General Information About Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Turkish Republic of Northern CyprusNorth Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, connecting 3 continents and famous for its unique climate. North Cyprus, which is a tourism paradise with its fascinating nature and clean beaches, is a touristic region that attracts attention with its historical richness and cultural diversity.  

The Cyprus Island problem became a war between 1963 and 1974 due to frictions arising from the cultural differences of the Greek and Turkish communities. In 1974, as a result of Turkey's military intervention, the island of Cyprus was divided into two independent states, the Greek Cypriot Administration in the southern part and the Greek Cypriot Administration in the northern part. Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. 

Capital of Northern Cyprus:

Information about the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus between the country's capital stands out. Capital of Northern Cyprusis the largest city on the island. Nicosiais. 

This city, which attracts attention with its cultural heritage and rich history, offers visitors many alternatives in terms of places to visit and activities. 

Official Language of Northern Cyprus:

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus official language is Turkish. However English de Northern CyprusIt is among the widely spoken languages in Turkey. Thus, possible problems that tourists may experience in communication are prevented. 

North Cyprus Location:

Located east of the Mediterranean Turkish Republic of Northern CyprusCyprus is located approximately 75 kilometers from the southern coast of Turkey. The width of the island of Cyprus, which acts as a bridge between the continents of Asia and Europe, is approximately 48 kilometers and its length is 240 kilometers. 

Northern Cyprus is bordered by the Eastern Mediterranean to the east, the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Turkey to the north and the Greek Administration of Southern Cyprus to the south. Northern CyprusDue to its strategic location, it has witnessed the interaction of different cultures and civilizations throughout history. 

North Cyprus Population:

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus has a population of 300,000 according to the latest data of 2020. The majority of this population is Cypriots of Turkish origin. In addition, citizens from Turkey, immigrants of Turkish origin and people from different ethnic groups are also included in the population of Northern Cyprus. 

North Cyprus Local Time:

Located in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), Northern Cyprus' local time is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Therefore, the local time of Northern Cyprus is expressed as GMT+2. 

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus local timethe standard time zone To EET according to the time of day. However, Daylight Saving Time, which is applied during the summer months, is also implemented in Northern Cyprus as it is in Europe. In this case, clocks are moved forward by one hour and the new local time in Northern Cyprus becomes GMT+3. 

North Cyprus Currency:

The official currency of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Turkish lira. Euro is a widely used currency, especially in touristic areas and among foreign tourists. This situation facilitates the shopping and traveling processes of locals and visitors. 

North Cyprus Form of Government:

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is an independent state unilaterally declared in 1983 and located in the north of the island of Cyprus. is a republic. The political structure of the country, republican a form of governance and parliamentary democracy is based on. The highest authority of the state is is the president and elected by the people. 

Northern Cyprusofficially Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus as a recognized state. Internationally, however, only Turkey recognized by other countries, but not by other countries. This affects the legal and political status of the country. 

North Cyprus Vegetation:

The vegetation of Northern Cyprus is generally Mediterranean climate is under its influence. Accordingly, olive trees, maquis, shrubs and red pine forests make up the vegetation of Northern Cyprus. Especially maquis are quite common in mountainous areas and cover a large part of the island landscape. 

While olive trees are mostly found in the coastal areas of Northern Cyprus, there are large red pine forests in the interior of the country. Fruit trees such as figs, grapes and citrus fruits are also found in the agricultural areas of the island.

North Cyprus Livelihoods:

Economy of Northern Cyprus It is based on agriculture and service sectors, especially tourism. It constitutes an important part of the economy tourism sectorattracts many visitors throughout the year.

In addition, the economy of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is supported by a combination of revenues from various sectors. These sectors include construction, real estate, health and education. 

When to go to Northern Cyprus?

The Mediterranean climate makes Northern Cyprus a year-round destination. But the most popular times are usually summer months. Especially June-August The sunny and warm weather during the summer months is ideal for beach vacations. 

During the spring (March - May) and fall (September - November) seasons, the climate in Cyprus is milder. These periods are great for historical excursions and nature walks. During the winter months, the weather is cooler, but the crowds are smaller, making it a great opportunity to experience local life.

What are North Cyprus Festivals?

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which has a historical past and a rich cultural heritage, hosts various festivals. The prominent ones among these festivals are Cyprus International Bellapais Music Festival, Cyprus Wine Festival and Nicosia International Arts and Culture Festival'Dir. 

