Cyprus Holidays – Discover the Authentic Beauty of Northern Cyprus
The island of Cyprus offers more than just sun and sea. While many travelers are familiar with the southern part of the island, those who venture north find an entirely different experience: raw nature, ancient history, welcoming villages, and some of the most serene beaches in the Mediterranean. Northern Cyprus remains one of the region’s best-kept secrets.
A holiday in Northern Cyprus means golden coastlines, charming harbor towns, affordable luxury, and cultural depth. From Kyrenia’s castle-lined harbor to the wild, untouched beauty of the Karpaz Peninsula, Northern Cyprus is the perfect destination for those who crave authenticity and peace of mind.
Why Choose Northern Cyprus for Your Cyprus Holiday
- Quiet and less commercial than many Mediterranean destinations
- Affordable luxury with 5-star hotels and boutique accommodation
- Beautiful unspoiled beaches with clean, warm waters
- Historical towns with Venetian, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage
- Warm local hospitality and traditional cuisine
- Easy access from Ercan or Larnaca Airports
Northern Cyprus provides a safe, welcoming, and uncrowded environment for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.
Kyrenia (Girne) – The Coastal Jewel of Northern Cyprus
Kyrenia is the tourism capital of Northern Cyprus. This charming coastal town offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and leisure. The heart of Kyrenia is its historic harbor, lined with restaurants, shops, and cafes — all set against the backdrop of the impressive Kyrenia Castle.
Must-see attractions in Kyrenia include:
- Kyrenia Castle and Shipwreck Museum
- The Old Harbour with its romantic evening views
- Bellapais Abbey, a gothic monastery perched on the hillside
- Saint Hilarion Castle, which inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle
- Local markets and authentic Turkish-Cypriot restaurants
In addition to its rich history, Kyrenia also hosts a wide range of accommodations:
- High-end resorts such as The Arkin Colony Hotel and Lords Palace
- Boutique hotels like The House and The Savoy Ottoman Palace
- Family-friendly properties with pools and beach access
- Budget hostels and cozy guesthouses for long-stay travelers
Whether you prefer luxury or simplicity, Kyrenia has the perfect place for you.
Famagusta (Gazimağusa) – Where History and Sea Meet
Famagusta, located on the eastern coast, is a treasure trove of medieval architecture and golden beaches. The city once rivaled Venice in terms of wealth and beauty during the Middle Ages, and much of its historic walled city still stands today.
Top experiences in Famagusta include:
- Walking the ancient Venetian city walls
- Visiting the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque (formerly Saint Nicholas Cathedral)
- Exploring Othello’s Tower and Castle
- Enjoying the beaches of Palm Beach or Glapsides
- Touring the haunting remains of Varosha (Maraş), the abandoned ghost town
Hotels in and around Famagusta range from beachfront resorts to affordable city stays. Many visitors base themselves here for day trips to the Karpaz Peninsula or Salamis Ruins.
The Karpaz Peninsula – Nature’s Untouched Masterpiece
The Karpaz Peninsula (also known as Karpasia) is the most unspoiled region of Cyprus. Stretching northeast into the sea, this narrow, rugged peninsula is home to wild donkeys, sea turtles, ancient monasteries, and the island’s best beaches.
Reasons to visit Karpaz:
- Golden Beach (Altınkum) – over 3km of untouched sand
- Apostolos Andreas Monastery – a spiritual site with panoramic views
- Traditional villages like Dipkarpaz with warm, hospitable locals
- Protected wildlife including turtles and donkeys
- Eco-bungalows and nature-friendly lodging
Karpaz is ideal for travelers who want to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Accommodation is mostly eco-lodges, village houses, and small boutique hotels.
Iskele and Long Beach – Sun, Sea, and Modern Resorts
Iskele (Trikomo) and its surrounding coastline, particularly Long Beach, have become increasingly popular with tourists seeking relaxation near the sea without the crowds.
