travel to north cyprus from turkey

How to Travel from Turkey to Northern Cyprus: A Comprehensive Guide 2023

• Posted in Turkish Northern Cyprus
• Post last modified: June 8, 2023
• Reading time: 11 mins read
• Post category: Turkish Northern Cyprus

Table of Contents

Discover the secrets of travelling from Turkey to Northern Cyprus! Unveil the 2023 comprehensive guide packed with tips, tricks & insider advice! Adventure awaits!”

Traveling from Turkey to Northern Cyprus is a journey that offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to plan your trip, covering various modes of transportation, the best time to visit, and the must-see attractions in Northern Cyprus.

Northern Cyprus and its Attractions

Northern Cyprus, officially known as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, is a de facto state that comprises the northeastern portion of the island of Cyprus. It’s recognized only by Turkey and is considered by the international community to be part of the Republic of Cyprus.

Northern Cyprus is known for its historic attractions, beautiful scenery, and interesting towns. Some of the top sights include Bellapais Abbey, Girne (Kyreneia) Castle, and Buffavento Castle. Other notable attractions include Nicosia, the divided capital, the Golden Beach, and various historical sites such as the Buyuk Han, Hamam, and Selimiye Mosque.

Traveling by Plane from Turkey to Northern Cyprus

Traveling by plane is the fastest and most comfortable way to get from Turkey to Northern Cyprus. There are flights from major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir to Ercan International Airport in Northern Cyprus.

Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and Atlasjet are some of the airlines that operate flights to Northern Cyprus. The flight duration varies depending on the city of departure in Turkey. For instance, a non-stop flight from Istanbul takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, while a flight from Ankara takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Traveling by Ferry from Turkey to Northern Cyprus

For those who prefer a more scenic journey, traveling by ferry from Turkey to Northern Cyprus is an excellent option. There are three ferry routes operating between Turkey and Cyprus, offering a combined total of 12 sailings per week.

Akgunler Denizcilik operates these routes, with Tasucu to Kyrenia running seven times per day, Mersin to Kyrenia running twice per day, and Mersin to Famagusta (Magusa) running three times daily. The journey by ferry offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean Sea and its surroundings.

The Ferry Takes approximately 2.5 hours from Mersin .

Comparing Ferry Travel to Northern Cyprus to Plane Travel

When deciding between ferry and plane travel from Turkey to Northern Cyprus, there are several factors to consider.

Speed and Convenience : Plane travel is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Northern Cyprus from Turkey. Flights from major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir take between 1 hour and 10 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Scenery and Experience : On the other hand, ferry travel offers a more scenic journey. The ferry routes provide travelers with the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean Sea and its surroundings.

Cost : The cost of travel can also be a deciding factor. While flight prices can vary significantly depending on the airline and time of booking, ferry travel tends to be more affordable and offers a unique experience.

Best Hotels In Northern Cyprus

Here are some of the best hotels in Northern Cyprus:

• Elexus Hotel & Resort & Spa : This hotel offers a luxury holiday with enchanting nature, climate and bays; amusing performances and shows; sea, sand that make you taste the peace; unique restaurants and bars that add savor to your holiday; 10 differently designed rooms for your comfort and an understanding of service that will make your holiday unforgettable with an outstanding team. You can also enjoy the Zoya Spa & Wellness, which offers professional health and care services in a calm environment blended with the Far East breeze.
• Cratos Premium Hotel : This hotel is a 5-star resort that features a private beach, an outdoor pool, a spa center, a casino and live entertainment. You can choose from different types of rooms and suites, some with sea views and balconies. You can also dine at one of the 7 restaurants and bars, offering Turkish, Italian, Lebanese and international cuisines.
• Merit Park Hotel : This hotel is inspired by the Kyrenia Castle and offers a unique architecture and design. It has a private beach, an indoor and outdoor pool, a spa center, a casino and various activities for children and adults. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea from your room or balcony. You can also taste the delicious dishes of Turkish and world cuisines at one of the 5 restaurants and bars.

Tips for Travellers Visiting Northern Cyprus

If you’re planning a trip to Northern Cyprus, here are some tips to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience:

• Currency : The official currency in Northern Cyprus is the Turkish Lira. It’s advisable to have some cash on hand for small expenses, although credit cards are widely accepted.
• Transportation : The main modes of transportation in Northern Cyprus are car rentals, taxis, and minibuses known as ‘dolmuş’. If you’re not hiring a car, don’t be afraid to ask questions when using dolmuş buses.
• Safety : Northern Cyprus is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always important to take standard precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors to Northern Cyprus

If it’s your first time visiting Northern Cyprus, here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your trip:

• Visa and Entry Requirements : Check the visa and entry requirements before your trip. Most nationalities can enter Northern Cyprus visa-free for up to 90 days.
• Cultural Respect : Respect the local customs and traditions. Northern Cyprus is a predominantly Muslim region, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Health and Safety : Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Also, it’s advisable to check any travel advisories or updates from official sources before your trip.

Best Time to Visit Northern Cyprus

North Cyprus is a year-round holiday destination, but spring and autumn are considered the best times to visit due to the more moderate temperatures. These ‘shoulder seasons’ are becoming increasingly popular among tourists, leading to prices remaining almost as high as in summer.

May-June and September-October are particularly ideal for those who prefer a sea holiday or for cultural trips. These periods offer warm temperatures and almost no rainfall, making them perfect for exploring the island’s attractions.

Traveling from Turkey to Northern Cyprus offers a unique experience filled with historical sites, beautiful landscapes, and a rich culture. Whether you choose to travel by plane for speed and comfort or by ferry for a more scenic journey, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip. Remember to plan your visit during the best times to fully enjoy all that Northern Cyprus has to offer.

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How to travel to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in 2024

• On Apr 1, 2022

When saying we go to Cyprus, many people imagine the European holiday destination with promenades lining up the golden sand beaches. For us, travelling to Cyprus has a different meaning. We headed straight up to the North to see how 1974 changed everything for many, everything for a whole country. 

The island is split in two. The North – Turkish occupied Northern Cyprus: Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The South – Republic of Cyprus. Divided in the middle by UN patrolled 180 km long buffer zone. Bullets in houses are still visible today; the once-blooming city of Varosha is abandoned almost 50 years later. Turkish occupation left some places silent, yet history screams to be remembered and places to be explored.  

If you plan to visit TRNC, you might have many unanswered questions, and we created this article to answer all of them. We will tell you how to cross the borders, how to travel around, what to see, where to sleep, where to get to remote places and much more. 

BASIC INFORMATION

• Currency: TL, Turkish lira 
• Language: Turkish – people in hotels and restaurants generally have good English as well 
• Religious: Islam
• Visa: Generally, you don’t need a visa to enter TRNC

COVID-19 REQUIREMENTS

Updated in March 2023:  TRNC lifted all Covid 19 restrictions for everyone.

QUICK OVERVIEW

Lefkosa (nicosia).

Come to see the UN patrolled buffer zone in the last divided city in the world. Cross the border from Nicosia to Lefkosa to find out you are still in one capital, although in a different country.

The perfect base for exploring the ghost town Varosha, which stays completely abandoned after occupation. Explore the mosque that used to be a church before the Turkish came.

Karpas peninsula

Enjoy the wilderness of this remote area known for its wild donkeys, abandoned golden beaches and amazing greenery. Many donkeys wander around this peninsula, and it is impossible that you miss them. 

Girne/Kyrenia

The compact city centre with a cute harbour. Base yourself in Kyrenia to explore castles like St. Hilarion peak or Bellapais Abbey. Make sure you visit off the beaten path village of Karmi, which we fell in love with.

After the Turkish occupation in 1974, when Greek Cypriots were forced to run away to the South, nothing was the same anymore. The difference between the South and North is abnormal and heavily visible. The scars made to the northern part are still sensitive today. Many people lost their lives and homes without any compensation. In Lefkosa, bullet holes in houses are clearly visible even though it is almost 50 years later. What once used to be a church today serves as a mosque.

It doesn’t take long to realise how many abandoned houses and businesses are all around the country. The military presence is huge and well marked by the signs forbidding you to take photographs in a particular area. 

HOW TO GET TO TRNC

The best way is to fly to the Republic of Cyprus first. We took a flight to Larnaca airport, from where it is easy to get to Nicosia, the city where you want to cross the land borders to TRNC. 

Flights to Cyprus from Europe are very cheap. You can find amazing deals for as little as €15. We flew from Katowice in Poland with WizzAir . 

Find exclusive flight deals here.

At Larnaca airport, find a Cyprus Public Transport stall where you can get a bus card for €5 (you can get 1 card for as many people as you wish). With this card, you have a cheaper rate for buses instead of €2 you pay €1.5, and the more expensive evening and weekend rate (€3.5) does not apply to you with this card. Even if you use it just to go from Larnaca to Nicosia and back, it is worth it. You can top up the card at any bus station. For a bus schedule, download their PameApp.

Bus number 425 goes from Larnaca Airport to Larnaca central station, and you find it upstairs outside the airport building. One way costs €1.5 with the card. 

Then take bus 42 to Nicosia (€4 with the card). The bus stop at the entrance to old town Nicosia, roughly 800 m from the border crossing to TRNC. 

CROSSING THE GREEN LINE IN NICOSIA

The Ledras Street border crossing from Nicosia (Greek part) to Lefkosa is just walking through the checkpoint on one street. First, the Cyprus side checks your passport and Covid-19 status. It literally takes a few seconds, then you walk through the UN area, which is basically all abandoned and is the only way where you see a little bit of inside this zone. After 50 m, you get to another checkpoint on the Turkish side. You again show your passport and Covid-19 status (anyway, nobody wanted to see it on both sides, but that’s just our case). 

If you need to make a test before crossing the border to TRNC, there is a test centre 100 m from the border, on Ledra street. You can’t miss it. It costs €5 for a rapid antigen test, results are ready within 20 minutes, and you don’t need any reservation. 

And hurray, welcome to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. You made it! 

Read: Travel off the beaten path in Cyprus

HOW TO TRAVEL AROUND TRNC

Buses are running between the cities Lefkosa, Famagusta and Girne without problems. However, if you want to visit the places outside the cities, which are actually the reason to come here, you need to rent a car. 

