North Cyprus

North Cyprus

Geographically Cyprus is dived into two general parts, the South and the North.  The northern half is considered the Turkish part of Cyprus, while the south of the island is part of the European Union as the Republic of Cyprus. The border between north and south run through the middle of the capital Nicosia (Lefkoşa in Turkish).

The main language spoken by the people of Northern Cyprus is Turkish, although most people speak English.

How to get to North Cyprus

One option is to fly directly into Ercan Airport in North Cyprus which is located near Nicosia and approximately 40 km from Kyrenia / Girne.  It means you will need briefly touchdown at a Turkish airport on the way.

An other option is to fly into Larnaca Airport ( 85 km from Kyrenia) in the southern part of Cyprus. You will have a shorter flight because you will not have a stopover in Turkey.  Flights into Larnaca tend to be more affordable, and more international airlines ar direct flights to this destination.

Popular areas to buy a property in North Cyprus

Kyrenia / Girne

Kyrena and its districts are very popular with foreign investors. It’s most definitely a hotspot.   Many restaurants, bars, supermarkets have set up especially to cater for the expat and tourist trade. It’s a place where history meets leisure.

The historical harbour town overlooks the sea, surrounded by wildflower-covered slopes and the silhouettes of steep mountain peaks.

The charming waterfront spot offers busy nightlife, delicious cuisine and a picturesque Byzantine castle.

During the day, put on your comfortable shoes and explore the city, through the winding streets and cobbled alleys.  You will feel like you have been transported back through the years.

It is also home to several historical sites such as the Byzantine Castle. The St. Hilarion Castle and  the Bellapais Monastery.

Esentepe

If you drive 15 minutes east along the coastal road, you will reach the beautiful village Esentepe.

Esentepe has grown over the past few years to become a village of some note because many visitors to the area have fallen in love with the area and sought to establish their own homes in and around the village.  Most of the new developments close to the village have taken root along the coast road.

It is also an area historically rich with ruins of various monasteries, as well as the domed church of Antiphonitis which contains one of the last examples of 12th and 15th century frescoes in North Cyprus.

Northern Cyprus is also famous for golf. For example : The Kornieum Esentepe Golf and Country Club is situated near the village of Esentepe.  The 18-hole international golf course is located on the Coast at the foot of The Five Finger Mountain .

On the way to Esentepe, you will aslo find the Alagadi Beach.  It is one of the most popular turtle watching spots in North Cyprus.  Here, you can watch as female turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, and later in the season, you can be witness of the hatchlings make their way to the sea.

Famagusta

Famagusta also know as Gazimağusa, situated on the south east coast of Northen Cyprus and has some of the most spectacular natural beaches anywhere on the island. There are many historic sites too dating back centuries of Cypriot history.

Famagusta is the second largest city in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. It is a town rich in history, culture and education.

Numerous cafes, restaurants and shops located in Famagusta city center are highly popular among students.  In total, more than 20 thousand students from 68 countries of the world study at the universities of Famagusta.

Famagusta is one of the most magnificent medieval cities in the eastern Mediterranean, with many attractive locations to visit. Some of the most well-known sites in this neighborhood include the Famagusta City Walls, Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, Othello Castle, Salamis Ruins, Sea Gate, and St. Barnabas Monastery.

Iskele

Iskele is located 20 km north of Famagusta in the eastern part of Cyprus, also known by the Greek name Trikomo. This district is most popular for its long golden beaches. Long Beach is undoubtedly one of the most visited beaches in Cyprus. It stretches kilometer after kilometer along the coast, with soft sand, sunbeds and beach bars.

In the center of the village you can visit the 16th century church of St James, and Iskeles Icon Museum, Panagia Theotokos Church.  Every year an international folk dance festival is organized in Iskele, which attracts many visitors.

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