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Bellapais Monastery - Perched on a cliff of the Kyrenia Mountains at an altitude of 220m, this monastery was initially settled by the Canons Regular of the Holy Sepulchre, who fled Jerusalem after its fall to Salahaddin Eyyubi in 1187. It’s considered one of the finest structures in the Middle East, with numerous additions made over the centuries. It fell out of use after the Ottoman conquest in 1570. There’s much more to share about this site.
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Kyrenia Castle - This stunning castle dates back to the Byzantine period, with significant additions made during the Lusignan, Venetian, Ottoman, and Colonial periods. The castle also houses the Shipwreck Museum, a must-visit located on the harbor. The shipwreck, dating back to 300 BC, contains many artifacts found on the vessel.
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Kyrenia Gate - After driving from Kyrenia, we arrive in Nicosia, where the old city is encircled by walls built during the Lusignan period and reinforced during the Venetian period. Originally, there were only three gates to enter the walled city, and Kyrenia Gate was one of them. The dome of the gate was added during the Ottoman period, and the dates and initials seen on the gate are from the Colonial period. I’ll share more details during our visit.
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The Samanbahce Quarter - This area features houses built in the 19th century for those in need. It boasts unique architecture and a central fountain.
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The Venetian Column - This column was brought to the center of Nicosia from the Salamis Ruins during the Venetian period. When the English arrived, they replaced the lion symbol with a globe on top of the pillar. It remains in the center of the walled city of Nicosia.
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Buyuk Han - Built in 1571 by Muzaffer Pasha, this Han (caravanserai) features a central mescit (prayer place) for Muslims. Animals (camels) were housed on the ground floor, while people stayed on the upper level. Today, it is a major attraction with its lacework, handicrafts, and local cuisine. You’ll have free time here for lunch and shopping.
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Selimiye Mosque - Originally built as ‘St. Sophia Cathedral’ during the Lusignan period, this is where the Kings of Cyprus were crowned. Minarets were added after 1570, and it was renamed ‘Ayosofya Camii,’ later becoming ‘Selimiye Camii’ in 1954.
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Bandabulya Municipal Market - This local market, built in 1932, has been recently restored and remains a popular attraction.
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Marina Kyrenia - We’ll stroll through the horseshoe-shaped marina, built during the Venetian period. You’ll see the chain tower and have time to take photos and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
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Kyrenia Gate - The city is surrounded by Medieval Walls from the Lusignan period, and this gate is located on the northern part of the city. There’s much more to share about it while you take photos.
- Private tour
- Bottled water
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Professional Guide
- Parking fees
- Lunch
Kyrenia, positioned in the island’s northern region, beckons you to traverse through the scenic Kyrenia Mountain Range to marvel at the enthralling ‘Bellapais Monastery’.
Next in line is the ‘Kyrenia Castle’, strategically positioned at the Kyrenia harbor, our second halt of the day. Here, you get to explore the Shipwreck Museum, home to a shipwreck hailing from 300BC. The spellbinding exhibits include numerous artifacts retrieved from the ship.
Post a leisurely brief stroll around the harbor and the back lanes of Kyrenia, we advance towards the island’s capital, Nicosia. The old city, encircled by towering walls originating from the Lusignan and Venetian era, welcomes us through the Kyrenia Gate.
Prepare to be amazed by the Venetian Column, St. Sophia Cathedral, and the grandiose Buyuk Han, which will be part of our sightings. You also get ample free time to capture some memories and indulge in shopping from the local marketplace.
Thus, secure your spot on this excursion and revel in exploring two magnificent cities during your limited stay in Cyprus.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
