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Famagusta Border Crossing: How to Visit the Ghost Town of Varosha in 2024

Last Updated on January 3, 2024 by Hazel M

Are you looking for information on how to cross the Famagusta border crossing ahead of your trip to Northern Cyprus? Or planning a visit to the ghost town of Varosha? This guide will tell you everything you need to know before you travel, including considerations for Cyprus border crossings and how to get into the ghost town itself.

I crossed the border into Northern Cyprus in October 2022 , and I visited Salamis, Famagusta and Varosha. This guide will help you to understand all of the requirements of the Famagusta border crossing and the ghost town of Varosha.

This article has been updated to keep it relevant for 2024, but the photographs are all from 2022.

I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate links.

In a hurry? Here are some quick links:

• You can book a tour to take care of the border crossing for you.
• Book the best 5 star luxury hotel in Cyprus here .
• Here are the best deals on all Cyprus hotels .
• It gets very hot in Cyprus. You need decent sunscreen and a packable sun hat .
• A Turkish phrase book will come in handy.
• Book your Cyprus rental car here .
• If you want to cross the border, read this guide first .

This article is about crossing the border into North Cyprus at the Eastern Base crossing near Famagusta. There are other crossings you can use , and these are detailed below. This article also covers the ghost town of Varosha and general traveller information about Northern Cyprus.

Introduction to Famagusta

Famagusta is an historic city located in the eastern part of Cyprus . It is an important city-state and was once the seat of the powerful Lusignan dynasty, which controlled much of the island from 1192–1489.

The old town of Famagusta houses some impressive fortifications and fascinating medieval architecture, plus it also boasts one of Europe’s most beautiful natural harbours.

Famagusta Border Crossing

The city of Famagusta is located in Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus, which means that if you’re coming from South Cyprus , you’ll need to cross the Turkish border. There is a high military presence here, and you’ll need to know what to expect from both sides.

Below I have listed the most commonly searched questions on Google in 2024, relating to the Famagusta border crossing and the Varosha ghost town of Northern Cyprus.

I have split these questions into five categories:

• FAQs about Famagusta’s history
• FAQs about the Famagusta border crossing (including map)
• FAQs about the ghost town of Varosha
• FAQs about what Famagusta is like today
• FAQs about Famagusta general tourist information

1. FAQs about Famagusta’s history

What happened at famagusta.

In 1974, Turkish troops invaded and occupied Northern Cyprus. This resulted in the displacement of tens of thousands of Greek Cypriots, who were forced to flee their homes. Hundreds of people were killed, including tourists. The resort town of Varosha became a ghost town overnight. The buildings were left abandoned and fell into disrepair. In recent years, the UN has negotiated with Turkey, and the town is now open to visitors.

How important did Famagusta used to be?

Famagusta is a city with a long and rich history. The city was once an important trading hub, and you can still see evidence of this in the city’s architecture. It has the deepest harbour in Cyprus and used to be the main trading route with the merchants of the Silk Road. However, because of its location in Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus, Famagusta has been somewhat cut off from the rest of the world. This isolation has led to a decline in tourism, which has in turn led to a decline in the city’s infrastructure.

What is Famagusta like today?

I found the main part of the city to be very quiet. It does feel different to the cities in South Cyprus, because it is Turkish, but I did not feel any tension when I was walking around. It is important to remember it is not the people who went to war; it was their governments. The Turkish people are just living and working here in a normal manner.

I took these pictures below in the city of Famagusta in October 2022. This is not the ghost town (the ghost town is Varosha – more on that below).

2. FAQs about the Famagusta Border Crossing

Where is the famagusta border crossing.

This political map shows where the border runs across Northern Cyprus, and sovereign base areas. The purple area is the UN buffer zone, and this is the area you must cross if you want to visit Famagusta from south of the border. Famugusta is on the right, just above the purple border.

Do you need a passport for the Famagusta border crossing?

Yes, you’ll need a valid passport in order to cross the border into Northern Cyprus. The military officers will check your passport upon entry, so make sure it’s in good condition and that you have all the necessary visas.

Do you need a visa for the Famagusta border crossing?

Citizens of the European Union do not need a visa to enter Northern Cyprus. For nationalities outside of the EU, you will need to check with the Turkish consulate in your home country for visa requirements and how to visit Famagusta.

Where is the Famagusta border crossing point?

The crossing I used was the Akyar crossing (also called Strovilia or Azios Nikolaos) in the British Eastern Sovereign Base Area in Famagusta. This is on the Larnaca-Famagusta road, and can be used by pedestrians, vehicles and cyclists.

What other border crossing points are there?

Below are some of the other border crossing points. They are a little confusing, as they all have several names (Turkish and Greek Cypriot names). You can walk or cycle over all of them, but driving is restricted to diplomatic vehicles only at Ledra Street.

• Metehan (also called Agios Dometios or Kermiya) in the west of Nicosia.
• Ledra Palace/Ledra Street in central Nicosia (only diplomatic vehicles allowed).
• Dhekelia (also known as Beyarmudu, Pergamos or Pile).
• Yesilirmak (also known as Limnitis) near Guzelyurt (Morpho).

