Discover Kyrenia, the jewel of North Cyprus. Explore its harbor, castle, beaches, and cultural attractions with our complete Kyrenia travel guide.
Kyrenia – known locally as Girne – is the beating heart of North Cyprus, where the mountains meet the Mediterranean Sea. Famous for its historic harbor, medieval castle, and stunning beaches, Kyrenia is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
Whether you’re seeking history, relaxation, or adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know about Kyrenia, North Cyprus’s most enchanting coastal gem.
🏰 1. Top Attractions in Kyrenia
Kyrenia Harbor
- The postcard-perfect harbor is lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars.
- Perfect for sunset walks and evening dining with a sea breeze.
Kyrenia Castle
- Dominates the eastern side of the harbor.
- Inside, you’ll find the Shipwreck Museum, housing a 2,300-year-old Greek merchant ship.
Bellapais Abbey
- Located in the nearby village of Bellapais, this Gothic monastery offers panoramic views of the coast.
- A peaceful retreat perfect for photography lovers.
St. Hilarion Castle
- Perched high in the Kyrenia mountains.
- Famous for inspiring Disney’s Snow White Castle with its fairytale-like silhouette.
🏖️ 2. Best Beaches in Kyrenia
Kyrenia is surrounded by scenic beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports:
- Escape Beach – Popular for beach clubs and water activities.
- Alagadi Beach – Famous for sea turtle nesting in summer.
- Camelot Beach – A family-friendly beach with shallow waters.
- Kervansaray Beach – Ideal for a quiet swim and sunset views.
🍴 3. Food & Dining in Kyrenia
Kyrenia’s food scene blends Turkish and Mediterranean flavors. Don’t miss:
- Fresh seafood by the harbor
- Traditional meze platters with halloumi, hummus, and olives
- Lamb kebabs and grilled fish
- Turkish desserts like baklava and künefe
Evenings in Kyrenia are magical with harbor-side dining and live music.
🏨 4. Where to Stay in Kyrenia
Kyrenia offers everything from luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels:
- Harbor Area – Best for nightlife and sea views.
- Bellapais Village – Quiet and scenic stays in the mountains.
- Beach Resorts – Many include casinos and private beaches.
🚗 5. Getting to Kyrenia
There are two main ways to reach Kyrenia:
- Fly to Ercan Airport (ECN) in North Cyprus, then drive ~40 min.
- Fly to Larnaca Airport (LCA) in the south, cross the border, and drive ~1.5 hrs.
Travel Tips:
- Renting a car gives you flexibility to explore beaches and mountain villages.
- Driving is on the left side.
💡 6. Kyrenia Travel Tips
- Currency: Turkish Lira (but Euros and Pounds are widely accepted)
- Language: Turkish, but English is common in tourist areas
- Best time to visit: April–June and September–October for perfect weather
- Activities: Boat trips, castle hikes, scuba diving, and cultural tours
🌞 Final Thoughts
Kyrenia is the crown jewel of Northern Cyprus, offering the perfect mix of history, culture, and coastal beauty. Whether you’re wandering the old harbor, hiking to St. Hilarion Castle, or enjoying a quiet beach sunset, Kyrenia promises memories that last a lifetime.
Use this Kyrenia travel guide to plan your trip and uncover the charm of North Cyprus’s most beautiful coastal town. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io