Half-Day St. Hilarion Castle & Bellapais Tour in Kyrenia, North Cyprus

If you’re looking for an unforgettable half-day tour of the stunning sites in Kyrenia, then the St. Hilarion Castle & Bellapais Tour is one of the top experiences to add to your itinerary. Located in the charming hilltop town of Bellapais, the tour takes you through a fascinating piece of history, with plenty of spectacular views, and the chance to take photos that will last a lifetime.

What’s Included in the Half-Day St. Hilarion Castle & Bellapais Tour

On this half-day tour, you get to explore two of the area’s most important landmarks: St. Hilarion Castle and Bellapais Abbey. The tour begins in Kyrenia, where you’ll be picked up in a private air-conditioned vehicle and driven to the castle, which dates back to the 8th century. You’ll have plenty of time to admire the castle’s impressive and intricate architecture, as well as learn about how it helped protect the critical port city of Kyrenia in times of war and invasion. Next, you’ll be taken to the nearby Bellapais Abbey, where you’ll be able to explore this beautiful and romantic ruin, built in the 13th century. With its stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea, steep staircases and imposing Gothic architecture, it’s easy to see why the Abbey was once a favored refuge for many famous writers and artists. You’ll have plenty of time to take photos and immerse yourself in its rich history. At the conclusion of the Half-Day St. Hilarion Castle & Bellapais Tour, you will be returned to your original pickup location in Kyrenia.

Additional Details on the Half-Day St. Hilarion Castle & Bellapais Tour

The tour lasts for approximately 4 hours and departs from Kyrenia daily at 10 am. The price includes pickup from any Kyrenia hotel and dropoff back to the same place. Tour participants must be at least 6 years old and all minors must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the tour. The tour must be booked in advance on a website such as GetYourGuide in order to secure your spot for the day. The tour is extremely popular, so make sure to book as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

Pros and Cons of the Half-Day St. Hilarion Castle & Bellapais Tour

PROS:

• An ideal way to experience two historic sites in one convenient tour
• Opportunity to learn about Kyrenia’s fascinating past
• The area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty
• Pickup and return included

CONS:

• Minimum age requirement
• Must book well in advance

Conclusion

The Half-Day St. Hilarion Castle & Bellapais Tour offers a convenient way to see two of Kyrenia’s top attractions in one comprehensive package. With its private air-conditioned vehicle and knowledgeable guide, it’s an easy and enjoyable way to get insights into Kyrenia’s fascinating past in a luxurious and comfortable experience. It is highly recommended for those looking for a unique way to explore the area’s incredible historical sites – just make sure to book well in advance for best availability. Get your spot now here.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Kyrenia, North Cyprus

Kyrenia is a picturesque port town located in the northern part of Cyprus. It attracts tourists with its enchanting blend of natural beauty, diverse culture, and rich history. Visitors can enjoy exploring the cobbled streets and shops, tasting local cuisine, visiting ancient castles and museums, and soaking up the sun on some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean. This guide will provide an insider’s view of Kyrenia and highlight some of the best things to see and do in and around the town.

Local Attractions

While you are visiting Kyrenia, there are a number of popular attractions to check out. One of the most famous is Kyrenia Castle – a spectacular castle dating back to the 16th century which houses the Shipwreck Museum. At the museum, you can see one of the oldest recovered shipwrecks in the world, dating back to 300BC. Another must-see attraction is Saint Hilarion Castle, which is a short drive from central Kyrenia. This beautiful castle sits on top of the Besparmak mountain range and offers stunning panoramic views of the coast and surrounding areas.

If you’re looking for things to do within the town center, The Icon Museum and the Kyrenia Museum of Folk Art are excellent choices. They exhibit a collection of Cypriot art, crafts, and traditional clothing. Another great cultural experience is the Bellapais Abbey, a grand Gothic-style monastery built in the 13th century, located 15 minutes away from the center.

Dining Spots

Kyrenia is well-known for its fresh seafood and traditional Cypriot cuisine, which combines elements of both Greek and Turkish culture. One of the most popular dining spots for seafood is Cafe Chimera, located right on the harbor. Serving everything from meze to grilled fish, you will be delighted with the food. If you’re in the mood for a more upscale dining experience, head to The Ambiance Restaurant, which features modern Turkish dishes with fresh local ingredients and overlooks the sea. The Palace Kitchen is another local institution serving traditional Cypriot cuisine at affordable prices.

Cultural Experiences

Kyrenia is a melting pot of culture, showcasing both Greek and Turkish customs, and the town center has many unusual spots that encapsulate this. The Central Market on the edge of the harbor is always a colorful experience, with vendors selling a wide range of goods. The area around Chrysalliniotissa Church is one of the best-preserved neighborhoods in the town, with buildings dating back to the Ottoman Era. While wandering through the winding streets and alleyways, you may discover artists creating and selling beautiful pottery and handmade jewelry.

Local History

Kyrenia boasts a rich and varied history. The most interesting historical sites to visit in the town center are the Kyrenia Castle, the Armenochori Crusader Castle, and the Ancient Shipwreck Museum. Off the beaten track, you can explore the Stone Churches of the Besparmak Mountains which dates back to the 4th century, or visit the Kantara Castle which was built in the 10th century to act as a lookout post against Arab invasion.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you are looking to explore beyond the town center, there are many unique sites to discover. About 20 minutes east of Kyrenia, you will come across the Alagadi Turtle Beach, a great spot for nature enthusiasts. The beach is home to Loggerhead and Green turtles that come to breed between May and August every year. The cycling trails across the Pentadactylos Mountain Range are another off-the-beaten-path adventure. It’s a challenging ride with rewarding views. You can rent bikes from The Bike Museum in central Kyrenia and head off on one of the many trails through the mountains.

Kyrenia is a city with something to offer everyone, from beaches and history to culture and dining. With this guide, you’ll be able to experience the best that Kyrenia and its surroundings have to offer.