Can I drive a South Cyprus hire car over the Famagusta border crossing?

Some South Cyprus hire car companies will allow their cars to be taken over the border for an extra insurance fee. You will need to discuss this with the car company (I recommend Discover Cars ). Some companies do not allow cars over the border so you will need to check first. You’ll need to have both Turkish lira and euros with you in order to pay for things like fuel and tolls.

You can also take a bus or drive your own car (make sure to check your car insurance first).

Can I drive a North Cyprus hire car over the Famagusta border ?

It is not advised to cross the border in a North Cyprus hire car at this time. Most North Cyprus car companies will not allow their cars to be taken to the south. It is common for North Cyprus car companies to be stopped at the crossing by the military, even when the company allows it, so I wouldn’t risk it.

Are the Cyprus border crossings well-signed?

The south-to-north border crossings in Cyprus are well-signed, but the north-to-south boundaries are not well-signed at all. Additionally the signs in North Cyprus are in Turkish, with different names for the towns and cities, so it can get very confusing. You can pick up a Turkish map at most of the border crossings.

What do I have to do at the Famagusta border crossing into Northern Cyprus?

At the Famagusta border crossing, you’ll need to present your passport and fill out a customs declaration form. They stamp the form, and you keep the form together with your passport for your return journey. You’ll also need car insurance documents if you are driving (or purchase your insurance at the border).

Who controls the Famagusta border crossing at South Cyprus?

The Turkish government controls the Famagusta border crossing. It is a military checkpoint. There is also a presence from the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) and the British Military as well.

Who controls the Famagusta border crossing at North Cyprus?

The border crossing back into South Cyprus is controlled by the Cyprus police and the British military. On the way back, your passport and VISA documentation will be checked by the Cyprus police and also the British military. They will also look to see what you have purchased and what you are bringing back to Cyprus with you.

What does the UN do at the border crossing?

The UN monitors the Famagusta border crossing to ensure that people are following the rules and regulations. There is a large UN camp near the border crossing, and you may see UN vehicles driving around the city.

Why are the British military at the Famagusta border crossing?

The British military has three base areas in Cyprus, from which it helps to maintain the peace and also leverage its relations across the rest of Europe.

According to the SBAA , the “Sovereign Base Areas (SBAs) of Akrotiri and Dhekelia, usually referred to as Western Sovereign Base Area (WSBA) and Eastern Sovereign Base Area (ESBA), are those parts of the island which remained under British jurisdiction on the creation of an independent Republic of Cyprus in 1960”.

What do the British do at the Famagusta border crossing?

The British military officers check passports when you are coming back over the North Cyprus border, and they also help to enforce the rules and regulations. I found them pleasant to deal with, and had no problems. However, do be aware that all of the military personnel carry big guns – this can be a little shocking if you do not often see guns in your home country.

Can I bring purchases back into South Cyprus from North Cyprus?

You can bring some purchases back into Cyprus from Famagusta. Cigarettes and liquor are restricted. I was advised by locals to remove the labels from clothing and actually wear it, rather than try to take it through in a carrier bag. I did not try this, so I cannot comment further.

What products can I bring with me from North Cyprus into South Cyprus?

Due to customs and excise regulations, there are limits on how much tobacco or spirits can be transported from the north to south across the border. The legal amount permitted per individual is outlined below for your reference.

• 0.5 Litre of Spirits
• Two Packets of cigarettes
• 1 bottle of wine

If you recently purchased or are currently in the process of finalising a property purchase, it’s important you do not bring any documents related to your real estate with you when travelling through the checkpoints.

Are the Cyprus border crossings open 24 hours per day?

All crossings are available 24/7, but if you are driving and you need car insurance for Northern Cyprus then you should go through the Agios Dometios (Metehan) crossing point, located in Nicosia (Lefkosa). This entryway offers round-the-clock car insurance services. Other borders only offer car insurance during office hours.

Are there any North Cyprus airports I can use, to avoid making the crossing?

Technically you are only allowed to enter and exit the Republic of Cyprus at the Larnaca and Paphos airports. You can also enter and exit at the seaports of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. You will then need to cross the North Cyprus border.

The Republic of Cyprus does not consider entry at Ercan Airport in the north to be a ‘legal’ entrance into Cyprus, however some people do this at their own risk. Always check your government’s travel advisory page for further information.

3. FAQs about the ghost town of Varosha

Is famagusta still a ghost town.

Please note Famagusta is not ‘the ghost town’ you may have heard about. The ‘ghost town’ is the smaller resort-town of Varosha.

The ghost town of Varosha still remains untouched. It was once an upscale resort town with many 5 star hotels, but has been abandoned since the Turkish invasion in 1974. Nature has taken over the area, and it’s eerily beautiful in a sad sort of way.

Whilst Varosha is open to the public, getting there is not easy and it’s best to go with a guide.

Can you walk around the ghost town in Famagusta?

Yes, you can walk around the ghost town in Famagusta, this is the town of Varosha mentioned above. However, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not to touch any of the buildings. The structures are dangerous and could collapse at any time. This area was opened to the public in 2010, and it is still considered to be a dangerous place. The buildings are derelict and there are a number of collapsed roofs.

