Getting to North Cyprus: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

North Cyprus is a hidden Mediterranean gem known for its pristine beaches, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you're arriving by air or sea, this guide provides everything you need to know about getting to North Cyprus hassle-free.

✈️ Arriving by Air

1. Ercan Airport (ECN) – The Main Gateway

The primary airport serving North Cyprus is Ercan International Airport (ECN), located near the capital, Nicosia. Flights to Ercan are indirect, with a short stopover in Turkey. Major airlines operating flights to Ercan include:

• Turkish Airlines ✈️

• Pegasus Airlines 🛫

• AnadoluJet 🏷️

• SunExpress 🌞

👉 Tip: Flights to Ercan often come with free luggage allowances compared to flights to South Cyprus!

2. Larnaca & Paphos Airports (South Cyprus)

Travelers can also fly into Larnaca (LCA) or Paphos (PFO) Airports in South Cyprus and cross the Green Line into the North.

• Larnaca Airport (LCA): 🚖 About 90 minutes from Kyrenia

• Paphos Airport (PFO): 🚗 Around 2.5 hours from Kyrenia

🚦 Border Crossing Points:

• Metehan (Nicosia) – The most popular crossing

• Pyla/Beyarmudu (Pergamos) – Convenient for Larnaca Airport arrivals

• Akyar (Famagusta) – Best for reaching the east coast resorts

👉 Tip: Pre-arrange an airport transfer for a smooth journey from Larnaca or Paphos to North Cyprus.

🚢 Arriving by Sea

For those who prefer a scenic sea journey, ferries connect Turkey to North Cyprus regularly. Routes operate between:

• Taşucu (Turkey) ➝ Kyrenia (North Cyprus) 🚢 (Fast ferry & car ferry options)

• Mersin (Turkey) ➝ Famagusta (North Cyprus) 🛳️ (Passenger & cargo ferries)

Ferries typically take 2-5 hours depending on the route and type of vessel.

👉 Tip: Ferry services can be seasonal, so check schedules in advance.

🚖 Getting Around North Cyprus

Once you arrive, getting around is easy with various transport options:

• Car Hire 🚗: The most convenient way to explore North Cyprus.

• Taxis 🚖: Available at airports and city centers.

• Dolmuş (Shared Minibuses) 🚌: Budget-friendly transport between towns.

👉 Tip: North Cyprus drives on the left side of the road (like the UK)!

✅ Entry Requirements

North Cyprus has a relaxed entry policy for most travelers:

• Visa-free access for EU, UK, and many non-EU citizens.

• Passport or ID card (for certain nationalities like EU citizens).

• A 30-90 day tourist visa is granted upon arrival.

👉 Tip: No passport stamps are placed for travelers crossing via South Cyprus – instead, an entry slip is issued.

📌 Final Travel Tips

• Book flights in advance for the best deals.

• Confirm your transfer or car hire before arrival.

• Keep local currency (Turkish Lira) for transport and small purchases.

North Cyprus is waiting to welcome you with open arms! 🌍✨ Plan your journey now and experience the beauty, culture, and history of this Mediterranean paradise.

We hope this guide helps make your trip seamless and stress-free! For more travel tips and car hire options, explore our website. 🚗🌟