Discover the best of North Cyprus with this complete Cyprus vacation guide. From hidden beaches to historic towns, plan the perfect trip to this unique Mediterranean gem.
Planning a Cyprus vacation and looking for something off the beaten path? While South Cyprus is well-known among tourists, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) offers a more authentic, relaxed, and affordable experience—filled with stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and untouched nature.
This guide focuses on helping you discover the beauty of North Cyprus, from charming harbor towns to wild peninsulas and historical wonders.
🌟 Why Choose North Cyprus for Your Cyprus Vacation?
North Cyprus is a hidden Mediterranean gem where you’ll find:
- Fewer tourists and quieter beaches
- Excellent value for money
- Welcoming locals and a laid-back vibe
- Unique cultural blend of Turkish and Mediterranean influences
Whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or beachgoer, North Cyprus has something special for every traveler.
🗺️ Top Destinations in North Cyprus
🏰 Kyrenia (Girne)
A postcard-perfect harbor town with a 16th-century castle, seaside cafés, and mountain views. The old town is full of charm, and Bellapais Abbey nearby is a must-see.
🕌 Famagusta (Gazimağusa)
Explore a walled medieval city with Gothic churches turned into mosques, the haunting Varosha ghost town, and ancient Salamis Ruins by the sea.
🐢 Karpaz Peninsula (Dipkarpaz)
Untouched and wild, Karpaz offers empty golden beaches, nesting sea turtles, and herds of wild donkeys. Perfect for eco-tourism and solitude.
🏞️ Nicosia (Lefkoşa – North Side)
The world’s last divided capital offers markets, museums, and the chance to cross into South Cyprus through the pedestrian checkpoint.
📆 Best Time to Take a North Cyprus Vacation
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and wildflowers |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Best for beach lovers—hot and sunny |
| Autumn (Sep–Oct) | Warm sea, mild weather, fewer crowds |
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Quiet, great for culture & local experiences |
North Cyprus enjoys a Mediterranean climate with over 300 sunny days per year—perfect for a vacation almost any time.
🏖️ Best Things to Do in North Cyprus
- Swim at untouched beaches: Glapsides, Golden Beach, Escape Beach
- Visit Salamis Ruins: A vast ancient Roman city near Famagusta
- Hike the Five Finger Mountains (Beşparmak Dağları)
- Experience Bellapais Abbey’s serenity and views
- Discover the heritage of St. Hilarion Castle—said to inspire Disney’s castles
- Try local cuisine: Halloumi, kebabs, mezes, and Turkish coffee
- Take a boat trip from Kyrenia harbor
🚗 Getting to and Around North Cyprus
✈️ How to Get There
- Ercan International Airport (ECN) – Flights via Türkiye
- Or fly into Larnaca or Paphos (South) and cross the border by taxi or car
🛂 Border Crossing Info
- Crossing between north and south is simple and visa-free for most nationalities
- Just show your passport or ID at the checkpoint
🚘 Getting Around
- Car rental is highly recommended
- Roads are good, and driving is on the left side
- Parking is free or very cheap across the north
🏨 Where to Stay in North Cyprus
| Location | Best For |
|---|---|
| Kyrenia | Couples, history lovers, sea views |
| Famagusta | Culture, student vibes, beach proximity |
| Karpaz | Nature, solitude, eco-travel |
| Bafra | Beach resorts and luxury stays |
Accommodations in North Cyprus range from family-run pensions and boutique hotels to all-inclusive resorts—often at half the price of similar options in the south.
🧭 Sample 1-Week North Cyprus Vacation Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Kyrenia, explore the harbor and castle
Day 2: Bellapais Abbey & St. Hilarion Castle
Day 3: Beach day at Escape or Alagadi (turtle nesting site)
Day 4: Drive to Famagusta, explore Salamis & old town
Day 5: Visit Varosha & relax on Glapsides Beach
Day 6: Head to Karpaz – swim at Golden Beach
Day 7: Wild donkey spotting and traditional lunch in Dipkarpaz
💡 Travel Tips for Your Cyprus Vacation in the North
- Currency: Turkish Lira (but Euros widely accepted)
- Language: Turkish (English spoken in tourist areas)
- WiFi & SIMs: Local SIM cards are cheap; many places offer free WiFi
- Costs: North Cyprus is more budget-friendly than the south
🌅 Why North Cyprus Should Be Your Next Vacation Destination
If you’re dreaming of a Cyprus vacation that combines sun, history, culture, and authentic charm—North Cyprus is the place. You’ll experience the magic of the Mediterranean without the crowds or high prices, all while exploring a part of the island many travelers still miss.
✨ Ready to plan your North Cyprus escape? From ancient cities to wild beaches, every corner of this region offers a chance to disconnect, explore, and fall in love with Cyprus all over again. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io