Are there tours of the Varosha ghost town?

Yes there are tours of the ghost town, and these are the best ones available on Viator :

• Private Town of Varosha Ghost Town : half day tour which goes up close to the decaying buildings.
• Day trip to medieval Famagusta : day tour includes Varosha.
• Salamis and Varosha from Paphos : bus tour from Paphos, price includes Famagusta border crossing.
• Famagusta, Salamis and Varosha bus tour : full day tour with Famagusta border crossing included (I have been on this tour and can recommend it, but be aware it is a long day).

Is visiting Varosha emotional?

Yes, visiting Varosha can be emotional. The town is a reminder of the violence of the Turkish Invasion and the suffering of the people who were forced to flee their homes. It is also a reminder of how quickly things can change. Varosha was once a thriving tourist destination, and now it is a ghost town. If you go on a tour , your tour guide will likely be of Cypriot origin who will understandably feel strongly about the situation, as they would have been personally affected.

4. FAQs about what Famagusta is like today

Is famagusta open to the public.

Yes, Famagusta is open to the public. However, because of its location in Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus , some areas of the city may be off-limits to tourists. You will need the necessary documentation to pass through the military checkpoints.

Is Famagusta Turkish or Greek?

Famagusta is Turkish. It is occupied by Turkish troops and the currency used is the Turkish lira. The previous Cypriot residents no longer live here because they were forced to flee to South Cyprus when the Turkish troops invaded in 1974.

What is the food like in Famagusta?

The food in Famagusta is a mix of Turkish and Cypriot cuisine. You can find a variety of traditional dishes, as well as more modern fare. I ate in a Turkish restaurant and I found it very pleasant. As a solo traveller with limited Turkish and Greek language skills, I was able to communicate without any problems and I found the people very pleasant. The locals recommended I try the Turkish chicken shish kebab (see below) and it was very good.

Is it safe in Famagusta?

You should always check government travel advice in your home country before you book your trip.

You will see military personnel carrying guns throughout Northern Cyprus, but they generally don’t bother tourists and there haven’t been any major incidents in recent years. However, it’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe. Also be aware of the buildings in Varosha which could be dangerous if you go too close.

For safety and peace of mind, you may like to consider the following safety recommendations (all products from Amazon):

• Use an anti-theft sling bag or an anti-theft backpack .
• Keep bank cards safe with an RFID blocking pouch or an RFID travel wallet .
• Use a portable door lock to lock your room from the inside.
• Try using an alarmed door stop for extra peace of mind.
• Use a compact travel safe (I have used this one and this one ).
• You can also get hidden travel safes , for example in the shape of a water bottle , coke can , hairbrush or even a holy bible .
• A waterproof and fireproof document pouch will protect your travel documents.

What is there to do in Famagusta?

There are a number of things to do in Famagusta. The city is home to a number of historical sites, as well as shops and restaurants. The ancient ruins of the city of Salamis are nearby. You can also visit the abandoned city of Varosha, which was once a thriving tourist destination before it was abandoned during the Turkish Invasion.

Is there a beach in Famagusta?

Yes, there is a beach in Famagusta. However, because of its location in Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus, the beach may not be as well-maintained as other beaches in Cyprus . The derelict buildings remain empty on the promenade and there may be a lack of public facilities.

What is the water like at Famagusta beach?

The water at the Famagusta beach is clean and clear, and usually warm. However, because of its location in Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus, the beach is not as well-maintained as other beaches in Cyprus , and there may be a lack of facilities.

If you are going to the beach, I recommend this beach towel which repels sand and dries almost instantly.

5. General FAQs & tourist information on Famagusta

What is the currency in famagusta.

The currency in Famagusta is the Turkish lira. However, because of its location in Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus, euros are also accepted. Most of the shops and restaurants will accept euros as it is in their best interests; however some of the more traditional Turkish places may only accept Turkish lira.

What is the best time of year to visit Famagusta?

The best time to visit Famagusta is from April to October. The weather is warm and sunny during this time, making it ideal for exploring the city. I visited in October and it was quite warm, although there was also a storm with light rainfall. I recommend taking a packable rain jacket like this one .

What language is spoken in Famagusta?

The official language in Famagusta is Turkish. However, because of its location in Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus, Greek is also spoken. I did also find some English spoken in the main restaurants and shops too. It is a good idea to take a translation app with you on your phone, or a Turkish phrase book , in case you need it.

Are there ATMS in Famagusta?

There are a few ATMs in Famagusta, but they are not always reliable. It is best to bring enough cash with you to last your entire trip. Remember the currency is Turkish Lira and Euros. I did not need any Turkish Lira, as everywhere I went accepted Euros, but it probably depends on what you want to buy.

How far is Famagusta from Nicosia?

Famagusta is 75 kilometres (47 miles) east of Nicosia, and easily accessible by car or public transport. It takes about 1.5 hours to get there. North Nicosia is under Turkish control, and the main street which links the two sides of Nicosia is called Ledra Street. Here you can see the famous Ledra Palace, on the UN buffer zone (or the ‘green line’). There is also a part of Agios Dometios which is under Turkish control too.

