Can I Cross the Border Between North and South Cyprus?

 Can I Cross the Border Between North and South Cyprus?

🔁 Can I Cross the Border Between North and South Cyprus?

Yes — and thousands do it every day.Whether you're exploring the island or commuting for work, crossing the border between Northern and Southern Cyprus is surprisingly easy.

Here’s everything you need to know.

🗺️ Where Can I Cross?

There are 9 official crossing points, but the most commonly used are:

Crossing Point	Location	Vehicle/Foot	Hours
Ledra Street	Nicosia (Old Town)	Pedestrians	6am–midnight
Ledra Palace	Nicosia (near UN HQ)	Vehicles & Foot	24/7
Ayios Dometios (Metehan)	Nicosia West	Vehicles	24/7
Beyarmudu	Near Larnaca border	Vehicles	6am–10pm
Lokmacı	Inside walled city	Pedestrians	6am–midnight

🛂 What Documents Do I Need?

All you need is:

• A valid passport or EU national ID card

• No visa is required for most nationalities (see visa blog)

You’ll receive a white entry slip when entering Northern Cyprus. This is not a stamp and helps avoid complications when returning south.

📝 Don’t lose the slip! You may need it when exiting the North.

🚗 What If I’m Driving?

Yes, you can drive across the border, but keep this in mind:

• Southern rental cars need extra insurance to drive in the North (€25–€30)

• Northern rental cars cannot go into the South

• Bring your driver’s license and vehicle documents

💶 Do I Pay Anything to Cross?

No — crossing is completely free.There are no fees or taxes for tourists at any crossing point.

🔄 How Often Can I Cross?

You can cross as often as you like.There’s no limit on back-and-forth travel for tourists.

🧳 Can I Take Luggage Across?

Yes, whether you're on foot or driving.Custom checks are rare, but don’t carry items like weapons, drugs, or large quantities of alcohol/tobacco.

🧘 Is It Safe?

Absolutely. The crossings are peaceful and well-managed. Both sides operate with professionalism, and border officers are used to helping tourists.

✅ Summary

Question	Answer
Can I cross on foot?	Yes, at Ledra Street or Lokmacı
Can I cross by car?	Yes, but check your insurance
Do I need a visa?	No, not for most nationalities
Is it safe to cross?	Yes, very safe
Can I cross multiple times?	Yes, as often as you like

Next in the series: Where to Stay in Northern Cyprus – Regions & Tips