Things To Do
in Famagusta
Famagusta is a historic city located on the eastern coast of Cyprus. It is known for its ancient walls surrounding the old town and the iconic Othello Castle. The city boasts a beautiful sandy beach lined with hotels and resorts, making it a popular tourist destination.
Famagusta is also home to a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and traditional Cypriot cafes scattered throughout the city.
- "Kalimera" - Good morning
- "Kalispera" - Good evening
- "Efharisto" - Thank you
- "Parakalo" - Please/You're welcome
- "Ti kanis?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the ancient city walls of Famagusta. Enjoy breathtaking views and the rich history encapsulated in the fortifications.
Head to the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque to appreciate its Gothic architecture. Afterward, explore the nearby Othello’s Tower for a deeper dive into the region's history.
Enjoy a sunset walk along the Famagusta harbor. Wrap up your day with dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring traditional Cypriot cuisine.
Relax at the pristine beaches of Varosha, once a bustling tourist area. Spend time sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
Grab a light lunch from a beachside café, then explore the fascinating ghost town of Varosha. Take memorable photos of the eerie yet intriguing abandoned buildings.
Watch the sun dip below the horizon as you enjoy dinner at a local taverna. The sounds of waves crashing nearby provide a serene backdrop to your meal.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with beautiful architecture.
- Stunning beaches and scenic coastal views.
- Mild Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine.
- A variety of local cuisines and fresh seafood.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Political tensions and unresolved conflicts in the region.
- Limited access to some areas due to the division of Cyprus.
- Economic challenges and reliance on tourism.
- Infrastructure may be lacking in certain areas compared to larger cities.
- Seasonal fluctuations in population can affect local business availability.
Best Activities in Famagusta
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the ancient Greek and Roman ruins of Salamis, including the theater, gymnasium, and Roman baths.
Enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and water sports at this picturesque beach near Famagusta.
Embark on a nature adventure to explore the pristine beaches, wildlife, and rich history of the Karpaz Peninsula.
Relax and unwind at this beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and golden sands.
Tours
Uncover the best of Famagusta with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Famagusta
Visit one of these nice places.
Historical site offering panoramic views of Famagusta and great photo opportunities.
Iconic landmark with stunning views of the town and the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Boasts picturesque ruins and beautiful coastal scenery, ideal for capturing memorable photos.
Perched on a mountaintop, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and coastline.
Food in Famagusta
Famagusta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try traditional Cypriot dining experience featuring a variety of small dishes like hummus, taramasalata, keftedes, souvlaki, sheftalia, and more. It's commonly shared with friends and family, offering a true taste of the local cuisine. Recommended at Petra tou Romiou or Niazi's
Must-Try!
A semi-hard, brined cheese made from a mixture of goat's and sheep's milk, with a high melting point making it perfect for grilling or frying. Try it in dishes like grilled halloumi salad or halloumi souvlaki. Recommended at Kanella Grill House or Sergios Kebab House
A classic slow-cooked lamb dish, traditionally marinated and roasted in a clay oven, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. Recommended at Emira's Garden or To Kazani
Unique Experiences
Get to know Famagusta better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to discover a wide variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, spices, and more. Engage with friendly vendors and savor the vibrant atmosphere while sampling street food like souvlaki, kebabs, and traditional pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Famagusta, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal titles and greeting them with warmth and courtesy.
Cypriots value hospitality, so it is customary to show appreciation for their warm and generous hospitality when visiting Famagusta.
Maintaining personal space and being mindful of body language is important in Famagusta, as it shows respect for others' personal boundaries.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Famagusta with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Famagusta
Ensure a smooth experience
In Famagusta, Cyprus, tipping is generally discretionary and not mandatory. It is customary to leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants if the service charge is not already included. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also appreciated but not obligatory.
Payment in Famagusta, Cyprus is commonly made in cash, especially for small transactions and at local establishments. Larger businesses and hotels often accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases. Contactless payments and mobile payment options are becoming more widely available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Famagusta.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May is a great time to visit Famagusta as the weather is mild, the flowers are in bloom, and it's not too crowded with tourists.
June to August is high season with hot weather perfect for beach activities and water sports, but it can be crowded and more expensive.
September to November offers pleasant temperatures, less crowded beaches, and the opportunity to experience local festivals and events.
December to February can be mild and enjoyable for exploring historical sites, although some tourist facilities may have reduced hours.
Famagusta at Night
Hiking in Famagusta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural park with scenic views, sandy beaches, and hiking trails that take you through diverse landscapes and wildlife.
An abandoned beachfront area that offers unique routes for exploration on foot along the coast and through the historical town.
A beautiful coastal area with cliffs, caves, and trails, perfect for hiking while enjoying splendid views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Although a bit further away, the Troodos Mountains offer a variety of hiking trails amidst pine forests and picturesque villages.
Ancient ruins with pathways that allow for exploration and a glimpse into the history of Cyprus, set in a scenic environment.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Famagusta through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Famagusta by plane.
The largest international airport in Cyprus, located approximately 50 kilometers southwest of Famagusta.
An important airport in Northern Cyprus, situated about 25 kilometers from Famagusta.
Another major international airport in Cyprus, located around 140 kilometers west of Famagusta.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Famagusta, primarily consisting of Greek Orthodox Christians, with a rich cultural heritage and historical significance in the region.
The second largest demographic group, predominantly Muslim, who have historically resided in the region alongside Greek Cypriots.
A small Christian community in Cyprus, primarily of Lebanese descent, with a distinct identity and culture.
Another minority Christian community in Cyprus, with historical ties to the island and a unique cultural heritage.
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Famagusta.
The Soul of Famagusta
Discover the essence of Famagusta through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Famagusta, with numerous local clubs and a strong following among fans.
Basketball is widely played and enjoyed in Famagusta, featuring youth leagues and local competitions.
Volleyball is popular, especially among schools and community clubs, with both indoor and beach volleyball played.
Tennis enjoys popularity in the region, with several courts available for both recreational and competitive play.
Athletics, including track and field events, is practiced by many, especially in schools and local sports clubs.
With access to beaches, swimming is a favored sport for recreation and competitive events in Famagusta.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Famagusta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Famagusta cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences, offering a variety of salads, grilled vegetables, meze options, and traditional dishes like vegetarian moussaka. Visit places like Zemero Restaurant or Aspava for a satisfying meat-free experience.
While traditional Cypriot cuisine heavily features bread and pastries, some establishments, such as Canbulat Pide, offer gluten-free alternatives like rice-based dishes, grilled meats, and fresh seafood, ensuring that individuals with gluten intolerances can still enjoy the local flavors.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Famagusta with these cultural adventures.