Are there any luxury hotel options near Famagusta?

Yes, there are several luxury hotels located near the city, including the five star Salamis Bay Conti Hotel Resort & SPA & Casino , Palm Beach Hotel .

Other 5 star hotels in Northern Cyprus include the Concorde Tower Hotel & Casino in North Nicosia and the Savoy Hotel Spa & Casino in Kyrenia. These hotels offer excellent facilities and amenities for your stay.

You can view all hotels in Famagusta on Booking.com , or use the interactive map below:

Is there public transportation available in Famagusta?

Cyprus does not have a train or underground system. However there is a bus network called OSEL (Omni-Stop Express Line) that runs through most parts of the city. This service operates between 6:00am and 11:30pm daily, allowing you to get around the city with ease. The fare is €1.50 for a single ticket, or €2.40 for a return journey. Click here for timetables .

Is Famagusta ok for beginner travellers?

Yes, Famagusta is ok for beginner travellers. However, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not to touch any of the buildings at Varosha. The structures are dangerous and could collapse at any time. You also need to be aware of the military rules and do your research about how to visit Famagusta before your trip.

If you are nervous about the border crossings, I recommend using a local tour company who can sort the crossing conversations for you. This is especially important if you are not confident with your Turkish language skills. You could also consider purchasing a Turkish phrase book .

Is Famagusta worth visiting?

You need to be prepared for a different type of travel. This isn’t the usual type of tourist activity, it is a military occupied zone and as such you are subject to their rules. Talking to the locals can be very sad as they tell you about their history and what happened here. It can be quite difficult to hear how people were personally affected by the conflict. However, if you are prepared for that, then I think it is worth visiting and actually very important. It is an eye-opening experience and it gives you a better understanding of the Cyprus conflict.

Famagusta border crossing: final questions

Is there anything else i should know about visiting famagusta.

Firstly, because it is in Turkish-occupied Northern Cyprus, the city does not have the same level of infrastructure as other cities in Cyprus. This means that things like public transportation and Internet access may be limited.

Secondly, Varosha (the ghost town) is a separate suburb; the rest of Famagusta operates in the usual manner for the Turkish people who work and live there. Varosha is difficult to get to and you are best going with a guide or on a guided tour .

Finally, because it is a border town, Famagusta can be a bit more expensive than other parts of Cyprus . Remember you may need two currencies.

Travel advice for your trip to Cyprus

Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Paphos is from April to October, when the weather is most pleasant.

I recommend renting a car for your trip in the South of Cyprus (I use Discover Cars for Cyprus car hire).

The currency in Cyprus is the Euro (or Turkish Lira if you cross the Famagusta border crossing into Northern Cyprus).

Cyprus travel essentials

• Cyprus gets very hot. You need a decent natural sunscreen .
• For this reason you also need refillable water bottle s and a foldable-yet-stylish sun hat .
• Cyprus uses the same plugs as the UK. If you’re not from the UK, you need this universal travel adaptor .
• This is the best quick-dry sand-repellent beach towe l.
• Packing cubes are a travellers best friend. I recommend these ones .
• Going hiking in the Troodos mountains? These are the best hiking socks.
• If you plan to cross the Turkish border, it’s a good idea to take a Turkish phrase book .

More Cyprus posts

Thank you for reading my FAQ post about the Famagusta border crossing and visiting Varosha. I hope it has helped you to plan your trip to Famagusta and Northern Cyprus.

Pin it for later – Famagusta border crossing

If you enjoyed this post on the Famaguata border crossing, please feel free to use these images to pin to your Pinterest account for later.

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You are reading Hazel’s Travels – an online publication and travel blog which aims to provide advice and inspiration for travel in Europe, the UK and USA.

About Hazel M

Hazel is a British travel writer who has travelled solo throughout Europe, the UK and USA. Hazel's favourite destinations include Italy, Cyprus and New York. Hazel writes travel guides providing information and advice for travel planning purposes.

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Ghost Town Famagusta

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You can now tour a controversial ghost town in Cyprus that was abandoned in the 1970s — take a look inside

• After Turkey took control of northern Cyprus in the 1970s, the resort town Varosha was left empty.
• Residents and tourists planned to return, but the resort was fenced off and remained so for decades.
• In 2020, the town and surrounding beach reopened but soon became a point of controversy.

Varosha is a former resort town located in the city of Famagusta, Cyprus.

Before the division of Cyprus in 1974, Varosha was a booming resort town with sky-scraping hotels, glamorous shopping districts, and sandy beaches frequently called the best in Cyprus.

The rich and famous claimed Verosha as the most beautiful spot on the island.

According to the BBC , celebrities including Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, and Brigitte Bardot visited the island in its heyday. 

"Anyone who comes from Varosha has a romanticized notion of it," Vasia Markides, an American Greek-Cypriot whose mother grew up there, told the BBC in 2014. "They talk about it being the hub of art and intellectual activity. They describe it as the French Riviera of Cyprus."

At its height, the resort town of Varosha was home to 39,000 residents and thousands more visited each year as tourists.

Varosha also attracted around 700,000 annual visitors and tourists .

But after 1974, everyone but the Turkish military was forbidden from entering, and today, buildings in the once-booming resort town are crumbling and abandoned.

According to the BBC , after years of violence, Turkey invaded Cyprus in 1974 following a Greek-government-backed coup and gained control of the northern third section of the island, which included the district of Varosha.

Tens of thousands of Greek Cypriots quickly left the area, fearing violence but intending to return once tensions settled down. 

Former residents have recalled their panic while fleeing their homes as troops invaded.

Some left their wedding presents in their attics, while others said they still had pots cooking on the stove when they evacuated. 

Following the invasion, the resort was fenced and blocked off by the Turkish military. It was abandoned for decades.

What was once a glamorous resort became a barren wasteland dotted with falling fences and barricades.

Varosha remained part of the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, or TRNC, until a United Nations resolution in 1984.

The decision placed Varosha under the control of the United Nations and forbade anyone other than those who were forced out in the 1970s from resettling there, according to BBC .

While the city of Famagusta is home to thousands of residents, who are mostly Turkish, the Varosha sector was blocked off until recently.

Decaying buildings and rubble line the streets of the abandoned district.

Signs labeled Varosha a "forbidden zone."

Tourists were previously banned from entering or taking photos inside the fenced-off areas, but some managed to slip through over the years and documented what was left behind.

After the town reopened in 2020, Turkish Cypriots were allowed through the fences to explore what remained. Now, anyone can visit with a valid passport . 

Before it reopened, buildings could be seen slowly collapsing, abandoned cars were rusting over, and the streets lay empty.

Many areas of the Varosha district are still blocked off for most people, according to the BBC .

After travel restrictions were eased in 2003, former residents were allowed to return and peer into the forgotten resort through fences and barbed wire.

However, those who ventured back to the island found the once-booming area a crumbling ghost town and have not been permitted to permanently inhabit the town.

Much of the resort remained largely how its former residents and visitors left it.

Tables were still set for meals and designer clothes could be found hanging inside now-abandoned shops.

Cypriots returning to Varosha described it as "some sort of post-apocalyptic nightmare."

"The picture that I had in my mind was of a kind of paradise," one Cypriot who returned to look across the fence at her family's former home told the BBC . 

"You're seeing nature take over. Prickly pear bushes have overrun the entire six square kilometers. There are trees that have sprouted through living rooms. It's a ghost town," she said .

The reopening of Varosha, also known by its Turkish name Maraş, became a subject of controversy between the Greek Cypriot and the Turkish Cypriot communities.

According to a report by CNN in 2020, Ersin Tatar, prime minister of the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, planned to start the reopening and potential rebuilding process in 2020.

"It's all ready in my opinion," Tatar said in August 2020, according to Turkish state broadcaster TRT. "The tide has changed and a new page has been turned ... Maraş is within the territory of the TRNC. Nobody can take it from us. We are continuing on our successful path."

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also said he wanted to reopen the resort town, but the move received backlash from Greek Cypriots.

When the beach reopened and the fences surrounding Varosha were removed, the government only allowed Turkish and TRNC citizens to visit at first.

Ahead of Varosha's reopening in 2020, the European Union's foreign policy chief warned the reopening would "cause greater tensions" between Turkish and Greek Cypriots, who disagree on who rightfully should inhabit and profit off the northern section of the island.

US officials have also spoken out against the reopening of Varosha. According to The Guardian , Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in 2021 that the government opposed any attempt to reopen Varosha to tourists and locals alike.

In a statement, Blinken called the Turkish Cypriot actions in Varosha "provocative, unacceptable, and incompatible with their past commitments to engage constructively in settlement talks."

"We urge Turkish Cypriots and Turkey to reverse their decision announced today and all steps taken since October 2020," he continued.

Tourists have returned to the beaches, but behind them sit decaying hotels.

The buildings are unsafe to go inside, but tourists have once again returned to the town's sandy beaches.

Today, visitors from across the world can swim in Varosha's waters and take guided tours alongside the crumbling buildings.

According to the Cyprus Mail , visitors can tour Varosha between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

While visitors are not allowed to actually enter the blocked-off and crumbling buildings due to safety concerns, tour groups are permitted to walk alongside them, snap photos, and learn about the resort town's complicated history.

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Mr. John is TripAdvisor's award-winning guide  from Cyprus and organizes daily trips to the ghost town Famagusta from Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Kapparis. Mr. John was born and brought up in the ghost town Famagusta and offers firsthand information and personal experience, INCLUDING GUIDING OF VAROSHA FROM INTO and making the trip more sensitive.

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Children price 20 .00 euros pp - FROM 3 years to 12 years

Infants FREE for up to 3 years old

Except for phone calls/messages or websites, Mr. John stands with his minibus opposite the Sunrise Pearl Hotel in Protaras from 19:00 PM to 23:00 PM every night.

Pick up points: Ayia Napa and Protaras

Mr. John's ghost town Famagusta tour is the best of the best  Tripadvisor Award-winning tour in Cyprus from Ayia Napa & Protaras with background knowledge of the Ghost City Varosha

Prices for summer.