After road tripping in Jordan , we thought it is the best idea to do the same in North Cyprus. We rented a car with Sun Rent a Car as we heard only good things about them. We had a car for 5 days for 1850 TL (€113). You get a car with an empty tank and return the same way. They don’t take any deposit. Note, in TRNC, there doesn’t exist insurance that includes an excess of €0. So in case of an accident, there is usually €400 excess pay.

If you want to be sure your car is waiting for you and have a contract before arriving choose a car on  Discovercars.com . It is the best platform to book a car in advance.

Check the best deals for rental car at Discovercars.com .

Travelling around TRNC is like stepping back in time. With its population of around 300 thousand inhabitants, you spend most of the time driving through the farmlands, greenery, and small villages. The main roads are in great condition, but once you turn to get to the castles on the hill or Karpaz peninsula, the road usually gets narrow for one car only, making it a great adventure. Especially once you realise there is a steep cliff on one side and a rock wall on the other. With the low traffic, as in TRNC, for sure is, there is nothing to worry about. 

The worst roads we experienced were at Karpaz peninsula, where there are more holes than you can’t count. Count with that as we were able to drive only 20 km per hour in some parts. 

Suppose you want to cross the borders with a rental car. In that case, it is easier and safer, especially with insurance, to return the car in the North and then again rent a car in the South. This is exactly what we did. Anyway, there are several border crossings along the buffer zone where you can cross with a car if you are still keen to do it. 

INTERNET, SIM CARD

Internet in TRNC is widely available. All hotels and restaurants/cafes have quite a good connection, at least we never had any troubles. Sometimes the speed was slower, but it was fixed soon. 

Since we made a road trip, we bought a sim card in Lefkosa, and we used data a lot during our travels. It is also very cheap to get a sim card, so why not get one. There is a phone store next to the breakfast place Simit Dünyası. The best option is to get a sim card from Turkcell that offers 3 packages, either 6, 8 or 10 GB of data for 129, 149 or 169 TL (€8, €9,20 or €11) including some minutes and SMS. Coverage is perfect all-around TRNC, including the remote Karpaz peninsula. 

FOOD & DRINKS

Food in TRNC is very cheap (especially at the time of our visit when the Turkish lira was very low). You can expect to try the delicious kebabs, dörum, hummus, pide with melted halloumi inside (our favourite) or traditional lentil soup Mercimek .

Of course, you can’t avoid Turkish coffee, which is absolutely delicious here, and tea is literally available on every corner in all cities. Make sure you drink delicious ayran with every meal.

MONEY & PRICES

TRNC, in general, is a very cheap destination – services, buses, and food is for a very low price but don’t expect to travel on a budget because, as mentioned, you need to rent a car. There is not much accommodation which means higher prices. 

Tea – 6 TL (€0,3)

Dörum kebab – 40 TL (€2,4)

Pide – 45 TL (€2,75)

Soup – 25 TL (€1,5)

Rental car per day in off season 370 TL (€22)

Fuel (one liter of gasoline 95) – 17 TL (€1)

Budget accommodation – 220 – 491TL (€14-€30), but bear in mind in the summer season, it is double the price

There are ATMs and exchange money offices frequently in cities, surprisingly there is no withdrawal fee.

Sometimes, the prices are either in € or TL, anyway, it is always better to pay in a local currency Turkish Lira, especially during the time of our visit in March 2022, the difference was quite big.

Make sure you have proper insurance with high coverage. We already experienced a couple of accidents during years of our travel when the insurance saved our budget. We have a good experience with IATI insurance with great coverage and customer service. Readers of Broken Navigation get an exclusive 5% discount. 

Get your 5% discount with IATI Insurance here.  

LEFKOSA (NICOSIA)

We started our trip in Lefkosa. There is the easiest and closest land border crossing to TRNC after landing in Larnaca. The main street leaning from the border patrols can be busy during the day. It is a popular day trip for travellers visiting Cyprus but wait till afternoon, and you find yourself in a quite empty city. 

Lefkosa (Nicosia in the Republic of Cyprus) is the last divided capital in the world. When you visit both parts, you soon realise the huge difference the separation made. During our stay in Lefkosa, we visited Nicosia for an afternoon trip, especially to see the buffer zone from the other side. 

TOP THINGS TO SEE IN LEFKOSA

All the main sights are within walking distance of an old city, and you can easily explore it in one day. We stayed for 2 nights to have a chance to try some local cafes and restaurants and enjoy the atmosphere. 

UN patrolled buffer zone

This zone of no one stretches 180 km across the country. Once you walk around the city, you end up multiple times bumping into this line with, of course, no possibility of entry. Sometimes there is a wall, sometimes a gate or just a pile of old useless things to unable the entry. 

Yigitler Burcu Park

While exploring the UN buffer zone, make sure you go to this park to get an unusual view of the other side of the town – Nicosia, through a barbed-wire fence. You find here a kids’ playground that was left many years untouched and a UN guard tower. 

Büyük Han 

The best example of Ottoman caravanserai architecture in the town that once served as a hotel for travellers. It is in great condition as it was renovated in the 1990s. Except for the photogenic place, you find cafes, an old library, and some workshops here. 

Samabahçe Quarter 

Cyprus’s first social housing project consisted of 70 whitewashed cottages constructed using only local materials. When walking through the streets of Samabahçe Quarter, we felt like in Greece. 

Ledra street 

If you are not into a souvenir shop and touristic restaurants, make your way further away and roughly after 100 m, you find yourself in a more traditional Lefkosa, with local restaurants, cafes and real life. 

Since we didn’t plan on travelling to Nicosia from the Cyprus side, we made a short trip from Lefkosa. Once again, we crossed the borders and spent a few hours walking in Nicosia’s old town. We weren’t very impressed as this side is very commercial; however, we liked the bench by the UN zone right next to the border crossing. Again, if you visit Nicosia, everything is within walking distance. 

After crossing to south Nicosia, you find a completely different world. Everything is suddenly shining. The main boulevard is crowded with tourists, and the vibe is like a typical holiday destination. Which Nicosia actually is. 

North, in comparison, is very opposite. Once you cross the border for a few metres, it seems like nothing has changed. There are still touristic restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops and tourists. But once you make your way further, you realise there are only locals, a few other travellers and you. It is also more alive and noisy, lively atmosphere and what changed the most are…yes, you guessed it right. Prices. But to your advantage. It is much cheaper in North Cyprus than in the South. 

Where to eat in Lefkosa

Simit Dünyası – a fantastic breakfast place located on Girne SD street, a few steps from Basket Pansiyon. It seems everyone coming here for breakfast, and let’s say it is more like a bakery. You can get some pastry with various fillings. Just pick one, and they heat it for you. Make sure you order an ayran drink and Turkish coffee. It gets crowded with locals and tourists every day. They open from 6 am.

Hatay Medeniyetler Sofrasi – right next door from Simit Dünyası. They serve meat in wraps, kebabs, hummus, pides, baklava and other traditional food. It tastes amazing. 

Kumda Kahve – a beautiful hipster cafe where locals gather, especially during evenings. Get a Turkish coffee or tea and enjoy the atmosphere. If you are on a budget, don’t worry, the prices are low. Just note, in TRNC, people smoke inside the cafes. 

Where to stay in Lefkosa 

Budget I Baskent Pansiyon – We stayed here as the price was just €14 and the location couldn’t be better. However, it is only for the brave ones as it is far from any standard you are used to. We had to sleep in our sleeping bags. But again, you get what you pay for. Internet was amazing, though. 

Mid-Range I Pedieos Guesthouse – a beautiful traditional house with a garden and a nice seating area. Breakfast is included. Heating/aircon, the fridge might be useful, and the rooms have a private bathroom. 

Luxury I Hotel Valide Hang Konak – an amazing photogenic house where the owners really did a great job decorating. This is home away from home. Exceptional breakfast is included. 

FAMAGUSTA (GAZIMAGUSA)

Famous for its city walls and historical sights or as a base for exploring the ghost town of Varosha. Famagusta is also a popular destination for day trips from the Republic of Cyprus. During our visit in March, however, it was a very quiet city, and we enjoyed the atmosphere very much. 

Top things to see in Famagusta

Lala mustafa pasa camii mosque.

Once known as a St. Nicolas Cathedral, that was converted into a mosque. What a fascinating sight. It was amazing to see for us – your eyes tell it is a church, but once you come in, you realise it is a mosque. Open outside prayer times. Free entry.

Venetian walls 

You find these walls all around the old city. Find the stairs near Land Gate and climb to the top to get a fantastic view over Famagusta and Lala Mustafa Pasa Came Mosque and other historic sites.

St George of the Greeks Church 

These ruins of a Gothic church have a very romantic vibe with perfect photo opportunities. Come during lunchtime when the sun makes a beautiful play of shades. After exploration, have lunch in a nearby local restaurant that we loved. We will tell you about it in the food section. 

Varosha 

The main reason we came to Famagusta. Varosha used to be an absolutely timeless beach resort town, where famous and rich people came to enjoy their summer vacation. Resorts lined up the white sand beach, and the city was booming. Then, the Turkish invasion came in 1974, and the city went silent. People ran away, and since that time, nobody ever returned back. Varosha became a ghost town that now serves as a military base. It is now partially open to the public. We rented a bicycle, and we went to explore this forgotten part of TRNC. 

Essential reading: Visit Varosha, The Ghost Town – Ultimate Travel Guide.

WHERE TO EAT IN FAMAGUSTA

Fikretin Yeri – you find it in the same street as St George of the Greeks Church. This family-run little restaurant serves the best traditional lentil soup, and they grill the meat on the outside grill. If we ever go back to Famagusta, we will eat here at least three times a day.

Otherwise, there are so many restaurants and cafes around Famagusta. Choose the one you like the most. 

Where to stay in Famagusta

If you have a car we recommend you to stay in one of the hotels close to the beach North of Famagusta. Especially in the off-season, when the prices are low.

Budget I Mimosa Beach Hotel – if you come off-season like us, take advantage of the low prices and stay in one of the resorts by the beach. We enjoyed a night in Mimoza even though it is not the style we usually choose. But having a warm shower, quiet room, buffet breakfast, and fast internet is something we can’t resist every now and then just to recharge our batteries during long term travel. €27/night. 

Mid-range I Alp Apartment – whole apartment for an amazing price, close to the beach. It is usually 2 bedrooms, so it is perfect even if you travel as a group. The apartment has everything you might need – a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, etc. 

