Complete guide to Kyrenia (Girna) in Cyprus: what to see, where to relax and buy a property

Kyria, also known as Girne in Turkey, is a Cypriot city that, after the Turkish invasions in 1974, is located on the territory of the unrecognized MSM of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Today, this country serves as a tourist destination on the northern part of the island. The city is beautiful and cozy on the northern coast of Cyprus at the foot of the Kyrenia Mountains (Girne).

There are several versions of the origin of the name of the city: after Aphrodite - "Cyreniana", or from the name of one of the Greek mountains. The city was founded in the 10th century BC, in Achaea (Greece), although there are also legends that the Phoenicians first appeared here in the 9th century BC, who founded colonies on the coast.

The history of Kyrenia (Girne) is full of events and goes far back, but today this small seaside town is famous for its cozy and peaceful atmosphere. In summer, the attention of its population doubles due to the arrival of tourists. In the off-season, the narrow, powerful streets and open verandas of cafes are filled with tourists who have come to enjoy the winter.

In addition, Kyrenia (Girne) attracts year-round gambling enthusiasts from all over the world, who appreciate the opportunity to legally secure good luck in local casinos.

The city is surrounded by magnificent nature: olive and citrus trees can be seen on its northern borders, and the sea coast emphasizes its beauty. The highest point in this region is the Servili Hill with a height of 1023 meters.

In addition, the city is known for its cozy cafes, restaurants and bars, where you can taste both traditional Cypriot cuisine and ordinary dishes. Kyrenia (Girne) is a city where different cultures, histories and traditions merge, making it one of the most unusual and interesting places in Cyprus.

One of the main attractions of the city is the Cyrenian Fortress, the foundation of which was laid by the Romans. Inside the fortress-museum of ancient shipwrecks, you can see a unique exhibit: a Greek merchant ship from the time of Alexander the Great. In addition, the city is worth visiting the Folk Art Museum and the Icon Museum in the Church of the Archangel Michael.

A walk through the Old Town with its narrow, beautiful streets is like traveling through time, as if you were a character in an old book. No less interesting is the Gothic Bellapais Abbeywhich is located in the mountains near the city.

Kyrenia (Girne) in Northern Cyprus is also notable for its favorable climate, which is typical for most of the islands. Summers are hot and sunny, while winters are mild with relatively warm nights. This makes Kyrenia (Girne) an attractive destination for those who want to escape the cold winters and take advantage of the region's warmth.

The infrastructure of Kyrenia (Girne) is diverse and well thought out, comfortable conditions for all visitors. In the city you can find everything you need: from shops, cafes to pharmacies and businesses. For children's entertainment, there are playgrounds, and for tourists-car rental and organization of excursions.

Overall, Kyrenia (Girne) is an ideal destination for those who appreciate crystal-clear beaches, scenic landscapes, and want to explore the local culture and history while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the city. This city combines tranquility and comfort, providing many amenities for a comfortable stay.

1. Kyrenia (Girne) on the map

Currently, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is officially recognized only by Turkey. The official language is Turkish, and the official currency is the Turkish lira. Kyrenia, or as it is called in Turkish-Girne, is hidden behind the Beshparmak mountains, in the picturesque territory of a small Turkish state.

The city stretches in a narrow strip between the mountains and the sea coast, which makes each of its districts beautiful and close to the water. You can safely choose a home to your liking, and it will not hesitate to become picturesque.

If you are planning to rent an apartment, you can consider options near the sea. This is good not only from the point of view of the beauty of the landscape, but also convenience. Nearby is the main road connecting the west and east of the city. This is the main road, where public transport stops are located, as well as the main shops, supermarkets and cafes.

In Kyrenia (Girne), especially at the American University of Girne, students from all over the world are trying to get an education, and most of them prefer to rent housing in the central part of the city. This makes up the central part of the populated and built-up part of the city, where young people of different nationalities predominate.

However, there are no swimming spots in the area, so if you want to enjoy a relaxing holiday on the beach, it is recommended to choose places located further from the center.

2. Kyrenia (Girne) attractions

Kyrenia (Girne) is a picturesque town in Northern Cyprus, which, despite its size, is proud of its historical monuments, attracting tourists from all over the world.

The main asset of Kyrenia (Girne) — architectural monuments, beautiful parks, museums with historical heritage, as well as narrow streets with a unique atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to explore this diverse city where two different cultures have merged.

Studying Kyrenia (Girne) and its surroundings, you can name a number of places of historical significance:

Kyrian Fortress: Built in the 7th century by the Byzantines to protect against Arab sea robbers, the fortress was repeatedly rebuilt. It now houses a fascinating shipwreck museum, where you can see the 4th-century AD time, discovered in 1969.

