Girne District

Girne, or Kyrenia, is rightfully one of the most beautiful and historically significant areas of greater Northern Cyprus. This region attracts tourists and residents with its stunning nature, significant cultural heritage and truly modern amenities. Girne is famous for its picturesque mountain landscapes, fresh sea air, comfortable temperatures all year round and an impressive number of historical attractions. So in this article we will take a detailed look at all the aspects that make Girne a truly unique and extremely attractive place on the map of Northern Cyprus.

Location

Kyrenia is bordered by the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the Kyrenia Mountains on the other. This unique geographical position allows you to enjoy both sea and mountain views. Kyrenia is just a half-hour drive from the capital of Northern Cyprus, Nicosia, and about an hour’s drive from Ercan International Airport, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. It’s also worth noting that Northern Cyprus can be reached by sea. Ferries from Turkish cities such as Taşucu, Mersin, and Anamur offer a convenient way to travel for those who prefer sea transport. This is especially relevant for travelers who want to bring their car, allowing them to comfortably explore the entire island. Tickets for the ferry can be booked on the Akgünler Denizcilik website, making it easy to plan your trip to Northern Cyprus.

History of the Region

The history of this region spans thousands of years, and archaeological evidence suggests that settlements existed here even in the Neolithic period. Kyrenia’s strategic location on the Mediterranean coast made it a key port city, shaping its rich and diverse history. Because of this, it has been under the rule of many great civilizations, including Ancient Greece, Rome, and Byzantium.

In the 7th century AD, endless raids by Arab invaders led to the decline of the once-thriving medieval city. However, during the Crusades, Kyrenia flourished again under the rule of the Lusignan dynasty. In the 16th century, it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, where it remained until the early 20th century.

Only after the division of Cyprus in 1974, following the Turkish intervention, did Kyrenia become part of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, as we know it today. Today, this city is an important cultural and tourist center in Northern Cyprus, blending a rich historical heritage with modern infrastructure. Its picturesque harbor, medieval castle, monasteries, and other attractions draw many tourists from around the world.

Culture of the region

Kyrenia Castle is the most iconic landmark of this city, built by the Byzantines in the 7th century. Inside the castle is a new and fascinating museum dedicated to shipwrecks. This museum is one of the most significant in Cyprus and includes exhibits featuring the remains of a 4th-century BC merchant ship found off the coast of Kyrenia. The museum also showcases various artifacts related to maritime trade and navigation, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the history of ancient seafaring.

The castle grounds also feature a small but very cozy garden, attracting visitors with its beauty and the opportunity to relax in the shade of Mediterranean greenery. The castle itself is practically an open-air museum, where every corner is steeped in history. Strolling through the fortress, you can not only enjoy views of the port and the city but also study exhibits that tell the rich past of this place. In addition to Kyrenia Castle, history lovers will appreciate the American University of Kyrenia Museum, which displays various artifacts and exhibits related to Cyprus’s rich cultural heritage.

Another impressive medieval fortress is the St. Hilarion Castle, located high in the Kyrenia mountains. Local legend says that this castle inspired Walt Disney’s creation of the castle in “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.”

Near Kyrenia is also the Bellapais Abbey—a well-preserved 13th-century monastic complex that amazes with its Gothic architecture. This peaceful and serene place is perfect for leisurely walks and immersion in local history. Located on the slopes of the Kyrenia mountains, Bellapais Abbey offers stunning panoramic views of the surroundings, making it not only a historical but also a picturesque place to visit. Strolling through its ancient arches and courtyards, one can feel the atmosphere of a medieval monastery, where tranquility and spirituality still reign. The abbey also houses a cozy restaurant that perfectly complements the experience of visiting this place. The menu features Mediterranean dishes made from local ingredients, such as fresh seafood, traditional Cypriot meze, a variety of salads, and desserts. Special attention is paid to the quality and presentation of dishes, allowing visitors to enjoy both culinary delights and the historical atmosphere of the abbey.

In addition to the abundance of historical sites, Kyrenia and its surroundings offer excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring local nature. For example, you can visit the nearby Buffavento Castle or head into the picturesque Kyrenia mountains.

