From North Cyprus: Kyrenia, St Hilarion Castle, Bellapais

Traveling through North Cyprus offers a fascinating mix of history, scenic beauty, and charming towns. This full-day tour from Kyrenia, Famagusta, or Nicosia is a popular way to experience some of the most iconic sites in the region, all in one well-organized trip. From fairytale castles perched on mountains to atmospheric abbeys overlooking the coast, it’s a journey that appeals to history buffs, scenery lovers, and those simply seeking a taste of local life.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are several factors: the entertaining and knowledgeable guides, the inclusion of all entrance fees, and the convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. Plus, you’ll get a chance to explore towns at your own pace, enjoy stunning panoramic views, and learn about the area’s rich past through engaging storytelling. On the downside, the duration of six hours means there’s limited time at each stop, so it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate interest in sightseeing rather than those wanting a slow, in-depth exploration.

This tour fits best for travelers looking for a rundown of North Cyprus’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets. If you enjoy guided trips packed with picturesque views and historical insights, you’ll find it quite rewarding. However, those with mobility challenges or who prefer a slower pace might need extra flexibility.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Entrance fees for St Hilarion Castle, Kyrenia Castle, and Bellapais Abbey are covered.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, engaging guides ensure you get the most out of each site.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning mountain vistas and coastal views.
• Flexible Pickup & Drop-off: Hotels in Kyrenia, Nicosia, and Famagusta are included.
• Time-Efficient: Six-hour itinerary ideal for a full yet manageable day.
• Authentic Experiences: Explore historic sites, charming villages, and a lively harbor town.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Pickup and Starting Point

Your day begins with a hotel pickup from centrally located hotels in Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta. The comfortable vehicle transports you smoothly across the region, giving you your first glimpses of North Cyprus’s varied landscapes. Expect friendly chatter from your guide, who will set the tone for a day full of discovery.

St Hilarion Castle: A Fairytale Fortress

Our first major stop is the famous St Hilarion Castle, often called the “Disney Castle” of North Cyprus because of its enchanting turrets and fairy-tale silhouette. Perched high in the mountains of the Five Finger Mountains, this fortress was once a strategic stronghold. As you walk through its stone corridors and climb to Prince John’s Tower, the panoramic views down to the coast and across the countryside are breathtaking.

Walking up the steep, uneven steps can be a challenge for some, but the reward is worth it: a sense of stepping into a storybook setting. Guides, like Cemal (who was highly praised for his friendliness and knowledge), add color with stories of Crusader knights and Lusignan kings. Shellie’s review notes, “Our guide Cemal was friendly, patient, and knowledgeable,” which hints at the personal touch you can expect.

Bellapais Abbey: A Tranquil Monastic Retreat

Next, we head into the lush surroundings of the Bellapais Abbey, first established in 1198 by Augustinian monks. The guide shares engaging snippets about the Abbey’s history and its role as a place of peace and reflection. The Gothic architecture, cloisters, and courtyard pavilions are visually stunning and very photogenic.

From the walls of Bellapais, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coastline, which are especially captivating on clear days. The abbey’s set on a flat mountain terrace, giving it a peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for a short walk around the village afterward. Many, like Shellie, find the abbey’s atmosphere and history very evocative, with her noting that Cemal’s storytelling made it particularly memorable.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch and Free Time in Kyrenia

Post-abbey, you’ll stop for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. While the tour doesn’t include the meal itself, it’s a great chance to sample local flavors and relax before exploring Kyrenia. You can choose to stay at the restaurant or join the group for a quick walk through the town’s winding medieval streets.

The afternoon in Kyrenia is all about soaking up the lively but relaxed atmosphere of this seaside town. The highlight is the curved Venetian harbor, which is picture-perfect with its fishing boats, cafes, and pastel-colored buildings. Guided walking helps you navigate the quirky shops, and you’ll have time to enjoy Turkish coffee or ice cream while watching the world go by.

Discovering Kyrenia’s Charm

The tour includes a guided visit to Kyrenia’s historic harbor, but you’ll also have about two hours of free time to explore independently. Some travelers enjoy browsing the shops for souvenirs or simply sitting by the water with a cold drink. The town’s small size makes it easy to enjoy the sights at your own pace.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

After a full day of exploring, the vehicle transfers you back to your hotel. The relaxed pace and the scenic drive home give you time to reflect on the highlights and take in any last views of North Cyprus’s landscape.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Comfort

The tour offers a comfortable vehicle, which makes the entire day stress-free. The private group aspect means you won’t be crowded with strangers, allowing for a more personalized experience. The hotel pickup and drop-off are a significant convenience, especially if you’re staying in Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta.

Duration and Pacing

At six hours, this tour is a great way to see key sites without feeling rushed, but it does mean limited time at each stop. If you’re someone who prefers hours to linger longer at each site, you might find it a bit brief. However, the balance of guided insight, scenic travel, and free time strikes a good middle ground.

Price and Value

Since all entrance fees are included, the cost covers a good deal of sightseeing, with the guide’s expertise adding value beyond just entry tickets. Plus, the convenience of transportation and local recommendations enhances the experience, making it a worthwhile investment for visitors wanting an overview of North Cyprus.

Guide Experience

Reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and engaging storytelling—Cemal, in particular, is praised for his friendly manner and deep knowledge. This personal touch adds richness to the visit, making historical facts more memorable.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This full-day tour is perfect for travelers who want an organized, hassle-free way to explore North Cyprus’s highlights in one day. It suits those with a moderate interest in history, scenery, and local culture, especially if they enjoy guided narratives and scenic vistas.

It’s ideal for visitors staying in Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta, offering a convenient way to see the region’s top sights without navigating public transport or renting a vehicle. However, if you prefer leisurely, unstructured trips or have mobility issues, you might want to consider alternative options or private arrangements.

FAQs

Do I need to bring anything special?
Yes, bring your passport or ID card for entry to the sites. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are also recommended, as sightseeing involves some walking and exposure to the sun.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is optional. The tour includes a stop at a local restaurant, giving you the chance to enjoy regional cuisine, but it’s not included in the price.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll have approximately one hour at St Hilarion Castle, 105 minutes at Bellapais Abbey, and around two hours in Kyrenia town, including free time.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
While the tour is generally suitable for most ages, those with mobility issues might find some sites challenging due to uneven terrain. Children who enjoy history and scenic views will likely enjoy the experience.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages, including Turkish, English, Russian, Spanish, and Italian, making it accessible for international visitors.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to St Hilarion Castle, Kyrenia Castle, and Bellapais Abbey are covered in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private group, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention from your guide.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately six hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Final Thoughts

This North Cyprus tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into the region’s historical and scenic treasures. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate engaging guides, picturesque vistas, and the convenience of all-inclusive planning. The highlights—St Hilarion Castle, Bellapais Abbey, and the charming town of Kyrenia—are beautifully captured in this day-long adventure, making it a fantastic way to see a side of Cyprus that many travelers overlook.

While the pace is brisk and the stops are relatively brief, the overall experience delivers a solid mix of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. It’s a smart choice for visitors who want a guided overview without sacrificing authenticity or comfort.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and educational day in North Cyprus, this tour checks most boxes. It’s a straightforward, value-packed option for exploring some of the best sights in the region, all with the benefit of expert guidance and local insights.

You can check if your dates are available here: