Planning a trip to North Cyprus? Discover essential info about Cyprus airports, including Larnaca and Paphos – flights, transfers, visa tips & more.
When traveling to Cyprus, most international visitors arrive through Larnaca International Airport (LCA) or Paphos International Airport (PFO) — both located in the southern (Greek Cypriot-administered) part of the island. If you’re heading to North Cyprus (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus – TRNC), it’s important to know your options for arriving smoothly and legally.
This comprehensive Cyprus airport guide will walk you through everything you need to know: airport info, how to reach North Cyprus, visa considerations, and more.
📍 1. Overview of Cyprus Airports
Cyprus has three main airports:
- Larnaca International Airport (LCA) – The largest and busiest, located near the southeastern coast, ideal for travel to Famagusta, Iskele, or Kyrenia (Girne) via border crossings.
- Paphos International Airport (PFO) – A smaller airport on the western coast, commonly used by budget airlines.
- Ercan Airport (ECN) – Located in North Cyprus, accessible only via Turkey. Not internationally recognized by the Republic of Cyprus or the EU, but widely used by visitors from Türkiye and other countries via a layover in Istanbul, Ankara, or Antalya.
🛫 2. Arriving at Larnaca or Paphos – What to Know
If you’re flying into Larnaca or Paphos, you are entering the Republic of Cyprus, an EU member state. From there, many tourists cross into North Cyprus by land.
✅ No visa required for EU/UK/US passport holders for short stays (up to 90 days). Always check your specific country’s entry rules before traveling.
🚐 Getting to North Cyprus:
- From Larnaca to Kyrenia (Girne): Approx. 1.5 hours by car.
- From Paphos to Kyrenia: Approx. 2.5–3 hours by car.
🚌 Transfer options:
- Private taxi transfer (most convenient for crossing the border)
- Car rental (ensure the rental company allows border crossing)
- Shuttle services (available from major airports to North Cyprus cities)
🛂 3. Crossing the Border to North Cyprus
Border crossings are open and generally smooth for tourists. The most commonly used checkpoints:
- Metehan (Agios Dometios) – near Nicosia/Lefkoşa
- Ledra Palace – pedestrian crossing in central Nicosia
- Beyarmudu (Pergamos) – near Larnaca
✔️ Just present your passport at the checkpoint. Your passport is not stamped; entry is digitally registered by TRNC border officials.
✈️ 4. Flying Direct to North Cyprus – Ercan Airport
If you’re visiting North Cyprus only, the most direct route is via Ercan Airport (ECN), near Nicosia. International travelers must transit via Türkiye to arrive at Ercan.
🛬 Ercan Airport serves:
- Turkish Airlines
- Pegasus Airlines
- AnadoluJet
New terminal upgrades have made Ercan Airport modern, efficient, and easy to navigate.
💡 Travel Tips for Flying into Cyprus
- Larnaca is the best option for those visiting Famagusta or Kyrenia from the south.
- Paphos is ideal for budget travelers, especially during summer months with Ryanair and WizzAir flights.
- Ercan is best for travelers flying via Türkiye and staying entirely in North Cyprus.
- Avoid political discussions at checkpoints to ensure a smooth experience.
- Always carry valid ID and travel insurance.
🧳 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re landing in Larnaca, Paphos, or Ercan, getting to North Cyprus is easier than many travelers expect. With clear border procedures, reliable transport options, and friendly locals on both sides, your journey to discover the beauty of TRNC will start off on the right foot.
Use this Cyprus airport guide to plan a stress-free arrival — and get ready to enjoy the hidden gems of North Cyprus! northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io