Northern Cyprus

Northern Cyprus Highlights

Northern Cyprus, officially known as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, is a self-declared state recognized only by Turkey. It offers a unique and compelling blend of ancient history, captivating beaches, and vibrant culture. One of its iconic landmarks is the city of Famagusta, with its medieval walls and the haunting `Ghost Town` Varosha - once a glamorous resort, now abandoned and off-limits. The ancient city of Salamis, with its impressive Roman ruins, is a must-visit. Kyrenia (Girne) is famed for its picturesque harbour lined with restaurants, its castle housing a shipwreck museum, and nearby Bellapais Abbey offering stunning views. Northern Cyprus is also home to several universities, infusing the region with a youthful, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Despite its political complexities, it`s a largely undiscovered gem with a warm climate, friendly locals, and delicious Turkish Cypriot cuisine, making it a memorable destination for those seeking history, sun, and adventure.

Top 10 Attractions

Alagadi Turtle Beach

The Alagadi Turtle Beach is not only a beautiful spot to relax but also a significant nesting site for loggerhead and green turtles. During the nesting season, visitors may have the unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures laying the... more

The Alagadi Turtle Beach is not only a beautiful spot to relax but also a significant nesting site for loggerhead and green turtles. During the nesting season, visitors may have the unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures laying their eggs under the watchful eye of dedicated conservation teams. This beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and wildlife observation.

Alagadi Turtle Project

This vital conservation project is based at the Alagadi beach, focusing on the protection of nesting sea turtles. Participate in a guided tour to learn more about these incredible creatures and the efforts made to conserve their population. You might... more

This vital conservation project is based at the Alagadi beach, focusing on the protection of nesting sea turtles. Participate in a guided tour to learn more about these incredible creatures and the efforts made to conserve their population. You might even have the unique experience of witnessing hatchlings making their journey to the sea.

Ancient City of Soli

Descubra os vestígios da antiga cidade de Soli, lar de importantes tesouros arqueológicos. Maravilhe-se com seu teatro romano, mosaicos intrincados e basílicas. A cidade era uma das dez antigas cidades-reino de Chipre, o que lhe confere uma história... more

Descubra os vestígios da antiga cidade de Soli, lar de importantes tesouros arqueológicos. Maravilhe-se com seu teatro romano, mosaicos intrincados e basílicas. A cidade era uma das dez antigas cidades-reino de Chipre, o que lhe confere uma história rica e diversificada, palpável enquanto explora o local.

Ayia Napa Monastery

O Mosteiro de Ayia Napa é um dos marcos mais conhecidos da área. Com origens no século XIV, oferece um refúgio tranquilo do agito da cidade do lado de fora. A arquitetura do mosteiro é intrigante, com uma mistura de estilos bizantino e gótico. Seu pi... more

O Mosteiro de Ayia Napa é um dos marcos mais conhecidos da área. Com origens no século XIV, oferece um refúgio tranquilo do agito da cidade do lado de fora. A arquitetura do mosteiro é intrigante, com uma mistura de estilos bizantino e gótico. Seu pitoresco pátio é lar de uma grande e antiga árvore sicômoro.

Bellapais Monastery

The beautiful 13th-century Bellapais Monastery, also known as "Abbey of Peace", stands on a hill overlooking the village of Bellapais. Explore its refectory, treasury, and cloisters, and soak up the stunning views over the coastline. The tranquil, we... more

The beautiful 13th-century Bellapais Monastery, also known as "Abbey of Peace", stands on a hill overlooking the village of Bellapais. Explore its refectory, treasury, and cloisters, and soak up the stunning views over the coastline. The tranquil, well-preserved ruins are sure to transport you back to the time of the Lusignan Kings.

Buffavento Castle

The highest of the three castles on the Kyrenia mountain range, Buffavento Castle offers unrivaled views of Northern Cyprus. Its name meaning `defier of the winds`, this rugged and atmospheric ruin holds a strategic position and has served many purpo... more

The highest of the three castles on the Kyrenia mountain range, Buffavento Castle offers unrivaled views of Northern Cyprus. Its name meaning `defier of the winds`, this rugged and atmospheric ruin holds a strategic position and has served many purposes throughout its history, including a royal residence, prison, and lookout post.

Büyük Han

Büyük Han is the largest caravanserai in Cyprus and one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture on the island. Transformed into a thriving cultural center, it houses various arts and crafts workshops, boutiques, and a traditional Turkish café.... more

Büyük Han is the largest caravanserai in Cyprus and one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture on the island. Transformed into a thriving cultural center, it houses various arts and crafts workshops, boutiques, and a traditional Turkish café. This magnificent structure, located in Nicosia, offers a glimpse into the commercial activities of the Ottoman period.

