9 Best Things To Do In Kyrenia

1. Step back in time at Kyrenia Castle

One of the most popular tourist attractions and historic landmarks in the country, Kyrenia Castle dates back to the Byzantine period, when it was originally built in the Ottoman era. Surrounded by a moat, this castle consists of two museums, a dungeon, chapel, and a cistern. Here, you can find the Gallery of Tomb Finds, which houses archaeological sites and the Kyrenia Shipwreck Museum, which houses the remains of the oldest shipwreck discovered in the waters of Cyprus. Aside from being a historic site, spending time at the castle also offers splendid views across the Kyrenia harbor. Kyrenia castle is a must-see for anyone visiting Kyrenia for the first time.

Kyrenia Castle

Address: Küpdemir Sk, Girne 99300

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (June to September); 8am - 4pm (October - May)

2. Experience the local scene along Kyrenia Harbor

The historic and beautiful harbor of Girne is among the sites that most travelers want to see during their visit to Kyrenia. Along the harbor sits the 18th-century Public Arts Museum and here you can find all sorts of seafaring vessels – a testament to its booming export economy. The views of the harbor itself is a sight to behold – a skyline of boats, luxury yachts, centuries-old edifices, and mountains as a backdrop make a pretty nice picture. Kyrenia Harbor is a popular tourist destination, lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants, as well as accommodations, making it a popular meeting place for both locals and foreigners alike.

Kyrenia Harbor

Address: Küpdemir Sk, Girne

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

3. Discover the wonders of Shipwreck Museum

Located in the famous Kyrenia Castle, the Shipwreck Museum houses the oldest ship unraveled in local waters – a 4th-century Greek Merchant ship. The ship includes all of its cargo as it sailed across the Mediterranean during the era of Alexander the Great and his successors. The ship sank in open waters near the Kyrenia harbor. It was discovered by marine archaeologists in 1965 and salvaged between 1967 and 1969. Somehow the ship was saved from total destruction and after six years of reconstruction, the museum was finally opened to the public in 1976. With so much history and artifacts, Shipwreck Museum is also a must-visit for those who are visiting Kyrenia for the first time.

Shipwreck Museum

Address: Aşağı Cyprus, Küpdemir Sk, Girne

4. Satisfy your tastebuds at Kyrenia Tavern

Editor’s note: This establishment is temporarily closed due to COVID-19

Hungry from exploring the charming town of Kyrenia? This restaurant has been attracting local and foreign customers with its extensive garden and sumptuous menu offerings. It’s known to have an a la carte menu, but also offers local and vegetarian dishes. Guests can dine outside and enjoy the refreshing ambiance. Kyrenia Tavern is a quirky garden restaurant that has that Cypriot charm and amazing hospitality with eccentric yet delicious food that makes customers keep coming back.

Kyrenia Tavern

Address: Türkmen Sk, Girne 99300

Opening hours: 8am - 10:30pm (daily)

5. Shop at Girne Park AVM

A prominent modern figure in the shopping scene of North Cyprus, Girne Park is a shopping mall that’s definitely a welcome addition to the relatively traditional array of boutiques and local shops in town. It features several stores, cafes, and restaurants, as well as large parking lots. If you’re getting tired from exploring the charming streets and harbor of Kyrenia, you can head over to Girne Park to cool down, perhaps shop for souvenirs, or try more local food.

Girne Park

Address: Ziya Rızkı Cd, Girne 99300

Website: Girne Park

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 11am -8pm

6. Savor fresh seafood with a view at Lagoon Fish Restaurant

Lagoon Seafood Restaurant is a relaxing restaurant that boasts stunning views of Cypriot waters and great, fresh food. The establishment opened in 2007 and serves Mediterranean cuisine. It is located along the waterfront of the famous Kyrenia harbor, making the dining experience more special. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood and a wide variety of appetizers at reasonable prices. It has two floors and a balcony with a total of 120 seats. Whether you’re dining with friends, family, or with a date, Lagoon Seafood Restaurant is an ideal place to spend a memorable day or night over sumptuous food in Kyrenia.

Lagoon Fish Restaurant

Address: Kordonboyu Caddesi No :11, Kyrenia Cyprus

7. Admire the Saint Hilarion Castle

Saint Hilarion Castle is nestled on the rocky mountain range of Cyprus, which overlooks the Mediterranean waters. It’s perfect for those who are into Byzantine castle architecture and those who simply want to see spectacular views. The castle is divided into three wares: two for economic purposes and one in the upper level for the royal family. The castle served as an inspiration for several fictional creations and claimed to be an inspiration for Snow White or Sleeping Beauty (there were varying resources). The silhouette of the castle seems to blend with that of the mountains – making it a very prominent landmark in the Kyrenia skyline.

Saint Hilarion Castle

Address: Girne 99320

Opening hours: Apr - Oct 9am - 6:30pm; Nov - Mar: 9am - 3:30pm

Price: 0.65 - 1.17 USD

8. Shop for local crafts and souvenirs in Bandabuliya

Girne Bandabuliya is a marketplace located in the town center. It was originally constructed in 1878 as a city hall but after its renovation, it opened in 2006 as a tourism and crafts shop. Here, you’ll find souvenir items, local crafts, postcards, and many other interesting stuff that you can bring home. There’s also a miniature version of the Kyrenia ship found in the Kyrenia castle. Shoppers can also dine or snack in the ice cream parlor and snack bar. And to get things more exciting, the market also hosts live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, at around 8pm.

Girne Bandabuliya

Address: Çarşı Sk, Girne 99300

9. Have fun onboard Vela Yachting Kyrenia Boat Trips

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

A boat tripping specialist since 2013, Vela Yachting offers public and private boat trips in the Mediterranean waters, with experienced captains and chefs onboard. You can choose from shared day tour, private day tour, or private night tours. Their boat tours include daily boat tips, lunch and barbecue, large yacht, and private sunset boat trips, depending on your chosen package. If you’re traveling with friends or with your family, and want to have a comfortable and hassle-free vacation above the clear waters of the Mediterranean, then opting for one of Vela Yachting boat tours is a great choice.

Vela Yachting Kyrenia Boat Trips

Address: Kyrenia, Cyprus

Website: Vela Yachting Kyrenia Boat Trips

A charming small town with so much history

From clear beaches to fairytale castles to bars and nightlife, Kyrenia (also known as Girne), in North Cyprus is a beautiful little town that is a world of its own. It has become popular over the years and rightfully so. So if you’re looking for a historical and cultural experience and enjoy beach parties at the same time, be sure to check out this small charming town!