Nightlife & Clubbing in North Cyprus: A Complete Guide
- John Nordmann
- 18 hours ago
- 3 min read

Northern Cyprus offers a diverse after-dark scene that blends beachside partying, sophisticated lounges, cultural venues, and energetic clubs. Here’s everything you need to know:
Beach & Outdoor Clubs
Escape Beach Club (near Kyrenia): A summer favourite featuring foamy beach parties, DJs, and drinks that keep the energy flowing from day into the night.
Club Acapulco, Club Mansion (at Cornaro Beach), Shayna Beach Club, and Escape Ice Club: Popular for dancing under the stars during hot summer evenings.
Suna’s Beach Club (Lapta) & Chamada Beach Club (Catalköy): Stylish and lively, these offer scenic seaside vibes with DJs and themed nights through the week.
Lush Beach Club (Long Beach Resort, Famagusta): Transforms into a dreamy night venue with modern aesthetics, peaceful beachside settings, and music after sunset.
Clubs & Dance Venues (City-Based)
Kyrenia / Girne:
Popular clubs include Cage Club, Odyssey Club (Lord’s Palace Hotel), Cheetah Club, Groggy Lounge, Onyx Club, Ego Bar, and Black Penny Lounge—each offering its unique vibe and playlist.
The Old Harbour area hosts a cluster of bars ideal for pre-evening drinks—Café Laika, Café Bella, Harbour Inn, and the Sky Lounge & Bar (at Lord’s Palace Hotel) offer everything from cocktails to panoramic views.
Live Music, Karaoke & Themed Bars
Live music is a staple—venues near Kyrenia Castle, the Amphitheatre, and Bellapais Abbey feature outdoor acoustic performances, ranging from traditional folk to jazz.
Karaoke bars thrive: places like Villa Swallow (Fridays) serve as fun hotspots complete with pool, darts, and karaoke.
Themed bars like The Time Machine (retro, 80s nostalgia) and Tiki Bay Beach Bar (tropical, bamboo décor) offer immersive, quirky experiences.
Casinos & High-End Entertainment
For a glam night out, try Savoy Ottoman Palace Casino (Kyrenia), Merit Crystal Cove, or other lavish hotel casinos offering games, shows, and cocktails. Some even include a free drink or meal with your first stake—but remember to bring your passport and check dress codes.
Festivals, Street Parties & Cultural Nights
North Nicosia / Dereboyu Avenue: A central hub of nightlife featuring street parties, concerts, LGBT pride events, and university spring festivals.
Bellapais Music Festival, Cyprus Tango Festival, dance festivals (Salsa Jam, Earthdance), theatre and open-air performances at historic venues enrich the night scene with cultural depth.
Hidden Gems & Low-Key Evenings
Historic taverns like Büyük Han in old Nicosia offer folk music, mezes, and cozy charm away from the bustle.
Smaller cocktail spots, meyhanes (Turkish taverns), and rooftop bars in Lapta, Kyrenia, and other towns give you a quieter, more local-flavoured evening.
Karpaz Peninsula offers rustic, romantic locations such as Blue Sea Restaurant & Bar, Natura Park, and Golden Beach Café—ideal for unplugging under the stars.
Practical Tips
Timing: Clubs typically open later—expect the evening to begin around 9–10 PM.
Entertainment Variety: Whether you're in the mood for live jazz, karaoke, electronic dance, or traditional tunes, the island delivers.
Money Matters: Rural bars often only accept cash.
Entry & Dress: Some venues enforce dress codes and ID checks, especially casinos and upscale clubs. Note that in many clubs, entry is paid, but some may offer free access for women
Summary Table
Experience Type | Highlights |
Beach Clubs & Outdoor Venues | Escape, Club Acapulco, Chamada, Lush |
City Clubs | Cage Club, Ego Bar, Odyssey, etc. |
Live Music & Karaoke | Jazz, folk, karaoke nights |
Themed Bars & Retro Lounges | The Time Machine, Tiki Bay, etc. |
Casinos & Luxury | Savoy Palace, Merit Crystal Cove |
Festivals & Street Parties | Dereboyu street events, music/dance festivals |
Quiet & Romantic Spots | Historic taverns, Karpaz cafés, rooftops |
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