North Cyprus Travel Guide

The unparalleled charm of Kyrenia and untold stories of Famagusta will have you falling head over heels over this charming island. Follow our North Cyprus guide for an incredible travel experience.

How to get there:

The journey to North Cyprus couldn't be easier thanks to the Turkish Airlines. With a great connection through the Istanbul airport, the journey from Dublin feels like a part of the holiday. Enjoy on-board dining and entertntainment before a quick shopping spree at the Istanbul airport. If you have a little extra time definitely visit one of the Turkish Airlines lounges to truly enjoy the best travel experience! The business lounge offers fresh food cooked to order, drinks, delicious Turkish coffee and lots and lots of enternainment. With massages, bed and shower facilities,cinema and golf simulators the lounge really re-defines the 'laover' experience! 

Where to visit:

Famagusta – Famagusta is the perfect place to start your trip. The coastal region of Famagusta boasts the most incredible beaches including the Golden Beach which stretches for several kilometres. Golden Beach is a truly idyllic destination with no building or hotel in sight. Take the full advantage of North Cyprus ‘s underdeveloped coast, visit the ancient Salamis ruins, chat with the friendly locals and admire the wild donkeys the region is so famous for.

The walled city of Famagusta is another must visit on a trip to North Cyprus. Aside from the architectural gems and great atmosphere thanks to all the students living in the city, Famagusta also has a rich history really worth exploring with half the city entirely closed off! Varosha – also known as the ghost town - was a popular resort destination in the 70s but since the conflict in 1974 which divided the island an entire resort area which homed over 40’000 people is now completely abandoned and closed off. Although the entrance is prohibited visitor can admire the incredible scale of the ghost town from the distance.

Nicosia – the last divided capital. The capital of the island is the last divided capital in the world with a physical walled boarder dividing the city into to Turkish and Greek parts. Crossing the boarder is relatively easy with only two small gates dividing the north and the south. Stepping into the UN zone between the two countries is quite the surreal experience and really shows the painful history of the island. The difference between the two sides of the city is quite striking and a must visit when in North Cyprus. The south part features more well-known brands and commercial attractions where the north is a more unspoiled experience with authentic markets and fabric shops scattered around the historic centre.

Kyrenia- the crystal watered haven. Kyrenia is a coastal city in the north of the island. Famed for it’s picturesque harbour and quaint and charming old town, Kyrenia is certainly a favourite with the North Cyprus visitors. Located between the spectacular Kyrenia Mountains and Mediterranean Sea, the city is a beautiful destination loved by tourists and locals like. Enjoy the crystal clear waters of the many natural bays or go for a little hike and enjoy the spectacular views.

What to eat:

The North Cyprus cuisine is truly incredible. Both the Turkish and the Mediterranean influences are very apparent in all the dishes. Turkish pide with a side of tzatziki, or caprese starter followed by an authentic pasta? Only in North Cyprus. Venture into the little towns and villages to taste fresh locally grown produce and delicious fresh fish.

Tip: For an authentic dining experience visit the Kybele restaurant in the Bellapais village. Located in an old monastery this family-run restaurant boasts the most spectacular views of the Bellapais abbey, the mountains and the costal town of Kyrenia. The flavoursome dishes are often cooked in front of the guests in a spectacular fire show. Pair your meal with one of the local vines for the ultimate North Cyprian experience.

Where to stay :

North Cyprus features  many incredible hotels and resorts. From lovely and super affordable 3* to amazing all inclusive 5* resorts that will re-define your hotel experience – North Cyprus really has it all!

Our favourites include 5* Limak Cyprus Deluxe Hotel, 5* Concorde Luxury Resort Hotel, 5* Kaya Artemis in Famagusta  

 and 5* Cratos Premium Hotel, 4* The Olive Tree and the 5* Vuni Palace Hotel in Kyrenia.