There is so much history in Girne (Kyrenia).
What started off as scattered villages in the 70s after the war broke out on the island, Girne has since become one of the three biggest cities in North Cyprus.
Now Girne, or Kyrenia in Greek, is a vibrant tourist destination, renowned for its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
For those of you looking for things to do in Girne, here is a guide from someone who visits the city almost every year.
Kyrenia (Girne) in North Cyprus offers historic sites like Girne Castle and St. Hilarion Castle, beautiful beaches, and scenic hiking in the Kyrenia Mountains. Visitors can enjoy a lively harbour, local museums, and a variety of fitness activities, making it a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Let’s start with St Hilarion Castle as it’s one not to be missed while visiting the city.
Perched at the top of Kyrenia mountains, This fairy-tale fortress offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Mediterranean Sea. The castle's well-preserved ruins and legends make it a fascinating destination for history buffs and romantics alike.
It is a somewhat steep climb to navigate through the castle and offers a fantastic opportunity for a hike and sightseeing all in one. So if you’re looking to get out of the city for an excursion St Hilarion is a good day out.
Bring plenty of water especially if you are visiting in summer as it will be very hot. You will be able to find shade in a lot of the areas in the castle and surroundings but the heat will play its role so come prepared. A hat, sunscreen, lots of water and a camera are a must.
Girne Castle is one of the most prominent landmarks in Kyrenia, North Cyprus.
This impressive fortress, originally built by the Byzantines in the 7th century, offers a glimpse into the region's tumultuous past. Inside, visitors can explore the Shipwreck Museum, which houses the remains of an ancient ship dating back to 300 BC. The castle's architectural features, such as its massive walls and towers, provide stunning views of the harbour and city.
Girne Harbour, located in the heart of Kyrenia (Girne), North Cyprus, is a charming and bustling area renowned for its historical significance and picturesque beauty. The harbour is lined with colourful boats, lively cafes, and seafood restaurants, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and Girne Castle.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the waterfront, dine al fresco while watching the sunset, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere that blends the old-world charm with modern-day vibrancy. It's a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration. This is also a really pleasant walk at night.
This picturesque city is known for its affluent charm and beautiful scenery, in fact, Belle Paese means Beautiful Village/Place in Italian. Aptly named then.
The village offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, charming narrow streets, and traditional Cypriot houses as well as the main landmark of Bellapais Abbey.
Visitors can enjoy local cafes, great restaurants, and boutique shops, making Bellapais a serene and culturally rich destination perfect for exploring history and enjoying the tranquil beauty of Cyprus.
The city layout is centred around the historic harbour, where narrow, cobblestone streets wind through bustling markets, shops and charming cafes. The atmosphere is a blend of laid-back Mediterranean vibes and the rich, historic aura of its ancient buildings.
Outdoor enthusiasts can embark on hiking adventures in the nearby mountains or enjoy water sports along the coast.
Beaches and Outdoor Activities:
Girne has some interesting beaches although not as good as other parts of the island there are still popular spots to go for a dip.
Related: Famagusta Guide
Escape Beach, is perfect for a day of relaxation and water sports. This is a lively spot in the summer, I would suggest arriving early to get a good seat.
They also offer scuba diving in Escape Beach so if you feel ready to get your snorkel on then this is a good place to start.
This location is also very near the point where the Turkish army landed. There is a monument in place that showcases this. It’s still a sensitive subject for most Cypriots so be wary of this when visiting Cyprus in general.
Baris Plaji is another beach just outside Girne City that is worth a visit. It’s about a 20-minute drive from the city but offers golden sand and lots of space on the beach.
Most beaches in Girne require payment for sun beds and some even for entry.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore the Kyrenia Mountain range, which offers numerous hiking trails with panoramic views of the coast.
Five Finger Mountain (Pentadaktylos): Known for its distinctive five-fingered peak, this range offers several hiking trails with stunning coastal views and unique rock formations.
Buffavento Castle: Perched high in the Kyrenia Mountains, this castle provides a challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding area and the coast.
Kantara Castle: Located on the eastern side of the Kyrenia range, this site offers relatively accessible trails and spectacular vistas over both the northern and southern coasts of Cyprus.
Alevkaya Forest Station: This area features well-marked trails through pine forests, offering a peaceful and scenic hiking experience with opportunities to see local wildlife and flora.
