Kyrenia Castle
Harbour fortress with layers of medieval rebuilding
The walls frame the harbour and hold the island's shipwreck collection.
Kyrenia / Girne, Cyprus
Ideal: 1–2 daysBest: Apr–Jun, Sep–OctPrice: Moderate
In 60 seconds
Kyrenia / Girne in 60 seconds
Kyrenia sits on the northern coast of Cyprus, in an area not under the effective control of the Republic of Cyprus. Its small harbour and castle make a strong architectural pairing, with Bellapais Abbey in the hills behind town. Come for the medieval harbour and mountain setting, while treating the island's division as lived history rather than a sightseeing game.
Best for
- Harbour
- History
- Northern Cyprus
Known for
- Kyrenia Castle
- Old harbour
- Bellapais Abbey
Skip if
You cannot accommodate the current crossing and practical arrangements for the north of the island.
Your match
Choose a few travel interests and we will show how well Kyrenia / Girne fits them. Choose interests
See
Must experience
The things that would make the trip incomplete without them.
Old harbour
Stone quay below the castle
Walk it early or late, when the waterfront is less crowded.
Bellapais Abbey
Gothic abbey in the foothills above town
The ruined cloister and broad coast view justify the short uphill journey.
Beyond the obvious
Hidden gems
Less obvious, rarely queued for, and usually the part people remember.
St Hilarion Castle
Mountain fortress above Kyrenia
The steep ascent is worthwhile for the successive courtyards and coast view.
Harbour backstreets
Short lanes behind the waterfront
Step away from the restaurant strip to read the older town fabric.