Things To Do
in Famagusta
Famagusta sits on the sunlit eastern coast of Cyprus, where medieval walls enclose a richly layered historic core. The city blends Ottoman and Venetian architecture with a lively harbor and modern cafés along the water. Nearby Salamis ruins reveal ancient splendor by the sea while the surrounding coastline offers sandy beaches and rugged coves.
Visitors can wander narrow lanes of the old town, savor fresh seafood, and set out on day trips to nature preserves and nearby peninsulas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day wandering through the enchanting streets of Famagusta's Old City, where ancient walls and historical landmarks come to life. Visit the Othello Castle, a remarkable fortress with stunning views and a rich history. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Cypriot breakfast.
After lunch, delve deeper into the city's history by exploring the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, formerly the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas. Stroll through the quaint streets filled with shops and art galleries showcasing local talent. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you interact with locals and perhaps sample some Cypriot delicacies.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at the waterfront to admire the Mediterranean's shimmering waters. Sample fresh seafood at a local taverna while enjoying the captivating sunset views. End your day by taking a leisurely walk along the coast, soaking in the serene ambiance.
Begin your day with a short drive to the ancient city of Salamis, where you can explore the impressive ruins that date back to Roman times. Walk amidst the remnants of grand amphitheaters and beautiful mosaics, imagining the life that once thrived in this historic locale. The site offers a perfect blend of nature and history, surrounded by picturesque beaches.
After exploring, enjoy a picnic lunch at the nearby beach, soaking in the sun and the sound of waves. Spend some time swimming or relaxing on the sandy shores before heading back to Famagusta. The afternoon can be spent visiting the nearby Sanctuary of Zeus, an important archaeological site.
Return to Famagusta for a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city as the stars emerge. Savor traditional Cypriot dishes and perhaps try some local wines. Conclude your evening with a tranquil walk through the illuminated Old City, taking in its beauty under the moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and dramatic sea views
- Excellent seafood and hospitality
- Compact old town easy to explore on foot
- Less nightlife compared with southern Cyprus
- Political situation can affect border crossings
- Some sites are within restricted areas (Varosha) and require guidance
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "İyiyim, teşekkür ederim" - I’m well, thank you
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Famagusta
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise shoots along the towering walls with the sea beyond, and dramatic gates.
Ottoman architecture with arches, minaret, and atmospheric courtyards.
Columns, amphitheaters, and Baths of the ancient city backed by the Mediterranean.
Pastel boats, stone quays, and reflections at golden hour.
A dramatic entry framed by palm trees, perfect for architectural shots.
Food in Famagusta
Famagusta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A long, shared sequence of hot and cold dishes, often including seafood, dips, salads, and grilled items.
Must-Try!
Sizzling Cypriot cheese, often served with lemon and bread.
Rice, herbs, and sometimes meat wrapped in grape leaves.
Skewered grilled meat served with flatbread, tomatoes, and onions.
A seafood-forward meze featuring grilled fish, calamari, prawns, and garlicky sauces.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market near the walled city offering fresh produce, herbs, spices, and local snacks.
Casual stalls and small cafes serving simit, gozleme, grilled halloumi, and fish sandwiches by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cap shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or churches; remove shoes where required.
Tourists are welcomed; guests are offered tea and informal conversation as a sign of hospitality.
A handshake is common; address elders with polite titles and wait to be invited to sit.
Safety
Tipping in Famagusta
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if not included; rounding up for taxis or small services is appreciated.
Cash in local currency (Turkish Lira) is widely accepted; Euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas; major credit cards are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and comfortable days for walking the walls and exploring Salamis.
Very hot and dry; days are long and sunny—hydration is essential and beach trips are ideal in the afternoons.
Warm days with cooler evenings; great for outdoor meals and sunset photography along the harbor.
Mild but can be rainy; pack a light rain jacket and enjoy fewer crowds at archaeological sites.
Famagusta at Night
Hiking in Famagusta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of coastal paths through unspoiled beaches and small villages in the northern tip of Cyprus.
Gentle coastal hikes connecting ruins with sea views along the northern coast.
Dramatic sea cliffs with panoramic views and clear blue water; best visited in spring or autumn.
Airports
How to reach Famagusta by plane.
Gateway to Northern Cyprus; from here you’ll typically drive to Famagusta and may need border passage if crossing into the south.
Major international gateway to the southern part of Cyprus; travel to Famagusta involves a road trip and border crossing if continuing to the north.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority community in the TRNC with Turkish language predominance.
Some Greek Cypriots live and work in the area in cross-border contexts.
Seasonal and longer-term visitors attracted by history and coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs and community leagues.
Common in schools and community centers.
Swimming, snorkeling, and sailing along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Famagusta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options abound in meze spreads and salads; ask for veggie versions and check stocks for meat-based broths.