Northern Cyprus Tours: An Unforgettable Holiday Full of History, Nature and Culture
Northern Cyprus is a fascinating island in the middle of the Mediterranean, where history and nature are intertwined. With its ancient cities, golden beaches, untouched nature and rich cultural heritage, Northern Cyprus offers a variety of tour options that appeal to all kinds of visitors. Whether you are a history buff, a nature enthusiast or someone looking for a relaxing holiday, Northern Cyprus tours promise you unforgettable memories. In this article, you can find detailed information about the main tours you can join in Northern Cyprus.
1. Historical and Cultural Tours
Northern Cyprus is an island that has hosted many civilisations with thousands of years of history. These tours take you on a journey into the rich past of the island.
Kyrenia Tour:
Kyrenia Castle: Kyrenia Castle is one of the most important historical buildings of Northern Cyprus. Built by the Lusignans, this castle contains many interesting structures such as St George Church, Sunken Ship Museum and Venetian Tower. From the castle, you can watch the magnificent views of Kyrenia Harbour and the Mediterranean Sea.
Bellapais Monastery: Bellapais Monastery, located at the foot of the Beşparmak Mountains above Kyrenia, fascinates its visitors with its Gothic architecture and impressive atmosphere. You can take a walk in the narrow streets around the monastery and feel the historical texture of the region.
Famagusta (Famagusta) Tour:
Ancient City of Salamis: Salamis is one of the largest and most important ancient cities of Cyprus. This ancient city full of theatres, baths and mosaics from the Roman period is a stop not to be missed for history buffs.
Othello Castle Othello Castle takes its name from William Shakespeare's famous play Othello. Built by the Venetians, this castle was built to protect the city against attacks from the sea. The castle is located on the historical walls of Famagusta and offers a wonderful view of the city from a bird's eye view.
Nicosia Tour:
Selimiye Mosque: St Sophia Cathedral, built in Gothic style, was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman period and named Selimiye Mosque. This building is one of the most important religious and historical buildings of Nicosia.
Büyük Han: Dating from the Ottoman period, this inn is one of the most important historical buildings of Nicosia. Today, it serves as a vibrant cultural centre full of art galleries, handicraft workshops and cafes.
2. Nature Tours
There are many different nature tour options for those who want to explore the natural beauties of Northern Cyprus.
Karpaz Peninsula Tour:
Altinkum Beach: Altınkum, the most famous beach of the Karpaz Peninsula, fascinates its visitors with its fine sands and crystal clear sea. This beach is one of the most pristine and beautiful beaches of Northern Cyprus.
Apostolos Andreas Monastery: Located at the northernmost tip of the Karpaz Peninsula, Apostolos Andreas Monastery is a pilgrimage site that is considered sacred for both Christians and Muslims. The surroundings of the monastery offer unique hiking trails for nature lovers.
Besparmak Mountains Tour:
St Hilarion Castle: Located at the summit of the Besparmak Mountains, St. Hilarion Castle is one of the best preserved castles in Cyprus. From the castle, you can watch the magnificent views of Kyrenia and the Mediterranean Sea. The castle is also a popular destination for nature walks.
Mountain Walks: The Beşparmak Mountains offer many different trails for hiking lovers. Your walks among olive groves, pine forests and historical ruins will offer you both peace and adventure.
3. Beach and Sea Tours
The clean and clear sea of Northern Cyprus offers a wonderful environment for those who want to enjoy water sports and the beach.
Guzelyurt and Western Cyprus Tour:
Guzelyurt Bay: Located in the west of Northern Cyprus, Güzelyurt Bay is known for its calm and peaceful beaches. Here you can enjoy the sea and the sun, as well as observe sea turtles.
Vuni Palace: Vuni Palace, located close to Güzelyurt, is an ancient palace belonging to the Persian period. It is an ideal destination for those who want to see both historical and natural beauties together.
Diving and Water Sports:
Kyrenia Diving Tours: The diving spots on the Kyrenia coast are famous for their rich underwater life and sunken ships. By diving, you can go on a journey of discovery in the depths of the Mediterranean Sea and meet colourful fish and coral reefs.
Water Sports: In many coastal resorts of Northern Cyprus, you can do various water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing, kite surfing. These activities are an excellent option for those who want to experience moments full of adrenaline.
4. Gourmet and Wine Tours
Northern Cyprus also attracts attention with its rich cuisine and wine culture. Gourmet tours are ideal for those who want to discover local flavours.
Cyprus Cuisine Tour:
Local Flavours: These tours allow you to experience the traditional flavours of Northern Cyprus. You can taste local dishes such as halloumi cheese, peach kebab, molehiya and Cyprus mezes.
Village Tours: Gourmet tours organised in villages allow you to taste traditional dishes and meet the hospitality of the local people. These tours are also a great opportunity for those who want to explore the rural life of Northern Cyprus.
Wine Tours:
Vineyards: Northern Cyprus is also known for its wine production. Tours organised among the vineyards offer a unique opportunity to taste local wines and see the production process up close.
Wine Tasting: During these tours, you can taste local wines and learn about wine culture.
Northern Cyprus appeals to all kinds of visitors with many different tour options full of history, nature, sea and culture. Whether you want to explore historical sites, take nature walks, or enjoy the sea and sun, Northern Cyprus tours will offer you an unforgettable holiday experience. When planning your holiday, be sure to add one or more of these tours to your list and discover the fascinating atmosphere of Northern Cyprus.