Church of the Archangel Michael: This Orthodox church was built in 1860 and later crowned with a tall bell tower. Now it has the icon of a museum, the collection of which is one of the most extensive territories in Cyprus.

Chrysokava Catacombs: Saints Paul and Barnabas visited these catacombs during their travels in Cyprus, attracting many followers. Despite the fact that Christianity became the official religion in the 4th century, the first Christians of Kyrenia (Girne) appeared and took refuge here.

Kiriyskaya Gavan: This cozy port for fishing boats and small yachts is one of the most picturesque corners of Kyrenia (Girne). Here you will find restaurants and small hotels located in the buildings of former trade and customs offices.

Overall, Kyrenia (Girne) is an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Cyprus and discover its rich culture. With its restaurants, shops and natural attractions, Kyrenia (Girne) is one of the most memorable places on the island.

3. Kyrenia (Girne) real estate-rent and purchase

Kyrenia (Girne) is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the island of Cyprus, so there are many different properties for sale and rent.

Interested in real estate in Kyrenia (Girne)?

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If you want to buy a property in Kyrenia (Girne), you will have a wide range of options: from apartments to villas and townhouses. The cost depends on the type of housing and its location.

If you are considering the idea of renting a house in Kyrenia (Girne), you will have a wide choice of properties for short-term or long-term rentals. Prices usually start from 500-600 euros per month for living in less central areas and 1500 euros for large luxury apartments in the center or in picturesque areas.

Overall, Kyrenia (Girne) is a great choice for those who want to buy or rent real estate in Cyprus. With a wide range of available options and an acceptable price level, Kyrenia (Girne) can offer different options for different budgets.

4. Kyrenia (Girne) Northern Cyprus reviews of tourists and residents

Kyrenia (Girne) – one of the most picturesque resorts in Cyprus, an attractive traveler from all over the world. This cozy city with its beaches, wonderful places and amenities often receives rave reviews from those who visit it.

One of the tourists described her vacation in Kyrenia (Girne) So: "I visited this place in Northern Cyprus in 2022. It was a wonderful and memorable trip as part of the tour. Kyrenia (Girne) is a port city on the coast with a huge number of attractions. The most important place for every tourist to visit is the Kyrenia Castle. We visited it first.."

Another tourist who visited Kyrenia (Girne) expressed interest: "Kyrenia. A bright and unforgettable trip to Northern Cyprus.".

Many locals of Kyrenia (Girne) they also speak about their city with great respect. One of them said: "Kyrenia is an interesting ancient city, which was conquered in its time by Alexander the Great, the Byzantines and Turks, the English, the Genoese , the Venetians. Each era has left its mark and it should be noted that Kyrenia has preserved the best of each era.".

Another local resident of Kyrenia (Girne) added: "I work in the institution here and I can safely say that Kyria is a wonderful place. I am very happy that my life and work are connected with this city."

Thus, Kyrenia (Girne) receives a lot of positive feedback from tourists and residents. Magnificent views of the beauty and cleanliness of the city.

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Despite the fact that all people are different and opinions may differ, in general, Kyrenia (Girne) receives many positive reviews and is considered one of the most attractive places to relax and live on the island of Cyprus. If you are planning to visit Kyrenia (Girne), then don't forget to read other people's reviews and choose the places that best suit your needs and preferences.

5. Weather in Kyrenia (Girne)

The beach season starts in May and lasts for six months. But this does not mean that there are no tourists here in winter. Daredevils swim in the sea even on Christmas holidays. Hotels have swimming pools and provide them to their guests. And you can enjoy the sun rays on the beach even in the New Year.

Cyprus summer is known for its heat, and Kyrenia is no exception. For the entire three summer months of the sun, it only rains for about 9-10 days, and the rest of the time it shines brightly. The hottest month is August, and it is then that the beaches are most busy. August is the last month of summer, but it does not portend the onset of rain and cold.

Autumn in Kyrenia is warm and offers excellent conditions for recreation, continuing the bathing season until November. It is in the last few weeks that rare rains begin. This is a great time for tourism: the heat is not so hot anymore, and the rains are almost low. The pleasant coolness makes it possible to explore the island, while a beach holiday is still beautiful. The average temperature is about +27 degrees, and there are only a few rainy days. The sea water remains comfortable for swimming.

Spring climate: March: Daytime temperature is about +21 degrees, at night +14. Tourists have not arrived yet, the sea is cool. April: The average daytime temperature reaches +24 degrees. Tourists are starting to arrive. May: The average temperature is set at +26 degrees. It's getting even warmer, and the beach season is opening up.

In winter, tourist activity decreases, and visitors increasingly come to see local attractions. Despite the cold sea, the sun often shines, so the time of year is preparing for the New Year holidays.

