Kyrenia (Girne): The Jewel of Northern Cyprus
Kyrenia, or Girne as it is known in Turkish, is a coastal gem located on the northern shore of Cyprus. With its charming harbor, rich history, sun-drenched beaches, and breathtaking mountain scenery, Kyrenia stands as one of the most enchanting destinations in the Mediterranean. Whether you’re drawn by its historic landmarks, its natural beauty, or its tranquil seaside lifestyle, Kyrenia offers a captivating experience that blends the best of Cyprus’s culture, cuisine, and coastline.
The Iconic Kyrenia Harbor
Kyrenia’s old harbor is perhaps the most iconic and picturesque setting in all of Northern Cyprus. Surrounded by historic Venetian buildings and lively waterfront cafés, the harbor is alive with the gentle rhythm of fishing boats, yachts, and sunset reflections on the water.
In the evening, the harbor becomes a romantic scene—candlelit tables line the promenade, musicians perform traditional melodies, and visitors enjoy freshly caught seafood while watching the boats gently sway in the moonlight. This is the heartbeat of Kyrenia, a place where time slows and the beauty of the Mediterranean takes center stage.
Kyrenia Castle and the Shipwreck Museum
Towering above the eastern side of the harbor is Kyrenia Castle, a well-preserved Byzantine fortress later expanded by the Venetians. This monumental structure offers a journey through centuries of Cypriot history. Inside, you’ll find winding stone corridors, ancient chapels, a small dungeons area, and the Shipwreck Museum—home to one of the oldest shipwrecks ever discovered, a Greek merchant ship dating back to the 4th century BC.
Climb to the castle’s ramparts and you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the harbor, the city, and the shimmering blue sea beyond.
Historic Sights Beyond the City
Bellapais Abbey
Perched in the hills just outside the city, Bellapais Abbey is a hauntingly beautiful Gothic monastery that dates back to the 13th century. With its arches, cloisters, and hillside views, the abbey inspires both photographers and poets. It’s also home to classical music concerts and cultural events during the summer months.
St. Hilarion Castle
If there’s a site that looks like it was pulled from the pages of a fairytale, it’s St. Hilarion Castle. Located high in the Kyrenia Mountains, this castle was originally a monastery and later fortified during the Crusader era. Legend says it inspired Walt Disney’s design for the castle in Snow White. Climb its staircases and discover a labyrinth of towers, courtyards, and incredible panoramic views stretching from the mountains to the sea.
Stunning Beaches and Coastal Relaxation
Kyrenia is surrounded by a string of idyllic beaches where the Mediterranean sun meets the cool, clear sea. Whether you’re looking for water sports, family fun, or secluded spots for relaxation, there’s a beach for every mood.
Escape Beach is a lively and popular destination, especially among younger visitors. With calm, shallow waters, beach bars, and volleyball courts, it offers a fun, social vibe.
Acapulco Beach is part of a larger resort and features a wide sandy stretch with loungers, water slides, and full facilities. It’s perfect for families or those staying in the resort’s luxury accommodations.
Alagadi Turtle Beach is a conservation area where loggerhead and green turtles nest. In summer, guided night walks allow visitors to observe hatchlings making their way to the sea—a rare and unforgettable experience.
Other beaches like Camelot, Kervansaray, and Denizkızı are loved for their clean waters, soft sand, and stunning sunset views.
Luxury Hotels and Boutique Accommodation
Kyrenia offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from lavish five-star beach resorts to cozy boutique hotels tucked away in historic neighborhoods.
Acapulco Resort & Convention & SPA Hotel is one of the most well-known luxury resorts in the region. With over 800 meters of private beach, a massive outdoor pool, aqua park, casino, and spa facilities, it offers everything you need for a relaxing and indulgent stay.
Lord’s Palace Hotel Spa & Casino blends modern luxury with Mediterranean elegance. Located near the harbor, this hotel features sea-view rooms, rooftop dining, a state-of-the-art spa, and a lively casino.
The Arkin Colony Hotel, located in the city center, is perfect for travelers who want to stay near Kyrenia’s cultural attractions. With its rooftop pool, panoramic views, and fine dining, it offers sophisticated comfort.
Bellapais Gardens Hotel is a boutique gem near the abbey, surrounded by gardens and known for its peaceful ambiance and romantic suites.
Authentic Cypriot Cuisine and Harbor Dining
Kyrenia’s food scene is a celebration of local flavors and Mediterranean traditions. Meze, a series of small dishes like grilled halloumi, olives, hummus, and seafood, is a culinary must-try.
Fresh fish restaurants line the harbor, serving catches of the day such as sea bass, calamari, and red mullet. Don’t miss kleftiko (lamb slow-cooked in clay ovens), moussaka, or sheftalia (Cypriot sausage).
For something sweet, indulge in lokma (fried dough balls in syrup), baklava, or freshly squeezed pomegranate juice from market stalls.
Nightlife, Events, and Entertainment
Though quieter than southern Cyprus, Kyrenia offers a vibrant selection of evening entertainment. The harbor area is home to stylish cocktail lounges, live music venues, and late-night cafés.
For those seeking a more upscale experience, the casinos in top hotels like Cratos Premium, Merit Park, and Lord’s Palace provide glamorous nightlife with gaming, live shows, and fine dining.
During summer, open-air concerts and cultural festivals are common, particularly in Bellapais and Girne Amphitheatre, where local and international performers grace the stage.
Nature and Outdoor Adventures
Kyrenia is surrounded by natural beauty that invites exploration. The Kyrenia Mountains offer scenic hiking and cycling trails with panoramic views and historical ruins scattered along the way.
Olive groves and citrus orchards dot the countryside, while quiet villages like Lapta and Karmi offer a taste of traditional Cypriot life. Nature lovers can also go horseback riding, bird watching, or explore coastal cliffs and hidden coves by kayak.
Day Trips and Island Exploration
From Kyrenia, it’s easy to explore more of Northern Cyprus. Popular day trips include:
- Famagusta, a historic walled city with medieval churches and Ottoman mosques.
- Salamis Ruins, an ancient Greco-Roman city with well-preserved mosaics, baths, and amphitheaters.
- Nicosia, the divided capital of Cyprus, where you can walk across the Green Line between the northern and southern sides of the island.
Why Choose Kyrenia?
Kyrenia offers a rich and varied experience: charming harborside days, ancient castles, vibrant cuisine, mountain air, sun-drenched beaches, and warm local hospitality. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family looking for fun and relaxation, or a solo traveler exploring history and culture, Kyrenia captures the heart in ways few destinations can.
This hidden gem of the Mediterranean is not only a place to visit but a place to feel at home. Its unique mix of tradition and tranquility ensures that every traveler finds their own story in Kyrenia—and often, a reason to return.
