North Cyprus is one of the Mediterranean’s most surprising destinations. Tucked away on the northern shore of Cyprus, it offers turquoise sea, warm sun, ancient ruins, and incredible food — all with far fewer crowds than most European beach destinations, lower prices, and a character entirely its own. If you have never been, you are in for a treat.
This guide covers everything a first-time visitor needs to know: how to get here, what to expect, where to go, what to eat, and how to make the most of your time..
Where Exactly Is North Cyprus?
North Cyprus sits on the northern shore of the island of Cyprus, with the Kyrenia mountain range running along its spine and the warm Mediterranean stretching out in front. The main town is Kyrenia (Girne) — a picturesque harbour town that serves as the heart of tourism on this coast, and the base for most visitors.
You will find Denizkizi Hotel right here on the beachfront, just minutes from the old harbour, perfectly placed for exploring everything the region has to offer.
How to Get There
Flights arrive at Ercan Airport (ECN), which operates via a connection through Turkey — typically Istanbul or Ankara. Journey times are very manageable, and the transit adds little to the overall travel experience.
Main options:
- Via Turkey: Fly to Istanbul (IST or SAW) or Ankara (ESB), then connect to Ercan. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines both operate this route.
- Via Larnaca: Fly into Larnaca International Airport, then travel north by road. The crossing is straightforward for most international passport holders.
- Ferry from Turkey: Seasonal ferry services run between Tasucu or Alanya in Turkey and Kyrenia port — a scenic option if you are already in Turkey.
When to Visit
North Cyprus enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate: long, hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Here is a quick breakdown by season:
- April to June: Arguably the best time to visit. Warm (22-28°C), the sea is getting swimmable, wildflowers are in bloom, and it is before the peak summer crowds.
- July and August: Peak season. Hot (30-36°C+), busy, and vibrant. Great for beach holidays and watersports. Book accommodation well in advance.
- September and October: Our personal favourite. The heat softens, the sea is still beautifully warm from summer, and the island quietens down. Perfect for families and couples alike.
- November to March: The off-season. Cooler and occasionally rainy, but mild by European standards. Great for walkers, history lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat at lower prices.
Currency, Language & Practicalities
Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the official currency. Euros and British pounds are widely accepted in tourist areas, though you will get better value exchanging or using local ATMs. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.
Language: Turkish is the official language. English is very widely spoken throughout Kyrenia and tourist areas — you will have no trouble getting around without Turkish, though locals always appreciate a friendly Merhaba (hello) or Tesekkurler (thank you).
SIM cards & internet: Local SIM cards are cheap and easy to buy at the airport or in town. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free WiFi.
Safety: North Cyprus is an exceptionally safe destination. Crime rates are very low and locals are famously warm and hospitable to visitors. Solo travellers, families, and elderly guests all feel welcome and comfortable here.
Top Places to Visit
Kyrenia (Girne) Old Harbour
The old harbour is the jewel of North Cyprus — a crescent-shaped medieval port ringed with castle walls, fish restaurants, and bobbing wooden boats. It is best visited in the evening when the golden light hits the water and the outdoor restaurants come alive. Stroll the promenade, stop for a cold Efes beer or a fresh fish dinner, and soak it all in.
Kyrenia Castle
Dominating the harbour from above, this Byzantine fortress dates back over a thousand years and was later expanded by the Lusignans and the Venetians. Inside, you will find the remarkable Shipwreck Museum — home to a 2,300-year-old merchant vessel, one of the oldest recovered ships in the world. Allow a couple of hours and go early to beat the heat.
Bellapais Abbey
A short drive from Kyrenia into the hills, Bellapais Abbey is one of the most beautiful Gothic ruins in the entire Mediterranean. Built by Augustinian monks in the 12th century, the abbey sits amid a quiet village with breathtaking views across the coast. It was famously celebrated by the writer Lawrence Durrell in his book Bitter Lemons of Cyprus. Do not miss it.