December: Daytime temperature around +18, seven days with rain, windy. January: The temperature fluctuates between +12 and +13 degrees, the sea is cool, but the sun shines for 25 days. February: The temperature rises to +14 and +16 degrees, the air gets warmer.

In the resort, most of the time falls on sunny days and precipitation is rare. In the residential complex, heated pools are more often located, and you can almost always sunbathe.

Kyrenia (Girne) in Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate: summers are hot, autumn is warm and comfortable, winters are mild, and spring is fresh. All year round, there are many opportunities for outdoor activities, whether it is on the beach, walking or sports.

6. Infrastructure in Kyrenia (Girne)

Kyrenia (Girne) has a well-organized infrastructure and offers all the facilities for a cozy stay and relaxation. Various restaurants, bars, shops, shopping complexes, financial institutions, pharmacies and medical centers are located in the city.

Below you will find more detailed information about some aspects of Kyrenia's infrastructure (Girne):

1. Transportation: There is a bus terminal in Kyrenia (Girne), which provides easy access to the nearest cities and other localities on the island of Cyprus. In addition, taxis are available in the city and the possibility of renting cars or scooters for convenient travel around Kyrenia (Girna) and the surrounding area.
2. Education: In Kyrenia (Girne) there are also many educational institutions, including private schools, kindergartens and colleges. The level of education in the city is considered high and meets the standards, so students need all the resources for their development and training.

• Private University "University of Kyrenia", Kyrenia Harbour, Karakum 99320.
• "Öğretmen Evi" Municipal School, Omer Sami Koshar Sk, Kyrenia 99300.
• Университет «Kıbrıs Sağlık ve Toplum Bilimleri Üniversitesi», Кирения 99300.

3. Healthcare: In Kyrenia (Girne) there are several pharmacies and hospitals that provide medical care. The city also has an ambulance service.

• University Hospital "Dr. Suat Günsel Girne Universitesi Hastenesi", Martyr Yahya Bakyr Street Karakum, Kyrenia.
• Kıbrıs Girne Tüp Bebek Merkezi Hospital, Fevzi Cakmak Sok, Kyrenia 9300.
• AKÇIÇEK Hospital, Mustafa Chagatay, Kyrenia 99300.

4. Sports facilities: In Kyrenia (Girne) you will find a variety of sports facilities, including soccer fields, gyms, swimming pools and sports complexes. In addition, the city has several stable clubs and teams.

• Fitness room "Perfect Body Studio", Demet Sokak Ozyalcin, sq. no.: 145 D: 3, Kyrenia 9900.
• Mega gym, Haji Ali Sitesi, Fuse Sk, Kyrenia 99300.
• Sports complex "Life Point Fitness SPA Pool", Naci Talat Cd, Kyrenia 9300.

5. Tourist amenities: In Kyrenia, tourists can enjoy a well-developed leisure infrastructure, including a wide selection of resorts, restaurants and hotels. In addition, the city has many shops and shopping centers, many entertainment activities and interesting attractions make it even more attractive for visitors.

Restaurants:

• Sea food restaurant "Babacakka Balıkçı Meyhanesi", Yasemin Sk, Kyrenia 99300.
• Cafe "Caffe Pascucci Kyrenia", Naci Talat Cd, Kyrenia 99300.
• Bar "SIPS", Fehmi Ercan Sk No:13, Kyrenia 99300.

Shopping centers:

• Shopping center "Girne Park AVM", Ziya Rızkı Cd, Kyrenia 99300.
• Shopping Center "Mr. Pound Plus", Mr. Pound Plus, No. 1, Girne Çevreyolu, Girne.

These are just some examples of institutions and their addresses in Kyrenia, Cyprus. There are many other institutions in the city that can be useful for tourists and residents, depending on their needs.

In general, Kyrenia (Girne) in Cyprus is a city with a developed infrastructure, which has all the necessary amenities for a comfortable life

Conclusion and conclusions

Kyrenia (Girne) in Cyprus is a wonderful place to stay and relax, covering a wide range of entertainment and activities, as well as well-organized tourist and transport routes. Despite the fact that there are also disadvantages, such as increased tourist traffic during the peak season, relatively high prices in some establishments and high traffic in popular areas, the city does not cease to attract tourists and attract the attention of both visitors and locals.

Kyrenia (Girne) is ideal for active tourists looking for various types of recreation and entertainment. The city has a convenient transport infrastructure and a wide range of medical services. In addition, Kyrenia (Girne) is the best choice for those who want to find a quiet, safe and welcoming place with a pleasant Mediterranean climate.

In general, Kyrenia (Girne) is a unique place for recreation and long-term living, combining beautiful natural landscapes, modern amenities and comfort, suitable for various categories of the population.