The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, renowned for its pleasant climate, warm hospitality, and rich cultural and natural beauty.
The capital, Nicosia, stands as the island’s economic, commercial, and cultural hub. The island is divided into Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and the Republic of Cyprus, with a UN peacekeeping zone in between. Nicosia remains the world’s only divided capital, split by the UN-established Green Line.
Northern Cyprus is situated in the Mediterranean Sea, sharing the island of Cyprus with the Republic of Cyprus in the south. It declared independence as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and is home to a diverse population.
The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. It is bordered by Turkey to the north, Egypt to the south, Greece to the west, and Syria to the east.
Northern Cyprus covers 3,354 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 326,000 people. While Turkish is the official language, English is widely spoken, making it an accessible destination for international visitors.
Northern Cyprus has become one of the most accessible immigration destinations due to its simple and hassle-free residency process. Its safe and welcoming environment makes it an attractive choice for families and young individuals seeking a better quality of life, education, and leisure.
Gaining residency in this stunning Mediterranean island is straightforward. By meeting basic requirements such as language proficiency, financial stability, and adherence to legal procedures, you can secure your place in one of its vibrant cities.
Northern Cyprus is a top choice for international students, offering world-class universities and an affordable cost of living. One of its biggest advantages is the lack of visa restrictions for Iranians, making it an accessible destination for higher education.
With high-ranking universities, cost-effective tuition, and a vibrant student community, Northern Cyprus attracts a large number of students every year, particularly during the September and January intakes.
The gastronomic culture of these two societies, Greece and Turkey, has affected the cuisine of Northern Cyprus. Eating is a sort of entertainment, from Turkish-style kebabs to Greek-style fish.
Northern Cyprus only has one mode of public transportation, the Dolmuş minibuses. However, because Cyprus has so many attractions and taxis are so expensive, renting a car is one of the most cost-effective methods to go outside and explore the Mediterranean island.
The driving laws in this country are comparable to those in the United Kingdom. The maximum speed limit in Cyprus is 100 kilometers per hour, and all cars entering the country must be insured.
Discover Northern Cyprus’ culture through the residents’ food, lifestyle, music, language, and handicrafts. Family life is significant to Turkish Cypriots; thus, they spend a lot of their leisure time at family gatherings and are pretty social.
The country kindly hosts numerous cultural events. Music and art festivals are held throughout the year in all cities and even some villages..
• Theater
• Libraries and publications
• Fine arts
• Public art
• Music
• Television, radio and cinema
The Bellapais Monastery, Kyrenia Castle, Salamis Amphitheater, and Othello Tower are also popular venues for these activities. Such events have always attracted a lot of attention, and cultural activities that allow visitors to experience such a culture can be observed virtually every weekend.
Northern Cyprus boasts a Mediterranean climate, which is one of the key factors attracting tourists and investors to the island. Its pleasant climate offers an excellent living environment, ideal for both residents and visitors.
The island enjoys mild winters and warm summers. From mid-May to mid-October, the days are long, hot, and sunny, perfect for exploring the beautiful beaches or relaxing by the pool. December through February brings more moderate temperatures, with a pleasant humidity level, making it ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the city’s attractions.
Northern Cyprus does not have a fixed currency due to its unique political and economic situation. As Northern Cyprus is not a member of the European Union, it uses the Turkish Lira (TRY) as its official currency.
However, transactions involving real estate and vehicles are typically conducted in British Pounds (GBP), offering an added benefit for international investors. For Iranian buyers, the Turkish Lira’s value is relatively close to the Iranian Rial, making it a more convenient option for transactions.
For daily life and various transactions in Northern Cyprus, you may need to carry and exchange multiple currencies.
Kyrenia, located in Northern Cyprus, is a charming and popular port town known for its picturesque setting. The area is predominantly home to villas and apartments, with high-rise buildings being a rare sight. Many of the villas are situated at the foot of the mountains, offering stunning views of both the sea and the mountains.
This scenic town is often a summer residence for Turkey’s elite, who purchase homes in this lush, tranquil location to enjoy Kyrenia’s mild climate during the hot summer months.
Kyrenia serves as the main port of Northern Cyprus, with its historic harbor and castle being some of the town’s most iconic landmarks. The town’s rich history and cultural significance, coupled with its numerous tourist attractions, make it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
Kyrenia is also home to a significant number of Northern Cyprus’ luxury hotels and first-class accommodations, with over 100 deluxe hotels located across the region. Many of these hotels offer all-inclusive services and even feature casinos, setting them apart from other cities like Antalya.
Along the coast, you’ll find many restaurants and fast-food outlets offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Popular activities in the area include fishing and strolling along the scenic coastline.
