Kyrenia hotels

Hotels in Kyrenia

Worthy of the title of the most pictorial port in the Mediterranean, Kyrenia has been inhabited for several thousand years and is noted for its outstanding Venetian castle, one of the foremost Venetian landmarks on the island.

The castle

Designed in the 16th century, Kyrenia Castle replaced a significantly older medieval fort that had been besieged on multiple occasions and was remodelled by the Venetians around 1540. The structure, which surrounds an enormous courtyard, was altered again later in the 16th century, when it was invaded by the Ottomans, and has been a tourist attraction since the 1960s.

The Kyrenia Ancient Shipwreck Museum

At the Kyrenia Ancient Shipwreck Museum, you can see the remains of an ancient trading ship that sank just off the shores of Kyrenia around 2, 300 years ago but wasn't discovered until the second half of the 20th century. Observe hundreds of wine amphoras from Rhodes, ancient cutlery, and many other fascinating artefacts that are on public display thanks to generous funding from the University Museum of Pennsylvania.

Other places of interest:

Bellapais Abbey

Although now in ruins, Bellapais Abbey was built more than 700 years ago just a few kilometres from Kyrenia. Like other churches in the area, it fell under the control of the Venetians by the late 15th century, followed by the Ottomans, and was converted into a hospital for a time when Cyprus was part of the British Empire.

Saint Hilarion Castle

As you approach this medieval landmark, it's impossible not to be captivated by the striking rocky mountain scenery that surrounds it. Saint Hilarion Castle was built by the Byzantines in the late Middle Ages to help defend the area from impending Arab invasions, although much of it was destroyed by Venetian forces in the 15th century. Nevertheless, the castle offers extraordinary panoramic views of North Cyprus' glorious coastline, and can be easily reached via car or bus.

Where to stay in Kyrenia

One of the most affordable Kyrenia hotels is beautifully presented The Ship Inn, while the Rocks Hotel Casino offers excellent hospitality and chic furnishings. Meanwhile, the Oscar Resort Hotel provides superb facilities at great value for money, the cost friendly Dome Hotel is noted for it's delightful, ambient surroundings, and the Onar Holiday Village offers fantastic accommodation in a charismatic atmosphere.

Eating out – recommendations

You can visit the No 14 restaurant or the Efendi Bar Restaurant and enjoy some fabulous European-themed cuisine, or head to The Terrace for other mouth-watering Turkish dishes. For some delightful seafood, consider the Grida Balik Fish Restaurant, choose Jashan's Indian Restaurant North Cyprus for some divine Indian and European food, or try the Kyrenia Tavern, Ikimiz Restaurant or Bella Moon for other delectable Turkish recipes.