Famagusta is the lynch pin of the Cypriot problem and having once been the premier tourist resort of the Middle East, now finds itself isolated in the Turkish occupied northern part of the island.
Still, tourism is beginning to gain a foothold on the beaches there although the best beaches are still within the controlled zone. There’s much to explore if you have a hire car. The ruins of Salamis to the north of the town are spectacular and continuing up the ‘pan handle’ you’ll find mile after mile of deserted beaches.
Famagusta Mini Guide
Famagusta city is located in the district of the same name. The area has had a troubled history following the Turkish invasion of Northern Cyprus in 1974.
Although Turkish forces occupy the capital city Famagusta, the southern area known as 'Free Famagusta' is popular with tourists and residents who are looking for sea, sand and sunshine.
The city of Famagusta is walled medieval city with a port. It has been an important shipping hub for merchants travelling through the eastern Mediterranean since ancient times. It is also one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in the whole of Europe.
Famagusta, home to around 40,000 people, is a place where the ancient world now meets the modern world and is close to some fantastic beaches.
Much of the district is quiet, but the nightlife of Ayia Napa and Paralimni is never far away. In Famagusta there are many quaint fishing villages to explore, local restaurants serving excellent food, an 18-hole golf course and an airport. You will need to travel to Famagusta by car as there is no scheduled public transport in the area.
There are two main crossing points, one by the Village of Pyla and the other by Dhekelia, though you must have your passport and valid car insurance (which you can buy at the border) in order to cross. Insurance costs between 30-40 Euros for a month of coverage.
However, because of the political instability of the region it must be stressed that any trips to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, though exciting, are at your own risk.
You should also note that much of Famagusta maintains the look of a war zone and it is forbidden to take photographs of the militarized area which is occupied by Turkish troops.
One jaw-dropping sight is the neighbourhood of Varosha in Famagusta which was turned into a ghost town when the Turkish army invaded Cyprus. Its residents literally upped and left, meaning that no one has lived there for more than 30 years. Buildings are now starting to fall apart and Varosha has an eerie feel.
The fact that Northern Cyprus is not recognised as a country by any nation apart from Turkey means that it has become attractive to criminals looking to hide from the authorities. Gambling and prostitution are also legal there, which has given Famagusta and northern Cyprus an illicit feel. That said, it is a safe place to visit and full of character.
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