Luxury I Salamis Park Hotel – 5-star accommodation with a hammam. Each room has its own balcony. Breakfast is included, and the hotel is right at the beach. 

KARPAS PENINSULA

The best area for a road trip in TRNC is, without a doubt, the Karpas peninsula. What makes it unique is its remoteness and wilderness. We had such a good time just driving around and enjoying the green scenery full of olive groves, wild white sand beaches, and beautiful castles. You need your own transport to explore this part as no buses run here. 

Top things to see in the Karpas peninsula

Golden beach.

You can adore it either from a viewpoint by the main road or make your way down to the beach and walk along its wild coast. There is no house in plain sight. There are not many places in the world with such an amazing beach that is completely abandoned. It makes us wonder what the world used to look like before all the development. Beach itself is beautiful, especially during sunset.

If you arrive in September, you are lucky as the beach is a nesting ground for turtles. Before you go, contact SPOT (Society for the Protection of Turtles). 

Be prepared to drive slowly as the road is a bumpy ride. We could drive only 20-30 km per hour maximum, although the road is paved but with many holes and damages.

Wild donkeys

Follow the road from Golden Beach towards Monastery. This is where you meet most of the wild donkeys. They are used to cars and people, and they can be very cheeky. Once you open the car window, be sure one or more donkeys will squeeze their head inside the car, searching for carrots that tourists usually bring them.  

Monastery of Apostolos Andreas

After you enjoy multiple stops just to pet the donkeys, you will eventually reach this monastery right at the beach shore. It is worth a look inside this most important religious site. Many Greek Cypriots make a long trek on pilgrimage to visit this monastery. Free entry. Open from 8am to 6pm.

Kantara Castle

One of three romantic crusader castles in TRNC. Once you climb up, you will be rewarded with a 360° view over the Kyrenia mountain range. It is located roughly two hours from Kyrenia and offers probably the best view over the Karpas peninsula. Entry is 10 TL (€0.6). It is open from 9am to 5pm from June to September and till 3:30pm from October to May. 

Panagia Kanakaria Monastery

When we arrived at church Panagia Kanakaria Monastery, it was pouring rain. We just jumped out quickly from the car to walk around the locked up building, took a few photos and continued driving. The monastery is beautiful, though, especially the entrance is impressive with the palm trees in front of it. If you want to get inside, you need to find a mukhtar (elected leader) that lives in the village and holds the key. Free entry.

Where to stay in the Karpas peninsula

Mid-range I Glaro Garden Hotel – we had a blast in this family-run bungalows. We arrived after sunset, searching for a place to sleep and found this cute place. We were the only guests in March, and they hosted us like their own family. The homemade breakfast is delicious. It is a paradise place, we highly recommend you stay here. 

Mid-range I Celebi Garden Hotel – another great option we were considering. Located in the middle of nature, with excellent views from your room. Breakfast is included. 

Luxury I Villa Lembos – if you are searching for a resort, this Villa might be a perfect choice. With its great review and walking distance from the beach, you can also enjoy the restaurant inside the resort. 

KYRENIA (GIRNE)

The last stop of our TRNC road trip. We arrived at coastal city Kyrenia after sunset and were greeted by never-ending traffic. It took us a long time to get through all the queues in and around the city, and it seemed like a normal thing as it happened every day of our stay. Anyway, Kyrenia and its surroundings have a lot to offer. 

Top things to see in Kyrenia

Kyrenia castle.

Right in the middle of Kyrenia’s old town, the walls of Kyrenia castle sit next to the picturesque port. The entry fee is 20 TL (1,2€), and you can get a perfect view of the harbour from the top. It is open from June to September, 9am – 7pm, and 9am – 5pm from September to May. 

There can’t be a complete visit to Kyrenia without wandering along this picturesque harbour. Possibly the most beautiful part of an old town. There are many restaurants, and the atmosphere is lively. Sit on the rock wall to soak in this cute place. Some of the boats in the harbour are pretty admirable. Make sure you walk the path that leads between the port and the sea. 

Trips around Kyrenia

Antiphonitis kilisesi.

We left the car up the hill as the road down the castle seemed quite steep for our car. We walked through the forest trail for 500 m to reach the church. It was the most beautiful one we have seen in TRNC from the inside. The painting is amazing. The entry fee is 10 TL (€0,6). Open from 9am to 4pm.

With good visibility, you can see this flag made of painted rocks on the mountain all the way from Nicosia. You find it when you drive towards Panagia Apsinthiotissa. The flag lights up in the evening. 

St. Hilarion peak

You drive on a small road again that quickly takes you to the top. Along these 5 km uphill, you drive through the military territory. They have a base from both sides, with signs not to take any photos, and they control it. On the day of our visit, there were a lot of gunshots as they had some kind of training or so, which was not very pleasant as you basically drive a few metres from their fence. The climb to the top is steep with many stairs, but nothing one couldn’t do. There is a viewing platform on the top. The entry fee is 10 TL (€0,6). Open from 9am to 6:30pm from April to October and till 3:30pm from November to March.

This easy walk is 3.5 km one way. From the beginning, we thought it was quite basic, but after a few minutes of walking, the scenery gets more and more enjoyable. On one side, there are mountains. On the other, sea and rock formations. Chilled and easy walk. Make sure you come before sunset, as the sunset watching from here is top-notch. Also, locals come here to enjoy the atmosphere. 

Karmi village

This off the beaten path village is worth a visit. To reach it, you need to drive the hilly road, but it’s like a fairytale once you get there. Colourful doors and a church dominate the area. There might be more cats than inhabitants. 

Bellapais Abbey

Maybe it is a subjective opinion, but this place is overly touristic. We didn’t have a good feeling about this place as it seemed a lot like just a money factory. The church is beautiful, though but a bit ruined by the atmosphere. Many buses with day-trippers come here, and unfortunately, everything is overpriced. Entry 15 TL (€0,9), parking 5 TL (€0,3). Open from 9am to 6pm from June to September and till 4pm from October to May.

Where to stay in Kyrenia

Budget I New Kyrenia Hostel – perfect budget option and backpacker hotspot. Every room has its own balcony, and there is also a terrace with a beautiful view. 

Mid-range I Lord’s Residence Boutique Hotel – a cool place located in the city centre. Breakfast is included. Some rooms have a sea view. 

Luxury I Kyrenia Palace Boutique Hotel – Luxury rooms in the heart of Kyrenia. The rooms are decorated in an old-style that makes you feel like living in a castle. Breakfast is included. 

WHERE TO GO NEXT

If you are wondering where to go after TRNC, check out the following posts

How to travel to Lebanon & 2 weeks itinerary

Visiting Syria & Is it safe?

It’s time to plan your trip!

Find our travel resources below that help you plan your next trip. Good luck and safe travels.

Book your flight

Skyscanner is our favourite tool for searching for the cheapest flights and flight combinations. Multi-city or Explore Everywhere helps us to find real bargains.

The best platform to rent a car and compare the prices for your next road trip anywhere in the world is Discovercars.com . The booking process is hassle-free.

Find your acommodation

On Booking.com we always find the best deals for accommodation. Another great option for cheap accommodation is Hostelworld .

Travel insurance

We always recommend IATI Travel Insurance which offers excellent plans. As a reader of Broken Navigation, get an exclusive 5% discount. For Europeans Truetraveller offers perfect travel insurance for the best price.

Explore more with Tours

Some places are better off explored with a knowledgeable guide. Or, if you simply want to save time and hassle, we recommend GetYourGuide . Another great option that also has an amazing range of activities is Viator .

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Home › Visa & Entry

• Visa & Entry

There are two distinct ways of flying to North Cyprus, either ‘directly’ via Turkey, or alternatively via South Cyprus and crossing through the border.

Ercan Airport, located just outside the capital city Nicosia, currently serves over 4 million passengers annually, and major carriers include Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines as well as several charter flight carriers.  

British, EU and US passport holders do not need tourist visas for North Cyprus entry and up to a 90-day stay is permitted for visitors as per the conditions below.

Touristic visitors that will stay at hotel or rented accommodation can be issued a visa for a maximum of 30 days. If they can submit documents showing that a prior payment has been made for lengthier accommodation, a visa up to 90 days may be granted.

A visa up to 90 days may also be issued to those who come for official visits, business meetings, conferences, seminars, meetings, festivals, fairs, exhibitions, sporting events, cultural and artistic events, health tourism and similar purposes.

Citizens of the European Union and Schengen Area Countries travelling to North Cyprus can show a National Identity Card, whereas citizens of other countries are required to present a valid Passport.  

Upon arrival to Ercan, visitors fill out their personal details on a small white slip which will be stamped on entry and should be retained throughout your visit.  

Citizens of countries that do not have an Embassy, Consulate General, Consulate or Representative Office in North Cyprus or that are not members of the EU must have a passport valid for at least 6 months to be able to enter the country.

Citizens of countries that do have an Embassy, Consulate General, Consulate or Representative Office in North Cyprus or citizens of EU countries must have a passport or travel document valid for at least 2 months to be able to enter TRNC.

It is worth noting that visitors transiting Turkey en route to Ercan, may decide to leave the airport in Turkey to visit for a few hours or days, in which case they will have to purchase a visa available upon exit through passport control.

If you intend to travel to NCY via South Cyprus, you can cross the border at one of the many Turkish Cypriot passport controls points, and the same conditions apply. There are no restrictions on how many times you cross, border crossings are open 24 hours a day.

There are limitations on the volume of goods you can cross the border with, especially duty-free items such as cigarettes and alcohol or contraband. Any person found to be violating these restrictions often result in the goods being confiscated and a fine can also be imposed.

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How To Get to Northern Cyprus

Most visitors to Northern Cyprus arrive at one of the international airports in either south or North Cyprus, although there are also passenger and car ferries to Kyrenia from Turkey – running largely in the summer months.  One advantage which North Cyprus has for visitors is the huge range of airlines arriving into the island.  British and Commonwealth passport holders have the choice either to;

* travel to the south of Cyprus and cross across the border to the North by car or taxi in under half an hour – or alternatively

* travel direct to Ercan Airport in the north via Turkey.

There are no buses into Northern Cyprus from the south of the island although TRNC car hire companies will arrange subsidised taxi pick ups from Larnaca to take you to your car in the North.  There are some buses from Ercan Lefkosa airport in the north to various of the North Cyprus cities.