These festivals bring together national and local participants and offer events in different fields such as music, art, culture and wine. 

How to get to Northern Cyprus?

Northern CyprusThe most common transportation options used to get to air, sea and road are their travels. Flights to North Cyprus by taking Ercan International Airport'to Cyprus by plane stands out as a common and fast option. 

It is also possible to go to Northern Cyprus by ferries from the Turkish ports of Taşucu, Mersin and İskenderun or by road using the border gates. 

Transportation Facilities in Northern Cyprus

Northern Cyprus'transportation opportunities are quite wide. These can be listed as follows:

• Buses and minibuses are used for transportation within the city and between cities.
• The car rental option offers comfortable transportation.
• Taxis are generally preferred for short-distance travel. 
• Bicycle rental service is very popular in touristic areas.

Transportation from Ercan Airport to City Centers

Ercan AirportIt is possible to use transportation options such as airport transfers, taxi or car rental to reach the city centers. 

For comfortable and fast transportation, taxis are the most popular option, while transfer services can also be preferred. Car rental service is an ideal option for an independent travel experience. 

Is it possible to rent a car in Northern Cyprus? 

North Cyprus car rental services appear as a very common and accessible service type. It is possible to find many car rental companies belonging to both local companies and international chains in Northern Cyprus.

There are many rental car options in Northern Cyprus. Many different vehicle models, from small cars to luxury vehicles, are offered with different price options. 

Places to visit in Northern Cyprus

Places to visit in Northern Cyprus It is an extremely rich region. History In Northern Cyprus, which hosts many attraction centers with its natural beauties, especially Kyrenia, Nicosia and Famagustais home to landscapes worth seeing in terms of places to visit. 

Nicosia

Nicosia, the capital of Northern Cyprus, is the largest city in the country and is famous for its cultural and historical richness. Among the main places to visit in Nicosia;

• Selimiye Mosque (one of the Ottoman Period monuments)
• Büyük Han (famous for its souvenir and handicraft vendors)
• Nicosia Castle (There is a museum where ancient artifacts are exhibited)
• Bandabuliya Bazaar (ideal for local products and traditional delicacies) and
• Bedesten (bazaar with handmade products and antiques) is located. 

Kyrenia

Kyrenia, a historical and touristic city of Northern Cyprus, is home to many beautiful places to visit. These include; 

• Kyrenia Castle (located right next to the harbor, offering spectacular views)
• Bellapais Monastery (Medieval, historically and architecturally important)
• Kyrenia Harbor (Famous for its restaurants and historical atmosphere)
• St. Hilarion Castle (offers great views and exploration) and
• Alagadi Turtle Beach (known as the breeding ground of Caretta carettas, famous for its natural beauty). 

Famagusta

Cities in Northern Cyprus Famagusta is another region full of cultural and historical heritage. Some important places to visit in Famagusta are as follows:

• Othello Castle (the inspiration for Shakespeare's play "Othello")
• Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque (One of the important works of the Ottoman period.
• Namik Kemal Dungeon (The dungeon where the famous Turkish poet Namik Kemal was imprisoned)
• Canbulat Museum (A museum providing information about the Ottoman period and the history of Cyprus)
• Salamis Ancient City (full of ruins from the Hellenistic and Roman periods)

Northern Cyprus Visa Process

People who want to go to Northern Cyprus do not need a visa. Citizens of the Republic of Turkey can enter Northern Cyprus for up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries are exempt from visa for a certain period of time or can obtain a visa upon entry.

However, travelers to Northern Cyprus generally need to make sure that their passport is valid for at least 6 months. 

Can I Travel to Other Countries from Northern Cyprus?

It is possible to go to other countries from Northern Cyprus. However, since the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is not internationally recognized, direct flights to some countries are not possible.

For this reason, those who want to travel to other countries from Northern Cyprus usually first make the Greek Cypriot crossing to Turkey or Southern Cyprus and travel to the countries they want to go from there.

Where to stay in North Cyprus?

Hotels in North CyprusIt offers accommodation with many options suitable for accommodation such as hostels, pensions, holiday villages and apartments for rent. While boutique hotels and hostels are mostly preferred in city centers, it is possible to find hotels in touristic areas and along the coastline. 

In addition, rental villas and apartments run by landlords are also among the most preferred accommodation options.

What to Eat in Northern Cyprus?

