How to Plan Your Full-Day Sightseeing Tour to Kyrenia from Nicosia

Are you planning a trip to Nicosia and looking for an exciting day tour to explore the beauty of the northern part of Cyprus? If so, the Full-Day Sightseeing Tour to Kyrenia is an excellent choice to consider. This tour will allow you to witness the gorgeous Bellapais Abbey, explore St. Hilarion fairytale castle, and experience both the Greek and Turkish areas of the only divided capital city of Nicosia.

In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your full-day sightseeing tour to Kyrenia from Nicosia with all the essential information about the tour. Let’s dive in!

Experience

The Full-Day Sightseeing Tour to Kyrenia is a perfect opportunity to witness the beauty and history of Northern Cyprus. During this tour, you will have the chance to visit several famous landmarks, explore the culture and enjoy traditional Cypriot cuisine.

Highlights

The tour highlights include exploring the ruins of the 13th-century Bellapais Abbey, walking through the walled old town of Nicosia, visiting Büyük Han, and Selimiye Mosque once the St. Sophia Cathedral. Additionally, you will explore St. Hilarion, a fairy tale castle, and the gorgeous Kyrenia harbor town regarded as the jewel of Northern Cyprus.

Tour Description

The tour will start at 09:00 in the morning from the meeting point, Kyrenia Gate parking lot in Nicosia. The comfortable bus ride takes you to the stunning St. Hilarion castle first, where you will spend 1.5 hours. St. Hilarion is a castle built on the Kyrenia mountain range in the 10th century AD. This castle was the inspiration for Disney’s Snow White castle and offers a spectacular view of the ocean and the mountains.

After visiting St. Hilarion, the bus will take you to Bellapais Abbey, another must-see place in Northern Cyprus. This 13th-century ruined abbey is located in the Five Fingers Mountains and is considered the most impressive gothic building in Cyprus. Here, you will have 30 minutes for a coffee break to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The next stop is the gorgeous harbor town of Kyrenia. You will have around two hours of free time to explore the town’s rich history and culture, including the Kyrenia Castle, Venetian-built fortress, and the beautiful harbor. You can also take a stroll in Kyrenia’s vibrant streets, taste traditional Cypriot cuisine or do some shopping.

After Kyrenia, the tour continues to the divided capital city of Nicosia. You will have lunch in the Great Han, which is a historically significant Ottoman building. The restaurant offers traditional Cypriot dishes, and you will have enough time to savor your meal.

The tour will then take you to both the Turkish and Greek areas of the walled old city of Nicosia, where you will visit Büyük Han and Selimiye Mosque, which was once a St. Sophia Cathedral. You will have free time at these places to explore the city’s history and culture and take photographs if you wish.

The tour will end around 6:00 PM, where you will be dropped off at the starting point.

How to Book

You can book the Full-Day Sightseeing Tour to Kyrenia from Nicosia through GetYourGuide by visiting this link book the tour here. The tour cost is €45 per person, and it includes round-trip transportation from Nicosia, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees.

Conclusion

The Full-Day Sightseeing Tour to Kyrenia is an excellent choice to explore the beauty of Northern Cyprus. This tour offers a chance to witness the gorgeous Bellapais Abbey and St. Hilarion fairytale castle, explore the walled old city of Nicosia, and experience the vibrant culture of Kyrenia. Booking through GetYourGuide is easy and affordable. We hope this blog post will help you plan your trip to Northern Cyprus, and we wish you a fantastic experience!

An Insider’s Guide to Kyrenia: Uncovering Local Gems and Hidden Treasures

Kyrenia, a beautiful coastal town in Northern Cyprus, is a destination worth exploring. From the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean to the ancient historical sites, Kyrenia offers something for everyone. As a local guide, here’s my insider’s guide on how to make the most of your day trip from Nicosia.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While the famous Kyrenia Castle and the picturesque harbor are must-visit spots, there are hidden gems that only the locals know. One of my favorites is the St. Hilarion Castle, a medieval fortress with panoramic views over the coast and the mountains. It feels like a fairy-tale setting and provides a fantastic photo-op. Another spot is the Bellapais Abbey, a tranquil monastery surrounded by gardens and lemon trees. The peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal place to relax and unwind.

Dining Spots: Savoring Kyrenia’s Rich and Flavorful Cuisine

Kyrenia’s cuisine is a combination of Turkish and Greek influences, resulting in a unique blend of flavors and textures. You cannot leave the town without trying the ‘meze,’ a selection of small dishes, such as hummus, bulgur, and stuffed vine leaves. One of the best places to try meze is the restaurant Kybele, located in the heart of the old town. To fully experience the local food culture, visit the Wednesday Market. Here, you will find an array of local snacks, such as savory pastries, nuts, and sweets.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing in Kyrenia’s Vibrant Traditions and Festivals

Kyrenia has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with influences from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. One of the most interesting museums in the city is the Icon Museum, featuring a vast collection of religious art and artifacts. Another must-visit spot is the Kyrenia Folk Art Museum, where you can learn about the city’s traditional crafts and dress. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the grape harvesting season between August to October, don’t miss out on the annual Grape Festival. The festival is a celebration of local wine-making and includes traditional music, dance, and food.

Local History: Unraveling Fascinating Stories from Kyrenia’s Past

Kyrenia’s history is fascinating, and there are plenty of stories to discover. One such story is that of the ‘Kyrenia Ship,’ a 2,400-year-old Greek merchant vessel that sank off the coast of the town. The ship was discovered in the 1960s and is now a prominent exhibit at the Kyrenia Shipwreck Museum. Another must-visit site is the Buffavento Castle, a fortification built by the Byzantine Empire, which provides unique insights into the city’s military history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Unforgettable Memories

One of the most unique experiences you can have in Kyrenia is to visit the Alagadi Turtle Beach. The beach is home to two species of sea turtles and offers a rare opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Another suggestion is to take a boat tour around the peninsula, where you can explore the hidden coves and secluded beaches.

In conclusion, Kyrenia has something for everyone- from the rich cultural heritage to the beautiful natural surroundings. I hope my insider’s guide to Kyrenia has provided you with a unique and fresh perspective on how to make the most of your day trip from Nicosia. Remember, the town is full of hidden treasures, and it’s up to you to find them!