Red Bus Varosha Tour from Ayia Napa & Protaras
Join the award-winning Original Red Bus Crew on this fascinating journey into the recent past. The Varosha area of Famagusta is completely unique in the world and has been opened to the public after almost 50 years of being closed off. Abandoned overnight by it's residents in the wake of the incoming Turkish invasion in 1974, Varosha was once the most glamourous holiday resort in the Mediterranean. Reclaimed by nature, slowing crumbling back into earth, it is poignant, humbling and heart wrenching.
Highlights:
- Explore Varosha ghost town
- View the abandoned hotels from the beach front
- English guide and commentary
Book with a deposit and pay the rest on the bus. Available from April to October, weather permitting.
Tour DescriptionIn the 1970's Famagusta was one of the most glamourous holiday resorts in the Mediterranean. Visited by film stars, royalty and the rich and famous of the world, there were chic hotels, disco's, designer shops and all the modern and upmarket entertainments you might find in a large holiday resort. After the Turkish invasion of 1974 this area became a no-mans land, sealed off from the world with only a few Turkish soldiers and UN peacekeepers allowed in.
The 5 star hotels sit abandoned, luxury cars still sit in showrooms and nature has reclaimed the resort that was bereft of people, cars and life for so long. In 2020 the Northern Cyprus administration decided to open up selected parts of Varosha and for the first time tourists could enter and walk down the palm lined streets and peer into the dusty shop windows. This half day tour allows you time to explore Varosha or spend time at the famous Famagusta beach. Your guide will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore this area before politics, economics and nature intervene. Please note: Cash is not accepted in Varosha, any drinks/snacks purchased must be paid by credit or debit card only. If you see the Book Now button below you can book this tour online. Otherwise please contact us to enquire. |
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