In Northern Cyprus, it is possible to experience Mediterranean flavors and traditional Cypriot cuisine. Olive oil dishes, kebabs, various appetizers and seafood can be listed among the popular flavors of Northern Cyprus. Halloumi cheese, a flavor unique to Cyprus, stands out as a popular cheese type. 

In Northern Cyprus, Turkish delights and sherbet desserts are at the forefront as desserts. It is also possible to taste dishes from different world cuisines in restaurants and cafes.

What to Buy as a Gift in Northern Cyprus?

There are many types of gifts that can be bought from Northern Cyprus. The prominent ones among these gift options are halloumi cheese, sherbet desserts, olive oil, jewelry and handcrafted products specific to Cyprus. 

Nightlife in Northern Cyprus

Nightlife in Northern Cyprus is extremely colorful and vibrant. It is possible to find many bars, nightclubs, pubs and live music venues, especially in metropolitan areas such as Nicosia and Kyrenia.

In addition, it can be said that the nightlife in Famagusta and some other touristic areas is also very active. Cyprus nightlife, which is more intense especially in the summer months, creates fun and unforgettable atmospheres for visitors throughout the year.

Holidays and Festivals in Northern Cyprus

In North Cyprus, festivals and holidays are celebrated with a variety of events that are tied to traditions and local cultural values. Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are very important days in Northern Cyprus.

In addition, national holidays such as April 23 and May 19 are among the special days celebrated with various activities in Northern Cyprus.

Important Phones and Addresses

In North Cyprus, the following important telephone numbers can be called in case of emergency or for information:

• Emergency Situations: 112
• Police Help: 155
• Fire Brigade: 199
• Ambulance: 112 or 199

Some of the addresses that may be important in Northern Cyprus are as follows: 

• Ercan International Airport: Geçitkale, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
• Kyrenia Municipality: Ataturk Caddesi No: 24, Kyrenia, North Cyprus, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
• Nicosia Municipality: Ataturk Square No: 1, Nicosia, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
• Famagusta Municipality: Famagusta Road, Famagusta, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

What You Need to Know Before Going to Northern Cyprus

Among the things to know before going to Northern Cyprus are the following basic points:

• • Visa: Some countries may require a visa to travel to Northern Cyprus. Therefore, visa requirements should be checked before traveling to Cyprus.
  • Climate:The prevailing climate in Northern Cyprus is Mediterranean. For this reason, summers are dry and hot and winters are mild.
  • Language:The official language of Northern Cyprus is Turkish. In addition, English is another widely spoken language. 

• Health: Those wishing to travel to Northern Cyprus may want to consider taking out travel health insurance.

• Traffic: Vehicles are driven on the right side. Care should be taken to follow the rules. 

• Currency: Turkish Lira is used as the currency in Northern Cyprus. However, in some places the Euro is also valid. 

• Electrical Sockets: In Northern Cyprus, it is sufficient to use an adapter to benefit from electrical outlets as in Turkey. 

Curiosities about Northern Cyprus

The main important issues that are curious about Northern Cyprus are as follows:

• • Political Situation: Northern Cyprus is a country recognized by Turkey. The Cyprus problem is known as a complex issue that can cause various political conflicts. 
  • Food and drink culture: It is possible to find delicious dishes such as halloumi cheese, kebabs, appetizers and seafood in Northern Cyprus cuisine, which is under the influence of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. 

• Vacation Deals: North Cyprus is an ideal holiday destination for tourists with its beautiful hotels, beaches and fun activities. 

• Touristic Information: The remarkable regions in North Cyprus, especially Nicosia, Kyrenia, Famagusta, Famagusta and Karpaz, which are home to beaches, museums and ancient ruins, are very valuable in terms of tourism. 

• Education and Health Services: Northern Cyprus is a country with different universities and higher education institutions. In Northern Cyprus, where there are many hospitals and health centers, health services are also in good condition.

• Economy and Business Opportunities: The economy of Northern Cyprus is based on different sectors such as tourism, agriculture and education. As for job opportunities, it may be possible to find jobs in touristic businesses, language schools and universities. 
• Transportation and Accommodation Options: Transportation in Northern Cyprus is mostly provided by taxi, bus and car rental services. For accommodation, many options such as hotels, hostels, rental apartments and villas can be evaluated. 

In this article, you can find answers to all the questions about Northern Cyprus and use the information here as a guide to explore Northern Cyprus.