Even the city center of Kyrenia deserves attention—it is a lively and colorful area where you can experience local culture, buy souvenirs, and taste traditional Cypriot dishes. Here you can try delicacies like the aforementioned meze—a selection of various appetizers, including hummus, tahini, dolma, and pickled vegetables; kofte—lamb meatballs cooked on a skewer; afelia—tender meat marinated in red wine with coriander; and moussaka—a simple and hearty dish of stewed vegetables and meat under a béchamel sauce. In every corner of Kyrenia’s center, you can find something unique and delicious.

Life in Girne

Life here combines tranquility and comfort. Everything necessary for a fulfilling life is available: quality healthcare, modern schools and universities, and well-developed infrastructure.

Kyrenia is truly a thriving resort oasis that attracts affluent travelers and wealthy retirees from all over the world. Thanks to its favorable climate, high level of comfort, and impeccable service, this exclusive region of Northern Cyprus strongly resembles the most famous European resorts—Cannes, Nice, and other jewels of the French Riviera. Stunning beaches, white yachts, a cozy and well-maintained seaside promenade, countless restaurants and cafes—all of this creates an unforgettable atmosphere of luxurious Mediterranean living. And in some places, this noble elegance is successfully intertwined with the authentic charm of the East, making Kyrenia a truly unique place. Here, peace, serenity, and refined elegance prevail, reflecting the life of high society. Every detail is imbued with the spirit of sophistication and impeccable taste—from the lines of architecture to the table settings in the best establishments.

In local restaurants, you can enjoy dishes from both local Cypriot and international cuisines. One of the most popular places is the Nima restaurant, which rightfully ranks among the best in Kyrenia. Located on the Kyrenia promenade, this restaurant is perfect for a luxurious dinner or a traditional Turkish breakfast. At Nima, you can try fresh seafood prepared according to local recipes, as well as enjoy exquisite Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. All this is accompanied by a magnificent view of the sea, creating an unparalleled atmosphere for a pleasant time. Nima deservedly occupies a leading position among the city’s restaurants, offering its guests unforgettable gastronomic experiences. Other popular restaurants include Kybele, Kömür. Kybele serves exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, while Kömür is famous for its excellent desserts and views of the coast.

In the evening, after enjoying dinner at one of Kyrenia’s top restaurants, you can continue your evening at local casinos or head to the Sky Lounge Bar—a stylish rooftop restaurant-club with stunning views of the city and the coast of Cyprus. Whether it’s a romantic evening or a gathering with friends, this rooftop club creates an atmosphere of unforgettable outdoor relaxation.

But life in Kyrenia is not just for the wealthy. Young people also love this city, as there are plenty of nightclubs where world-famous stars often perform with bright shows, such as Cheetah club. Moreover, Kyrenia often hosts spectacular music festivals and various entertainment events.

Education in Girne

Girne is also an important educational center in Northern Cyprus. The area is home to several prestigious universities: Girne American University, ARUCAD (University of Creative Arts and Design), Cyprus Science University (CSU) and Final International University. These institutions offer a wide range of educational programs in English and attract students from all over the world. There are several international and private schools for schoolchildren in Girne. English School of Kyrenia and Necat British College offer high quality education in English and follow the British curriculum. Schools are equipped with modern classrooms and sports grounds, which ensures a high level of education and all-round development of students.

Beaches in Girne

The beach infrastructure in Kyrenia is not well developed everywhere—in the city center, the promenade is paved, and in the western and eastern parts, the coast is mostly rocky. Nevertheless, along the coast, there is a whole scattering of private beach clubs with good sandy beaches, sun loungers, umbrellas, and all the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable stay in the sun. The cost of entry to such clubs is about $6-8 per person. There are also municipal beaches where entry is significantly cheaper—up to $1.

The beach infrastructure in Kyrenia is not well developed everywhere—in the city center, the promenade is paved, and in the western and eastern parts, the coast is mostly rocky. Nevertheless, along the coast, there are many private beach clubs with excellent sandy beaches, sun loungers, umbrellas, and all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay in the sun. Among the popular beach clubs is Chamada Beach Club, which offers not only a clean sandy beach but also a variety of dishes in a restaurant with a sea view. Or the luxurious beach club located on the territory of the five-star Kaya Palazzo Resort & Casino Girne, which is famous for its atmosphere and is available to both hotel residents and outside visitors. The entry fee for these clubs is around $6-8 per person. There are also municipal beaches with significantly cheaper entry fees—up to $1—making them accessible to anyone who wants to enjoy the sea and sun. For example, Karaoğlanoğlu Halk Plajı is one such beach.

