North Cyprus Areas

Northern Cyprus is predominately made up of four major towns.

Nicosia (Lefkosa) The capital city which is steeped in History with some wonderful historic buildings, the main government offices are all located in the City. There are many retail outlets providing for unlimited shopping opportunities.  The daily markets are an absolute must to lose yourself in a bygone age whilst meandering through the side streets. The border crossing to Southern Cyprus is also located here and can be accessed via Car or via the pedestrian entrance allowing you to freely explore both sides in the same day.

Famagusta – The old walled town located in the centre of this expanding city is where you can find an abundance of shops and cafes and is well worth a leisurely stroll. The beaches here are unrivalled and the calm waters of the Mediterranean ensure many relaxing days spent on the beach.  The town also plays host to the busy commercial port where most exports and imports are processed.  The E.M.U (Eastern Mediterranean University) is located here and has the largest University campus in Cyprus, it attracts many overseas students who come to study the various subjects that this diverse University offers. There are many restaurants to choose from and with the large student population a lively atmosphere can be experienced most nights of the week.

Guzelyurt - Lying on the West coast of Kyrenia, Guzelyurt is renowned for its mass production of citrus fruits which is the main export product for the island. Spring time is one of the best times to visit this agricultural area, whilst natural fragrances and beautiful blossoms enrich this natural rural area. The lifestyle here is much more laid back that the other cities where you are more likely to spend your days exploring the natural habitat eating simple traditional food in the many local villages.

Kyrenia - Kyrenia is regarded as the main Tourist location on the Island, widely referred to as the ‘pearl of the Mediterranean’ its beauty is legendary and has been praised by every ruler to pass through our shores.  The shopping amenities are vast and cater for the ever demanding tourist needs. The picture postcard harbor is the main focus at night and is dotted with street tavernas and local bars, the ambience is unforgettable and will live with you forever.  The surrounding villages are unique in their own right, all offering a wide choice of restaurants whilst retaining their natural village charm. Accommodation ranges from simple self catering apartments to luxury 5 * hotels with casinos.

Places of Interest

  Kyrenia Castle – The castle dates back to Venetian times consisting of a simple square with 4 towers, one on each corner. The castle was originally protected by a moat and had an inner harbour which connected to the outside via a Seagate on the north wall. The castle houses the Byzantine church of St. George the French dungeons, Royal apartments and the now famous shipwreck museum containing the oldest ship ever found at sea.

The port of Kyrenia or Girne as it is also known is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting sites in the North of the Island. Old Venetian houses, restaurants and Taverns border the Marina. It attracts numerous colorful fishing boats as well as elegant yachts. Founded by the Mycenaean’s towards 1600 BC, the town was protected by the construction of a fortress, which still proudly overlooks the harbour.

Bellapais -  Four miles to the east of Kyrenia nestling in the mountains is Touching the peaceful village, which was once home for Lawrence Durrell when he wrote ‘Bitter Lemons’, the Bellapais Abbey is indisputably one of the most majestic sites on the island. It is the most impressive Gothic Monument preserved from the Lusignan era around the 13^th Century.

St Hilarion Castle – Set high up in the mountains at 2,400 ft. From here, there are spectacular views across the beautiful North of the island.

The Selimiye Mosque and the covered market in the Turkish part of old town in Nicosia, are enchantingly oriental and hours can be spent watching the locals performing their professions in the maze of winding streets.

Salamis Ruins - Without doubt the most important and fascinating site in Northern Cyprus, Salamis was founded around the 12^th CenturyBC and had a long and mostly affluent development until its destruction by arab raiders, Earthquake and tidalwaves in the 7^th century. It is a large city complex that has been partially excavated to reveal wonders of Roman buildings and engineering.