You’re headed to Northern Cyprus this summer and looking for some awesome free things to do, right? Well, you’ve come to the right place! This beautiful Mediterranean island has tons of activities and attractions that won’t cost you a dime.
From exploring ancient ruins to lounging on pristine beaches, Northern Cyprus serves up fun in the sun without emptying your wallet. In this article, we’ll share the top free activities in Northern Cyprus you absolutely must experience during your 2024 visit.
Get ready for the ultimate budget-friendly Northern Cyprus vacation! Whether you want to dive into history and culture or relax under the warm sun, these free attractions have something for everyone. So keep reading to start planning your free Northern Cyprus summer getaway!
Take a Dip at Alagadi Turtle Beach
When the summer sun is beating down in Northern Cyprus, there’s no better way to cool off than by taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Alagadi Turtle Beach. This scenic bay is a nature lover’s paradise, with shallow, calm waters ideal for swimming and two picturesque stretches of sand.
Relax in the Rock Pools
Alagadi Beach is known for its natural rock pools and hollowed-out formations along the shoreline that fill with seawater. The Mediterranean sun heats these pools, creating a warm bathing experience. Wade in, soak up the sun and enjoy the sensation of floating in your private lagoon.
Go Turtle-Watching
Alagadi Beach is an important nesting site for endangered Loggerhead and Green sea turtles. From May to August, female turtles emerge from the sea at night to lay their eggs in nests along the sand. If you’re lucky, you might spot a mother turtle laying her eggs or even witness baby turtles hatching and scrambling into the sea. A magical, unforgettable sight!
Pack a Picnic
With scenic sea views, shallow swimming areas perfect for families, and generally uncrowded sands, Alagadi Beach is an idyllic spot for a picnic. Pack a basket, bring a blanket, and enjoy a leisurely meal while relaxing in the sunshine. Round off your picnic with a final dip in the sea before heading home, refreshed and recharged from a perfect day enjoying the natural wonders of Alagadi Turtle Beach.
Explore Kyrenia Harbor and Castle
Kyrenia Castle should be at the top of your list. This 16th-century Venetian castle offers stunning views of the Mediterranean sea and harbor. Within its stone walls lies a twelfth-century chapel, a Byzantine church, and a shipwreck museum housing an ancient merchant ship. Admission to the castle grounds and museums is free, so you can spend hours exploring.
After visiting the castle, take a stroll along the picturesque Kyrenia Harbor. With a seaside promenade, pastel-colored buildings, and bobbing fishing boats, it’s a perfect place to people-watch or enjoy a meal at one of the harbor-front restaurants.
Visit the Shipwreck Museum
One of the highlights of Kyrenia Castle is the Shipwreck Museum, housing the remains of a 4th-century B.C. merchant ship. The ship was carrying hundreds of amphorae of wine, almonds, and millstones when it sank just off the coast of Kyrenia.
The ship and its cargo are remarkably well preserved, providing valuable insight into seafaring during that era. Admission to the museum is included with entry to Kyrenia Castle.
Stroll the Seaside Promenade
After exploring the castle, take a walk along the palm-tree-lined promenade that skirts Kyrenia Harbor. You’ll pass brightly colored Venetian-style buildings, traditional Turkish kebab houses, and stalls selling everything from ice cream to souvenirs.
Find a bench or outdoor table to sit and watch the boats bobbing in the harbor as you enjoy the sea breeze and soak in the surroundings. The promenade comes alive at night, so consider going for an evening stroll as well.
Dine by the Harbor
With fresh seafood, meze, kebabs, and more, Kyrenia Harbor is a dining destination in itself. Pull up a chair at an outdoor table, order a cocktail or glass of local wine, and watch the sunset over the Mediterranean as you enjoy a delicious meal. Most restaurants offer stunning harbor views and cuisines ranging from traditional Turkish and Greek to Italian or fusion.
Hike Through the Five Finger Mountains
The Besparmak Mountain Trail takes you through the stunning Five Finger Mountains in Northern Cyprus. This 11.4 km loop hike offers some of the best views on the island.
Climb to the Summit
The trail starts at an elevation of 1,000 m, reaching up to 1,250 m at the highest point. The hike isn’t too strenuous, but the steady uphill climb will get your heart pumping. Take it slow and enjoy the fresh air and surrounding vistas. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the sea, plains, and neighboring mountains.
Spot Local Wildlife
As you hike, keep an eye out for wildlife like mouflon sheep with their large horns, shy foxes, and soaring birds of prey. The mountain vegetation includes fragrant sage, thyme, and oregano. In spring, wildflowers bloom in bursts of red, yellow, and pink. The melodic songs of cicadas and birds provide the soundtrack for your hike.
Take a Break at the Monastery
About halfway through the loop, you’ll come across the historic Monastery of St. Andrew. This secluded monastery was built in the 12th century and is open to visitors. Take a break here to rest your legs, fill up your water bottle, and learn about the history of this sacred place. The monks may even offer you some refreshments.
Finish Strong
After leaving the monastery, continue the descent back to the start. The final few kilometers may feel long, but push through by thinking of the satisfaction of completing this iconic Northern Cyprus hike. Once you emerge from the trail, head to one of the local villages for a well-deserved meal of meze, kebabs, and Hellim cheese. The views, wildlife, and history you experienced will stay with you for years to come.
Visit Bellapais Abbey and Village
If you’re looking for a free, culturally rich experience in Northern Cyprus, head to Bellapais Abbey. This 13th-century Gothic abbey is set on a hilltop overlooking the charming village of Bellapais and offers stunning panoramic views of the Kyrenia Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea.
As you explore the abbey’s ruins, envision the Augustinian monks who once lived and worked here. Marvel at the abbey’s well-preserved pointed arches, vaulted ceilings, and stone tracery windows. Climb the narrow staircases to the top of the abbey’s tower for the best vistas. The abbey is especially striking at sunset when the golden light blankets the historic stone walls.
After touring the abbey, wander through the cobblestone alleys of Bellapais village. Pop into local artisans’ shops selling handcrafted goods, then relax at an open-air cafe along the main square. Sip a coffee or glass of wine while watching village life unfold around you. As night falls, the abbey and village are romantically illuminated, creating a perfect spot for an evening stroll.
For history and culture buffs, the abbey and village offer a glimpse into Cyprus’ rich past under Venetian and Ottoman rule. Both the abbey and village have been remarkably well preserved, maintaining their historic charm while adapting to modern times. The laid-back ambiance and natural scenery also make this an ideal escape from the busy resorts along the coast.
Whether you spend an afternoon or evening in Bellapais, you’ll leave feeling transported to another era. The abbey and village capture the essence of Cyprus with a harmonious blend of medieval and Mediterranean influences set amidst a dramatic landscape. For an authentic Cyprus experience, Bellapais Abbey and Village should top your list of free summer activities.
Conclusion
So there you have it, my friend – the top five free activities you absolutely have to experience if you’re visiting Northern Cyprus in 2024. From exploring historic ruins in Soli to cliff diving in Famagusta, this beautiful Mediterranean island has so much natural beauty and culture to offer budget travelers. The hardest part will be narrowing down your choices with so many breathtaking sites, beaches, and adventures to choose from.
But no matter what you decide, take time to relax, meet the friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and spirit of this hidden gem. Just be sure to wear sunscreen, pack snacks and water, and have your camera ready, because your Northern Cyprus vacation is going to be one for the scrapbooks. Enjoy!
I’m gonna see one of them at least!