Discover how much it really costs to travel in North Cyprus. Compare prices with the South – from hotels to food, transport, and daily expenses in 2025.
Budget tips, price comparisons, and what you’ll really spend in 2025
🏖️ Introduction: North vs South Cyprus – What’s the Difference in Cost?
Cyprus is a divided island — and not just politically. When it comes to travel costs, there’s a noticeable difference between the north (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) and the south (Republic of Cyprus, an EU member). northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io
In this guide, you’ll get:
- A breakdown of what things cost in North Cyprus
- Real comparisons with South Cyprus
- A sample daily budget
- Insider tips to save more in 2025
Let’s get to the numbers.
🛏️ 1. Accommodation – Big Savings in the North
| Type | North Cyprus (€) | South Cyprus (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget hotel | €25–40 | €50–70 |
| Mid-range hotel | €45–70 | €80–120 |
| 4-5 star resort | €80–130 | €150–250 |
| Boutique guesthouse | €30–60 | €70–100 |
💡 Why it’s cheaper:
Hotels in the North operate with lower overheads, local staff wages are lower, and prices are set in Turkish Lira, which is more favorable than the Euro.
🍽️ 2. Food & Drink – Affordable and Delicious
| Item | North Cyprus (€) | South Cyprus (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Meze dinner for 2 | €20–30 | €35–50 |
| Local beer (0.5L) | €1.50–2.50 | €3.50–5.00 |
| Bottle of wine | €4–7 (store) | €7–15 |
| Turkish coffee | €0.70–1.50 | €2.50–4.00 |
| Street food / lahmacun | €1–2 | Rare or not sold |
🍽️ Budget tip: Local restaurants often serve free bread, dips, and olives to start. You’ll leave full without needing dessert.
🚗 3. Transportation – Renting a Car is a Bargain
| Transport Type | North Cyprus (€) | South Cyprus (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Car rental (daily) | €20–35 | €40–60 |
| Taxi (short ride) | €5–10 | €10–15 |
| Fuel (per liter) | €1.15–1.30 | €1.40–1.65 |
| Bus ticket (local) | €0.80–1.50 | €1.50–3.00 |
🛻 North Cyprus tip: No Uber or Bolt, but taxis are cheap and locals may offer shared rides in rural areas.
🎟️ 4. Attractions & Experiences – More Value in the North
| Activity | North Cyprus (€) | South Cyprus (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Kyrenia Castle entry | €2–3 | N/A |
| Bellapais Abbey | Free–€2 | N/A |
| Day boat tour (with lunch) | €20–30 | €35–60 |
| Guided city tour | €15–25 | €40+ |
| Museum tickets | €1–3 | €5–10 |
🏰 Cultural sites in the North are less commercialized and much cheaper—often just a few euros.
🛒 5. Souvenirs & Shopping – Local and Low-Cost
Popular items in North Cyprus:
- Handmade soaps: €1–2
- Turkish delights: €3–5
- Olive oil or carob syrup: €5–7
- Silver jewelry: €10–30
- Local art or lace: €8–20
👜 Compare with the South: The same products often cost 30–50% more in Republic of Cyprus souvenir shops.
📅 6. Sample Daily Budget in North Cyprus
| Budget Type | Daily Total (€) |
|---|---|
| Budget traveler | €30–45 |
| Mid-range | €55–80 |
| Comfortable/luxury | €90–150+ |
Includes meals, accommodation, transport, and some sightseeing.
🇪🇺 Why Is the South More Expensive?
- Uses the Euro and is subject to EU economic standards
- More international brands and chains
- Higher taxes and wages
- Prices aligned with Western Europe
✈️ Airport Tip: Where You Arrive Can Save You Money
- Flying into Larnaca (South): Bigger airport, but longer drive to the North
- Flying into Ercan (North): Smaller, cheaper, but must connect via Turkey
- Border crossing is free and open to tourists daily
📍 Choose based on total flight cost + ground transport—not just ticket price.
🧳 Is North Cyprus Cheaper Overall?
✅ Yes – and by a lot.
You’ll easily save 30–50% on accommodation, food, and transport in the North compared to the South.
This makes North Cyprus an ideal destination for:
- Budget-conscious travelers
- Long stays or digital nomads
- Couples and families seeking value without crowds
✅ Conclusion: A Mediterranean Gem That Won’t Break the Bank
Whether you’re sipping coffee at a harbor café, exploring ancient ruins, or lounging on a hidden beach, North Cyprus offers incredible value for every type of traveler.
So if you’re wondering whether it’s cheaper than the South — the answer is a clear yes. And with fewer tourists, friendlier prices, and just as much beauty, it might just be the better choice too. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io