We’re thrilled to have you all here in Cyprus with us. There are plenty of things to see and do whilst you are here. Cyprus has a rich tapestry of scenic beauty, cultural delight, and delicious cuisine waiting to be explored. We recommend trying a bit of everything during your trip here to make it an unforgettable experience!

Below we list all our favourite things to see, places to eat, and beaches to relax on in the Northern part of Cyprus, but of course there is the whole of the South to also explore if you have time.

Kyrenia

Kyrenia, nestled on the Northern coast of Cyprus, is steeped in a captivating history with its ancient roots dating back to Neolithic times, and subsequent rules under Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. This city has a unique character, blending all these influences together; today its cobblestone streets, medieval walls, and picturesque harbour stand as reminders of its rich heritage. Here is a list of places we highly recommend you visit.

Bellapais Abbey is a personal favourite of ours (the place we got engaged!), and you can catch one of the most beautiful sunsets here. We love spending time at Alagadi beach, however there are no sunbeds provided here, so if we’re feeling a little bit lazy, we prefer Mare Monte or Mermaid beach which have excellent facilities.

If you’ve never been to Cyprus before (and in particular the North), you have to try meyhane. A traditional tavern prominent in the Turkish-Cypriot culture, where friends and family gather to enjoy an enormous amount of food, accompanied by drinks, music and lively conversation. You’ll enjoy an abundance of small dishes known as meze, including a wide array of salads, grilled meats, seafood, vegetarian dishes, all perfect for sharing. The food just keeps coming.

Cultural

  • The Old Harbour and Kyrenia Castle

  • Bellapais Abbey

  • Karmi village (Karaman)

  • St Hilarion Castle

  • Buffavento Castle

Nicosia

Beaches

  • Alagadi Turtle Beach

  • Mermaid Beach (Deniz Kızı)

  • Mare Monte Beach

  • Escape Beach

  • Camelot Beach

  • Kervansaray Beach

Food

  • Archway (meyhane)

  • Eziç Peanuts

  • The Meyhane (meyhane)

  • Altın Koy (fish)

  • Hürdeniz (fish)

  • Anı (fish)

The last divided capital in the world, Nicosia has an incredibly rich history. Shaped by conflicts between empires and religions, culminating in the division of the city into Greek and Turkish Cypriot sectors in 1974. Despite its turbulent past, Nicosia remains a vibrant city, with historic landmarks, bustling markets, and a diverse population.

We love strolling through the old walled city of Nicosia, and having Turkish coffee in the Büyük Han (Great Inn). There are plenty of cafes, bars, markets, and old doors to admire as you make your way through the city. Any trip to Nicosia is incomplete without having some ice-cream from Budak’s, but before this, make sure to try traditional Cypriot pastries at Hamur. If you’re in Nicosia long enough, be sure to enjoy the original Ömerli meyhane for dinner.

Cultural

  • Büyük Han (The Great Inn)

  • Bandabuliya (Covered Bazaar)

  • Selmiye Mosque

  • Samanbahçe Quarter

Food

  • Ömerli (meyhane)

  • Budak (dessert)

  • Niyazi’s Mirage (kebab)

  • Zahra (cafe)

  • Hamur (Cypriot pastries)

Famagusta

Originally a small commerical port and fishing village, Famagusta lies on the Eastern coast of the island. The walled town and the areas around the city are peppered with ruins of civilisations ranging from Assyrian, Greek, Persian, Roman, Byzantine, Lusignans, and Venetians. Today, this city is perfect for a day-trip to explore these historical sites whilst walking through the walled city, and relaxing on one of its many golden beaches.

When we go to Famagusta to meet up with friends and family we love relaxing on Kocareis beach, and enjoying good food at the Castello meyhane within the walled city. Taking a trip to Salamis Ancient City is definitely a must-do if you’re visiting.

Cultural

  • Salamis Ancient City Ruins

  • St Barnabas Monastery and Icon Museum

  • La La Mustafa Pasha Mosque

  • Ruins of the Venetian Royal Palace

  • The Othello Tower

Beaches

  • Glapsides Beach

  • Kocareis Beach

  • Yeniboğaziçi Beach

  • Silver Beach

  • Bedi’s Beach

  • Palm Beach

Karpaz

Karpaz peninsula is at the very tip of the island, and is renowned for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Jutting out into the azure waters of the Mediterranean sea, with a spectacular coastline, pristine beaches, and unspoilt landscape, it truly is a hidden gem. The roads to get there are slightly bumpy, but if you have time, the journey is 100% worth it. On the drive there, you’ll be greeted by the famous Karpaz donkeys who roam freely in this part of Cyprus. They are very friendly and considered a symbol of this region. Spend time at one of many fabulous beaches, two of our absolute favourites are Seabird, and Golden Beach: beaches do not get better than this. If you’ve made it all this way, be sure to take plenty of photos at the viewpoint overlooking Golden Beach, and if you have time visit St Andrew’s Monastery for a bit of history.