamis was once the capital of Cyprus and home to one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean. You will have the opportunity to explore the ruins of Salamis and learn about its rich history.
Othello’s Tower
After Salamis, you will travel to Othello’s Tower, where Shakespeare was inspired to write his famous play “Othello.” The tower is located in the old port of Famagusta and is part of the city’s fortifications. Othello’s Tower is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in Shakespeare or medieval architecture.
St. Nicholas Cathedral
The tour will continue with a visit to St. Nicolas Cathedral, which is now known as Lala Mustafa Mosque and built-in the French Gothic style. The cathedral is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture and has a fascinating history. It was built in the 14th century and was the largest cathedral in Cyprus until the Ottoman conquest.
Ghost Town of Varosha
Your adventure will end with a visit to the ghost town of Famagusta. Varosha is a suburb of Famagusta that has been abandoned since 1974 due to political issues between the two sides of Cyprus. The town was once a popular tourist destination with luxurious hotels and beautiful beaches but has been left untouched for decades. Visiting Varosha will give you a chance to witness the eerie and haunting atmosphere of a once-bustling city that has been frozen in time.
What’s included
The Private Full-Day Famagusta & Ghost Town Tour includes:
- Entrance fee to historical sites
- Transportation
- Professional tour guide
Booking the tour
Booking the tour is easy and straightforward. You can book the Private Full-Day Famagusta & Ghost Town Tour online through GetYourGuide – one of the leading travel and tour companies in the world. The link to book the tour is the following: book the tour here.
Conclusion
The Private Full-Day Famagusta & Ghost Town Tour is a unique and unforgettable experience that you should not miss while in Limassol. We hope that this post has provided you with all the information you need to plan your tour successfully. From St. Barnabas Monastery to the ghost town of Varosha, this tour will take you on an exciting journey through the history, culture, and architecture of Cyprus. Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
An Insider’s Guide to the Hidden Gems of Famagusta
Famagusta is a beautiful city in Eastern Cyprus, teeming with stunning historical and cultural sites, and picturesque landscapes. However, to experience the city like a local, you need to know about the hidden gems that are off the beaten path. Here’s our insider’s guide to some of the best things to do in Famagusta.
Local Attractions: Discover Famagusta’s Hidden Gems
When you visit Famagusta, it’s easy to get lost in the well-known tourist spots like the Venetian Walls, Othello Castle, and the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque. However, the locals know there are many other hidden gems in the city waiting to be discovered. One of these gems is the Church of St. George, located in the old town, which dates back to the 14th century. Built by the Knights Templar, it is a fine example of Gothic architecture.
Another hidden gem is the Enkomi Ruins, an ancient city located on the outskirts of Famagusta. Unearthed in the early 1900s, the ruins are believed to date as far back as the 15th century BC, with excavations revealing tombs and pottery.
Dining Spots: Discover Famagusta’s Unique Food Culture
Famagusta has a rich culinary heritage, with local dishes that have evolved over centuries. One of the most popular local dishes is the ‘kleftiko,’ a hearty lamb dish, slow-cooked in an underground clay oven. A must-try restaurant for kleftiko is To Kypriako in the walled city of Famagusta.
For something sweet, try the traditional Cypriot dessert, ‘mahalepi.’ You can find this delicious dessert in one of the many cafes lining the beach promenade of Salamis Bay.
Cultural Experiences: Discover Famagusta’s Rich Heritage
Famagusta is a city that cherishes its heritage and traditions. One unmissable cultural experience in Famagusta is the International Famagusta Art and Culture Festival, held in September every year. During the festival, the streets of Famagusta come alive with music, art exhibits, traditional dances, and theatrical performances.
Another great experience is a visit to the historic Namiq Kemal Museum. This museum provides visitors with a fascinating insight into the life and work of a Cypriot journalist, author, and statesman who played a significant role in the history of Cyprus.
Local History: Discover Famagusta’s Captivating Stories
Famagusta has a long and complex history, with stories that go beyond mere facts and figures. One such story is that of the Venetian governor Marc Antonio Bragadin. After the Ottomans conquered Famagusta in 1571, Bragadin was treated brutally. He was stripped to his undergarments, forced to dress as a monk, and then flayed alive.
Another captivating piece of Famagusta’s history is the tale of Queen Caterina Cornaro. She married King James II of Cyprus, but when he died, Venetian nobles tricked her into giving up Cyprus in return for a pension and the title of Queen of Asolo. You can explore the Queen’s Palace and see her throne at the Othello Tower Museum.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Explore Famagusta’s Unforgettable Experiences
For an unforgettable experience, visit St. Barnabas Monastery. This 18th-century monastery is located in the middle of a forest, but getting there is half the adventure. Tucked away on a dirt road, the rough terrain adds to the charm of the journey, with stunning views of the surrounding area.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, book a diving session to explore the sunken ships of Famagusta Bay. Scuba diving provides a unique perspective on the history of the region while exploring the underwater ruins and wildlife.
In Conclusion
In essence, Famagusta is just waiting to be explored, and whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, exploring local attractions, delving into the city’s intriguing history or trying out food and drink, there’s something for everyone. Venture off the beaten path to uncover these hidden gems, and you won’t be disappointed. So when you plan your private full-day Famagusta and ghost town tour from Limassol, make sure you include these insider tips to make your trip truly unique, unforgettable, and memorable.
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