The cost of living in Kyrenia is comparable to Turkey and may even be higher in certain instances. It’s also a delight to explore the back lanes leading to the port, where you can discover charming historical features like an antique drinking fountain with Arabic calligraphy.
Whether you’re looking to invest in a property or simply enjoy a holiday, Kyrenia offers the ideal blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty.
Famagusta, also known as Magusa or Magusta, is a city located on the eastern side of Cyprus. The city boasts a rich and illustrious history and is home to some of the most stunning golden sandy beaches, rare and exclusive to Northern Cyprus. These pristine beaches offer the perfect setting for a memorable summer vacation with family and friends.
Northern Cyprus is home to numerous archaeological sites dating back to the third century AD, including churches, castles, and other significant structures. Famagusta’s beautiful golden beaches, historic churches, and diverse tourist attractions make it one of the most sought-after destinations in the region.
Famagusta is often referred to as the cultural capital of Cyprus. Its deep connection to Northern Cyprus’ history and culture holds immense value for the local population. Founded in 300 BC, the city was originally known as Arsino, a name derived from Greek roots. Later, it became Famagusta and grew into a major port city in Northern Cyprus.
Some of Famagusta’s most prominent landmarks and natural settings include the ancient city of Salamis, Apostoli Barnaba Monastery, Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, and Othello Tower. History enthusiasts will especially enjoy visiting Salamis, an ancient city that flourished under the Assyrian, Egyptian, Persian, and Roman empires, and served as the capital of Cyprus around 1100 BC. Today, Salamis stands as a thriving site, providing a captivating glimpse into the past.
The nearby ancient city of Mimosa, surrounded by woodlands, offers further archaeological treasures. Artifacts such as antiques and gold coins from 374 and 411 BC reveal the city’s historical significance.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Famagusta is the ghost town of Varosha, an abandoned city once frequented by international tourists. In the 1970s, Varosha was a glamorous destination, attracting celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Brigitte Bardot, who stayed in the city’s most luxurious hotel, the John F. Kennedy.
However, the city’s fate changed dramatically after the Greek coup in 1974, when Turkish forces moved in and captured 40% of Cyprus, including Famagusta and Varosha. The conflict led to the abandonment of numerous multi-story hotels, residential buildings, and private villas, as Varosha became a military zone. The residents of Varosha were forced to flee in just 24 hours, with the hope of returning to their homes within two weeks — a goal that has yet to be realized.
In 1984, the UN took control of the city, and with the ratification of Resolution 550, it was established that access to Varosha would only be allowed if accompanied by a prior resident. Over the years, many former residents have either settled in Southern Cyprus or migrated to the United States and Europe. A small number have since returned to visit their old homes, with some able to recover family albums and cherished souvenirs.
After Southern Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004, the borders between the two Cypriot regions became more defined. The city of Varosha remained deserted for almost 40 years, but in 2020, news emerged that parts of the city would be made accessible to tourists once again. This exciting development signals the potential revival of Varosha, allowing it to regain its former grandeur and attract visitors from around the world.
Famagusta is not just a destination — it’s a place where history, culture, and the natural beauty of Cyprus come together to create a truly unique experience for all who visit.
North Lefkosia, also known as Northern Nicosia, is the capital and largest city of Northern Cyprus. Situated in the northern part of Nicosia within the Lefkosia district, this city is governed by the Turkish municipality of Lefkosia. After the division of the city following the conflict between the Greeks and Turks in 1960, North Lefkosia emerged as the focal point of Northern Cyprus, currently home to a population of approximately 50,000 residents.
North Lefkosia enjoys a vibrant atmosphere, with bustling business districts, modern shopping malls, a wide range of restaurants, and numerous entertainment venues. The city is also known for its diverse industrial landscape, with manufacturers producing fabric, leather, ceramics, plastics, and other goods.
As a premier tourism destination, Northern Cyprus has attracted visitors from Europe, the United Kingdom, and Russia for many years. Known for its luxurious appeal, the region offers a more upscale experience compared to popular Turkish coastal destinations like Antalya, Bodrum, and Kusadasi. Northern Cyprus boasts stunning golden sand beaches, and luxury hotels regularly host performances and concerts by prominent Turkish artists and celebrities.
In addition to being a popular international travel spot for many, North Lefkosia is also a favored destination for Turkish nationals, making it a dynamic cultural and economic hub in the region.
How to travel to Northern Cyprus
All flights to Nicosia in Northern Cyprus pass through Turkey and arrive at Ercan airport. You can purchase the ticket via online websites in around the world and overseas. You will be given an airport visa when you arrive at the airport.
