by Adminson 
Northern Cyprus has a captivating charm that leaves a lasting impression on those who visit. Often called “the Med’s best-kept secret,” it enchants travelers with its unique atmosphere, drawing them back year after year. From its rich history and stunning landscapes to its vibrant culture, relaxed lifestyle, and breath-taking climate, this hidden gem offers an experience like no other. Few destinations can match the allure of Northern Cyprus.
A Guide to Visiting the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC)
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) occupies the northern and eastern regions of Cyprus, offering stunning coastlines, rich history, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. Getting there is straightforward, with scheduled flights available from London, Manchester, and other UK regional airports. If you’re flying into Ercan Airport or Geçitkale Airport, North Cyprus’ two international entry points, a short transit in Turkey is required. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Larnaca or Paphos Airports in the south and easily cross into the north—no visa is needed for British or EU citizens. With seven official border crossings, including the convenient Ledra Street pedestrian crossing, traveling between both sides of the island is hassle-free.
Getting Around North Cyprus
Exploring North Cyprus is both affordable and convenient. Car hire is reasonably priced, and with left-hand driving, British visitors will feel right at home. For those who prefer public transport, the dolmuş (shared taxis) offer extensive and cost-effective routes throughout the region.
A Budget-Friendly Mediterranean Escape
One of North Cyprus’ biggest draws is its affordability. The local currency is the Turkish lira, which offers excellent value compared to the euro, making the cost of living significantly lower than in the south. That said, many establishments also accept euros and British pounds, adding to the convenience for travelers. If you’re in the mood for a shopping spree, the mall in Famagusta is a great place to indulge in retail therapy.
Language & Culture
English is widely spoken, especially in popular areas like Kyrenia, making communication easy for British visitors. When the sun sets, North Cyprus comes alive with traditional Turkish music and entertainment, providing an authentic cultural experience.
Safety & Peace of Mind
North Cyprus is known for its low crime rate, offering visitors a safe and relaxed atmosphere, even after dark. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, lounging on pristine beaches, or enjoying the lively nightlife, you can do so with peace of mind.
From its welcoming locals to its unbeatable affordability, North Cyprus is an ideal destination for travellers seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture—without breaking the bank.
Mother Nature’s playground
North Cyprus acts as a mid-migratory junction for thousands of birds, who must keep their wits in order to evade predatory eagles, hawks and falcons, on the prowl for their next meal. To witness the airborne drama unfold is simply breathtaking. On land, diminutive house martins and swallows may seek refuge in an oak tree here, an olive tree there, or the cloisters of several, scattered churches and cathedrals. Outside one such religious dwelling in Famagusta is a sycamore fig tree planted in 1220 A.D., and rumoured to be the oldest living thing in North Cyprus – it’s truly a sight to behold. The photogenic scenery is elevated by the some 1,500 plant species that thrive and jostle for attention, especially in the season of spring when a surplus of flora washes over the landscape like a multi-hued blanket. The ruby red medoş tulip and eye-catching orchids, particularly in Alevkaya or high up on Kyrenia’s mountainous peaks, blossom here, and are something of a pride and joy for the state. Elsewhere, aromatic fennel gently caresses various fields and mountains. Over in the north-east, Cyprus donkeys roam freely and in abundance on the unspoilt Karpass Pensinsula; along with Alagadi and Akdeniz beaches, the golden sands here also double up as rare nesting grounds for many languid marine turtles.
300 days of sunshine a year
The school summer holiday period’s long, sunny days take any chill out of the Mediterranean Sea; that run across the hot yellow sands and the refreshing plunge into the clear blue waters is a delight for children and adults alike. Seek some beach-side shade and wear sun cream on lovely days like this though!
The weather in the Spring and Autumn term breaks, while not as scorchingly hot, is still warm but in the balmy evenings you may need to throw a jacket over your day-time tee shirt! This seasonal relief from the high summer sun also opens up a plethora of possibilities; activities such as cycling, hiking, nature watching and a range of land and water sports including golf, tennis, water skiing and snorkelling all await the enthusiast, or indeed the beginner.
Away from the school holidays, those seeking a relaxing break away from the hubbub of everyday life will discover an air of quiet relaxation, time to re-charge the batteries amid the stunning scenery and the delicious cuisine. Even paradise must experience a winter but North Cyprus’s is still pleasantly mild; an ideal destination to escape our harsher climes!
Step back in time
From the Assyrians to the Egyptians, the Persians to the Romans, Cyprus has seen hordes of visitors disembark on her shores over the centuries – each leaving their distinctive mark on the varied landscape.
It was in the early to Middle Bronze Ages that saw the emergence of towns and trading centres, which helped build relationships with the surrounding nations. This period was followed by occupation by many Middle Eastern countries, but it was when Persian rule was overthrown by King Evagoras that the Salamis region was able to strengthen its commerce and grow wealthy. This growth trend continued through Hellenistic and Roman rule, however, when the Roman Empire’s grip began to loosen and trade began to dwindle, fortunes were only reversed when the Byzantine Empire took control of the island and restored the province to its former glory.
The next 500 years or so saw the island change hands through Richard the Lionheart, the French Lusignan family, the Ottomans and the Venetians. In the mid-19th century the Suez Canal was opened, so to protect the trade route to India, Britain took a vested interest in the strategically located island, which saw many new roads, pipelines, crop irrigation and railways being built. This alliance continued well into the 20th century with Cyprus’s independence being declared in 1960. This series of events lead to North Cyprus declaring its independence from the south in 1974.