If you are wishing to visit to view property, please do contact our help-desk on +44 207 112 8086 and we will be delighted to help with flight and car hire suggestions.  Selected car hire companies in the south will include insurance for the north and it is advisable to use one of these if you wish to collect your car hire upon landing.

Larnaca International Airport in South Cyprus is a transit hub for schedule and charter flights from airports all over the world, including London and other major UK airports, European airports, the UAE, other Middle East airports and beyond Many visitors from the UK use airlines including Turkish Airlines , Pegasus , Easyjet , Monarch, British Airways , Cyprus Airways, Thomas Cook and TUI , TUI Nordic Group .  Those visiting Northern Cyprus generally land at Larnaca rather than Paphos which is further away from most of the border crossing points and will incur higher taxi fares if you wish to travel directly to the North of the island from there, although those picking up a suitable car hire may enjoy the beautiful though windy journey to the north up the West Coast via Polis or over the Troodos mountains!

If you hold a non-European or non-Commonwealth passport and are coming to Northern Cyprus you will need a Schengen visa to enter via Larnaca. In this case, it may be easier to arrive via Ercan (Lefkosa) airport in the North using an airline which stops in Turkey on the way such as Turkish Airlines or Pegasus.  There are no advance visa requirements for any visitor to Northern Cyprus and a standard 90 day visa is issued to all nationalities at the border or at Ercan Airport. If you need more information on how to get to Northern Cyprus do contact our helpdesk or email us on [email protected]  .

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A beginner’s guide to North Cyprus

Apr 27, 2015 • 5 min read

Kyrenia's old town harbour. Image by Jessica Lee / Lonely Planet

North Cyprus is a sun-dappled home to medieval castle ruins, vast archaeological sites of once mighty classical cities, and snoozy villages where old men gather on the teahouse veranda to while away the daylight hours. Most visitors come for lazy resort breaks lolling in the sunshine, but this slither of land which swoops from mountain to sea in the blink of an eye, has so much more to offer.

The old town of Kyrenia (Girne)

Wrapped around a harbour chock-a-block full of bobbing gülets (traditional Turkish yachts), the old town of Kyrenia (Girne) is a postage-stamp-sized squiggle of narrow lanes teetering into genteel decay. Stride up the honey-toned stone ramparts of Kyrenia Castle, perched on the harbour’s northern cliff. Stroll the waterfront, bordered by tall carob warehouses converted into cafes, then wander out into the alleyways to capture a thread of Kyrenia’s yesteryear.

Don’t miss: Cyprus House , in a converted carob warehouse, tells the story of Kyrenia’s once prosperous carob industry.

Famagusta (Mağusa): a Gothic ghost town

Hemmed in by bulky walls which failed to save the once lavish Byzantine city from the Ottomans in 1571, Famagusta (Mağusa) is a shattered mirror of its medieval grandeur. An incisor chunk of half-toppled church wall makes for an incongruous traffic intersection. Roofless chapel remnants, with faintly visible scraps of fresco work, stand amid weed-filled plots. Discover scraps of golden-stone Gothic finery peeking out between scruffy modern cottage rows, then head to the walls to soak up the dilapidated decadence from above.

Don’t miss:   Lala Mustafa Paşa Camii (St Nicholas Cathedral) is a soaring example of Gothic architecture.

Fairytale castles of St Hilarion and Buffavento

A roll-call of kings and conquerors have eyed Cyprus up as a prize to plunder and possess, and the island’s two mightiest castles are monuments to these waves of invasion. The fortifications of St Hilarion Castle wind like a trooping stone regiment up the mountain slope, punctuated by watch towers, Gothic-arched royal apartments and barracks where Byzantine soldiers once slept. At Buffavento Castle jagged tower remnants jut out over a lush pine-forested ridge. Clamber up the wonky stone steps to the top tower, where Richard the Lionheart may once have stood to survey his captured land.

Don’t miss: The abandoned Panagia Absinthiotissa Monastery is just a short drive from Buffavento Castle.

Bellapais (Beylerbeyi): abbey ruins and a literary pilgrimage

More than a few travellers come toting a copy of Lawrence Durrell’s evocative memoir of 1950s Cyprus. The starring role in his book Bitter Lemons of Cyprus is played by the village of Bellapais (Beylerbeyi), and a yellow plaque marks the house where Durrell once lived. This hillside hamlet’s highlight is the sprawling remains of Bellapais Abbey, founded by Augustinian monks after Saladin’s capture of Jerusalem. Its ornate church, Gothic-arched cloister and vast refectory summon a vibrant picture of medieval monastery life.

Don’t miss: Thread your way up the steep village lanes to drink syrupy Turkish coffee in a converted old mill at Tarihi Değirmen Historic Mill Cafe .

Off the beaten trail on the Karpas (Kırpaşa) Peninsula

The narrow tail of the Karpas (Kırpaşa) Peninsula is a time-warp region of blink-and-you-miss-them villages snuggled into the furrows of a ragged spine of cliffs and beckoning beaches of footprint-less sand. The hilltop beacon of Kantara Castle and the intricate mosaic-flooring leftover from the Basilica of Agia Triada provide historical stopovers as you drive up the coast. At the end, miles of empty sand and rustic bungalows of the Golden Beach provide unplug-and-disconnect opportunities for modern-day players at Robinson Crusoe.

Don’t miss: If it’s open (restorations are in progress), the Monastery of Apostolos Andreas is worth travelling to the peninsula’s tip for.

North Nicosia (Lefkoşa): Mevlevi monuments, mosques and museums

Most visitors to North Cyprus gravitate to the coast, but ignoring the capital of North Nicosia (Lefkoşa) means missing out on a chunk of historical sights. The looping lanes of the central walled city hold a clutch of fascinating architecture. Sit down for tea in the courtyard of the Büyük Han, an Ottoman caravanserai where traders and travellers once converged. Brush up on the culture of the renowned Mevlevi religious order at the Mevlevi Shrine Museum, then head to the Selimiye Mosque, once the grand Byzantine Church of Agia Sofia.

Don’t miss: Visit the Belediye Pazarı (municipal market) for some haggling fun.

Turning back the clock in Ancient Salamis

Ancient Salamis is a meandering site which demonstrates the ebb and flow of the island’s conquerors. Today toppled basilicas sprout weeds between mosaic-floor fragments while headless marble statues keep watch over a vast Hellenistic Gymnasium. Founded after the Trojan War, Salamis switched between Assyrian, Greek, Persian, Greek again, Roman, Byzantine and Arab rule until the harbour silted up and it was abandoned completely. The main ruins contain the mammoth Gymnasium complex with Roman baths and a partially restored theatre, but the real fun here is exploring the trails which radiate out to 4th-century basilicas and the Roman-era reservoir and Agora.

Don’t miss: There’s a swag of sights nearby; poke about royal tombs at Salamis Necropolis .

Morfou Bay: churches and archaeological sites

The long drive out west is well worth it. On a cliff edge overlooking the sea, Ancient Vouni’s mysterious ruins sit scattered across the hilltop with million-dollar views over the tumbling green hills. Nearby is the ancient city-kingdom of Ancient Soloi , with its excavated mosaic floor all that is left of the basilica in which St Mark was baptised. Travel inland via sweet-swelling citrus orchards to reach scruffy Morfou (Güzelyurt) where the Agios Mamas Orthodox Church stands in the middle of town. Inside are vibrant frescoes and St Mama’s tomb, decorated with weird ear-shaped tokens left as offerings for miraculous earache cures.

Don’t miss: Tiny Güzelyurt Museum contains a dazzling display of artefacts from Ancient Soloi.

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Entry requirements

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Passports and Visas

Admission and Transit Restrictions Entry regulations apply only to the areas controlled by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus. A passport is required by all travellers, except for holders of: - Laissez-Passer issued by the United Nations. - Document issued to stateless persons and recognised refugees. Further to the above, citizens of the European Union (EU) countries, as well as of Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway may enter Cyprus with their national identity card, provided there is a photograph. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus refuses admission to: Holders of ‘passports’ issued illegally by the secessionist entity, the so-called ‘Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus’ (TRNC). Visas A list of countries requiring a Visa to enter Cyprus can be found on the webpage:  www.mfa.gov.cy .  the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the Ministry in charge of consular and entry requirement matters. Work Visas For those intending to be employed in Cyprus, the issue of an employment permit by the Civil Archive and Migration Office is required, and thereby no visa is required in order to travel to Cyprus. For detailed information on Visa Application Procedure and Documents Required please contact:

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Northern Cyprus

• 2 Other destinations
• 3.1 History
• 3.2 Geography
• 5.1 Entry requirements
• 5.2 By plane
• 5.3 By boat
• 5.4 By road
• 6.3 By taxi
• 9.2 Shopping
• 9.3 Property
• 15.1 Electricity
• 16 Stay healthy
• 17 Stay safe
• 18.1 Religion
• 18.2 Politics
• 18.3 Etiquette
• 18.4 Gay and lesbian travelers

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC, Turkish: Kuzey Kıbrıs Türk Cumhuriyeti ) is a republic on the northern and eastern side of the island of Cyprus , an island in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey . It is only recognised by Turkey.

Towns [ edit ]

• 35.19 33.363611 1 Nicosia ( Lefkoşa / Lefkosia ) is the divided capital, with the historic centre within its stout walls.
• 35.340278 33.319167 2 Kyrenia ( Girne / Keryneia ) has an attractive harbour and castle. This is the main base for visitors, with hotels along the coast for 20 km on either side.
• 35.116667 33.95 3 Famagusta ( Mağusa / Ammochostos ) is another walled city, with a beach strip north; south is blighted by the border zone.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 35.527756 34.277344 1 Karpaz is a long remote peninsula in the northeast. It has good beaches, Byzantine monasteries, and over-friendly wild donkeys.
• 35.179 32.612 2 Erenköy is an exclave separated from the rest of TRNC. Formerly the village of Kokkina, it's nowadays a military area.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Cyprus has been contested for millennia by rival nations, who sought its minerals, cotton and control of sea lanes between Europe and the Levant. Turkey was a relative newcomer to this dogfight, as it was only by the 16th century that the Ottomans had substantial control of the mainland and could expand into a maritime empire. They captured Rhodes in 1522 and their next target was Cyprus, where the Venetians were ensconced. That terrible assault succeeded in 1571 and is the background to Shakespeare's Othello . The Ottomans retained Cyprus for 300 years and many Turks settled here, especially in the north, but overall there remained a Greek majority population.

