North Cyprus LGBTQ+ Scene
- John Nordmann
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Legal and Social Landscape
Decriminalization: Male same-sex activity was decriminalized in Northern Cyprus in February 2014, making it the last European territory to do so. Prior to that, colonial-era laws imposed prison terms up to five years. Female homosexuality had never been criminalized.
Anti-Discrimination Progress
Alongside decriminalization, anti-discrimination laws were established to address workplace and public sphere protections, including hate speech.
Transgender Rights Gap
Northern Cyprus currently lacks legal provisions for gender identity acknowledgment or medical transition. Trans individuals face barriers in document changes, healthcare access, and face broader legal and societal discrimination.
Activism & Community Organizations
Queer Cyprus Association (formerly HOKI): Founded in 2007, this organization spearheaded efforts against homophobic laws and organized the first Pride in 2014.
Shortbus Movement: Since 2008, this grassroots group has supported LGBTQ+ rights in Northern Cyprus, offering advocacy, legal, psychological, and educational outreach.
Intercommunal & Symbolic Events
In 2022, LGBTQ+ groups from both North and South co-organized an “Intercommunal Pride” event, combining marches from both sides into the UN Buffer Zone—symbolizing unity despite political divides.
Pride Celebrations
Annual Pride Parade: Held every year on May 17 (International Day Against Homophobia, Bi-phobia & Trans-phobia), these events have taken place in North Nicosia since 2014, often featuring speeches, performances, and after-parties.
Travel Tips for LGBTQ+ Visitors
Northern Cyprus offers peaceful beaches, historic sites, and cultural richness, ideal for discreet and respectful travelers. Public displays of affection are rare, even among heterosexual couples. Discretion is recommended, especially in rural or religious areas. Dress modestly when visiting traditional or religious sites, and avoid overt political or identity expressions in public.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Social Life & Nightlife
Cream Bar in Girne. The premier, and widely recognized, openly gay friendly multi level bar/club in Girne since around 2005. It's frequently cited as the go-to venue for the LGBTQ+ community in the area.
Apero Cafe & Bar - Lefkoşa. Visitors describe it as “lovely, locally owned” with excellent coffee, food, and cocktails - and an owner deeply engaged in social and cultural community work.
Lorenza Cafe - Lefkoşa. A historical LGBTQ+ friendly café and restaurant situated in the old town, near Büyük Han. Often mentioned in older guides as a welcoming spot for LGBTQ+ visitors. Lorenza Café is a relaxed café that attracts a diverse crowd. It’s perfect for unwinding, meeting new people, and enjoying a more laid-back vibe.
Hoi Polloi Cafe - Lefkoşa. A small and cozy LGBTQ+ friendly café, located in the same courtyard behind Büyük Han as Lorenza Cafe. Great for a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere.
Imagine Bar - Lefkosa. Imagine bar is quite common for gays in Nicosia, having both opendoor and closed areas.
Golden Beach - Karpaz. Just after the big sand isle.The western part is also known as an unofficial nudist beach quite common amongs gays.
Alagadi 3 Beach - A beautiful stretch of sand, known for its natural charm. The Alagadi area is also famous for sea turtles, making it a unique place to visit.
Golden Beach, Karpaz – A quieter spot where you can enjoy the sea away from the crowds. The western part is also known as an unofficial nudist beach quite common among gays.
Serenity hotel - Bahceli is a clothing-optional / naturist-friendly holiday rental located in a secluded part of Northern Cyprus, offering bungalows, pool, jacuzzi, and total privacy. It’s marketed on Misterb&b, a platform favored by LGBTQ+ travelers, suggesting it’s intentionally welcoming to that community .
are also all known to be LGBTQ+ friendly.
Final Thoughts
Northern Cyprus presents a nuanced LGBTQ+ scene—marked by important legal milestones and growing community initiatives, but still restrained by conservative norms and limited infrastructure. It's a place of quiet resilience and slow progress, ideal for those who value peaceful, thoughtful travel and community connection, especially through advocacy and discreet social outlets.
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