What is North Cyprus like?
North Cyprus is a lovely place to live and work thanks to its pleasant climate, gorgeous beaches, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a great place to buy a holiday home so you can spend relaxed holidays there and possibly retire too in the future. The Turkish Cypriot north and the Greek Cypriot south make up the two halves of the nation. Both sides are unified under one flag despite having separate administrations and legislatures.
Is it a good idea to retire to North Cyprus?
Retirement in Northern Cyprus is easier here than everywhere else in all of Europe. When you land at Ercan Airport, your passport will be stamped for a thirty- or ninety-day stay. There are no expenses, and a visa is not required.
North Cyprus offers pensioners a relatively carefree way of life. There are a variety of activities, including gardening, eating out, lounging by the beach or pool, wine tasting, and spa days. But if you want to be busy at the same time, there is a lot to do to keep active and enjoy carefree days.
Beaches in North Cyprus
Golden sands extending over 120 miles, quiet coves, and protected bays, all softly caressed by crystal clear seas North Cyprus has a variety of unique beach types. These range from beach clubs and well-maintained hotel beaches in North Cyprus to miles of undeveloped, untamed sand on the breathtaking Karpaz peninsula.
Areas in North Cyprus
Nicosia
Nicosia is the largest region and capital of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The main government offices, as well as the United Nations and European Commission offices, are all located there. Lefkosa is the final capital city in the world that is still divided, with the “green line” fence between the northern (Turkish) and southern (Greek) halves. Since 2003, EU citizens in Cyprus have been able to cross the border freely. They can freely cross the border and stay as long as they choose on either side of it by showing their ID cards or passports at crossing stations that are open around-the-clock.
Kyrenia
In Kyrenia, there are fantastic options for travel and exploration. You may unwind in one of the many pubs and restaurants near the harbour after perusing the many shops and markets in Kyrenia’s downtown. Kyrenia Harbour was surrounded by warehouses where the agricultural products were stored while they awaited shipment when it was at its busiest. Today, the vast majority of the structures in the harbour are restaurants with waterfront patios, and the vast majority of the vessels that use it are pleasure boats. At night, especially in the summer, the harbour is the place to be heard and seen. Enjoy a peaceful lunch with your family or an enjoyable get together with friends.
Famagusta
Beautiful beaches, top-notch amenities, and safe, secure swimming and snorkelling spots are all found in Famagusta. This harbour town is a great place to spend the summer because the bay has a stretch of golden sand. The pedestrianised old town of Gazimagusa is a true outdoor museum. It functions admirably as a hub for dining out, shopping, and entertainment. A day trip to Salamis with its enormous Roman antiquities and beaches is a must when visiting North Cyprus.
Guzelyurt
Guzelyurt translates to “Beautiful Place” it is located close to the foothills of the Troodos Mountains and is the most fertile agricultural area on the island. Guzelyurt is a market town located in the west of North Cyprus, and is one of the richest agricultural areas of North Cyprus, famous for the citrus (orange, lemon & grapefruit) and strawberries. Guzelyurt is not a typical tourist destination, but it is interesting to those who want to see a part of North Cyprus not affected by tourism. This location is perfect for picnics in an idyllic spot surrounded by nature and pretty vistas.
Iskele
On the road from Famagusta to Karpaz, you come to the village of Yeni Iskele, also known by its Greek name of Trikomo. At the centre of the village is the 15th century church of St James (Ayios Iakovas). The famous Iskele Icon Museum is another must see on your visit to the village. Near to Karpaz, is the wonderful Kantara Castle which looks over the entrance to the peninsula. Standing over 2000 Ft above sea level, most of the castle faces east. From its highest watchtowers you can see the vast panorama below. The Bogaz region of Iskele, is the tourist hub, is full of hotels and fish restaurants. In the small harbour of Bogaz, boats offer cruises along the eastern coast of North Cyprus. Those interested in culture and art are best to visit this area of North Cyprus.
Lapta in Kyrenia
Lapta is located in Kyrenia, North Cyprus, with 8,000 residents, Lapta is a refuge tucked away between the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea and the Kyrenia mountain range. Lapta is celebrated for its alluring beaches, exciting nightlife, fine dining options, and natural springs.
