Kyrenia, the Jewel of Northern Cyprus
Kyrenia is a beautiful town located on the north coast of Cyprus. It is known for its picturesque harbor, its medieval castle, and its many historical and cultural attractions.
History and Culture
Kyrenia has a long and rich history. It was founded in the 10th century BC by the Phoenicians. The town was later ruled by the Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Lusignans, and the Venetians. Each of these cultures left their mark on Kyrenia, which is reflected in its architecture, its cuisine, and its festivals.
Things to Do in Kyrenia
There are many things to see and do in Kyrenia. Here are a few of the highlights:
![](https://www.cyprusparadise.com/media/14040/turquois-sea-old-harbour-kyrenia-north-cyprus.jpg)
- Visit Kyrenia Castle: This medieval castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Cyprus. It offers stunning views of the harbor and the surrounding area.
![Bellapais Monastery, Northern Cyprus](https://www.cyprusparadise.com/media/17085/bellapais-abbey-beylerbeyi-village-north-cyprus.jpg)
- Visit the Bellapais Monastery: This 12th-century monastery is located in the hills above Kyrenia. It offers stunning views of the town and the sea.
- Go shopping in Kyrenia: There are many shops in Kyrenia selling traditional Cypriot souvenirs, clothes, and jewelry.
- Enjoy the nightlife in Kyrenia: There are many bars and clubs in Kyrenia where you can enjoy a drink and dance the night away.
![A castle in Kyrenia](https://www.cyprusparadise.com/media/6712/north-cyprus-old-beautiful-harbour-kyrenia.jpg)
- Explore the Kyrenia Harbor: The harbor is a hive of activity, with fishing boats, pleasure boats, and yachts. There are also many restaurants and cafes lining the harborfront.
Getting to Kyrenia
Kyrenia is easily accessible by air, sea, and land. The nearest airport is Ercan Airport, which is located about 20 kilometers from Kyrenia. There are also ferries that run from Kyrenia to Turkey and Greece. If you are traveling by car, Kyrenia is well-connected to the rest of Cyprus by road.
When to Visit Kyrenia
The best time to visit Kyrenia is during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). The weather is mild during these months, and there are fewer crowds.
Conclusion
Kyrenia is a beautiful and historic town that has something to offer everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or simply relaxing on the beach, Kyrenia is the perfect place for your next vacation.
Keywords: Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus, tourism, history, culture, things to do, getting there, when to visit