North Cyprus (TRNC) is a hidden Mediterranean gem, offering stunning beaches, ancient ruins, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes—all with fewer crowds than the south. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or beachgoer, here’s your ultimate guide to the best tourist attractions in North Cyprus.
🏖️ Best Beaches in North Cyprus
1. Golden Beach (Altınkum)
📍 Karpaz Peninsula
- One of the longest and most pristine beaches in Cyprus.
- Wild donkeys often roam nearby—great for photos!
- Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and solitude.
2. Escape Beach (Kaplıca)
📍 Near Kyrenia
- Crystal-clear waters with beach clubs & water sports.
- Lively atmosphere with sunbeds, bars, and music.
3. Alagadi Turtle Beach
📍 Near Famagusta
- A protected nesting site for loggerhead and green turtles (May–Oct).
- Quiet, unspoiled, and ideal for eco-tourists.
🏰 Must-Visit Historical Sites
4. Kyrenia Castle & Harbour
📍 Kyrenia
- A 12th-century fortress with a shipwreck museum inside.
- The picturesque harbour is lined with cafes and restaurants.
5. St. Hilarion Castle
📍 Near Kyrenia
- A fairytale-like crusader castle with panoramic mountain views.
- Inspiration for Disney’s Snow White castle!
6. Ancient Salamis
📍 Near Famagusta
- One of Cyprus’s largest Roman ruins (theater, gymnasium, mosaics).
- Walk among 2,000-year-old columns near the sea.
7. Bellapais Abbey
📍 Kyrenia District
- A stunning Gothic monastery with mountain views.
- Visit the nearby village for traditional Turkish-Cypriot food.
🌿 Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
8. Karpaz Peninsula (The Panhandle)
- Wild, untouched nature with rolling hills and secluded beaches.
- Visit the Apostolos Andreas Monastery at the tip.
9. Buffavento Castle
📍 Kyrenia Mountains
- A hike-rewarded crusader castle with jaw-dropping views.
10. Five Finger Mountains (Beşparmak)
- Great for hiking, paragliding, and jeep safaris.
- Hidden Byzantine frescoes in some caves.
🏙️ Best Cities & Towns to Explore
11. Kyrenia (Girne)
- Charming old town, bustling marina, and great nightlife.
- Don’t miss the Kyrenia Shipwreck Museum.
12. Famagusta (Gazimağusa)
- Walled city with Venetian palaces & Othello’s Tower.
- The ghost town of Varosha (abandoned since 1974).
13. Nicosia (Lefkoşa) – The Divided Capital
- The last divided capital in the world (UN buffer zone).
- Walk across the Ledra Street checkpoint to South Cyprus.
🍴 Local Food & Drink Experiences
14. Try Traditional Cypriot Dishes
- Meze (20+ small dishes like hummus, halloumi, kebabs).
- Kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb).
- Molehiya (jute leaf stew).
15. Wine Tasting at Local Vineyards
- Visit Chateau St. Hilarion or ETKO Winery.
🚗 How to Get Around
- Car rental (best for exploring).
- Taxis & dolmuşes (shared minibuses).
- Bicycles (great for coastal paths).
💡 Travel Tips for North Cyprus
✔ Currency: Turkish Lira (₺), but Euros/GBP often accepted.
✔ Visa: Most nationalities get a free 90-day stamp on arrival.
✔ Language: Turkish (English widely spoken).
✔ Best Time to Visit: April–June & September–November (avoid peak summer heat).
🏡 Thinking of Staying Longer?
If you fall in love with North Cyprus (many do!), Cypria Properties can help you find your dream home—whether a seaside villa, mountain retreat, or city apartment.
📞 Contact us today for property insights!