Discover Northern Cyprus

Discover Northern Cyprus

Discover Northern CyprusNorthern Cyprus
Fully GuidedFully Guided
77 Nights
Nights
-
Half Board
Transport: Flights & TransfersFlights & Transfers

    Your Guided Group Holiday To Northern Cyprus 

    Travel with us on this incredible 7-night holiday to Northern Cyprus. With its strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean, Northern Cyprus has a rich and varied history with periods spent under Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and British rule. Now divided between Cyprus and Turkey, our holiday will take us to the Turkish northern part of the island to experience the cultural wealth of this unique part of Europe. We’ll enjoy Cyprus’ beautiful sunshine from the comfort of our beachside hotel, and spend some time discovering the island’s castles, churches, mosques and markets on three included excursions around this fascinating region. Stroll through the ruins of the ancient city of Salamis, wander the twisting alleys and bustling streets of the old towns of Kyrenia and Famagusta, and visit the world’s last divided capital, Nicosia.

    Tour Map

    Trip Itinerary

    Activity Level 3

    Activity Level: Moderate

    What does this level mean?

    Day

    Travel to Northern Cyprus

    1

    Transfer to Kyrenia (Girne)

    We begin our holiday to Northern Cyprus as we fly to Ercan Airport via Istanbul. On arrival we meet our guide and transfer to Kyrenia (Girne), and settle into our hotel for the evening.

    Uncover Kyrenia including a Castle and Abbey

    2

    Guided tour of St. Hilarion Castle & Bellapais Abbey

    Time: MorningMorning

    This morning, accompanied by our guide, we discover some of the ancient sites around Kyrenia, including St. Hilarion Castle in the Kyrenia Mountains. Originally a monastery, built by the Crusaders following their retreat from the Holy Land, the castle is the largest fortress on the island and was captured by Richard the Lionheart on his way to the Third Crusade. Rumoured to be the inspiration for the castle in Disney’s Snow White, its elevated position offers stunning panoramic views. After, we discover the ruin of Bellapais Abbey in the small scenic village of the same name. Dating back to the 13th century, “The Abbey of Peace” is an impressive example of French Gothic architecture, consisting of a church, a cloister, and monastic buildings. Later we enjoy some lunch at a local restaurant (included) before exploring the Old Town of Kyrenia.

    Explore Kyrenia Old Town

    Time: AfternoonAfternoon

    Discover the charming Old Town of Kyrenia, most notably its British-built harbour and quay.  Enjoy some time to explore Kyrenia, wander by old stone buildings down its narrow alleyways, stop off in one of the harbour-side cafes, or pay a visit to the local Icon Museum or Kyrenia Castsle (not included).

    This evening, let’s join our fellow travellers for dinner at our hotel.  An evening meal is included for each of the following nights of our stay.  

    Relax More - At Leisure

    3

    Free Time in Kyrenia

    Time: Full DayFull Day

    Today we are free to enjoy the delights of Northern Cyprus at our leisure. Take advantage of the warm weather and exquisite Mediterranean waters at the beach beside our hotel, or just relax by the pool. Our guide will be happy to suggest further activities of interest.

    Discover Nicosia - Europe's last divided capital

    4

    Full Day Sightseeing Tour of Nicosia

    Time: Full DayFull Day

    Discover more as we explore Nicosia, Europe's last divided capital. We pass Mosques and discover the Arabahmet Mosque , and the St Sophia Cathedral (viewed from the outside due to renovations) as we delve into the highlights of Nicosia. Uncover one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture on the island, the Great Inn, which is located in the traditional market centre. There is also a visit to the Boyak Han - Gamblers Inn, where we can browse its galleries, cafes, and souvenir shops.

    Lunch is included today at a local restaurant, after which we can enjoy some free time to further explore before we return to our hotel.

    **Please note: Our city tour takes place in the northern (Turkish) section of Nicosia.  Subject to permission from the authorities on the day, it may be possible to visit the southern (Greek) section during free time.  Only European Citizens are permitted to cross the border and passports must be shown.

    St Sophia Cathedral is currently under renovation for 2023 and 2024.

    At Leisure

    5

    Time at Leisure in Kyrenia

    Time: Full DayFull Day

    Today is a day of leisure to explore and get to know the nearby town of Kyrenia. Savour the local cuisine, which blends Greek and Turkish influences, with specialties such as Halloumi cheese and Baklava. 

    Our guide will be pleased to offer tips for sightseeing, shopping and places to eat.

    Experience Salamis & Famagusta

    6

    Guided Excursion to Salamis

    Time: MorningMorning

    Today we uncover more on a full-day excursion to Salamis, the old capital of the island, which is thought to date back  as far as 1100BC. Our tour includes a guided tour to St. Barnabas Monastery and the Icon Museum housed in the church above the tomb of Apostle Barnabus, the patron saint of Cyprus. Many Byzantine and Roman ruins can be seen at the site, including the gymnasium pool and baths surrounded by vast marble columns, a restored Roman amphitheatre, and intricate tile mosaics.

    Guided Tour of Famagusta

    Time: AfternoonAfternoon

    After lunch (included) we visit the old town of Famagusta and explore its warren of small shops, selling local produce, from silver and copperware to ceramics, fruit and vegetables. Nicknamed The City of 365 Churches, the old town is home to many historic buildings and is surrounded by impressive medieval city walls. After our day of exploring, we return to our hotel to relax and unwind.

    At Leisure

    7

    Free Time in Kyrenia

    Time: Full DayFull Day

     We have a full day to laze among the palm trees and savour the ocean breeze, or take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Kyrenia to enjoy the convivial atmosphere and take in some final souvenir shopping.

    Return Home

    8

    Depart Northern Cyprus

    Today we say farewell  with fond memories of our visit to Cyprus, as we depart for Ercan Airport and our homeward journey.

    * We aim to operate your tour itinerary according to the format shown. Occasionally, local conditions and unexpected events may result in adjustments to the planned schedule. We kindly ask for your understanding and flexibility in the event of any changes.

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    Know before you go

    What if there is an emergency?

    We have local representatives in all of our destinations who are available 24/7 as well as an emergency contact number for our offices in Ireland should you ever need it.

    Do I need a Visa?

    Please visit our visa page for information on requirements for each country's entry requirements

    Will I be met at the airport?

    You will be met on arrival at your destination airport and transferred to your accommodation. You will be accompanied on all included excursions by your Travel Department guide. Your expert local guide is also available to give you tips and advice on any aspect of your holiday.

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