From North Cyprus: Kyrenia, St Hilarion Castle, Bellapais

Discover the Charm of North Cyprus in a Full-Day Tour

This 6-hour tour from North Cyprus offers an engaging experience exploring Kyrenia, the spectacular St Hilarion Castle, and the historic Bellapais Abbey. Departing from key locations such as Kyrenia, Nicosia, and Famagusta, the tour provides a seamless mix of scenic views, fascinating history, and charming villages.

With all entrance fees included, such as tickets to St Hilarion Castle and Bellapais Abbey, the tour is designed for ease and enjoyment. The entertaining English-speaking guides make the experience lively and informative, ideal for travelers interested in discovering North Cyprus’s notable sights without the hassle of planning logistics.

A notable strength of this tour is the hotel pickup and drop-off service, which streamlines the day. While the duration is six hours, it balances sightseeing and free time well, making it suitable for those looking for a comprehensive yet manageable day trip. The only consideration is that the tour is not accessible for wheelchair users, so it suits most active travelers ready to explore on foot.

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Key Points

• Full-day exploration of Kyrenia, St Hilarion Castle, and Bellapais Abbey
• All entrance fees included, with hotel pickup and drop-off from major North Cyprus locations
• Expert guides who speak multiple languages, including English
• Scenic routes winding through mountains and coastal views
• Visit the inspiration for Disney’s Snow White Castle at St Hilarion
• Tour is private group, offering a personalized experience

Scenic Drive into the Five Finger Mountains

The tour begins with a comfortable vehicle pickup from your hotel in Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta. As the vehicle winds up into the mountains of North Cyprus, the views of the countryside set a picturesque tone. This journey introduces travelers to the diverse landscapes of the island before arriving at the first major stop, St Hilarion Castle.

Exploring the Fairy-Tale Fortress of St Hilarion

St Hilarion Castle is a highlight, famously known as the model for Disney’s Snow White Castle. The guided tour lasts about an hour, allowing ample time to walk through the ruins and imagine the days of Lusignan kings and Crusader knights. Visitors can ascend to Prince John’s Tower, located at the very top, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coast.

The castle’s location in the mountains makes it a perfect spot for photos and appreciating the strategic importance of this fortress in history. The guided commentary explains the castle’s past and architecture, making it more than just a scenic ruin.

Visiting Bellapais Abbey and Village

Next, the tour takes a scenic drive into the Five Finger Mountains to reach Bellapais Abbey, a monastic site first built in 1198. The guided tour of the abbey lasts about 105 minutes, during which visitors explore the courtyard pavilions, Gothic refectory, and cloisters.

The abbey’s walls offer wonderful views down to the North Cyprus coastline, making it an ideal spot for photographs. After the tour, travelers can take a short stroll through Bellapais village, famous as the setting for Laurence Durrell’s book “Bitter Lemons”. The village’s quaint streets and local shops add charm and a taste of traditional Cypriot life.

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Optional Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Midday, the tour offers an optional delicious lunch at a local restaurant. While not included in the base price, this meal provides a chance to enjoy authentic North Cypriot cuisine in a relaxed setting, often paired with regional flavors and friendly service.

Free Time in Kyrenia’s Historic Harbor

The afternoon is dedicated to Kyrenia, a beautiful town centered around a curved Venetian harbor. The guided visit includes a photo stop, walking through the medieval streets, and shopping opportunities in quirky shops lining the narrow alleys.

The harbor area is lively, with cafes offering Turkish coffee and ice cream, where the gentle sound of waves and bobbling fishing boats create a relaxing atmosphere. The two hours of free time allow travelers to explore at their own pace, enjoy a drink, or browse souvenirs.

Convenient Drop-Off at Major Locations

After a fulfilling day, the tour concludes with drop-offs back at North Nicosia, Kyrenia, Bafra, or Famagusta. The private group arrangement ensures a smooth and personalized ending to the trip.

Practical Details and Booking Options

This tour is designed for travelers seeking a comprehensive North Cyprus experience with ease and comfort. The hotel pickup and drop-off logistics save time and effort, while the all-inclusive entrance fees reduce planning worries.

The duration of six hours makes it suitable for most schedules, and the multiple departure points increase accessibility. It’s important to bring a passport or ID card, and note that the group is not wheelchair accessible.

Booking is flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later or cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering added peace of mind.

The Experience of a Knowledgeable and Friendly Guide

The English-speaking guides are recognized for their entertaining and informative approach, making history and sights come alive. The personal tone and storytelling style, as noted in reviews, are particularly appreciated for bringing the sites to life and answering questions thoroughly.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day in North Cyprus

This full-day tour from North Cyprus delivers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local charm. With all entrance fees covered, hotel transfers included, and expert guides, it offers excellent value for those wanting to explore key sites without extra planning.

Kyrenia’s harbor, the fairy-tale presence of St Hilarion Castle, and the serene Bellapais Abbey make this trip particularly suited for history lovers, scenic seekers, and those curious about North Cyprus’s cultural landscape. The private group format ensures a personalized touch, while the scenic routes keep the journey enjoyable.

While the walks at some sites require some effort, the views and stories make it worthwhile. This tour is especially recommended for travelers eager to see iconic landmarks with minimal fuss and the guidance of knowledgeable locals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves walking and some stairs, it is generally suitable for children who are comfortable with outdoor exploration. However, it is not accessible for wheelchair users.

Are meals included?
Lunch is optional and not included in the standard price, giving flexibility to travelers who prefer to dine at local restaurants or bring their own snacks.

What languages do guides speak?
The guides speak Turkish, English, Russian, Spanish, and Italian, ensuring options for diverse groups.

How much time is spent at each site?
Approximately one hour at St Hilarion Castle, 105 minutes at Bellapais Abbey, and two hours exploring Kyrenia.

What should I bring on the tour?
It’s recommended to bring a passport or ID card for identification, comfortable walking shoes, and possibly a camera to capture the stunning views.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby