Exploring Northern Cyprus: The Ultimate Guide for Holiday makers
Northern Cyprus is a Mediterranean paradise waiting to be explored. With its rugged mountains, turquoise waters, ancient sites, and vibrant cities, this self-declared state in the northeastern part of Cyprus island offers an idyllic and affordable holiday destination. So, grab a Cyprus Visa UK and use this guide to experience the best of Northern Cyprus!
Best Time to Visit Northern Cyprus
The best time to visit Northern Cyprus is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-November). Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 60-77°F (15-25°C), with fewer crowds and cheaper rates compared to the peak summer months.
The summer season from June to August can get quite hot, especially inland, reaching over 100°F (38°C) at times. However, temperatures remain comfortable near the coast with constant sea breezes. July and August also draw big crowds of European tourists, so expect higher prices and busier beaches.
Winters are mild near the coast but rainy throughout. Mountain areas see occasional snowfall starting in December through March. While cheaper rates can be found, many hotels and attractions are closed for the season.
Best Places to Visit in Northern Cyprus on Your Holiday
1. Kyrenia (Girne)
This picturesque seaside town with its iconic castle and lively harbour front reminds visitors of a mini Saint-Tropez. Once an important port, Kyrenia charms with winding cobblestone streets, cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. It makes an idyllic base to explore the region!
2. Famagusta (Gazimagusa)
Surrounded by medieval walls, Famagusta old town transports you back in time with churches turned into mosques, ruins, and palm-filled courtyards. Check out the gothic beauty of St. Nicholas Cathedral and Othello Tower for epic city views.
3. Karpaz Peninsula
Golden beaches with little development fringe the Karpaz Peninsula dubbed the “Green Paradise of the Mediterranean.” The wild landscape offers everything from ancient churches to wild donkeys.
4. Buffavento Castle
Perched 3,000 feet up in the Five Finger Mountain range, this crusader castle provides panoramic vistas over Nicosia and the Mesaoria plains. Try to catch a sublime sunset here with your loved ones!
5. Salamis Ruins
Just north of Famagusta, this archaeological site has extensive Roman and early Christian ruins, including public baths, collonaded streets, mosaic floors, and an amphitheatre.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your Cyprus Visa appointment today to go on a Cyprus Holiday!
Top Things to Do in Northern Cyprus
1. Relax on Golden Sand Beaches
With over 300 miles of shoreline, Northern Cyprus tempts with pine-fringed coves and endless stretches of sand in shades of gold, red and white. Top beach picks are Escape Beach, Golden Beach, Alagadi Beach, and Guzelyurt (Morphou Bay).
2. Go Sea Kayaking
Paddle along the coastline for a fun perspective of sea caves, secluded coves, crumbling castles and quaint harbours. Guided day trips often include snorkelling stops for swimming and spotting sea turtles.
3. Explore Medieval Castles
Northern Cyprus has many crusader castles and fortifications worth exploring like Buffavento Castle, St. Hilarion Castle and Kantara Castle with sweeping coastal views.
4. Experience a Turkish Bath
After sightseeing, relax your mind and body with a traditional hamam experience. These Turkish baths involve moving between a hot room, warm room and cold plunge pool for deep sweating and exfoliation, finishing with a massage.
Want to enjoy these amazing experiences? Apply for Cyprus Visa London today. Go on a dream vacation to Cyprus with loved ones!
Northern Cyprus Cultural Sites
A mix of Turkish and Cypriot cultures shapes life in Northern Cyprus today. Handicrafts like pottery, jewellery, lace, and leatherwork thrive as both art forms and livelihoods for local artisans.
1. Lefke
Lefke is an artisan hub with traditional workshops, boutiques and amazing sights. Make sure to check these out while on your vacation to the northern region of Cyprus.
2. Guzelyurt
In laidback Guzelyurt, tour traditional olive oil factories and wineries producing indigenous grape varietals. The town’s medieval aqueduct and Lefke Gate attract sightseers while the main street tempts with shops and eateries.
3. North Nicosia (Lefkosa)
North Nicosia (Lefkosa) serves as the capital with historical mosques, hamams, caravanserais and the iconic Selimiye Mosque inside the walled old city. The adjacent modern area holds museums and lively café culture along Girne Caddesi.
You should definitely explore these amazing cultural places in the northern region of Cyprus. Simply grab a Cyprus Tourist Visa to get started!
Northern Cyprus Historical Landmarks
From Neolithic settlements to Roman theaters, Lusignan castles and Venetian walls, Northern Cyprus safeguards millennia of history.
1. Soli
The ongoing excavation at Soli, founded around 1200 BC, uncovers Greece’s largest known gymnasium, basilicas, baths and striking floor mosaics.
2. Voluni Palace
Vouni Palace was a 5th century BC palace-sanctuary perched dramatically on a hilltop. Elaborate royal tombs were carved out of the rocky slopes below.
3. The Salamis Theater
Constructed around 300 AD, the Salamis Theater could hold over 15,000 spectators. The stage building was decorated with detailed marble carvings and statues.
Northern Cyprus Local Cuisine
Expect fresh Mediterranean flavours infused with Turkish and Middle Eastern influences in Northern Cypriot cuisine.
1. Meze Spreads
Local meze spreads may include hummus, tabbouleh, stuffed grape leaves, falafel and taramasalata, while kebabs, köfte and moussaka grace many menus.
2. Seafood in Cyprus
Seafood also stars, whether grilled simply, included in meze or served in hearty fish stews and curries. Don’t leave without trying octopus in red wine, calamari stuffed with halloumi cheese or king prawns served sizzling in olive oil and herbs.