SUMMER SEASON(16/4-5/11)

Adult price 30,00 euros pp - FROM 12 years & over

Children price 20.00 euros pp- FROM 3 years to 12 years

Infants FREE up to 3 years old

Ghost Town Famagusta

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Ghost Town Famagusta - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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• (0.24 km) Flamingo Paradise Beach Hotel
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• (0.05 km) Pizza Hut
• (0.06 km) Patisserie Amelie
• (0.07 km) I Dive Cyprus
• (0.08 km) Bell's Cocktail Bar
• (0.15 km) Vrissiana Beach
• (0.16 km) Yerimos Motorbikes
• (0.31 km) Rockafellas Sports Bar

Ghost Town Famagusta

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Ghost Town Famagusta - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

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can you walk around famgusta

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Ghost Town Famagusta Questions & Answers

If you are on an organised trip, I suspect you will do Salamis, then Famagusta Old Town, finally taken to Varosha Beach. This how our trip worked. In the Old Town we were free to visit the Cathedral/Mosque, have a meal and a some free time. If you travel on your own, you can still wander around the Old Town. Also visit other sites like Salamis. The Varosha area of Famagusta is all that is restricted, to my knowledge. This is the so called 'Ghost Town' that is prohibited by barriers and guards. What ever your options, remember your PASSPORT. You will not cross the Green Line without it. hope this helps.

Yes. But not the ghost town.

you can walk around very near the ghost town but not in it. the only people allowed there are the Turkish army. it is surrounded by barbwire and machine gun post, they take it very serious. It is really still a war zone. on the beach as you look at it, if you raise a camera the armed guard that watches your every move will shout at you, not too. it is amazing though to see what the Turks did, and how sad it was for the Greeks.

Go, and take a hanky if you go with Mr John, its a sad story.

Hi Jade,sorry i am unable to answer this question. we were on a coach tour that only went around the outside of the ghost town. I believe there are other companies that take you inside. Good luck with your journey

You certainly can it opened to the general public in 2021, there's bikes ,electric scooters and golf buggys that can be hired to get around as it's a big are, 2 bits beach open for going to and you can walk it if you would rather, some bits still off limits and no charge to get in, but kiosks and bike hire etc in there card payment only and ID required for bike etc hire

You can now. Head out of the walled city past the harbour and you can hire bikes and cycle around the ghost town. Or just walk around if you prefer

It now changed! You CAN walk around between 8am - 8pm (really not longer than 8pm - Turkish guards will tell you to leave the ghost town part around 7:30pm).

There are bike rentals or guided tours, it's a huuge area btw.

You can walk around the ancient city of famagusta and now around some of the ghost town.

It is free to enter the ghost town but to hire bikes is 20lira payable by card only.

There are lots of UN soldiers in there.

It's very interesting to see and a good reminder of how a war can completely change a city.

It’s already reopened. You can rent a bike when you go inside or walk around. It’s so surreal!

The ghost town is open now so you can walk round most of it

Varosi, just south of Famagusta was opened by the military authorities last week (2nd week in October 2020)

Well you can enter it now, the government yesterday decided to open it and i went visited it today

Such a beautiful city with sad history

I am an American who actually got a short tour of the forbidden zone of Varosha in the summer of 2011.

My ex-wife who is Turkish got us on a tour of North Cyprus. It was sponsored by a tour group that is associated with the Turkish Military. It is for retired officers and family. Her father was a former officer and she was eligible to go. The trip was cheap and a few times we stopped to have lunch at an army facility. One stop was at a base at the edge of Varosha and after we ate they opened the gate and the bus went in to the abandoned city. We drove for maybe 10 minutes around the empty streets and left. Interesting experience. I see now that they are opening up a few hotels on the beach for tourists and the Greek Cypriots are quite unhappy.

There is NO way you can enter the Ghost Town, it is CLOSED to everyone. You can only have a look from a distance. However you can walk around freely in the rest of Famagusta town, just like everyone else who lives there. You can go to the shops, restaurants, mosques, wherever you wish. It goes without saying that you need to have your passport with you at all times. We visited back in March in our rental car and had no problems at all.

It is not possible to enter the Ghost town you just drive round the outside but the old town is very nice and so is the Othello tower

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Ghost Town Famagusta

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

GHOST TOWN FAMAGUSTA: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• Famagusta City Tour with Salamis & 'Ghost Town' from Paphos (From S$96.00)
• FAMAGUSTA & NICOSIA Private Tour from Kyrenia (From S$228.93)
• Famagusta City Tour with Salamis & 'Ghost Town' from Limassol (From S$96.00)
• Black Pearl Pirate Cruise from Ayia Napa (From S$78.27)
• Famagusta & Kyrenia Private Day as Circular Tour from Nicosia (From S$552.09)
• (0.17 km) Sunrise Pearl Hotel & Spa
• (0.09 km) Vrissiana Beach Hotel
• (0.19 km) Vangelis Hotel & Suites
• (0.21 km) Sunrise Beach Hotel
• (0.24 km) Flamingo Paradise Beach Hotel
• (0.02 km) Andama Tavern
• (0.02 km) The Corner Restaurant
• (0.02 km) 26 Avenue Burgers & More
• (0.05 km) Pizza Hut
• (0.06 km) Patisserie Amelie
• (0.07 km) I Dive Cyprus
• (0.08 km) Bell's Cocktail Bar
• (0.15 km) Vrissiana Beach
• (0.16 km) Yerimos Motorbikes
• (0.31 km) Rockafellas Sports Bar