Tatlısu in Famagusta
Tatlisu is in North Cyprus between the Mediterranean coast and the Five Finger Mountain Range, 40 km east of Kyrenia. It’s in the Famagusta District’s extreme northwest. Feel at one with nature, escape the city, and enjoy a serene setting. Only a 40-minute drive from Kyrenia and 30-minutes from Iskele.
Trikomo in Famagusta
The village of Iskele, also called Yeni Iskele or Trikomo, is situated on the main route that leads to the Karpaz Peninsula region and on the southeast coast of Northern Cyprus. It lies near the harbour town of Boğaz, a charming ancient fishing village brimming with original charm.
It’s a great place to buy a Property in North Cyprus!!
What’s on in North Cyprus throughout 2024!!
Culture and Art Days – 4th March till 29th March – This is this annual events 13th year celebrating culture and art with music, dance and theatrical performances, exhibitions and workshops in Iskele.
Kite Festival – 20th April – Every year in Iskele brightly coloured kites take to the skies at this family fun event. There are also workshops and activities available.
Lapta Tourism Festival – 7th June till 9th June – At this festival you will be able to enjoy musical and dance performances, exhibitions and workshops, sample some local cuisine and also enjoy a range of outdoor activities. There are water sports available plus you can enjoy exploring Lapta and what it has to offer by hiking, cycling or you can even take a boat.
International Bellapais Music Festival – 17th May till 25th June – The festival is held at the Bellapais Abbey in Kyrenia and showcases a variety of musical performances from both local and international musicians.
Orange Festival – 27th June till 10th July – This annual festival began back in 1977 and was organised by the Guzelyurt Municipality to celebrate the orange harvest. Today it has gone from a weekend event to a two week festival hosting a parade, an opening ceremony, exhibitions, tournaments fairs, stalls, music and dance concerts and much more. Plus you will also get the chance to try some of the regions most juiciest and tastiest oranges. It is an event for the whole family. The festival takes place in Guzelyurt.
Tatlisu Carob Festival – 5th September till 6th September – The festival is held every year to promote the production of carob and molasses in the region. Carob powder is a local favourite and provides many health benefits, plus it can today be found as an alternative to coco powder in chocolate bars sold in health stores and vegan stores all over. The festival will host a variety of food and drink stands, activities and live music.
Olive Festival – 4th October till 6th October – The festival is held in the village of Zeytinlik. A variety of activities will be available to take part in such as olive picking, tasting and even cooking. There will also be dance and muiscal performances as well as arts and crafts displays.
Eco Day Fest – 8th October till 11th October – For just one day the village of Buyukkonuk celebrates all things North Cyprus. You will get the chance to taste some traditional Cypriot food and enjoy entertainment such as traditional folk dancing and local music. There will also be stalls selling local produce and goods.
Markets in North Cyprus
Open markets are available throughout the towns selling local produce, fresh fruit and veg and textiles
Kyrenia local market is held every Wednesday behind or inside the bus terminal
Famagusta market opens at 10am and closes between 4 and 6pm and is held every Thursday between the bus terminal and the lemar store
Iskele’s market is held on a Friday from 10am till 4-6 pm
Guzelyurt is held on a Saturday till about 1pm across from the church and museum on the main street
Boat trips in North Cyprus
Throughout North Cyprus are a number of companies providing sailing trips and tours in Kyrenia, Famagusta and Iskele. Usually the trips set sail on the Mediterranean in the early morning. You can take a dip in the clear blue waters, take in all the beautiful sites and scenery, maybe stop off to explore the area and the surrounding beaches and enjoy a bite to eat on board.
Things to do in North Cyprus
Kyrenia
Bellapais Abbey, Girne Castle, Buffavento Castle, Kyrenia Harbour
Famagusta
Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, Palm Beach, Famagusta Walled City, Namik Kemal Dungeon, Canbulat Museum, Glapsides Beach, Church of St George of Greeks
Iskele
Bellapais Abbey, Girne Castle, Kantara Castle
Guzelyurt
Saint Mamas Church and Icon Museum, Guzelyurt Museum of Archaeology and Natural History, Pigades Shrine, Gecitkoy Dam, Panagia Asinou Church
If you are interested in property in North Cyprus, please contact us at Turkish Connextions, we will be delighted to assist you.
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