Dipkarpaz National Park

Este Parque Nacional está localizado na Península de Karpaz e é um paraíso para os amantes da natureza. É lar de várias espécies de aves e burros selvagens, tornando-o um lugar perfeito para a observação da vida selvagem. O parque também possui vária... more

Este Parque Nacional está localizado na Península de Karpaz e é um paraíso para os amantes da natureza. É lar de várias espécies de aves e burros selvagens, tornando-o um lugar perfeito para a observação da vida selvagem. O parque também possui várias trilhas para caminhadas, oferecendo a chance de explorar a diversa flora e fauna da área.

Famagusta Ghost Town

Também conhecida como Varosha, a Cidade Fantasma de Famagusta já foi um resort turístico movimentado. No entanto, foi abandonada durante a invasão turca em 1974 e permaneceu desabitada desde então. Caminhar ao longo da borda dessa área restrita parec... more

Também conhecida como Varosha, a Cidade Fantasma de Famagusta já foi um resort turístico movimentado. No entanto, foi abandonada durante a invasão turca em 1974 e permaneceu desabitada desde então. Caminhar ao longo da borda dessa área restrita parece estar voltando no tempo, já que os prédios e ruas desertos criam uma atmosfera sinistra.

Famagusta Walls

The walls of Famagusta are a grand fortification system that encircles the old city. Constructed by the Lusignans and later reinforced by the Venetians, they bear witness to Famagusta`s strategic importance throughout history. Walk along the walls to... more

The walls of Famagusta are a grand fortification system that encircles the old city. Constructed by the Lusignans and later reinforced by the Venetians, they bear witness to Famagusta`s strategic importance throughout history. Walk along the walls to gain a different perspective of the city, and enjoy the view from the numerous bastions and towers.

Golden Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus is located on the Karpaz Peninsula. Golden Beach is true to its name, with its fine golden sand and clear, shallow waters. Due to its remote location, the beach is often empty, providing a great spot for so... more

One of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus is located on the Karpaz Peninsula. Golden Beach is true to its name, with its fine golden sand and clear, shallow waters. Due to its remote location, the beach is often empty, providing a great spot for solitude and relaxation. Sea turtles are known to nest on this beach, adding to its natural allure.

Icon Museum

The Icon Museum, housed in the former Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sophia, showcases a remarkable collection of religious art. Explore hundreds of icons spanning the 15th to the 20th centuries, collected from churches across Northern Cyprus. This... more

The Icon Museum, housed in the former Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sophia, showcases a remarkable collection of religious art. Explore hundreds of icons spanning the 15th to the 20th centuries, collected from churches across Northern Cyprus. This museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of Orthodox Christianity and the region`s rich religious art traditions.

Kantara Castle

O Castelo de Kantara, localizado na borda leste da cordilheira de Kyrenia, oferece uma exploração histórica e vistas panorâmicas. Foi estrategicamente importante devido à sua visibilidade tanto nas costas norte quanto sul de Chipre. A subida até o ca... more

O Castelo de Kantara, localizado na borda leste da cordilheira de Kyrenia, oferece uma exploração histórica e vistas panorâmicas. Foi estrategicamente importante devido à sua visibilidade tanto nas costas norte quanto sul de Chipre. A subida até o castelo é uma experiência gratificante, oferecendo vistas impressionantes sobre a cordilheira e a costa.

Karpaz Peninsula

The Karpaz Peninsula is a slice of unspoiled natural beauty, known for its golden beaches, wild donkeys, and an abundance of bird species. Don`t miss a chance to visit the Apostolos Andreas Monastery at the peninsula`s tip, an important pilgrimage si... more

The Karpaz Peninsula is a slice of unspoiled natural beauty, known for its golden beaches, wild donkeys, and an abundance of bird species. Don`t miss a chance to visit the Apostolos Andreas Monastery at the peninsula`s tip, an important pilgrimage site for Greek Cypriots. The Karpaz Peninsula is perfect for those seeking tranquility and nature.

