Wondering how to get to Cyprus? Learn all the travel options for reaching both North and South Cyprus by air, sea, or land crossings. A complete guide for all travelers.
Cyprus is a stunning Mediterranean island known for its sunny climate, historical richness, and warm hospitality. But before you can start exploring its ancient ruins or relaxing on golden beaches, you need to know exactly how to get to Cyprus—especially if you’re heading to the lesser-known North Cyprus.
Whether you’re flying, sailing, or crossing by land, this guide covers everything you need to know about arriving in Cyprus, including visa info, airport options, and how to reach both South and North Cyprus easily.
🛫 How to Get to Cyprus by Air
✈️ Flying to South Cyprus (Republic of Cyprus)
Most international travelers fly into the Republic of Cyprus, the internationally recognized southern part of the island.
There are two major airports in the south:
- Larnaca International Airport (LCA): The largest and busiest, with connections across Europe and the Middle East.
- Paphos International Airport (PFO): Serves mostly budget airlines and European destinations.
From these airports, you can travel freely in the south, or cross into North Cyprus via one of the border checkpoints (more on that below).
✈️ Flying to North Cyprus (TRNC)
To reach North Cyprus directly, you must fly via Türkiye. There are no direct international flights due to political reasons.
- Ercan International Airport (ECN) near Nicosia is the main airport in North Cyprus.
- Flights connect via Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and other Turkish cities.
- Airlines like Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, and AnadoluJet operate frequent flights.
✅ Tip: Turkish Airlines and Pegasus allow same-day international connections, so your flight will be one ticket, even with the stopover in Türkiye.
🛳️ How to Get to Cyprus by Sea
You can also reach Cyprus by ferry, especially if you’re traveling from nearby countries.
🚢 Ferries to South Cyprus
There are seasonal cruise ships that dock in Limassol or Larnaca, mainly from Greece or Israel. However, ferry travel to the south is not widely available for regular passenger transport.
🚢 Ferries to North Cyprus
From Türkiye, regular ferries run to Kyrenia (Girne) and Famagusta (Gazimağusa) from ports like:
- Mersin
- Taşucu
- Alanya
Ferries are operated by companies such as Akgünler Denizcilik and Fergün Ferry Lines. You can bring your car or travel as a foot passenger.
✅ Tip: These ferries are affordable and allow flexible luggage rules.
🛂 How to Enter North Cyprus from the South (Land Crossings)
If you arrive in South Cyprus, you can easily cross into North Cyprus through one of several UN-controlled checkpoints.
🚪 Main Crossing Points:
- Ledra Palace (for cars and pedestrians) – near Nicosia
- Ledra Street (pedestrian only) – right in the heart of Nicosia Old City
- Ayios Dometios (Metehan) – for vehicles
- Pyla / Beyarmudu – near Larnaca
- Astromeritis / Zodhia – westward access
- Akyar / Strovilia – near Famagusta
You’ll need:
- A passport or EU ID card
- No visa is needed for most nationalities (90 days stay in North Cyprus)
- Car insurance can be purchased at the border for driving in the north
✅ Note: There are no official stamps placed in your passport when crossing.
🧭 Which Option is Best for You?
| Route | Ideal For |
|---|---|
| Fly to Larnaca + cross to North | Budget travelers, EU/UK citizens, exploring both sides |
| Fly via Türkiye to Ercan | Direct access to North Cyprus, Turkish citizens, avoiding border crossing |
| Ferry from Türkiye to Kyrenia | Road trippers, long-stay visitors, or vehicle transport |
| Cruise to South Cyprus | Mediterranean cruise enthusiasts |
🌍 Entry Rules and Travel Tips
- Currency:
- South Cyprus uses the Euro (€)
- North Cyprus uses the Turkish Lira (₺) but € and £ are widely accepted
- Visas:
- South Cyprus: Schengen-exempt nationals can enter visa-free
- North Cyprus: 90-day visa-free entry for most (including EU, UK, US, Canada)
- Travel Insurance:
- Always recommended—covers border-related or medical emergencies
- Driving in Both Sides:
- Roads are well maintained; you drive on the left side
- Rental cars from the South can be taken to the North with extra insurance at the border
🧳 Final Tips for Getting to Cyprus
- Book early in summer and holiday periods
- If arriving via Larnaca, plan a stop in Nicosia before heading north
- Travel light if planning to cross on foot at Ledra Street
- Always check current crossing policies and health regulations
✨ Ready to Travel?
Whether you’re aiming to explore the beaches of Kyrenia, the ruins of Famagusta, or hop between North and South, now you know exactly how to get to Cyprus.
🧭 Plan your route, book your ticket, and start your Mediterranean journey today! northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io