Overall, Kyrenia offers an excellent selection for living and recreation to suit any taste. Its combination of scenic nature, rich cultural heritage, well-developed infrastructure, and diverse entertainment options makes this region appealing to a wide audience—from families with children to young people and retirees.

Surrounding Areas: Lapta, Alsancak, Karsiyaka

The surrounding areas of Kyrenia are also worth exploring. Lapta, Alsancak, and Karşıyaka are small settlements located close to the center of Kyrenia, each offering its unique features and advantages.

• Lapta is known for its magnificent beaches and green hills. It’s the perfect place for those seeking tranquility and solitude while enjoying natural beauty.

• Alsancak is a rapidly developing area with numerous new residential complexes and shopping centers. Here, you can find everything you need for a comfortable life, including shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

• Karşıyaka is famous for its picturesque views of the mountains and the sea. This area attracts those who appreciate seclusion and peace, while still being close to the center of Kyrenia.

Real Estate Market

Thanks to a stable economy and attractive conditions for foreign investors, investing in real estate in Kyrenia is becoming increasingly popular. Many foreigners buy property here either for permanent residence or for rental income.

Since Kyrenia is situated in a narrow strip between the mountain range and the Mediterranean coast, nearly all parts of the city are picturesque and close to the sea. This allows tourists and residents to choose a hotel or apartment that suits their preferences almost anywhere in the city.

Housing located closer to the mountains might pose some challenges for getting around unless you rent a car. However, Kyrenia is generally a “flat” city, so even if you live in more elevated areas, transportation should not be a problem.

The central area of Kyrenia deserves special attention. It’s the most densely populated and built-up part of the city, where all administrative institutions are concentrated.

Overall, Kyrenia offers a wide range of options for choosing a place to live, from luxurious seaside hotels to cozy apartments near the city center. The key is to decide what is more important to you: proximity to the sea, well-developed infrastructure, or a quiet family retreat away from the hustle and bustle. You can learn more about the real estate market in Kyrenia in our Catalog.

Investment Market

Kyrenia is a leading investment destination in all of Northern Cyprus. This picturesque coastal city offers investors truly unique conditions. In the coming years, a steady increase in tourist traffic and new residents is expected in Kyrenia, largely due to the opening of the large Ercan Airport, which has significantly improved the region’s accessibility for international travelers. As of 2023-2024, tourist arrivals in Northern Cyprus have increased by more than 20% compared to previous years, positively impacting the region’s economy. Moreover, the steady annual property price increase of 15-20% since 2020 makes Kyrenia one of the most promising investment locations.

In Kyrenia, property prices vary greatly depending on the type and class of real estate. The price for apartments starts from £95,000 for a 1+1 apartment and can go up to £315,000 for spacious apartments with sea views and modern amenities. Villas located in prestigious areas with views of the Mediterranean Sea can cost between £300,000 and £1,350,000 or more, depending on size and level of luxury. Renting property in Kyrenia also varies: apartments can be rented for £600 to £1,200 per month, depending on location and conditions. Luxury villas with private pools and terraces can cost from £1,200 to £4,000 per week, making rental an attractive option for tourists and providing stable income for owners.

Renting such properties generates stable income for owners. For instance, renting out a luxury villa can bring in up to £48,000 per year, making real estate investment in Kyrenia quite profitable.

Purchasing property in Kyrenia involves several important steps:

• Choosing the right property considering your requirements and budget;

• Thorough legal inspection of the property’s status;

• Signing the sale and purchase agreement with subsequent registration;

• Payment and obtaining ownership rights.

Foreign investors purchasing property in Kyrenia can also expect to receive a residence permit in Northern Cyprus.

Conclusion

Girne is much more than just a picturesque town in Cyprus. This is a unique place that embodies a rich historical and cultural heritage and promising opportunities for living, recreation and investment.

Regardless of your interests – be it immersion in ancient history, getting to know a unique culture, or searching for profitable investment options – Girne is ready to offer you all this in a bright, rich format. A stable economy, a growing real estate market and an ever-growing tourist flow make Girne one of the most promising markets in Cyprus for investment.