Mainland Greece and almost all its islands likewise fell under Ottoman rule, but by the 19th century that empire was in decline, and Greece won its independence in 1830. That was the springboard for the Megali campaign to regain all the "Hellenistic" territories, which included Crete, Cyprus, and just about every trading port around the east Mediterranean. There were vicious wars that threatened to de-stabilise a much wider region (code for "let the Russians in") so the western powers stepped in, and in 1878 Britain took over Cyprus though still acknowledging the Ottomans as nominal rulers. That pretence ended in 1914 when Turkey entered World War I on the side of Germany and the island became part of the British Empire.

The post-war treaty of 1923 led to extensive population exchanges between Greece and Turkey, but this didn't affect Cyprus, where the two communities continued to detest each other. Throughout all this, Greek Cypriots dreamed not of independence but enosis , a merger with mainland Greece. After World War II Britain's colonies moved towards independence but here one community insisted on enosis while the other imagined that Cyprus would joyfully become Turkish the minute the Union Flag was hauled down. Factional violence became organised into rival militias EOKA and TMT, and Cyprus slid towards civil war.

The outcome was independence on 15 Aug 1960. Britain retained two large military territories on the south coast, but there was no partition, rather a power-sharing agreement and noble declarations about protecting the rights of minorities. One crucial clause in the peace deal gave Britain, Greece and Turkey the right to intervene militarily "to restore the status quo" in case the deal was overthrown. But power-sharing was dysfunctional from the outset and community violence continued; a series of peace initiatives were launched and sank. In 1974 the enosis faction seized power in a coup, and Turkey therefore invaded. By the time a ceasefire was agreed they controlled the northern third of the island, including its chief port Famagusta and half the capital Nicosia.

Talks to convert that ceasefire into a definitive treaty have dragged on ever since, so it's a "frozen conflict", with the United Nations patrolling a buffer zone between the two sides. In 1983, the Turkish-held area declared itself the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus", TRNC. So far only Turkey recognizes the TRNC, while all other governments and the United Nations regard it as a puppet state and recognize only the government of the Republic of Cyprus over the whole island, excluding the British military territories. Since the 1990s a thaw between Greece and Turkey has led to easing of tensions within Cyprus, and it's nowadays easy to pass between the two parts, but the razor wire, watchtowers and derelict no-man's land are as stark as ever. The other dynamic from 2004 was Cyprus joining the European Union, a form of enosis stretching to Lisbon and Dublin that Turkey also aspires to join, but which raises questions of border control and trade rules with regard to TRNC.

Geography [ edit ]

The Kyrenia or Pentadactylos ("five-fingered") mountain range rises from the coast to 1000 m. It's a limestone ridge with ancient fortresses perched on its heights, which dwindle eastwards to create the panhandle of the Karpaz Peninsula. Inland is a broad plain, fertile and traversed by the main roads. Further south the land rises again towards the Troodos Mountains, the mineral-rich uplands that caused copper ( cuprum ) to be named after Cyprus, but the Turkish advance halted before it.

TRNC is at 35° N in the east Med, the same latitude as Crete or central Tunisia, so it has a subtropical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Frost is rare at low altitude but in winter the sea is cold and rough, with a raw wind blowing off it, and many hotels and other facilities close up. April-June is a good season to visit for landward exploring, but Sept-Oct is better for water sports.

Visit North Cyprus is the TRNC tourist agency.

Talk [ edit ]

The language of Northern Cyprus is Turkish (see the Turkish phrasebook ), with a distinct Turkish Cypriot dialect in casual conversation. English is widely spoken in the hospitality sector, especially in Kyrenia. Obscure dialects of Greek or even Arabic persist among a few gnarly old folk, but you're more likely to overhear Russian, as TRNC like mainland Turkey remains easily accessible to them. Some local phrases are:

• Napañ? ( nah-PANG ; how are you, literally how are you doing? - informal) or Naparsınız? ( nah-par-sing-EEZ - formal or plural)
• Eyidir ( a-e-DEER ; I'm fine) or Napayım ( nah-pay-EEM ; I'm fine, literally, what should I do?)
• Kaçadır bu? ( ca-TCHA-durr boo ; how much does this cost, literally, for how much is this?)
• Çok güzel yer Kıbrıs ( chock gue-ZELL yerr KEEP-rees ; Cyprus is a very beautiful place)

Get in [ edit ]

Entry requirements [ edit ]

Most visitors can enter Northern Cyprus easily, whether by land from the Republic of Cyprus, or from elsewhere. Difficulty may arise if you enter the Republic from TRNC then leave by a different route, or vice versa, see below.

No advance visa is needed except for citizens of Syria, Armenia and Nigeria. Everyone else can simply rock up at the border by land, sea or air. A national ID card is sufficient for citizens of Turkey, the EU, and other countries within the Schengen Area (Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein). All others such as the UK or USA need to show a passport valid for 6 months beyond the date of entry. In theory you might be asked about your finances, accommodation and onward travel but they seldom bother. The outcome is a visitor visa for 30 to 90 days; this may not be extended, does not permit work or residence, and 90 days in any 180 is your maximum. Other visas for work, study, business and property ownership have the same 90-in-180 limit.

You can ask for your entry stamp to go on a separate slip of paper, though TRNC passport stamps are no longer a problem for later visits to Greece or Cyprus. The need might arise if you had to shuttle between TRNC and the Republic, and didn't want to fill up your passport.

Visas in advance for citizens of Syria, Armenia and Nigeria are obtained in person from a TRNC "Mission Abroad" (since they're not accredited as an embassy or consulate). There are two dozen, for instance in New York, Washington DC, London and Berlin, but none in the three source countries; perhaps one of the seven Missions in Turkey would be convenient.

North-south itineraries are nowadays only a potential problem. The south maintains that entering the island through the north is illegal. They equally maintain that EU citizens have freedom of movement throughout Cyprus and the Schengen Area. They also have border posts along the Green Line that they claim isn't a border. The upshot of this muddle is that EU citizens have no difficulty, but others (eg British) are at the whim of north-south politics. These are nowadays pragmatic, but any diplomatic rift with Turkey might suddenly lead to Cypriot immigration officials blocking your crossing from TRNC. On south-to-north itineraries, non-EU passport holders should ensure they're stamped out, to avoid later accusations that they've overstayed in the EU.

Do not bring a dog. The island of Cyprus is free of dog rabies, but it's common on mainland Turkey so cross-infection in TRNC is a risk.

By plane [ edit ]

You could also fly to Larnaca in the south and take a taxi to the border in Nicosia.

By boat [ edit ]

Akgunlerdenizcilik ferries connect Kyrenia ( Girne ) to Alanya , Taşucu and Mersin in Turkey, and Famagusta ( Mağusa ) to Mersin.

The fast ferry from Alanya only sails in summer: from Alanya Th & Su at 12:00, from Kyrenia W & Sa at 10:00. This is a catamaran (shown in timetables as deniz otobüsü ) for foot passengers taking 2 hr 30 min.

A similar fast-cat ferry, summer only, takes 80 min from Mersin. It sails from Mersin Su Tu & Th at 21:00, from Kyrenia M W & F at 23:00.

The third fast-cat route, summer only, takes two hours from Taşucu. It sails Fridays only from Taşucu at 14:00 and from Girne at 10:00.

The only car ferry is from Taşucu and takes six hours. It sails four times a week in summer: from Taşucu on Su M Tu & Th at 23:30 and from Kyrenia M & Tu at 14:00, W & F at 23:30. This ferry sails all year.

Ferries from Madenli south of İskenderun are not sailing, as the earthquake of 2023 damaged the port.

With your own boat, Kyrenia and Famagusta are the designated Ports of Entry to clear TRNC immigration and customs.

By road [ edit ]

The land crossings between TRNC and the Republic are:

• Yesilirmak (by car) is the westernmost tip of TRNC, beyond Lefke .
• Lefke (by car) south of Lefke village. A new route south of Lefke is under construction in 2024.
• Astromeritis / Zodhia (by car) south of Güzelyurt .
• Agios Dometios / Kermia / Metehan is the chief crossing by road, and pedestrians are permitted, at the west edge of Nicosia.
• Ledra Palace (pedestrians only) is the oldest crossing, west flank of the old city walls of Nicosia.
• Ledra Street (pedestrians only) is the most convenient for day-trips, an alley through the bazaar in old Nicosia.
• Pergamos / Beyarmudu (by car) via Dhekelia military zone.
• Strovilia near Agios Nikolaos (by car) in the east of the island near Famagusta .

If you hire a car from the south, check their small print to ensure they allow their vehicles to go north.

Car insurance from the Republic is not valid in TRNC, so you have to buy at the border; you can't buy elsewhere. And while the border posts are open 24 hours for immigration and customs, the kiosks for insurance are not. The main crossing at Agios Dometios / Kermia / Metehan has a kiosk open 08:00 to midnight, check the latest hours if you intend to use the others. You buy for a minimum of one month, which in 2024 costs €120 and is only valid for third party not comprehensive.

Get around [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

A car is by far the best way to travel around Northern Cyprus. There are rental desks in Nicosia city, Ercan Airport, Kyrenia and Famagusta - best book ahead, as their fleets are small and their opening hours limited. They can arrange to pick up / drop off at Kyrenia ferry port or at Ledra Palace border crossing in Nicosia.

Check the deal with fuel, they usually rent empty-to-empty, so the first task is to find a filling station. The second task is to estimate how much fuel you might use, as there's no credit for unused fuel.

If you hire in the south, you may take the vehicle north but must buy extra insurance at the border, see above.

The highways are in good repair, well-signposted, pleasantly uncongested by western standards, and local drivers are less frenetic than on the Turkish mainland.

Hitch-hiking is usually easy along these roads.

By bus [ edit ]

Dolmuşes - minibuses - are the main public transport. They don't have a fixed timetable and set off whenever full, but reckon on runs between Nicosia and Kyrenia every 30 minutes, and between other towns hourly. They're designed for locals not tourists and become very sparse by early evening. Some sights (such as St Hilarion) are several km from a dolmuş route, and the east peninsula beyond İskele and the west end beyond Lefke have infrequent services.