Highlights of the area:
- Long Beach: A wide sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming
- Walking and cycling paths along the coast
- Modern beachfront resorts with pools, restaurants, and beach bars
- Family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals
- Easy access to Famagusta and Salamis Ruins
Resorts in the area include exotic options like Courtyard Long Beach, Merit Cyprus Gardens, and boutique hotels along the shore.
Lefke – A Hidden Valley of Greenery and Citrus
Located on the western edge of Northern Cyprus, Lefke is a peaceful town surrounded by citrus orchards, historic aqueducts, and Ottoman-era buildings. It's also a gateway to the Troodos foothills.
Top things to see and do:
- Soli Ruins and Vouni Palace
- Ottoman architecture in Lefke town center
- Citrus gardens and traditional cafes
- Nature walks through the hills and valleys
- Seasonal festivals and authentic rural life
There are several family-run pensions and small hotels in the area. Lefke is perfect for off-the-beaten-path travelers looking to slow down and enjoy local life.
Nicosia (Lefkoşa) – Europe’s Last Divided Capital
North Nicosia is the capital of the TRNC and offers an intriguing mix of modern life and historical depth. The walled city is full of narrow alleys, Ottoman mosques, restored inns, and hidden gems.
What to experience in North Nicosia:
- Selimiye Mosque and Büyük Han
- Arasta Market and Ledra Street
- Museums, art galleries, and traditional craft shops
- Dereboyu Street for shopping and nightlife
- Authentic Turkish-Cypriot restaurants
Nicosia is ideal for short cultural breaks and city discovery. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to boutique heritage hotels within the old city walls.
Top Hotels in Northern Cyprus
Some of the most notable hotels in the region include:
- Concorde Luxury Resort – Vokolida
- Kaya Artemis Resort – Vokolida
- Limak Cyprus Deluxe Hotel – Bafra
- Noah’s Ark Deluxe Hotel – Bafra
- Merit Royal Premium Hotel – Alsancak
- The Arkin Palm Beach Hotel – Famagusta
- Lord’s Palace Hotel – Kyrenia
- The Arkin Colony Hotel – Kyrenia
- Elexus Hotel & Resort – Çatalköy
- Salamis Bay Conti Resort – near Famagusta
These hotels offer luxurious accommodation, casinos, spas, fine dining, entertainment, and family facilities.
Cuisine and Culture
Northern Cyprus is a paradise for food lovers. The cuisine is influenced by Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean flavors. Expect to find:
- Meze platters with local dips and grilled meats
- Fresh seafood dishes
- Cypriot halloumi cheese, olives, and local breads
- Traditional desserts like baklava and lokma
- Turkish coffee served in small cafes
Many holidaymakers enjoy taking cooking classes, visiting village markets, or attending local festivals to experience the island’s rich culinary heritage.
How to Get to Northern Cyprus
- Ercan International Airport (ECN) – The main airport in Northern Cyprus, with direct flights from Turkey.
- Larnaca International Airport – Located in South Cyprus, accessible via border crossing, with international connections from Europe and the Middle East.
- Car hire and private transfers are available from both airports.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April to June): Wildflowers, mild weather, fewer tourists
- Summer (July to August): Hot and sunny, great for beach holidays
- Autumn (September to October): Warm sea, relaxed atmosphere
- Winter (November to March): Quiet, ideal for cultural exploration and walking
Northern Cyprus enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year, making it a year-round destination.
A Safe, Affordable, and Unique Mediterranean Escape
Cyprus holidays in the north offer something that is becoming increasingly rare — a feeling of genuine discovery. The pace is slower, the people are warmer, and the experiences are richer. Whether you want a luxurious all-inclusive week by the sea, a backpacking adventure through ancient ruins, or a romantic escape to a mountain village, Northern Cyprus delivers.
From the elegance of Kyrenia’s harbor to the remote beauty of Karpaz, every corner of Northern Cyprus invites you to unwind, explore, and connect.
Book your Northern Cyprus holiday today — and discover a side of Cyprus few have truly experienced.
