How to Get from Larnaca Airport to Northern Cyprus

🛬 How to Get from Larnaca Airport to Northern Cyprus

Larnaca Airport (LCA) in the Republic of Cyprus is one of the most popular gateways for travelers heading to Northern Cyprus. But what’s the best way to get from Larnaca to your destination in the North?

Let’s break it down.

🚖 1. Private Taxi Transfer (Most Convenient)

The easiest way is to pre-book a taxi with a driver who regularly crosses the border.

✅ Door-to-door service

✅ Comfortable, air-conditioned ride

✅ No need to switch vehicles at the border

Cost: Around €60–€90 (one-way) depending on distance (Kyrenia, Famagusta, Karpaz etc.)

Travel time: ~1.5 hours to Kyrenia

💡 Tip: Book in advance — not all drivers are licensed to cross.

🚗 2. Car Hire at Larnaca Airport

You can rent a car at Larnaca Airport and drive into the North with caution.

🚫 Most South Cyprus car hire companies do not allow cars to be taken into the North.

🟢 A few allow it with additional insurance at the border (€25–€30)

Important: You must purchase special insurance at the checkpoint to drive in Northern Cyprus. Your southern rental insurance will not cover you.

🚌 3. Shuttle Bus + Taxi

Another budget option is to take a shuttle bus to Nicosia (Lefkosa) and then a taxi across the border.

• Step 1: Shuttle from Larnaca Airport to Nicosia (€10–€15)

• Step 2: Walk across the Ledra Palace or Lokmacı border crossing

• Step 3: Take a local taxi on the Northern side to your destination

This route is cheaper, but involves luggage handling and walking.

🚕 4. Local Taxi from South (Not Ideal)

You can take a regular South Cyprus taxi, but:

• They usually stop at the border

• You’ll need to switch vehicles on foot

• It’s not cost-effective

🛂 What Happens at the Border?

The crossing is simple and fast for tourists:

• Show your passport or EU ID

• Receive a slip of paper for entry — keep it safe

• No visa needed for most visitors (see our previous blog)

Most private drivers handle the paperwork for you.

🌙 Can I Cross at Night?

Yes! The Metahan (Agios Dometios) border is open 24/7.Others (Ledra, Beyarmudu) have limited hours.

✅ Summary

Method	Time	Cost	Notes
Private Taxi	1.5 hrs	€60–90	Most comfortable, direct
Rental Car	1.5 hrs	Varies	Needs border insurance
Shuttle + Taxi	2–3 hrs	€25–35	Budget-friendly, less convenient
Local Taxi (South)	2 hrs	€70–100	May stop at border

Next in the series: Can I Cross the Border Between North and South Cyprus?