By taxi [ edit ]

There are many taxi stations in Northern Cyprus, but you won't able to see many taxis around to wave them down, so make sure to get some numbers. There are taxi services in the Ledra Palace and Kermiya crossings, and at the Ercan Airport. Taxis are rather expensive though, with a journey from Nicosia to Kyrenia costing around 70-90 TL.

See [ edit ]

• Kyrenia is dominated by its castle; the museum within displays a shipwreck from 4th century BC. The harbour is an attractive area for strolling, bathed in golden light at evening.
• Bellapais Abbey near Kyrenia is a scenic ruin with great Gothic arches and towering stone walls.
• Castles: in the Beşparmak Mountains are St Hilarion Castle (above Kyrenia), Buffavento and Kantara Castle (towards Karpaz).
• Walled City of Nicosia: the walls were built in 1567 are are mostly intact, though bisected by the north / south border. Until the 19th century they defined city limits and contain Selimiye Mosque and Büyük Han or Great Inn. A short walk beyond are Samanbahçe quarter, Büyük Hamam the ancient baths, and Bandabulya bazaar.
• Walled City of Famagusta sights include Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, the walls themselves, and Othello Tower, where the Cypriot section of Shakespeare's play Othello is set.
• Salamis is the ruin of a Roman city north of Famagusta, with statues, agoras, and an amphitheatre.
• Karpaz to the northeast is festooned with wild donkeys. Apostolos Andreas Monastery is an ancient pilgrimage site.

Do [ edit ]

• Beaches are a major part of the appeal of Northern Cyprus. The north coast has the best, clean and sandy, on the long resort strip either side of Kyrenia. Some are private to hotels. Karpaz Peninsula has equally good beaches, much quieter, for instance near Dikarpaz. West coast has a beach strip north of Famagusta. South of Famagusta is blighted by the border, with Varosha a strange ghost town.
• Casinos: gambling is legal in Northern Cyprus but not in mainland Turkey or the Republic of Cyprus, so these attract a louche crowd. Every upscale hotel has a casino, dress smart. Organised crime has its tentacles all over them, for money-laundering, prostitution and other rackets.
• Nightlife other than gambling and paid-for sex is a tourist thing not a local habit. In the beach resort strips of Kyrenia and Famagusta, you can bop away like it was Paphos, but Nicosia is strangely quiet for a capital.
• Scuba diving : this is the Med, so adjust your expectations. First, it's seasonal, the Med is cold in winter and dive shacks close up. Most coral was stripped out years ago and the waters over-fished, so marine life is encountered (such as the loggerhead turtle Caretta caretta ) but is not as abundant as the Red Sea. However the lack of river run-off means clear waters, and the limestone scenery catches the sunlight. This makes Northern Cyprus a good destination for novice training and low-experience divers; rufty-tufty old salts will be content with a day or two diving then head off to explore the landward sights. Kyrenia beach strip has most of the dive operators.
• Other sports such as windsurfing, jet-skiing, water-skiing, sailing and paragliding are likewise based around Kyrenia.
• Boat tours putter out from all the main harbours.
• Hiking and trekking are best in the Kyrenia mountains.
• Northern Cyprus Music Festival is held at Bellapais Monastery near Kyrnia mid-Sept to early November.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

The Turkish lira is the official currency in Northern Cyprus, one and the same as the mainland lira, denoted as TL (ISO code TRY). That means that Northern Cyprus suffers the same hyper-inflation as the mainland, about 50% per annum, so exchange rates and prices quoted on these pages go out of date quickly. Don't exchange until you get here, and don't leave with a wad unspent. Euros, UK pounds and credit cards are accepted by all but the smallest businesses. These may even quote prices in or insist on euros to counter inflation.

Lira banknotes are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 TL, see Turkey#Money for specimens. You need the E9 series from 2009, previous issues are no longer valid. You might encounter coins of 1 TL or less, worth next-to-nothing. One lira is divided into 100 kuruş , an amount you could barely see with a microscope.

Exchange desks are honest, and the standard scams are unheard of.

Shopping [ edit ]

• AVM means a shopping centre, AlışVeriş Merkezi , and these are found in the main towns along with convenience stores. TRNC doesn't have big western-style supermarkets.
• Tourist souvenirs are likewise sold in the main towns. The cuter the surroundings the higher the price, so Büyük Han the Great Inn of Nicosia costs most.

Property [ edit ]

Northern Cyprus property is low cost compared to the Republic of Cyprus, but you're going to need a good lawyer. The long list of pitfalls in buying property in the south also applies to the north, and is compounded by the problem of title. Thousands of Cypriots driven out in the war of 1974 still hold titles to their land, which courts may enforce over later purchasers.

The landmark case was Apostolides v Orams 2009. Apostolides and his family fled in 1974 from Laptos, nowadays Lapta on Kyrenia resort strip. It was only with the easing of border restrictions in 2003 that they were able to return, to find a villa built there by David and Linda Orams from England, who'd bought the land in good faith from a local agent. Apostolides sued in the Cypriot courts but their judgement was not enforceable in the north, so the case bounced around the British and European courts before a definitive ruling in Apostolides' favour by the European Court of Justice. It was a pyrrhic victory, as the Orams abandoned the property and Apostolides got nothing out of it, but the lawyers still got paid plenty.

So a wave of further cases never materialised. The European Court of Human Rights ruled in 2013 and 2015 that though TRNC was not recognised, it did have de facto an independent judiciary and legal system, and that future disputes should be heard there, specifically by the Immovable Property Commission. That body is more likely than a southern court to rule that those who've paid money for land in the north also have enforceable rights.

Eat [ edit ]

Turkish-Cypriot cuisine is a fine blend of Turkish, Greek and Middle Eastern cuisines featuring mouth watering seafood to kebabs, numerous mezes to delicious home made fruit preserves called macun (pronounced ma-joon). Go to any traditional restaurant and ask the local foods they serve.

Some of the key foods featured in the Turkish-Cypriot cuisine, and some of whom do not exist in mainland Turkish and Greek cuisines, include Molehiya, Enginar Dolması, Kolokas, Bullez, Çiçek Dolması, Magarina-Bulli, Pilav, Bulgur Köftesi, Mucendra, Hummus Çorbası, Hellimli and Pirohu, etc.. Some special meals are explained below:

• Halloumi , known as hellim in Turkish (use the Turkish name as some Turkish Cypriots may be offended from the use of the Greek name due to trademark disputes), is an important feature of the Cypriot cuisine. The Turkish Cypriots use it in many meals, such as Hellimli (a sort of cake with hellim), Hellim Böreği (a sort of pastry) or Pirohu (the traditional Turkish meal of mantı with hellim instead of meat)
• Şeftali Kebabı , made from lamb, is a very delicious must-eat
• Fırın Kebabı or Kleftiko is a mouth-watering local kebab made from lamb and the Cypriot potato, also known for its taste
• Magarına Bulli , is pasta with chicken, and hellim sprinkled all over it. Ask especially for hand-made pasta (el magarınası) and yahnili magarına

Mezes include:

• Grilled hellim - if you come to Northern Cyprus and leave without trying this, your trip will be incomplete, as hellim is a rare sort of cheese that can be grilled without melting
• Çakısdez (pronounced chuck-ess-dez) - green olives, manually and onerously crushed using special stones, and added flavor using garlic
• Humus - mashed chickpeas, sesame paste, garlic, olive oil and lemon juice, this is an excellent side dish for kebabs
• Samarella - dried meat

And here are some local desserts. Turkish Cypriot cuisine offers a huge variety of desserts so this list is far from complete:

• Pekmez - the Beşparmak/Pentadaktylos mountains are swarming with carob trees and this thick syrup of carob juice tastes exceptionally good in Cyprus. At traditional restaurants, you will find mouth-watering desserts made of pekmez, such as gullurikya .
• Nor böreği - nor is another type of cheese special to Cyprus, and this pastry with nor, cinnamon and sugar is almost addictive
• Katmer - there are two types of this, sini gatmeri and sac gatmeri (pronounced sach, NOT sak). Sac gatmeri is an exceptionally delicious and light pastry made of sugar and dough.
• Ekmek Kadayıfı - soft, special sort of dough filled with the nor and sweet syrup - splendid with vanilla ice-cream!
• Macun - preserved fruits. Try especially ceviz macunu (walnut macun).

Traditional European restaurants exist too, from the basic fish and chips providers up to expensive haute cuisine. Indian curry houses have been opening and there are some good Chinese and Thai restaurants also. The fast-food chain Burger City, directly linked to Burger King, has restaurants in all district capitals apart from İskele. Turkish food, such as döner, adana kebap and tantuni is also widespread.

For those self-catering, food of many types and nationalities can be found in the many supermarkets. Even pork cuts can now be found from specialist retailers.

Drink [ edit ]

• Rakı is the national drink, as in mainland Turkey. It's an aniseed-flavoured spirit similar to Greek ouzo , drunk mixed with water (which turns it cloudy) in a long glass, as an aperitif or alongside a meal.
• Brandy from Cyprus is sweeter than from the mainland, from its double distillation of white wines and aging in oak barrels. Most production is around Limassol in the south but TRNC has a couple of distilleries. To offset the sweetness it's often drunk as Brandy Sour, mixing in the squash of local lemons.
• Zivania is also described as brandy but is more like grappa or marc , a colourless sugarless distillate from wine grape pressings. Drink it neat as an aperitif. It's unique to Cyprus, and in the south is EU-protected as a name of origin, with a maximum 60% strength. Inevitably TRNC has set up its own trade protection system, which even Turkey doesn't recognise, and you may find higher-strength products better used for lighting the barbecue or treating a nasty sore on your cat's backside.
• Wine - Northern Cyprus is not an important wine producer, but there are two notable local brands: Aphrodite and Kantara. Even though the official travel guide describes it as "light, fruity and palatable", some travellers have reported that it is better to avoid it. It is still worth a try, though. Wines from the Turkish mainland are generally good and the average cost is about TL12 per bottle (2013). However imported wines from South Africa, Chile, Australia and Argentina are widely available and are fairly reliable and good value.
• Beer is the usual Turkish brands - Efes is the commonest. International imports are found in the resort strips, where you're seldom far from an Irish pub.

As for non-alcoholic drinks,

• Ayran - the Turkish classic
• Orange juice - Northern Cyprus is famous for its great oranges, so why not try their juice?

