Visiting Varosha in 2026. Opening hours, admission and important information

Varosha is one of the most unusual places in Cyprus. Abandoned hotels, empty streets, and dilapidated buildings have been a reminder of the events of 1974 for over 50 years.

For decades, the district remained completely sealed off. Now, part of it has been opened to visitors, allowing visitors to see a place that was for many years off-limits to civilians.

However, it is worth remembering that Varosha is located on area occupied by Turkey, and its status remains the subject of international dispute. UN Security Council resolutions declare unilateral actions concerning this part of Famagusta to be inconsistent with international law.

Is it possible to visit Varosha?

Yes.

Part of the former resort district is now open to tourists. Guests can stroll along designated streets, the promenade, and enjoy the beach.

However, there is still a total ban on entering abandoned hotels, shops and other buildings.

It's worth knowing

Visitors may only travel along designated routes. Entering enclosed facilities is prohibited.

Varosha Opening Hours

If you are planning a trip, it is worth checking opening hours.

The current hours are as follows:

• April 1st – August 31st: 8:00–19:30
• September 1st – October 31st: 8:00–18:00
• November 1st – March 31st: 8:00–17:00

Hours may change, so please check the latest information before traveling.

Is there an admission fee?

NO.

The entrance to the accessible part of Varosha is free of charge.

There is no need to purchase a ticket or make a reservation in advance.

How to get to Varosha?

The easiest way to get there by car is through one of the passages leading to area occupied by Turkey, and then head towards Famagusta.

There is a large parking lot at the entrance to Varosha.

A valid ID card or passport is required to cross the ceasefire line.

Remember

If you're driving a rental car in the Republic of Cyprus, check the insurance terms and conditions beforehand. It's often necessary to purchase additional insurance for the occupied territories.

Bike or walk?

The accessible part of Varosha is quite extensive.

At the entrance you can rent:

• bicycles,
• electric bikes,
• electric scooters.

This is a convenient solution, especially in summer when temperatures exceed 30°C.

Can I use the beach?

Yes.

The beach has been opened to tourists and can be used normally.

Sunbeds, umbrellas, and small food stalls are available. During the season, many people come here solely for the beach.

What's worth seeing?

The most impressive are:

• abandoned hotels,
• former shops,
• wide promenade,
• Toyota showroom with cars left since 1974,
• deserted streets with characteristic skyscrapers.

This is one of the most photographed places in Cyprus.

Did you know that…

Before 1974, Varosha was one of the most luxurious resorts on the Mediterranean. Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Brigitte Bardot, and Raquel Welch, among others, vacationed here.

How much time is worth spending?

For a leisurely stroll around Varosha, it is worth booking about 2–3 hours.

If you are also planning to visit:

• old Famagusta,
• Salamis,
• Monastery of St. Barnabas,

It is best to allocate a whole day for the trip.

Is Varosha worth visiting?

Definitely yes.

This is one of the most unusual places in Cyprus and probably the only one in Europe where you can walk through a part of a city that has been abandoned for over half a century.

At the same time, it's worth remembering that this isn't just a tourist attraction. For many Cypriots, Varosha remains a symbol of lost homes and the unresolved consequences of the events of 1974.

Sources: UN Security Council Resolutions 550 and 789, UNFICYP, Visit Famagusta, Cyprus Mail.