Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Northern Cyprus
- John Nordmann
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Northern Cyprus is a treasure trove of history, nature, and culture—yet still one of the Mediterranean’s best-kept secrets. Whether you're here for a relaxing beach holiday or a deep dive into ancient history, these 10 must-see attractions should be on every visitor’s list.
1. Kyrenia Harbour & Castle
An iconic postcard scene, Kyrenia Harbour is lined with vibrant cafés and restaurants. Towering above it is Kyrenia Castle, dating back to the 16th century. Inside, you'll find a shipwreck museum housing one of the oldest recovered vessels in the world.
2. Bellapais Abbey
Perched on the hills overlooking Kyrenia, this 13th-century Gothic abbey is both a historical site and a photographer’s dream. Attend a concert here if you can—its acoustics are as stunning as the views.
3. St. Hilarion Castle
Believed to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle, this fairytale fortress clings to the Kyrenia mountain range. A hike to the top rewards you with panoramic views of the northern coastline.
4. Salamis Ruins
Located near Famagusta, Salamis was once one of the most important cities in the ancient world. Explore a vast site filled with Roman baths, a gymnasium, mosaics, and an amphitheatre.
5. Karpaz Peninsula (Golden Beach)
This untouched stretch of coast is home to Golden Beach—arguably the most beautiful beach on the island. The area is also a sanctuary for wild donkeys and nesting sea turtles.
6. Famagusta Old Town & Walls
Wander through cobbled streets surrounded by Venetian walls, and marvel at the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, originally a Gothic cathedral. A must for lovers of medieval architecture.
7. Kantara Castle
One of the trio of mountain castles (with St. Hilarion and Buffavento), Kantara offers less foot traffic and equally breathtaking views. Perfect for history lovers and solitude seekers alike.
8. Nicosia's Walled City (Lefkoşa)
Visit the world’s only divided capital. The northern part of Nicosia (Lefkoşa) features the Büyük Han, Selimiye Mosque, and charming backstreets full of local artisans.
9. Apostolos Andreas Monastery
Located at the tip of the Karpaz Peninsula, this pilgrimage site has long been a spiritual destination. Restored in recent years, it's a peaceful stop on your way to the region’s natural wonders.
10. Five Finger Mountains (Beşparmak Dağları)
Named for their unique shape, these mountains are perfect for hiking, photography, and paragliding. The views from various trails are unforgettable, especially at sunrise.
Bonus Tip:
🚗 Getting around: Hiring a car is the easiest way to explore these sites at your own pace. Make sure to drive on the left!
Plan Your Trip
Northern Cyprus offers a rare mix of history, serenity, and scenery. Whether you're a culture vulture, a beach bum, or a thrill-seeker, you’ll find something special here. Bookmark this guide and start planning your unforgettable adventure today!
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