3. Desserts
For dessert, baklava’s flaky, honey-soaked pastry still reigns supreme, alongside regional treats like tulumba (fried batter drenched in syrup). Fresh fruit also finishes many meals, as do Turkish coffees and teas.
Northern Cyprus Family Activities
Northern Cyprus makes an easy family-friendly destination with kid favourites like beaches, boating, castles, water parks and nature trails to burn off energy.
1. Visit Waterparks
Multiple waterparks provide wet fun in the sunshine in Cyprus. Popular picks include the Acapulco Waterpark outside Kyrenia with high-adrenaline slides and a lazy river, or the Palm Beach Waterpark in Famagusta for smaller children with mini slides and pools.
2. Explore Ancient Ruins
Young minds get inspired wandering ancient ruins like Salamis with its vast gymnasium and theater or Soli’s uncovered mansion. Kourion also tempts families with the remains of lavish Roman villas filled with intricate mosaics and bathhouses along the beach.
3. Casual Activities in Northern Cyprus
For casual beach days, pick a stretch with water sports rentals like pedalos, windsurfers, kayaks and small sailing boats. Many beaches offer playgrounds plus snacks and cafes to keep the hangry ones happy.
Northern Cyprus Shopping Guide
Northern Cyprus fills visitors’ suitcases with quality crafts, food items and fashionable goods unique to the region.
In Kyrenia, the harbour overflows with shops carrying everything from designer fakes to tacky knick-knacks. For a more authentic feel, duck into the old carob warehouses to find handmade lace, pottery, and Cypriot sweets.
Larger cities like Famagusta (Gazimagusa) and North Nicosia (Lefkosa) also offer modern shopping malls and markets. Check out the Bandabuliya for touristy items or nearby Yeni Bazar for housewares, textiles, spices and everyday wares.
Local honey, olive oil, halloumi cheese, hellim cheese, lokum (Turkish delight), ordu liquor and Cyprus brandy called “Zivania” make tasty edible gifts. Handicrafts like painted pottery, Lefkara lace, jewellery, woven goods and leather sandals also represent traditional artistry.
So, why wait? Shop to your heart’s content in Cyprus. Apply for an online Cyprus visa today!
Eco-Tourism in Northern Cyprus
Escape the resorts to experience Northern Cyprus’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty through green tourism. Local guides interpret flora, fauna and the island’s complex history while following responsible practices.
1. Conservation Efforts for Turtles
Spot endangered loggerhead and green turtles swimming offshore or coming ashore to lay eggs through nighttime monitoring walks. Learn about conservation efforts protecting turtle nesting beaches.
2. Visit Karpaz National Park
Within Karpaz National Park, hike through aromatic pine and cedar forests on routes like the Golden Path to view ruined churches and monasteries in wild mountain settings. Encounter shy kipon (wild donkeys) if lucky.
3. Agro Tourism at Guzelyurt
Several areas like Guzelyurt offer agritourism at family-run orchards and vineyards focusing on traditional cultivation methods and localized products like naturally sweet black mulberries.
Northern Cyprus Vacation Tips
Keep these need-to-know Northern Cyprus travel tips in mind:
1.The currency is Euro though many shops and hotels accept British pounds and US dollars as well. MasterCard and Visa cards are widely accepted.
2. Driving is on the left. Rental cars or group tours make navigating easier as tourism infrastructure still develops.
3. English serves as the common language though Turkish and Greek are also official languages. Learning a few key Turkish phrases opens doors to better connections.
4. Summers are hot and dry so pack sun protection, breathable clothing and hats. Light jackets suffice for cool evenings.
Conclusion
From scenic jeep safaris to beachfront resort relaxation, eco-friendly turtle watching to late nights sampling meze under the stars, Northern Cyprus tempts with diverse Mediterranean magic. Friendly locals, affordability and untapped tourist sights add to its intrigue for British travellers seeking culture beyond the superficial. As Northern Cyprus invests further in tourism, go now to experience untouched charm before the secret gets out. All you need is a Cyprus Visa UK to get started on your vacation!
FAQs
Q1. How do I get around Northern Cyprus without a car?
Shared taxis connect major towns affordably. Intercity buses run infrequently except along the central Kyrenia – North Nicosia – Famagusta corridor. Guided tours or rental cars provide freedom for exploring on your onw.
Q2. Is Northern Cyprus expensive to visit?
Northern Cyprus offers good value overall, especially for accommodation and dining. As tourism infrastructure improves, luxury offerings expand but mid-range and budget options still prevail. Activities like golf, yachting, and guided jeep safaris fall on the pricier end.
Q3. Is Northern Cyprus safe for tourists?
Yes, North Cyprus is very safe with low violent crime rates. Normal precautions should be taken in crowded areas per most destinations. Police forces maintain checkpoints along the UN buffer zone but checkpoints rarely affect tourists.
Q4. What are some popular waterparks in Northern Cyprus for family fun?
The Acapulco Waterpark outside Kyrenia and the Palm Beach Waterpark in Famagusta are popular choices for families, offering high-adrenaline slides, lazy rivers, and pools suitable for smaller children.
Q5. What unique items can visitors shop for in Northern Cyprus?
Visitors can find quality crafts, food items, and fashionable goods such as handmade lace, pottery, Cypriot sweets, local honey, olive oil, halloumi cheese, lokum (Turkish delight), and traditional handicrafts like painted pottery and Lefkara lace.
