Northern Cyprus

A guide for first time visitors

Those who visit Northern Cyprus usually return. It is a quiet place that has yet to become overrun by tourism.

A romantic island, land of beaches, mountains, castles and villages where time has stood still for 50 years or more. There is time, and there is Cyprus time. No one is in a hurry, and like most countries where the pace of life is relaxed, the people are friendly and welcoming, and the warmth of a Cypriot smile is as bright and as sunny as the Cyprus weather. English is spoken widely.

Climate

North Cyprus enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with long, warm and dry summers from mid-May to mid-October. July and August can be very hot (40 degrees or more in the cities) which is an ideal time to take refuge in the cool of the mountains where you have guaranteed shade under the pine trees with the gentle cooling mountain breeze.

Temperatures in the winter, from December to February, are mild compared with northern Europe. There is more chance of rain, and on rare occasions even some very short-lived snow!

Traveling to Northern Cyprus

As Northern Cyprus remains unrecognised by most of the international community, at the time of writing, there are no direct flights from Europe. However you will find regular flights by Cyprus Turkish Airlines and Turkish Airlines to Ercan airport, via Turkey, which are linked to most destinations in the UK and Europe.

Since 2004, it has been possible to fly to Larnaca in Southern Cyprus and travel through the border into Northern Cyprus. This offers a more direct journey, a wider choice of airlines with more competitive pricing.

Hire cars from Northern Cyprus cannot be taken across the border, but if you choose to fly to Larnaca, you can usually arrange with your car hire company to be collected from the airport and taken through the border then taken to your car. We are happy to put you in touch with a hire car company who can also arrange your transfers from either airport.

Flora & Fauna

Located between Eastern Europe and Asia, and as an island, the variety of wildlife include many species only found in Cyprus, which for the botanist, bird watcher, and nature lover offer a huge appeal throughout the year. Read more...