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Unease in the air as Cyprus ‘ghost town’ rises from the ruins of war

Varosha, once a chic resort, is being rebuilt in the latest move of Turkey’s power play in the eastern Mediterranean

“D o you want to ride or walk?” asks Seyki Mindik. The municipal employee points under the fierce July sun towards the multicoloured bicycles stacked within view of the police barrier at the entrance to Varosha. “There is so much to see. Tourists love it here.”

Not so long ago the very notion of the eastern Mediterranean’s most famous ghost town being resurrected as a 21st-century theme park would have been unthinkable. For more than four decades there has been almost no movement among ruins of war left to rot with the passage of time.

But in Turkish-occupied northern Cyprus , transformation is in the air.

In a place whose fate could be a game-changer in the quest to put the divided island back together again, construction workers have been tidying up: laying cement, removing debris, roping off edifices sealed from public view since Ankara sent in troops and tanks in 1974.

On Demokratias street, beside buildings allowed to decay 47 years after their Greek Cypriot inhabitants were forced to flee, a mobile canteen offers cakes and juices to those who want to ogle the relics of conflict; on a section of the beach next to hotels reclaimed by nature, Turkish Cypriot authorities have erected tables, umbrellas and chairs.

All are small signs of a brewing battle over a resort that prior to becoming a bargaining chip in a game of geopolitical chess was the Mediterranean’s most glamorous destination. It was here, along the fabled sandy beach, that Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor played. It was here that Paul Newman enjoyed the famously turquoise waters when he spent the summer of 1960 filming the epic movie Exodus . And it was here that Europe’s cosmopolitan elite gravitated until rightwing extremists championing enosis , or union with Greece, staged an ill-fated coup with the support of the colonels then ruling Athens, prompting Turkey to invade.

Until Ankara stunned diplomats last year announcing Varosha would be partially reopened , the once vibrant enclave in the city of Famagusta – home to about 40,000 Greeks in its heyday – had lain out of reach behind barbed wire, a symbol of division but also of hope for its former residents optimistic that, at least, it had not been reoccupied like other parts of territory seized in 1974.

It is into this scene that Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan will fly when he marks the anniversary of the incursion on Tuesday. In a move that has brought condemnation from the EU, the strongman has endorsed the proposal of Ersin Tatar, – his hardline Turkish Cypriot counterpart, elected with Ankara’s support in October – for a two-state solution to the Cyprus problem.

On Friday, following morning prayers, he promised “good news” for the breakaway republic, hinting at potentially groundbreaking statements when he addresses Nicosia’s self-styled Turkish Cypriot parliament during the visit.

Since the rump republic unilaterally proclaimed independence in 1983, it has been recognised only by Turkey , fostering years of international isolation for a population not only whittled down by policies of resettlement but increasingly dependent on Ankara for aid.

This month Brussels reiterated that any solution upending efforts to reunite the two ethnic communities in a bizonal, bicommunal federation – long the focus of UN-backed reunification talks – was a non-starter.

“I want to repeat that we will never, ever accept a two-state solution,” said European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen insisting the 27-member bloc would be watching Erdoğan’s visit closely. “We are firm on that, and very united.”

For many the changes in Varosha reflect Turkish Cypriot frustration with decades of failed talks. In 2004, when Cyprus came closest yet to securing a peace deal under the then UN stewardship of the late Kofi Annan, the minority community voted overwhelmingly in favour of the plan. Greek Cypriots, by contrast, rejected it. Efforts earlier this year to find common ground to kickstart negotiations made little headway.

But Varosha’s creeping commercialisation is also viewed as part of a broader policy by Erdoğan to improve Ankara’s leverage at a time when potentially explosive tensions over rival claims to offshore energy rights in the eastern Mediterranean remain far from resolved.

“It’s part of a wider Turkish strategy, pursued in recent years, to create facts on the ground that improve their bargaining position, or become permanent gains,” says Hubert Faustmann, a professor of history and politics at the University of Nicosia in the internationally recognised south. “And it’s clearly being done to appease nationalists in Turkey and in a very offensive way for Nicos Anastasiades’s government.”

Few places are as redolent of the pain suffered by Greek Cypriots – turned into refugees overnight as heavily armed Turkish forces advanced across the Mesaoria plain towards the eastern port town. Tales of homes abandoned in mid-afternoon, meals left on tables, valuables hastily hidden by inhabitants fleeing with little more than the clothes on their back, are legendary. “What to say?” said Alexandra Orfanou, returning to Varosha to see the city and retrieve a photo, taken on the day of her engagement to her husband, Sotiris, that a kindly Turkish Cypriot doctor had found and wanted to return. “Loss, loss, loss, that’s what I feel,” she says, eyeing edifices frozen in time. “We lived in a village nearby but came here every day. I can remember taking my daughter to elementary school as if it were yesterday.”

