Mr. John was born and raised in Varosha, the “Ghost Town” of Famagusta. His family owned a citrus grove of nearly 50,000 square metres along the coast, just outside the town.
As the eldest of four children, he was responsible for irrigating the land and helping his family farm.
But in 1974, at the age of just 15, Mr. John and his family were forced to abandon their home and land during the Turkish invasion. Since then, the northern part of Cyprus, including Varosha, has remained under Turkish military control.
On his tour, you will hear first-hand stories — not from books, but from someone who lived through history. His guiding is based on personal experience and facts, making it an unforgettable and authentic journey.
Mr. John’s walking tour of the Ghost Town has been running since
2013. For the past twelve years, it has consistently earned the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence, ranking among the most highly recommended excursions on the East Coast of Cyprus.
Listen to his stories. Walk in his footsteps.
Mr. John’s Famagusta Ghost Town Tour includes a Turkish Cypriot guide also from that era
This experience was created to offer visitors something very different from a typical sightseeing tour.
Rather than simply pointing out landmarks, Mr John guides guests through the places that shaped his own life. He shares personal stories, memories of neighbourhoods and family homes, and the emotional experience of returning to a city that was once his everyday world.
It is an experience built on authenticity, memory, and human connection.
We will pick you up from your Accommodation or on pick-up points. We will contact you before the Tour.
Seamless passing of the crosspoint and the Green line. Don't forget to bring your travel documents.
Your Authentic Guide
We visit the Ghost Town of Famagusta and the Golden Beach of Famagusta. Alongside the story of Varosha, the tour also explores the historic walled city of Famagusta.
After the tour you will have free time for Lunch and Walk in Famagusta City.
“BEST TOUR EVER!!! AMAZING!! While in Agia Napa I contacted the Mr. John tours by email and they contacted me back within the hour. I was picked up from my hotel at about 07.45 and then carried onto pick up other people. The coach was 75% full and Mr. John was great explaining about the Cypriot . . . "
Holidaylover67 - TripAdvisor
“Just returned from fantastic tour with Mr John and Mr Ahmed. This really is an outstanding tour.. hearing real stories of how they have both suffered in the past due to the occupation. Really moving but also light hearted moments throughout Tour was about 6-7 hours cost €30 each, which is phenomenal value . . ."
Mark P - TripAdvisor
"Fantastic trip to the ghost town of Verosha and visit to Famagusta northern Cyprus Well worth the money for this emotional and informative trip. Mr John and Mr Ahmed share stories about their life before everything changed in 74. Mr John who is Greek Cypriot and Mr Ahmed who is Turkish Cypriot share . . ."
Niccisunlover - TripAdvisor
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Mr. John, he replies to all messages and phone calls. In case it is after-hours he will get back to you first thing in the morning.
Yes. The tour follows all official regulations and crossing procedures. Visitors cross through the designated checkpoint and enter Varosha legally. Mr John guides you through the reopened areas of the Ghost Town and Famagusta’s historic walled city in a respectful and safe manner.
All guests must bring a valid passport or EU ID card to cross the checkpoint. Unfortunately, some nationalities may have restrictions — if you are unsure, contact us before booking and we will confirm for you.
This is not a typical sightseeing trip. Mr John was born and raised in Famagusta before 1974 and returns to his own neighbourhood and family home. During the tour, a Turkish Cypriot guide from that era also joins, offering both perspectives of the city’s history. It is a deeply personal and balanced experience.
Bookings are made securely online through our official booking system powered by Bókun. You will receive instant confirmation by email once your reservation is completed. Spaces are limited, especially during peak season, so early booking is recommended.
