Originally a small fishing village Kyrenia was founded in the 10th century BC and has developed and expanded into a beautiful and bustling harbour town - a perfect location for the first time traveller or regular visitor to North Cyprus. The horseshoe harbour with its bars, restaurants and colourful yachts dominates the town and is the heart of Kyrenia for both tourists and local alike.

The streets of Kyrenia are full of shops selling jewellery, wooden crafts, designer clothes as well as souvenirs to remind of your holiday in North Cyprus. A visit to the 7th century Byzantine Kyrenia Castle is a must as well as one to the world famous shipwreck museum located in the castle grounds where the oldest ever shipwreck to be discovered is on display.

A short distance from Kyrenia is beautiful monastery village of Bellapais with its fantastic panoramic views and the spectacular ruins of the 11th century Gothic Abbey where in the summer months an impressive classical music festival is held. Do not miss the bird watch view Kyrenia from here.

Named after a saint who escaped from Jeruslaem after the Arab conquests, St Hilarion Castle, which is a short distance from Kyrenia, offers the most spectacular views of both the mediterranean and the surrounding countryside. All the Kyrenia town centre attractions are easily accessible by foot and all other areas by taxi, dolmush (local minbus system) or by car rental.

Places to visit in Kyrenia

Click to hire a car in Kyrenia