From the Central of the Island
Girne/Kyrenia is a coastal city and, arguably, at the heart of the North Cyprus tourism industry. Photos of its harbour and castle are often used in tourism brochures. Both inside and outside the city limits are a number of great hotels, making the city and area surrounding it a great base for exploring the rest of the island territory.
This is the St Hilarion Castle one of the best place to visit in North Cyprus. The castle stands just about Kyrenia in 670 m. It was named by a hermit who once inhabited the summit. The castle was built on three levels. The upper level consists of winding and very anrrow steps up to Prince John's Tower and royal apartments.
Situated on the east coast, Salamis is one of the most important and fascinating sites in North Cyprus. It was founded around the 12th Century BC and had a long development until its destruction by Arab raiders, earthquake and tides in the 7th Century. It is a large city comples revealing Roman buildings and architecture.
The undisputed gem of North Cyprus, Girne Kyrenia contains a pretty harbor and an idyllic setting. The town’s touristy harbor front displays an attractive row of old carob warehouses that have been repurposed into restaurants and shops.
From the Capital of the city
NICOSIA
Lefkoşa, or Nicosia as it's known to Greek Cypriots, is the capital city of Cyprus. It is the world's only divided capital city, split down the centre by a UN buffer zone. Visiting the city is safe and very much worth it. Both sides of the city offer plenty to see and do and the buffer zone itself is fascinating.
This is an old defensive structure, which was erected at the beginning of the XIII century. However, the current appearance of the walls belongs to the XVI century – then the Venetians restored it after the destruction.
One of the many old churches of Nicosia, which, nevertheless, is worth visiting first. Presumably, it was built in the XIII century, the iconostasis dates back to the XVII century, and the general construction (after all the destruction) – the XVIII century.
The western end of North Cyprus feels different to the rest of the territory. Fewer foreigners head in this direction, so you may notice locals will take much more on an interest in your presence. Fear not however, as Cypriots are friendly folk and you'll always be welcomed.
The great Village of Troodos
This time, we leave the coast to reach a remote spot, among the most beautiful places to visit in Cyprus. In the wilderness, you will discover impressive waterfalls: the Caledonia Falls.
The Church of Archangelos Michael in Pedoulas village was built in 1474. The author of the frescoes — Minas — created scenes from the Old and the New Testaments, and the image of the Archangel Michael himself. The church is open for visitors, admission is free.
The district of İskele is home to the Karpas peninsular, which in turn is home to very little. That though is what makes İskele worth visiting.
Whilst exploring the rest of the territory, you're never too far from human development. İskele however is unspoilt, wonderfully natural and boasts glorious stretches of undiscovered sandy beaches and many different species of reptiles and birds. Getting to the district is a bit of a drive, but those willing to put in the miles will be richly rewarded but some of the region's best natural scenery.
They're certainly very cute, but some can be a bit grumpy
Gazimağusa
The district of Gazimağusa is home to a number of North Cyprus' headline tourist attractions.
Just some of the religious icons on show at Saint Barnabas Monastery
The exterior of Saint Barnabas Monastery
Some of the mosaics aSome of the mosaicSt Salamis are in wonderful condition