Sleep [ edit ]

Accommodation in Northern Cyprus is plentiful. A 40 km resort strip is centred on Kyrenia, aimed at western holiday makers; supply exceeds demand and there are some excellent package deals. Famagusta has a smaller strip but hasn't attracted western tourism. Nicosia has surprisingly little for a capital city. Karpaz at the east end and Güzelyurt in the west have few hotels and accommodation is in small pansiyons . Inspect their rooms thoroughly before checking in and be prepared to hold your nose.

Learn [ edit ]

All universities in Northern Cyprus are private.

There are five Northern Cypriot universities holding over 40,000 students:

• Near East University (Yakın Doğu Üniversitesi)
• Eastern Mediterranean University (Doğu Akdeniz Üniversitesi)
• Cyprus International University (Uluslararası Kıbrıs Üniversitesi)
• European University of Lefke (Lefke Avrupa Üniversitesi)
• Girne American University (Girne Amerikan Üniversitesi)

There is also a campus of Middle East Technical University. Istanbul Technical University is also planning to open a campus in Northern Cyprus.[2]

Atatürk Teacher Academy and Police Academy provide vocational education in related subjects.

Work [ edit ]

Working is forbidden to anybody not in possession of a permit, which is not easily obtainable for visitors.

Cope [ edit ]

Electricity [ edit ]

The electricity is 240 volt and the UK-style of rectangular 3 pin plugs and sockets are used. Be warned that power cuts are fairly frequent and that the voltage fluctuates, which can damage anything connected.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

• There are many gymnasiums situated in the main cities such as Nicosia, Famagusta and Kyrenia.
• Only drink bottled water . Tap water is OK if boiled.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Northern Cyprus is a relatively safe place, as tourists do not have to worry much about crime. In Kyrenia, British retirees often speak of how safe they feel there, and that they can walk down dark streets at any time of night and feel safe. Crimes such as pickpocketing are unheard of, even in the bigger cities and lively areas, such as the Dereboyu quarter of Nicosia.

However, there are a few exceptions to this. The walled town of Nicosia, inhabited mostly by Turkish mainlanders, is known as an unsafe place among locals and most refrain from going there apart from the main streets at night. While during daytime it is as safe as anywhere in Northern Cyprus, be careful during the night, especially if going through dark streets, and exercise common sense. Catcalling for female travellers is sometimes encountered when the Turkish mainlanders are involved, though this by no means should cause limitations. Violent crime is very rare, and even though Kyrenia has the highest rate of violent crime in Northern Cyprus, it is still rare and it is safer than most cities in Europe and America.

Many governments, including Ireland, Australia, Canada and Finland, advise that they have limited ability to provide consular assistance in Northern Cyprus due to having insufficient contacts in the region.

Respect [ edit ]

Religion [ edit ].

Although 99% of Turkish Cypriots are Sunni Muslims , the vast majority of Turkish Cypriots are secular. Unlike mainland Turks and Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots are not conservative and many do not practise any religion. For example, alcohol is frequently consumed by Turkish Cypriots and women dress casually (headscarves and veils are very rare and are limited to very few deeply religious women and some elderly women). Religion only plays a limited role within the community, for example, with the circumcision of Turkish Cypriot boys at a young age due to religious reasons, as well as with funerals, and occasionally religious weddings by an imam, which are symbolic, as only civil weddings are recognized by the strictly secular Turkish Cypriot state.

But however secular and liberal the Turkish Cypriots are on religion, it is extremely rude to insult or mock Islam. For example, do not mock or mimic the five times daily calls to prayer, as Turkish Cypriots would be deeply offended.

Politics [ edit ]

It is best to avoid discussion of the Greek-Turkish divide and the violent events beginning in 1963 to 1974, with the end result being the occupation of the northern and eastern 40% of the island by Turkey, as the vast majority of Turkish Cypriots are very nationalistic and sensitive on this issue.

Openly denigrating or insulting symbols of the state, especially the flag or Kemal Atatürk, is liable to cause deep offence and possibly result in charges.

Etiquette [ edit ]

One should also show respect in approaching people of the opposite sex or be mindful of any gestures which are regarded as very offensive, such as staring and addressing the locals in a loud voice (because it is regarded as condescending).

Gay and lesbian travelers [ edit ]

Homosexuality, long officially banned, was legalized in 2009, but same-sex relationships are not recognized by the government and open displays of same-sex affection are very likely to draw stares and whispers. Nevertheless Northern Cyprus is considered to be safe for gay and lesbian travellers, and violence against homosexuals is unheard of.

Connect [ edit ]

Northern Cyprus uses Turkish area code 392. When dialling from Turkey, Northern Cyprus or the Republic of Cyprus, the dialling format is 0 392 xxx xxxx and the call is charged as domestic. From any other country the format is +90 392 xxx xxxx and it's charged as international.

The mobile networks are KKTC Turkcell and KKTC Telsim (Vodafone). They have 4G coverage of most of the north - it's a small place so you're seldom far from a relay mast. As of 2024, 5G has not reached the north. Wifi is widely available in public places.

Calling on a non-local mobile phone incurs international rates, consider buying a local SIM card. However the north operators may permit roaming in the south, and vice versa , check their deals. Nicosia North old city is within range of the southern networks, but elsewhere the "buffer zone" is too broad for cross-over.

Go next [ edit ]

• Nicosia South has plenty to see and you just stroll across the border at Ledra Street.
• The rest of southern Cyprus has lots of historic sites, museums, and lively beach resorts such as Paphos .
• Mainland Turkey is easily reached by flights to Istanbul or ferries to its Mediterranean coast.

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Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Ministry of foreign affairs, visa regulations.

Nationals of the Syrian Arab Republic, the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Armenia need to apply in person to a TRNC Embassy, Representative Office or Consulate General abroad to obtain a visa prior to their travel to the TRNC .

Nationals of other countries other than those listed above can be issued a visa by the Immigration Officer at the designated ports and border crossings. The terms of entry to the country for all foreigners can be seen below.

Obtaining a visa from the TRNC missions abroad do not guarantee entry to the country. It is within the discretion of the Immigration Officer at the designated ports and border crossings to grant permission to enter the country.

Recommendations for visa applicants:

It is recommended to make visa applications at least 1 month in advance of the intended travel date. Visa applications will be processed within maximum 3 working days. It is recommended to contact the nearest TRNC mission abroad to get an appointment before applying for a visa. Click here for the visa application form.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Foreigners visiting the TRNC may be granted a visa up to 90 days, depending on its type, at the designated ports and border crossings, provided that they fulfil the conditions stipulated in the Aliens and Immigration Law and they are not deemed unfit to enter the country.

The length of stay granted at the designated ports and border crossings of the TRNC cannot exceed 90 days within a period of 180 days. All foreigners who wish to stay in the TRNC for more than 90 days, are required to obtain a residence permit.

Entry to and departure from the TRNC is possible through designated ports and border crossings with a valid passport or travel document.

Type and duration of the visa issued to the foreigners is stamped on the travel document by the Immigration Officers. Foreigners’ stay in the country cannot exceed the date stamped on their travel documents and they cannot use the visa for reasons other than its original purpose. For example, working with tourist or student visa is considered as visa violation.

Documents required from citizens of the Republic of Turkey for traveling to TRNC:

• A valid Passport or Identity Card.

Documents required from citizens of the European Union and Schengen Area Countries for travelling to the TRNC:

• A valid Passport or National Identity Card.

Documents required from citizens of other countries for travelling to the TRNC:

• A valid Passport.

Validity of Travel Documents:

• Citizens of countries which do not have an Embassy, Consulate General, Consulate or Representative Office in the TRNC and citizens of the countries that are not members of the EU must have a passport or travel document valid for at least 6 months to be able to enter the TRNC.
• Citizens of countries that have an Embassy, Consulate General, Consulate or Representative Office in the TRNC and citizens of the EU countries must have a passport or travel document valid for at least 2 months to be able to enter TRNC.

Procedures for entry of foreigners to the TRNC:

Foreigners may be required to provide the following documents and information to the Immigration Officer at the port of entry:

• Proof of sufficient financial means to stay in the country and return home country
• Proof of accommodation in the country (hotel payment receipt, or name and address of the invitee)
• Foreigners must accurately and convincingly declare purpose of visit
• If travelling for internship, course or student exchange program, a formal letter from the inviting institution
• If traveling for higher education, an official acceptance letter from the university
• If visiting family, a letter of invitation which provides name, address, phone number and other contact information
• If traveling on a business trip, an official letter of invitation from a company in the TRNC
• If travelling for touristic purpose, a reservation or a rental document for the stays from 30 to 90 days.

Foreigners crossing to the TRNC from Southern Cyprus are also required to present the above mentioned documents/information.

VISA TYPES AND PERIODS OF STAY

• TOURIST VISA

Those who come to the country for touristic visits and will stay at a hotel or other accommodation facility and those who have rented an accommodation for this purpose, can be issued a visa for a maximum of 30 days. If they can submit documents showing that a prior payment has been made for accommodation, a visa up to 90 days may be granted.

A visa up to 60 days can be issued to those who arrive in the country for the purpose of family visit and stay at the inviting family member’s house. A visa up to 90 days may be issued to those who come for official visits, business meetings, conferences, seminars, meetings, festivals, fairs, exhibitions, sporting events, cultural and artistic events, health tourism and similar purposes.

• INTERNSHIP, COURSE, EXCHANGE PROGRAM, IN-SERVICE TRAINING VISA

Foreigners who wish to enter the country for internships, courses, student exchange programs and in-service trainings can be issued a visa for up to 90 days provided that they can submit formal acceptance letters.

• WORK PERMIT VISA

It is granted for a period of 30 days to foreigners who have come to the country with a preliminary permit in accordance with the Law on Work Permits of Foreigners. Citizens of the countries who do not have an Embassy, Consulate General, Consulate or other Representative Office in the TRNC are required to have a passport valid for at least two years to be able to apply for a work permit visa.

• BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENT VISA

Foreigners who come to the country for the purpose of starting a business can be issued a visa for a period of 30 days provided that they have the fund to start a business.

• RESIDENCE PERMIT VISA

The following types of visas may be issued to foreigners who will enter the country in order to apply for one of the residence permit types.

