Discover Kyrenia: Top attractions and exciting things to do
Kyrenia is a town located on the northern coast of Cyprus, which recently I had the opportunity to visit. Known for its charming harbor, important historic sites, and beautiful beaches, Kyrenia is a beautiful destination to visit. If you plan to do so, here are some of the best attractions in Kyrenia you shouldn’t miss during a short or a longer stay.
Top Attractions in Kyrenia
- Kyrenia Castle
The Castle of Kyrenia is a historic fortress located at the east end of the old harbor and one must-see site to visit. The castle was built in the 7th century by the Byzantines to guard the city against maritime threats. Significant modifications to the castle were made later by the Venetians and Ottomans. Inside, the traveler can explore various exhibits, including the Shipwreck Museum, which houses a 4th-century BC Greek merchant ship and its cargo.
2. Kyrenia Harbor
One of the best highlights of Kerynia is its harbor, small and picturesque, bustling with life all day long! Beautiful cafes, restaurants, and bars located only a few meters from the sea are ready to offer their services to the visitors. A perfect place after a day of exploration of the nearby sites, enjoying the scenic views. There the visitor can enjoy good food with a view of the castle and the harbor. There are a lot of places providing quality food. On the other hand, in my opinion, the visitors have to be careful and see the menu outside the restaurants before ordering, as the prices in some places can be a little bit salty.
3. Bellapais Abbey
The Bellapais Abbey is located in the village of Bellapais, which is a short drive from Kyrenia. The Bellapais Abbey is a stunning Gothic monastery dating back to the 13th century. The abbey offers beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the sea. The stares towards the second floor might be a little bit sketchy, so pay attention.
4. Saint Hilarion Castle
The Saint Hilarion Castle is one of the best well-preserved castles in Cyprus, with captivating views over the coastline and the surrounding countryside. The castle is steeped in history, legends, and whispers of the past.
The moment I got there, I was eager to explore its various chambers, courtyards, and towers. After a while I was tired as I wanted to experience everything, but overall, I must say that it was a truly fascinating experience ! The castle was built on three divisions. The lower ward and middle ward served economic purposes, while the upper ward housed the royal family as it was their vacation home mostly during summer. The lower ward also had the stables and the living quarters for the security guards. Lastly, the Prince John tower sits on a cliff high above the lower castle, and although the “climb” on the stone stairs was breathtaking, the view was magnificent.
5. Beaches
If you intend to stay in Kyrenia, you should miss the opportunity to go the beach as in close proximity there are several beautiful beaches where you can relax and enjoy the sun. Some of the most popular beaches in Kyrenia are:
- Escape Beach
- Alagadi Beach, known for its turtle conservation projects
- Acapulco Beach
6. Kyrenia Old Town
Wandering through the narrow streets of the old town is a good way to experience its historic charm. The area is filled with traditional Cypriot houses, small shops, and local eateries. It’s also a great place to buy local crafts and souvenirs.
Location and Distances
- 79 km from Larnaca Airport (1h and 17m trip)
- 50 km from Nicosia (50 minutes)
- 177 km from Paphos (2h and 20m)
- 5 km from Protaras (1h and 50m)
Tips during a Short Stay:
- Timing: If you have the opportunity to be at Kyrenia early in the morning, I advise you to do so. The reasoning is to have time to visit key historical sites relatively early and avoid both crowds and the midday heat.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local Cypriot dishes, such as mezze, halloumi cheese, or enjoying the fresh seafood, at one of the harborside restaurants.
- Transportation: Renting a car can be an easy and convenient way to visit the attractions in Kyrenia. Furthermore there many attraction to see also outside Kyrenia, like Bellapais Abbey and Saint Hilarion Castle.
Personal Impressions
The place was lovely, and I had a really nice time there. Lastly, as during the day I visited many of the attractions in Kyrenia at the end I had gained a well-rounded experience of the town’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture.