Beşparmak Trail: A long-distance trail that runs through the Kyrenia Mountains, providing hikers with an immersive experience of the natural beauty and historic sites of the region.
Girne boasts several museums that offer insights into the local culture. The Folk Art Museum displays traditional Cypriot crafts and artefacts, while the Icon Museum, housed in a former church, showcases a stunning collection of religious icons. These museums provide a deeper understanding of the region's artistic heritage and cultural traditions.
Here are a few notable museums in Girne (Kyrenia), North Cyprus:
These museums provide a diverse cultural experience, showcasing the historical and artistic richness of Girne.
Festivals and Events:
Kyrenia hosts various annual festivals that reflect the rich cultural traditions of North Cyprus.
The Kyrenia International Olive Festival celebrates the region's olive-growing heritage with music, dance, and culinary events. Other notable events include the Girne Jazz Festival and the Bellapais Music Festival, which attract international artists and visitors.
There are events during summer that mark dates that happened in wars, either in Cyprus or in Turkey. These are military marches with jets, tanks, vehicles and soldiers so if that is something that interests you then these are the dates to keep open. The marches vary throughout the north of the island.
20th July - War in Cyprus
August 30th - Turkey Victory Day
For more information on dates check out northcyprusinternational.com.
Dining in Girne:
For a taste of traditional Cypriot cuisine, visit Niazi's, known for its meze platters and kebabs.
This is a popular choice for tourists but there are so many good restaurants to choose from in Girne. Some are on the outskirts of the city in nearby Alsancak some are small and relatively unknown offering traditional and delicious Cypriot cuisine.
In truth, this section would need a whole new post so checking reviews online is always the best way when it comes to these choices.
Hiring a car is highly recommended for exploring all of North Cyprus, making the most of your trip with easy access to all destinations. Click the banner below to find great deals.
Girne is accessible from major airports in Cyprus, including Ercan Airport in North Cyprus, Larnaca Airport in the south or Paphos Airport in the South. From Ercan Airport, it's a short drive to Girne, while from Larnaca, visitors can take a scenic route through the border crossing.
PLEASE NOTE: Renting a car from the south to the north is not straightforward and may require additional insurance. It is best to get a taxi from the south to the north and hire a car in the north - this would also save some costs as the car rental in the north is generally cheaper than the south.
If you are looking to fly to Cyprus and you wish to stay in the north then there are things to consider. There are no direct flights to Ercan airport unless you are flying in from Turkey, most visitors opt to fly directly into the south and grab a taxi to the north. So please also leave some money and time aside for a taxi journey after your flight to the south.
Finally, if you do fly into the north then be aware that you are unlikely to be able to cross over to the south as the south does not recognise the north as a country and will deem your entry illegal. This is not an issue if you only want to stay in the north.
Accommodation:
There are plenty of accommodation options in Girne to suit all budgets.
Again this information is better placed on another post for comprehensive information.
That being said a quick search on booking.com will reveal some amazing hotels and apartments in Girne and surrounding areas for all budgets. Cratos and Lords Palace is one worth checking out.
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Casinos
Girne (Kyrenia) is renowned for its vibrant casino scene, making it a popular destination for gamblers from around the region, particularly from Turkey. A significant number of visitors from Turkey travel to North Cyprus specifically to enjoy the casinos.
The city boasts several high-end casinos that offer a wide array of gaming options, from slot machines and poker to roulette and blackjack. These casinos are often attached to luxury hotels, providing guests with top-notch amenities such as fine dining, entertainment, and spa services, creating a comprehensive leisure experience.
If this sounds like fun then search for hotels with casinos attached for the ultimate all-inclusive experience.
Restrictions
Cyprus is a country still technically at war. This means a military presence is felt throughout the island.
Caution is needed when taking pictures, avoid taking pictures of military bases and even personnel in some cases. You will see signs where pictures are not to be taken but use some common sense here, you do not want your phone or camera confiscated or to be interrogated by any army.
Girne (Kyrenia) in North Cyprus is a hidden gem that beautifully blends history, culture, and natural beauty.
From exploring ancient castles like Girne Castle and hiking in the picturesque Kyrenia Mountains to relaxing at charming harbours and enjoying vibrant cultural festivals, Girne offers something for every traveller. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a serene Mediterranean escape, Girne has it all.
Have you visited Girne? Share your experiences and favourite spots in the comments below! Don't forget to read more about Cyprus by checking out my blog on Famagusta for more travel inspiration and tips.
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