• Visa for Family Residence Permit: Foreigners who will apply for a family residence permit can be given a visa up to 90 days.
• Visa Due to Ownership of Immovable Property: A visa can be issued up to 90 days for those who have a title deed document indicating that they own an immovable property in the country.
• Visa for Student Residence Permit Application: Foreigners who come to the country to obtain a student residence permit may be granted a 60 day visa upon submission of a formal student registration or pre-registration letter.
• Visa for Judicial and Administrative purposes: Those who come to the country upon request or decision of judicial or administrative authorities can be granted a visa for the term of their duty.
• Visa for Scientific Research: Those who come to the country for scientific research purposes can be granted a visa for the duration of the research.
• Visa for Graduates of the TRNC Universities: Graduates of 2-year higher education programs or those have studied at least 3 years in any of the 4-year higher education programs in the TRNC can be granted a visa valid for 30 days.

Announcement Regarding 3rd Country Citizens Planning To Travel To Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Via Türkiye

Please be informed that “OK to Board” practice that had been in effect during COVID-19 pandemic, for third country nationals transit in Türkiye, has ceased to apply. Türkiye has announced that as of 15 August 2023, practice of double transit visa is required for third country citizens travelling to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus via Türkiye. The countries required to have double transit visa are listed below.

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North Cyprus Travel Requirements

We get asked a lot about the current North Cyprus travel requirements.

Can I travel to North Cyprus at the moment?

We get asked a lot about the current North Cyprus travel requirements. Whilst we can try to assist in answering queries, the situation does change regularly, thankfully more recently in a more positive relaxation of restrictions, so to help, read further for information and government websites which will help navigate what is still a very moveable situation.  Please note that this article, was published on 30th April 2021, so please refer to the websites below for current information.

Depending on your departure country, government-appointed hotel quarantine is compulsory for either 10 or 14 days. Those travelling from the UK are subject to 14 days at the moment and you must be a permit holder, either resident or work. Those over the age of 70 and families with children under the age of 12 are permitted to do home quarantine but must agree to wear a tracked wristband which is monitored until the end of the specified time.

Information available to everyone

For further information on travelling into North Cyprus and the requirements necessary to be completed prior to travel we recommend that you refer to the following websites, which are very helpful and will clearly explain what you need to do :

Government civil aviation information  – this refers to travel notifications

Home Quarantine Requirements  – which includes payment and downloading of the Stay Safe app to phones.

Current restrictions within North Cyprus  – further information on internal restrictions and curfews in North Cyprus

We are pleased to say, that despite these restrictions, North Cyprus is continually updating its information and in some areas, relaxing, requirements, both coming into the country and once in the country.

Information is readily available for everyone, and the country aims to open up further for tourism from May onwards. Keep an eye on these websites to remain updated on the situation.

As the UK has made it illegal for people to travel for holiday until at least May 17 th , tourists may have to wait just a little longer.  The UK has, however, provided a list of acceptable reasons to travel abroad, and one of those is for moving or purchasing abroad.  We have had several enquiries from potential investors who are willing to remain in quarantine, as required on arrival, and then conclude their property purchase.

North Cyprus continues to improve

The vaccination programme in North Cyprus is also continuing and, at the time of writing, has started the over 50 age group, so there is the confidence that the effects of the pandemic in North Cyprus will continue to be limited.

We can’t wait to welcome all of you to North Cyprus in the near future!

If you would like to chat with one of our Properties Specialists, to see how we can help you view properties via our virtual tours then please click the link below.

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Cyprus - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Cyprus. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country Summary: Do not attempt to enter the United Nations buffer zone at any place other than a designated crossing point. Police and UN forces strictly enforce this restriction.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Cyprus.

If you decide to travel to Cyprus:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Cyprus.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

UN Buffer Zone:  Since 1974, the southern part of Cyprus has been under the control of the government of the Republic of Cyprus. The northern part of Cyprus, administered by Turkish Cypriots, proclaimed itself the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”) in 1983. The United States does not recognize the “TRNC,” nor does any country other than Turkey. A buffer zone patrolled by the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, separates the two sides. For U.S. citizen travelers:

• Enter and exit the Republic of Cyprus ONLY  at Larnaca and Paphos airports and at the seaports of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. The Republic of Cyprus  does not consider  entry at Ercan Airport in the north to be a “legal” entrance into Cyprus.
• You  cannot receive a residency permit  from the Republic of Cyprus to reside in the area north of the UN buffer zone.

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Six months remaining validity recommended

Two pages for entry stamp

Not required for stays under 90 days

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy nicosia.

Metochiou & Ploutarchou Street 2407, Engomi Nicosia, Cyprus Telephone: +(357) 22-393939 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(357) 22-393939; wait for the recorded message then dial 0 Fax: +(357) 22-266640 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus website for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe: The republic of Cyprus is a member of the European Union but is not a party to the Schengen Agreement. However, if you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .
• You will need s ufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .
• You may enter the Republic of Cyprus for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without a visa . For stays longer than 90 days, you will need a temporary residency visa.

Since 1974, the southern part of Cyprus has been under the control of the government of the Republic of Cyprus. The northern part of Cyprus, administered by Turkish Cypriots, proclaimed itself the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”) in 1983. The United States does not recognize the “TRNC,” nor does any country other than Turkey. A buffer zone patrolled by the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus separates the two sides. For U.S. citizen travelers:

• Enter and exit the Republic of Cyprus ONLY at Larnaca and Paphos airports and at the seaports of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. The Republic of Cyprus does not consider entry at Ercan Airport in the north to be a “legal” entrance into Cyprus.
• You cannot receive a residency permit from the Republic of Cyprus to reside in the area north of the UN buffer zone.
• You can cross the buffer zone and enter the Turkish Cypriot-administered area by showing a valid U.S. passport at one of the recognized checkpoints. You can stay in the Turkish Cypriot-administered area for less than 90 days. The Republic of Cyprus does not recognize residence permits issued by Turkish Cypriots. If you stay in the Turkish Cypriot-administered area for over 90 days, you may be detained by Republic of Cyprus immigration or police, or denied entry into the government-controlled part of the island.

Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of the Republic of Cyprus. There are no restrictions for short-term tourist stays and no HIV testing on entry. Authorities will not grant a residence permit for work or study to a U.S. citizen who tests positive for HIV. 

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

U.N. Buffer Zone:

• Do not, under any circumstances, attempt to enter the United Nations buffer zone at any place other than a designated crossing point.
• Never photograph military installations or anything that could be perceived as being of a security interest. Pay particular attention to areas marked with “no photography” signs. Police on both sides of the island strictly enforce these restrictions .

Terrorism: Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. Terrorist groups, including their associates, and those inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack -- including edged weapons, pistols, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Cyprus generally has low crime rates.

• Be alert and always aware of your surroundings and of your personal belongings. Criminals often target those who are distracted, alone in an isolated area, or impaired.
• Do not leave any valuables unattended or out in public view.
• Avoid so-called “night clubs” (topless bars), as they reportedly employ women trafficked to Cyprus for sexual exploitation. Night clubs have presented foreign patrons with grossly-inflated bar tabs, threatening customers who refuse to pay.
• Claims that make it appear you are helping a loved one or a friend who has been injured or is in trouble
• Online dating/social networking services
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy by dialing 22-393939 . Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

For further information:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Call us in Washington at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution , Travel Advisories , and Alerts.
• Follow us on  Twitter  and Facebook . 
• See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. Possession of a U.S. passport will not prevent you from being detained, prosecuted, or imprisoned.

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Travel in the Area Administered by Turkish Cypriots:

• See Entry, Exit, and Visa Requirements above.
• The Embassy’s ability to provide assistance to you in this area is limited.
• Immigration officials at Larnaca Airport have occasionally turned around non-EU citizens who announce their intention to stay in hotels or villas determined by the Republic of Cyprus to be on land belonging to displaced Greek Cypriots. For more information on this issue and a full list of such properties, visit the webpage of the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in the United States.
• Car insurance purchased in the government-controlled area is not valid in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots. If you travel north of the UN buffer zone, you must have separate car insurance that can be purchased at the crossing points.

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the Republic of Cyprus or in the area administered by the Turkish Cypriots. Despite broad legal protections, LGBTI individuals sometimes face societal discrimination and few are open about their sexual orientation or gender identity. Although public attitudes tend to be socially conservative in Cyprus, the U.S. Embassy has not received reports of violence against LGBTI travelers.

See our LGBTI travel information page and section six of our Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:

• The People with Disabilities Law mandates that public buildings and tourist facilities built after 1999 be accessible to all.
• Older buildings frequently lack access for persons with disabilities.
• Narrow or nonexistent sidewalks and lack of transport, parking spaces, accessible toilets, and elevators all pose problems for persons with disabilities.
• Republic of Cyprus law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in employment, education, access to health care, or in the provision of other state services.
• For information on accessible travel in Cyprus, visit the Accessible Cyprus page of the Cyprus tourist office website.

Students: See our students abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers .

We do not pay medical bills, and U.S. Medicare does not pay overseas claims.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas . Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments . See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.

We strongly recommend obtaining supplemental insurance for medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication , check with the Republic of Cyprus to ensure the medication is legal in Cyprus. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. You should similarly confirm with authorities in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots to ensure any medication you are carrying will not present problems. The police there can be contacted at 00903922283411 and the “Drug and Pharmacy Office” at 00903922284156 or 00903922284001.

Be aware that the dry air on the island may aggravate respiratory ailments and allergies .

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Cyprus, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States, though modern motorways link the major cities.

• Traffic moves on the left side of the road – the opposite direction most U.S. citizens are used to. Pedestrians should be extra careful and look both ways before crossing roads.
• Secondary roads, especially in mountainous areas, tend to be narrow and winding, and not as well maintained as major highways.
• Speeding, tailgating, overtaking, and the running of caution lights, though illegal, are common and are major causes of accidents.
• Road safety conditions in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots are similar to conditions in the south, except that the road network is less developed.
• Insurance purchased in the government-controlled area is not valid in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots , but insurance for that area may be purchased at the UN buffer zone checkpoints.

Traffic Laws:

• Traffic laws, signs, and speed limits are consistent with the standards used throughout Europe.
• The use of seat belts (in front seats) and child car seats is mandatory .
• The use of cellular phones while driving is prohibited unless used with some form of hands-free kit.
• Motorcyclists are required to wear helmets .
• You must have liability insurance .

Public Transportation: There are few public buses and no rail lines in Cyprus. Taxis are widely available.

See our road safety page for more information, as well as the website of Cyprus’ national tourist office .

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Cyprus, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Republic of Cyprus’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning to travel to Cyprus should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Cyprus .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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