Kyrenia Castle

The Kyrenia Castle in Northern Cyprus is a must-visit attraction. This castle has a history dating back to the Byzantine era, and it`s located right at the edge of the Kyrenia Harbor. With its impressive architecture and commanding views of the harbo... more

The Kyrenia Castle in Northern Cyprus is a must-visit attraction. This castle has a history dating back to the Byzantine era, and it`s located right at the edge of the Kyrenia Harbor. With its impressive architecture and commanding views of the harbor and the Mediterranean Sea, Kyrenia Castle offers a great day out for history buffs and families alike. Inside, you`ll find the Shipwreck Museum, which displays one of the oldest shipwrecks ever recovered.

Kyrenia Harbour

O pitoresco Porto de Kyrenia é um dos pontos mais fotogênicos do Norte de Chipre. Alinhado com charmosos cafés e restaurantes, oferece uma área agradável para um passeio tranquilo. A vista dos barcos flutuando nas águas calmas, com o pano de fundo do... more

O pitoresco Porto de Kyrenia é um dos pontos mais fotogênicos do Norte de Chipre. Alinhado com charmosos cafés e restaurantes, oferece uma área agradável para um passeio tranquilo. A vista dos barcos flutuando nas águas calmas, com o pano de fundo do castelo e das montanhas, é uma cena que parece saída de um cartão-postal.

Lusignan House

Located in Nicosia, the Lusignan House is a perfect example of a traditional Ottoman home, showcasing the architectural styles and interior design practices of the period. The well-preserved residence offers insight into the everyday life of a wealth... more

Located in Nicosia, the Lusignan House is a perfect example of a traditional Ottoman home, showcasing the architectural styles and interior design practices of the period. The well-preserved residence offers insight into the everyday life of a wealthy Ottoman family, and features beautiful wooden interiors, intricately decorated doors, and a charming courtyard.

Museum of Barbarism

O Museu da Barbaridade em Nicósia é um lembrete sombrio do passado violento de Chipre. O museu é, na verdade, uma casa que foi palco de atrocidades horríveis durante a violência intercomunitária em 1963. O andar superior é mantido como foi encontrado... more

O Museu da Barbaridade em Nicósia é um lembrete sombrio do passado violento de Chipre. O museu é, na verdade, uma casa que foi palco de atrocidades horríveis durante a violência intercomunitária em 1963. O andar superior é mantido como foi encontrado, e pertences pessoais das vítimas são exibidos. É um lugar assombroso, mas importante para visitar e compreender a história trágica da região.

Niazi`s

Established in 1949, Niazi`s restaurant in Kyrenia is a culinary landmark in Northern Cyprus. Famous for its `full kebab`, which includes a variety of kebabs and mezes, it offers an authentic taste of the local cuisine. With its excellent service and... more

Established in 1949, Niazi`s restaurant in Kyrenia is a culinary landmark in Northern Cyprus. Famous for its `full kebab`, which includes a variety of kebabs and mezes, it offers an authentic taste of the local cuisine. With its excellent service and charming ambience, Niazi`s is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Othello Castle

Situado em Famagusta, o Castelo de Othello leva o nome do herói trágico de Shakespeare. Explore sua torre redonda, ameias e a impressionante entrada com o leão veneziano de São Marcos. Suba pelas muralhas para uma vista panorâmica da cidade antiga e... more

Situado em Famagusta, o Castelo de Othello leva o nome do herói trágico de Shakespeare. Explore sua torre redonda, ameias e a impressionante entrada com o leão veneziano de São Marcos. Suba pelas muralhas para uma vista panorâmica da cidade antiga e do porto.

Salamis Ruins

The ancient city of Salamis offers a fascinating insight into the region`s rich history. Once a great city-state of the Roman Empire, Salamis features a vast archaeological site that includes a grand theatre, Roman baths, and the remains of a Byzanti... more

The ancient city of Salamis offers a fascinating insight into the region`s rich history. Once a great city-state of the Roman Empire, Salamis features a vast archaeological site that includes a grand theatre, Roman baths, and the remains of a Byzantine basilica. Wander through the marble columns, enjoy the mosaics, and take in the history of a city that once rivaled Alexandria in its significance.

St. Hilarion Castle

Visit the St. Hilarion Castle perched high on the Kyrenia Mountain Range. Once a monastery in the 10th century, it was fortified by the Byzantines and later expanded by the Lusignans. Explore its extensive ruins, including royal apartments, a chapel,... more

Visit the St. Hilarion Castle perched high on the Kyrenia Mountain Range. Once a monastery in the 10th century, it was fortified by the Byzantines and later expanded by the Lusignans. Explore its extensive ruins, including royal apartments, a chapel, and barracks. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, with vistas spanning the entire Northern coastline.

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