Famagusta district (North) Travel Guide

Explore the stunning beauty of Famagusta District (North) with our ultimate guide. Discover the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in North Cyprus.


Introduction to Famagusta District (North)

Welcome to North Cyprus, one of Europe’s most beautiful and historic destinations! Nestled along the eastern coast of Cyprus, Famagusta District (North) is a charming tourist destination that offers a unique blend of Mediterranean culture along with spectacular natural beauty. Home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, this district is a perfect destination for beach lovers looking to indulge in some water sports or just enjoy basking in the sunshine.

In this comprehensive guide, we provide you with some of the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around when exploring Famagusta District (North).

List of Places to Visit in Famagusta District (North)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Famagusta District (North) is famous for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Here are some of the popular attractions that are worth a visit:

  • Salamis Ancient City: dating back to the 11th century BC, this ancient city is known for its impressive ruins and mosaics.

  • St Barnabas Monastery: A well-preserved 4th-century Byzantine monastery located near the city of Famagusta. It houses an impressive collection of relics, including the tomb of St. Barnabas, Cyprus’ patron saint.

  • Othello Castle: a 14th-century Venetian fortification located in the walled city of Famagusta.

  • Kantara Castle: a must-visit medieval castle perched high on the southern slopes of the Besparmak Mountain range, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Natural Attractions of Famagusta District (North): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Famagusta District (North) is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. Here are some of the popular outdoor and scenic attractions:

  • Karpaz Peninsula: the long and narrow picturesque peninsula that juts out forms the easternmost point of the island. It houses rare flora and fauna and is one of the country’s most peaceful destinations.

  • Famagusta Beach: another must-visit attraction in Famagusta District (North) is its beautiful sandy beach stretching over 15 kilometers from Famagusta to Karpaz. Some popular water activities include windsurfing, kitesurfing, and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Famagusta District (North)

For the adventure enthusiasts looking to explore the region’s natural beauty, hiking and biking are some of the popular activities. Here are some of the popular trails:

  • Besparmak Trail: a popular hiking and biking trail that runs through the Besparmak Mountain range with scenic views of the coastline.

  • Karpaz Peninsula: the pristine ecosystem home to several hiking and walking trails, including the spectacular Karpaz National Park Trail.

Best Things to Do in Famagusta District (North): Activities and Tours

Famagusta District (North) is home to numerous activities and tours that cater to travelers’ diverse tastes. Here are a few highlights.

  • Water Sports: Popular water sports in the region include windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and fishing.

  • Boat trips: Numerous boat tours depart from Famagusta to explore the region’s coast, stopping at secluded bays, and discovering hidden coves.

Week-Long Itinerary for Famagusta District (North)

Here’s a sample itinerary for exploring Famagusta District (North) in a week:

  • Day 1 & 2: Visit the Salamis Ancient City and St Barnabas Monastery.

  • Day 3 & 4: Explore the Karpaz National Park and take part in water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

  • Day 5 & 6: Take a boat trip and discover the region’s secluded beaches and hidden coves.

  • Day 7: Visit the Othello Castle and the historic walled city of Famagusta.

Food and Drink Scene of Famagusta District (North)

Must-Try Dishes

The region’s cuisine is heavily influenced by Greek and Turkish cultures. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Kleftiko: a traditional Greek dish that is slow-cooked beef or lamb, served with potatoes, onions, and bell peppers.

  • Souvlaki: a famous Greek street food made from skewered meat accompanied with bread.

  • Mezze: a platter of small dishes served as appetizers that typically include hummus, tzatziki, chickpea salad, lamb chops, and more.

Local Beverages

The traditional drinks in northern Cyprus include:

  • Turkish coffee: a strong and thick coffee commonly served after a meal or as a midday pick-me-up.

  • Raki: a strong alcoholic drink made from aniseed, mixed with water before serving.

Where to Stay in Famagusta District (North): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Famagusta District (North) has a wide range of accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference. Here are some popular options:

  • Salamis Bay Conti Resort Hotel & Casino: Located in the heart of Famagusta District, the resort offers luxury amenities, panoramic views of the Mediterranean, and excellent services.

  • Noah’s Ark Deluxe Hotel & Casino: Situated on the Karpaz Peninsula, the hotel is the perfect choice for relaxation, luxury amenities, and an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.

What to Buy in Famagusta District (North): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some unique souvenirs to take home from Famagusta District (North) include:

  • Lefkara Lace: a handicraft originated in Lefkara village and involves a needlepoint lace technique that creates intricate patterns.

  • Olive Oil: quality olive oil is readily available throughout Famagusta District (North).

Local Culture and Customs of Famagusta District (North)

Some unique aspects of local culture include communal dinners, the practice of the hammam, and the enjoyment of strong coffee.

Best Time to Visit Famagusta District (North)

The best time to visit Famagusta District (North) is between April to October when the weather is sunny and warm.

Do’s and Don’ts of Famagusta District (North)

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t expect shops to be open on Sundays.

  • Don’t visit the area’s border zone without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Famagusta District (North)

North Cyprus, in general, is safe. However, visitors should take general precautions while exploring the region.

Health in Famagusta District (North)

No specific vaccinations are necessary for travel to Northern Cyprus.

Getting to Famagusta District (North): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Famagusta District (North)

Ercan International Airport is the main airport near Famagusta District (North), located approximately 30 minutes from Famagusta.

Bus Stations Near Famagusta District (North)

The Famagusta Bus Terminal located in the city center provides frequent transportation to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

Travelers can also use taxis, hire a car or private driver to explore Famagusta District (North).

How to Get Around in Famagusta District (North)

Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis. However, it’s recommended to explore the region with a rental car or private driver.

Where to Go Next from Famagusta District (North): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are a few nearby destinations to check out:

  • Nicosia: The capital city with a rich history and impressive architecture is only an hour and a half’s drive from Famagusta District (North).

  • Kyrenia: Renowned for its spectacular mountain range, beautiful beaches, and rich history, Kyrenia is only an hour’s drive from Famagusta District (North).

Conclusion

Famagusta District (North) is undoubtedly a destination that combines some of the best elements of ancient history, breathtaking natural beauty, and an unforgettable Mediterranean experience. With this comprehensive guide, you can explore the region’s best attractions, cuisine, culture, and accommodation options with ease. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the stunning beauty of northern Cyprus!

Cape Apostolos Andreas Cape Apostolos Andreas A shuttle bus to Karpaz at Famagusta Bus Station A shuttle bus to Karpaz at Famagusta Bus Station Apostolos Andreas Monastery Apostolos Andreas Monastery Kantara Castle Kantara Castle Wild donkeys Wild donkeys The Golden Beach on a cloudy day The Golden Beach on a cloudy day Unspoilt Karpaz has widespread existence of rare species, such as the sand lily Unspoilt Karpaz has widespread existence of rare species, such as the sand lily Kaya Artemis Hotel Kaya Artemis Hotel


    Famagusta
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