Kyrenia is a picturesque town on the north coast with a Venetian castle, a historic harbour and St Hilarion Castle high in the mountains. History interwoven with modern life.
Kyrenia (Girne in Turkish) is a picturesque town on the north coast of Cyprus that will capture the heart of every history lover. The town boasts a fascinating past going back to the Bronze Age, as shown by numerous archaeological sites and monuments.
Besides its castles and monuments, Kyrenia also offers beautiful beaches, delicious food and hospitable people.
The Venetian castle, St Hilarion Castle
Bellapais Abbey
Passport
In the heart of Kyrenia stands the majestic Venetian castle, rebuilt in the 16th century on the foundations of a Byzantine fortress. For centuries it served as a defensive stronghold and a witness to the town’s turbulent history.
Visitors can walk along the castle walls and explore the imposing towers, from which there is a breathtaking view of the town and the harbour. Within the castle grounds there is also a small church and a museum with the wreck of an ancient ship, and around the castle an archaeological site from the Bronze Age and Roman times.
Daily from 8:00 to 18:00. The entrance fee is paid on site.
You can buy souvenirs and refreshments at the castle.
The imposing St Hilarion Castle, towering on the summit of the Pentadaktylos range, is a symbol of Kyrenia and attracts visitors from all over the world. For centuries it served as a key defensive fortification, and today it is a sought-after tourist attraction.
Visitors can walk along the castle walls and explore its mysterious corners – the chapel, the kitchen, the storerooms and the cisterns that supplied water. From the top there is a breathtaking panoramic view of Kyrenia and the Mediterranean and, in clear weather, even of the coast of Turkey. The journey to the castle is an adventure in itself – you can set off on foot up the winding path or use the donkey taxi service.
Comfortable shoes, clothing for the heat, sun cream, sunglasses and a hat. The entrance fee is €5 for adults and €3 for children; water and refreshments can be bought on site.
Trips I recommend as a tour rep. You book through GetYourGuide and the guides mostly speak English.
People most often go to North Cyprus on a package holiday – the tour operator arranges the flight and the transfer across the border. More in the article South or North Cyprus?
€5 for adults and €3 for children.
Daily from 8:00 to 18:00.
Kyrenia, the Mediterranean and, in clear weather, even the coast of Turkey.
Bellapais Abbey in the mountain village above the town.
If you are looking for a destination where history meets the beauty of the Mediterranean, Kyrenia is the ideal place for you.
