🧭 Tours & Excursions in North Cyprus: Discover the Island’s Hidden Magic

From ancient ruins to wild donkeys and secret beaches—North Cyprus has an adventure for everyone.

North Cyprus is a land of contrasts: sun-drenched coastlines, pine-covered mountains, medieval castles, and unspoiled villages. While renting a car gives you freedom to explore, guided tours and excursions offer deeper insight, local storytelling, and stress-free experiences that help you uncover the true heart of the island.

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, foodie, or thrill-seeker, there’s a perfect excursion waiting for you.

🏛️ 1. Historical & Cultural Tours

🏰 Kyrenia Castle, Bellapais Abbey & St. Hilarion Tour

This classic half-day or full-day tour takes you through the fairy-tale St. Hilarion Castle (rumoured to have inspired Disney’s Snow White), the romantic ruins of Bellapais Abbey, and the impressive Kyrenia Harbour & Castle.

• Includes: Transport, entry fees, local guide

• Perfect for: History lovers, photographers, and first-time visitors

🏛️ Famagusta Old City & Salamis Ruins

Discover the medieval walled city of Famagusta, its Gothic churches, ghost town of Varosha, and the sprawling ancient city of Salamis with its Roman columns, mosaics, and amphitheatre.

• Often includes: Lunch, entry tickets, and hotel pick-up

• Duration: Full-day

• Tip: Bring comfortable shoes and a hat

🐢 2. Nature & Wildlife Excursions

🐴 Karpaz Peninsula Safari

The Karpaz Peninsula is North Cyprus at its wildest—home to golden beaches, ancient monasteries, and the famous wild donkeys. This full-day jeep or minibus tour offers stunning coastal drives and traditional Cypriot meals in sleepy villages.

• Highlights: Apostolos Andreas Monastery, Golden Beach, wild donkeys

• Often includes: Village lunch, beach stop, photo opportunities

• Suitable for all ages

🐢 Turtle Watching Experience (Alagadi Beach)

During summer (June–August), join local conservation groups at Alagadi “Turtle” Beach to witness baby turtles hatching or nesting activity by moonlight.

• Led by: SPOT (Society for Protection of Turtles)

• Booking essential; nighttime activity

• Educational and emotional—a must for families and eco-conscious travellers

🚤 3. Sea & Boat Tours

🛥️ Kyrenia Coastline Boat Trip

Set sail from Kyrenia Harbour for a relaxing day along the stunning coastline. These daily boat tours often include multiple swim stops, snorkelling, music, and lunch onboard.

• Types: Traditional wooden gulets or luxury catamarans

• Duration: 4–6 hours

• Great for: Families, couples, and groups

🌅 Sunset Cruise

Romantic and serene, these shorter cruises take place in the early evening, offering incredible sunset views with drinks, mezze, and sometimes live music.

🚵‍♂️ 4. Adventure & Activity Tours

🛞 Quad Biking & Jeep Safaris

Explore off-road tracks, pine forests, and mountain trails with thrilling quad bike tours or 4x4 safaris. Many tours run in the Kyrenia mountain range or toward the Karpaz region.

• Great for: Thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts

• Includes: Helmet, guide, safety briefing

🚶 Hiking & Walking Tours

Guided hikes take you through Five Finger Mountains, Besparmak Trail, and ancient trails near Kantara. Learn about flora, fauna, and hidden Byzantine chapels.

• Best in: Spring and autumn

• Some tours combine hiking with foraging or yoga

🍷 5. Food & Wine Experiences

🧀 Village Food Tours

Spend a day in a traditional Cypriot village—visiting family-run farms, bakeries, and olive oil presses. Try hellim (halloumi) making, fresh bread, and homemade preserves.

• Often includes: Tasting menus and local wine

• Excellent for: Cultural immersion and foodie travellers

🍇 Wine Tasting at Local Vineyards

While North Cyprus’s wine scene is small, it's growing. Visit local vineyards in the Lefke or Güzelyurt regions for tastings of indigenous grape varieties and scenic vineyard walks.

🚌 6. Custom & Private Tours

Many local guides offer tailored private tours—great for those who prefer a flexible itinerary or are travelling with family or older guests. You can mix castles, beaches, markets, or even ghost towns all in one day.

• Guides available in: English, German, Russian, Turkish

• Can be arranged through: Hotels, travel agencies, or online platforms like Viator or TripAdvisor

📋 Tour Booking Tips

• Always book through licensed operators or recommended local agencies

• Check what’s included (e.g., meals, entrance fees, transport)

• Wear comfortable clothing—you’ll walk, ride, and explore a lot

• Ask about cancellation policies in case of weather issues

📅 Best Time for Tours & Excursions

• Spring (March–May): Ideal temperatures, wildflowers, and fewer tourists

• Autumn (September–November): Warm sea, golden landscapes, and mellow weather

• Summer (June–August): Great for boat tours and beach trips (early morning starts recommended)

• Winter (December–February): Perfect for cultural and city tours

✨ Final Thoughts

Tours and excursions in North Cyprus offer so much more than sightseeing—they connect you with the island’s soul. Whether you're wandering through ancient ruins, sharing lunch in a quiet village, or watching turtles under the stars, each experience adds colour to your journey. Just book the tour, bring your curiosity—and let North Cyprus do the rest.