Anna Marangou, whose family spent every summer in the town, was among those who fled in little more than flip-flops, a swimsuit and T-shirt on 14 August 1974 when Ankara launched the second phase of its “peace operation” in a land grab that saw Turkish troops occupy 37% of the island.

At 70, she can still vividly recall sipping Pimm’s on the porch of the beachfront villa from which she and her relatives took flight. “We made our way to the British bases. Everyone said we’d be back in hours,” the prominent archaeologist and art historian says.

In November when Erdoğan declared his intention to enjoy a picnic on Famagusta’s once fenced-off shoreline as part of the new policy to exploit Varosha, she responded with a cri-de-coeur video that soon went viral reminding him it was neither his homeland, nor that of Turkish investors or settlers, but belonged to Greek Cypriots who had historically inhabited it.

“Stay away from Cyprus, from Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots and respect our human rights,” she says in the voiceover. “Our right to bring peace and love back again to our country, respecting each other, accepting our similarities and our differences. We can work together as long as you keep away from our land.”

But it also galls Marangou, an ardent supporter of reconciliation who co-founded the Famagusta for Cyprus movement which recently contested parliamentary elections, that successive Greek Cypriot administrations have handled negotiations with an “all or nothing” approach.

“Famagusta was always a special case,” she insists, adding that an agreement ending the territorial dispute could have played a decisive role in reaching a settlement. “It was under Turkish military occupation and never belonged to the breakaway Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. There was a UN resolution [stipulating] it be handed back to its lawful owners. We’ve been offered it seven times, including in 1978 when we could have swept the floors and moved back into our homes. But there was always this ‘all or nothing’ approach.”

The Anastasiades government has been chastised, at home and abroad, for its lacklustre handling of peace talks. In 2017 the Greek Cypriot leader reportedly walked out of negotiations when the moderate Turkish Cypriot Mustafa Akıncı was prepared to make unprecedented concessions.

Yet the prospect of a two-state solution also faces stiff resistance from Turkish Cypriots themselves, many appalled that a ghost town that was never theirs should now be opened to sightseers. “This place doesn’t belong to us,” says Peril Emiroğluları, taking in the dilapidated buildings still decorated with Greek signage. “The original owners should be back. We should be living in Cyprus together.”

Erdoğan has also intimated he will appeal to Greek Cypriots to return to their homes.

More than 300 have already applied to the immovable properties commission in northern Cyprus to win back real estate that is likely to cost Turkey billions in compensation. If local remedies fail they will resort to the European Court of Human Rights.

“Greek Cypriots have been deprived of their right to enjoy their properties and I am encouraging everyone to make claims in opposition to government policy,” says Achilleas Demetriades, the island’s leading human rights lawyer who also spent much of his childhood in Famagusta. “I want vindication on this issue but also reconciliation.”

A possible contender in the next presidential elections, the 60-year-old remains optimistic despite all the signs pointing to deeper partition.

Cyprus, he says, is too small to be divided and there is a “dividend to peace”.

“It is in both communities’ interest to solve the Cyprus problem. We may be in a frozen conflict but we are still in conflict. Varosha is the beacon that will guide the way. If we lose it, we lose our direction towards a solution.”

• The Observer
• Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

Most viewed

FAMAGUSTA ‘’THE GHOST TOWN’’ BY THE RED BUS

Experience Famagusta

Enjoy a journey to the occupied side of Cyprus. You will also have the opportunity to do some sightseeing in Famagusta’s Old Town Centre, as well as visit the beautiful Golden Beach of the area. Not only will you get to take in the fascinating history Famagusta has to offer, but you will also get close to Famagusta’s ‘Ghost Town’ which has been frozen in time for over 45 years.

Visit Famagusta’s ‘Ghost Town’ and the surrounding areas

Did you know?

Famagusta has been under Turkish occupation since 1974.

Things To Do

• Free time in Famagusta Old Town Centre for sightseeing and lunch (approx.1 hour 30 min)
• Free time into the “Ghost Town” , swimming and lunch. (approx. 2 hours, lunch is optional and not included in the price.)

Pickup at one of our pick up points in Paralimni, Protaras and Ayia Napa

Return to Protaras around 15:00, Ayia Napa around 15:30

Price per passenger age 12+ and adult €35. Price per passenger age 3-12 €15. Passenger up to 3 years old are free.

Please note that this excursion is available only on Tuesdays and Fridays.

IMPORTANT: ON THE DAY OF THE EXCURSION YOU MUST HAVE YOUR PASSPORT WITH YOU. ONLY EUROPEAN UNION CITIZENS ARE ALLOWED TO USE THEIR NATIONAL ID CARDS. NO PHOTOCOPIES ALLOWED!

Book your Guided Tour and live a unique experience

Shop 3, 13 Kriou Nerou, 5330, Ayia Napa

+357 23 723 623

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