St. Hilarion Castle
Perched dramatically on a mountain ridge above Kyrenia, St. Hilarion Castle looks like something from a fairy tale — and it is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s castle design. The hike up through the ruins rewards you with staggering panoramic views over the coast. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Famagusta (Gazimagusa)
About an hour’s drive east of Kyrenia, Famagusta is a walled city of extraordinary historical depth. The Cathedral of Saint Nicholas — converted into the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque — is a Gothic masterpiece. Nearby, the fascinating abandoned district of Varosa (Maras), frozen in time and recently partially reopened to visitors, is unlike anything else you will see in Europe.
Buffavento Castle & the Mountain Range
The Kyrenia mountain range runs along the entire northern coast, dotted with walking trails and castle ruins. Buffavento Castle — meaning battered by the winds in Italian — sits at nearly 1,000 metres and offers the most spectacular views on the island on a clear day. A rewarding half-day trip for the adventurous.
What to Eat and Drink
Cypriot cuisine is one of the great underrated food cultures of the Mediterranean, enriched here by Turkish culinary traditions. Come hungry.
- Meze: The traditional way to eat in Cyprus. A meze is a procession of small dishes — hummus, halloumi, grilled meats, salads, dips, stuffed vine leaves, calamari, and more — that arrives at your table one after another until you can eat no more. Order it at least once.
- Halloumi: The famous squeaky cheese of Cyprus. Grilled, fried, or fresh — it is everywhere and it is delicious. What you eat here bears little resemblance to the supermarket version back home.
- Fresh fish: The harbour restaurants in Kyrenia serve the day’s catch grilled simply with olive oil and lemon. Sea bream, sea bass, and red mullet are all exceptional.
- Kleftiko: Slow-cooked lamb, sealed in clay and baked for hours until it falls apart. The definitive Cypriot meat dish.
- Cay and Turkish coffee: Tea (cay) is drunk constantly and offered freely as a gesture of hospitality. Turkish coffee is thick, strong, and served with a glass of water. Specify whether you want it sade (unsweetened), az sekerli (a little sugar), or sekerli (sweet).
- Local wines and spirits: Cyprus has a long winemaking tradition. Try a glass of Commandaria, an ancient sweet dessert wine. Zivania, the local spirit distilled from grape marc, is also worth a cautious sip.
Getting Around
North Cyprus is easiest to explore by hire car. The roads are generally good, traffic is light, and you drive on the left. Car hire is inexpensive and available at the airport and in Kyrenia town.
Taxis are readily available and reasonably priced for shorter journeys. There are shared service taxis (dolmus) between main towns. For flexibility, a hire car is strongly recommended.
Water Activities & Adventure
With crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and excellent visibility, North Cyprus is a wonderful destination for water lovers. Scuba diving is particularly rewarding — the coastline offers interesting reef dives, underwater caves, and several impressive wrecks. Denizkizi Hotel has its own on-site diving centre, making it easy to arrange dives directly from the beach.
Other popular activities include snorkelling, kayaking, windsurfing, boat trips, and tandem paragliding over the Mediterranean. For those who prefer dry land, the Kyrenia mountain range offers excellent hiking through pine forests and ancient ruins.
Useful Tips Before You Go
- Sun protection: The sun here is genuinely strong, especially from May to September. High-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and avoiding the midday sun are not optional. Bring more sunscreen than you think you need.
- Tap water: Drink bottled water. Tap water in North Cyprus is desalinated and not recommended for drinking, though it is fine for brushing teeth.
- Respect local customs: North Cyprus has a warm and welcoming culture. Modest clothing is appreciated when visiting mosques, and being aware of Ramadan (dates vary by year) is a thoughtful touch.
Ready to Experience North Cyprus for Yourself?
Denizkizi Hotel has been welcoming guests to the shores of Kyrenia for decades. We are a family-run beachfront hotel with everything you need for the perfect North Cyprus holiday — from our private beach and swimming pool to our diving centre, restaurants, and the warmth of a team that treats every guest like a returning friend.
Whether it is your first visit or your twentieth, we would love to be your home away from home in North Cyprus.
Book directly at denizkizi.com for the best available rates.
