The Northern Cyprus Travel Guide covers all that you need to know about the region. It tells you about the historical background and provides information on the political situation. You can learn about the best places to visit and the best way to travel around. The Northern Cyprus Travel Guide is written by an Australian who has spent years living in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus. He has a great deal of knowledge about the place and can give you all the information that you need. His views on life in Cyprus are based in reality and he speaks from experience.
Some of the most interesting places to see in northern Cyprus are the old parts of the city, the beach town of Famagusta and the archaeological site of Paphos. The island is well known for its archaeological remains and you can spend hours exploring them. Paphos is a very old seaport and is well worth seeing in particular. A number of ruins of Cypriot shipyards can also be visited.
Famagusta is another great location to explore. It is the largest settlement in northern Cyprus with over half a million residents. It has an old, narrow port surrounded by hills on one side, the ruins of which form part of the town. There are many antiques and historical buildings to see. The ancient city of Famagusta is worth seeing, even if you do not intend to stay in Famagusta.
If you are considering visiting Northern Cyprus, then you will want to read this article. In it, we shall discuss a little about the country's politics and heritage as well as the best way to get around the island. The people of the northern part of Cyprus are greatly divided between the Turkish government in the south, the Greek Cypriots on the east and the Russian community on the north. Many consider the north a part of Greek occupied territory. For that reason, the northern part of Cyprus has a separate political status and is recognized as an independent country.
North Cyprus shares a border with the Kingdom of Israel and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Because of the unresolved conflict between the Turkish government and the outlawed Revolutionary People's Party (PML) of Turkey, Israel and the rest of the region have closed their air and land borders prevent goods from entering or leaving the country. In addition, the Turkish authorities have cut off the main road between Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus and the commercial heart of southern Cyprus at Famagusta. On the other side of the island, the Turkish-Kurdish border is largely unenforceable due to the continual fighting, so all international traffic is restricted to the coast.
A major tourist attraction on the northern part of the island is the five star hotel called the Hammanasaasa Hamman. It was built in 1963 by the German Dr. Reinhold Voll, who specialized in designing luxury hotels in Germany and the Mediterranean region. The hotel has been decorated by the likes of Yves Saint Laurent and Gucci and features a Turkish bath house and a swimming pool.
Another popular attraction in northern Cyprus is the ancient Roman ruins of the city of Daphne, which are located on the foothills of the mountain of Zaalfalah. The ruins date back to the 2nd century B.C., and are open to visitors who are fluent speakers of English. The most impressive ruins are the Temple of Artemis Agrotera, the sanctuary of Apollo Pythius, and the Theatre of Dionysus. The latter two buildings are only accessible by boat or a shorter taxi ride from the city center.
Daphne is also home to the remains of an ancient village, which dates back to the 7th century. Another group of ruins in northern Cyprus include those of the Lysolite Village and the tomb of St. Barnabas. If you like history and art, you will definitely want to check out the village of Boso, which is home to the last supper restaurant.
Up to date information for vaccinations before you travel to Northern Cyprus are available from the NHS Fit for Travel website.
Review the latest FCDO Travel Advice before travelling to or from Northern Cyprus
The summer months of June, July and August are hot and attract the majority of the tourists. However, some of the best times to travel are in the off-peak season when the weather is ideal for exploring or relaxing on one of the numerous unspoilt beaches.
If you hold a British Citizen passport, you don't need a visa to enter Cyprus.
See which forms you may need for entry into Northern Cyprus.
The official currency of Northern Cyprus is the Turkish Lira (TRY). If you're looking to transfer or spend money in Northern Cyprus you can grab amazing Turkish Lira deals via Wise.com (GBP to TRY).
The indigenous species of sheep still exists, and attempts are being made to preserve it in an animal park in Catalkoy. Foxes and hares abound, and hedgehogs are common. The species of hare in Cyprus has long ears and is a colonist from North Africa.
Turkish food? Halloumi: Cyprus' most famous food is a brined cheese that is often served grilled. Şeftali Kebabı: The so-called “peach kebab” is minced meat wrapped in the fatty abdominal netting of a lamb's abdomen. It is known for its succulence. Mezes: Local olives, yogurt with herbs, beetroot, and hummus are typical starters.
You can typically expect to pay around £3.50p for an equivalent pint of lager or beer.
The official languages of the Republic of Cyprus are Greek and Turkish. In Northern Cyprus, Turkish was made the only official language by the 1983 constitution. The everyday spoken language (vernacular) of the majority of the population is Cypriot Greek, and that of Turkish Cypriots is Cypriot Turkish. You can learn some basic Turkish before you travel to Northern Cyprus and really impress the locals!
The currency in Northern Cyprus is the Turkish Lira (Tip your guide at least 10 percent of the total bill, and the driver at least 5 percent.).
The GMT time difference is 2 hours