Exploring the Charms of North Cyprus: A Full-Day Tour of Kyrenia, St Hilarion, and Bellapais
If you’re planning a trip to North Cyprus and want an all-in-one experience that combines history, stunning scenery, and a taste of local life, this full-day tour offers a solid option. It takes you from the historic castles perched in the mountains to the peaceful abbey overlooking the coast, ending with a relaxed afternoon in the vibrant harbor town of Kyrenia. The tour is operated by Cyprus Fun Travel Ltd., and it’s designed to give visitors a well-rounded glimpse of the region’s highlights with the convenience of hotel pickups and a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
What I particularly like about this experience is how it balances the awe-inspiring sights—like St Hilarion Castle, which inspired Disney’s Snow White castle—with more intimate moments in Bellapais village, home to Laurence Durrell’s literary inspiration. The fact that all entrance fees are included makes it easy to enjoy each site without worrying about extra costs. Plus, the tour’s small group setup seems perfect for those who prefer a more personal touch, especially with the entertaining guides who can share local stories and historical tidbits.
A possible consideration is the timing: at around six hours, the tour can feel a bit rushed if you’re a slow walker or want to linger longer at each site. Also, since lunch is optional, you’ll want to plan ahead if you’re especially hungry or looking for a specific type of meal.
This tour offers excellent value for those eager to see North Cyprus’ most iconic sights with a focus on comfort, storytelling, and scenic beauty. It’s a well-structured way to experience the best of the region without the hassle of organizing multiple visits on your own.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Expert Guides Make a Difference: The tour’s guides are described as friendly, entertaining, and knowledgeable, elevating the experience with engaging stories and insights.
- All Entrance Fees Covered: From St Hilarion Castle to Bellapais Abbey, you won’t have to worry about hidden costs—just focus on enjoying the sights.
- Stunning Mountain Views: The ascent to St Hilarion offers breathtaking vistas and a fairytale castle setting that’s often compared to Disney’s Snow White castle for its turrets and mountain perch.
- Charming Bellapais Village: The monastery and village are both beautiful and historically significant, offering a peaceful atmosphere and inspiring literary connection through Laurence Durrell.
- Flexible Afternoon in Kyrenia: The free time in Kyrenia allows you to explore the picturesque harbor, enjoy local cafes, or do some shopping at your own pace.
- Convenience and Comfort: Pickup and drop-off from hotels in Kyrenia, Nicosia, and Famagusta, along with transportation in comfortable vehicles, make this a hassle-free day out.
Embarking on the North Cyprus Adventure: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kyrenia.
Starting the Day: Pickup and Transportation
The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel—whether in Kyrenia, Nicosia, or Famagusta—making it easy to start your day without extra planning. The vehicle is comfortable, and with a small group, you won’t feel lost in the crowd. This personal approach is often praised, especially by travelers like Shellie, who mentioned how her guide Cemal was “friendly, patient, and knowledgeable.” Having a guide who can entertain and inform makes a big difference in appreciating what you’re seeing.
Ascending to St Hilarion Castle
The first major stop is St Hilarion Castle, set high in the Five Finger Mountains. The ascent involves winding roads that reveal stunning panoramas of the surrounding landscape. Once at the top, you’ll walk through the castle ruins, which date back centuries—originally built by Lusignan kings and Crusaders. The guide will walk you through the castle’s history and architecture, highlighting features like Prince John’s Tower.
What’s special here? The views from the top are truly breathtaking, with a panoramic sweep across the mountains and coastline. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale, which is no coincidence—the castle famously inspired Disney’s Snow White castle. The hour-long visit is enough to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
Exploring Bellapais Abbey
Next, it’s a scenic drive into the Five Finger Mountains to reach Bellapais Abbey. Founded in 1198, this Augustinian monastery offers a peaceful escape with its Gothic architecture, cloisters, and refectory. It’s a place where the past feels alive—think monks, medieval chants, and sweeping mountain views. The tour guide will share stories about the abbey’s history and its significance in local culture.
The highlight here is the magnificent views from the abbey walls, looking down to the shimmering coast below. After touring the abbey, you’ll have time to stroll through Bellapais village—a charming place that inspired Laurence Durrell’s novel Bitter Lemons. As you wander its narrow streets, you’ll get a sense of the local life and perhaps stop for a Turkish coffee or an ice cream, enjoying the quiet beauty of the village.
Lunch and Local Flavor (Optional)
The tour includes an optional lunch at a local restaurant. Many travelers appreciate this as a chance to savor Cypriot cuisine and relax before the afternoon exploration. If you prefer, you can skip lunch and explore the village or the town of Kyrenia on your own.
Afternoon in Kyrenia: The Coastal Gem
The final part of the tour is Kyrenia, a town famous for its Venetian harbor, with colorful boats and lively cafes. During your two hours here, you can stroll along the narrow medieval streets, visit shops, or simply relax by the water with a coffee or ice cream. The harbor is a perfect spot to unwind, watch the fishing boats, and soak in the relaxed yet bustling atmosphere.
According to reviews, the guided portion in Kyrenia is brief but highlights the town’s quaint charm. Some visitors have noted that the free time allows for spontaneous discoveries or quiet reflection, which is part of the appeal. Many find Kyrenia’s blend of history and lively modern life quite charming and authentic.
Returning to Your Hotel
After a satisfying day, the guide will escort you back to your hotel, ready to reflect on the day’s highlights. The entire experience typically lasts around six hours, making it a manageable day for most travelers.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want a curated experience that covers key sights without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It’s especially suitable for those with limited time who want to see iconic landmarks and scenic spots comfortably. If you’re a history lover, the details about Crusader knights and Lusignan kings will add depth to your visit. For lovers of picturesque views and authentic villages, the stops at St Hilarion and Bellapais will delight.
However, keep in mind that the tour isn’t suited for wheelchair users, and if you prefer to linger at each site or explore independently, this might feel a little rushed. Also, it’s a good idea to bring your passport or ID, as these are required for the sites.
Price and Value
Considering all entrance fees are included, and hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, the price offers good value. The tour’s small group size and personalized guide service enhance the overall experience. You’re paying not just for the sights but for the stories and comfort of an organized day that takes the stress out of independent travel.
Final Thoughts
This full-day North Cyprus tour is a well-rounded way to experience some of the region’s most iconic sites. The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery combine to create memorable moments, especially for those interested in history, architecture, and authentic local culture. Whether you’re exploring castles, wandering village streets, or relaxing in a harbor café, this tour covers a lot in just a few hours.
It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking convenience, storytelling, and scenic beauty without the chaos of self-organizing each element. If you value comfort, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see the highlights with minimal hassle, this tour delivers on all fronts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup available? Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from hotels in Kyrenia, Nicosia, and Famagusta areas.
How long does the tour last? The full experience takes about 6 hours, including travel time and site visits.
Are entrance fees included? Yes, all entrance fees for St Hilarion Castle, Bellapais Abbey, and other sites are covered.
What should I bring? Be sure to carry your passport or ID card for entry to sites and for identification purposes.
Is lunch included? Lunch is optional; the tour offers a chance to eat at a local restaurant, but you can also explore on your own.
What languages are guides available? The tour is conducted in English, with options in Turkish, Russian, Spanish, and Italian.
Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers? While generally suitable, it’s best for those able to walk and handle some uneven terrain at sites like St Hilarion.
Can I customize the experience? The tour is designed as a small group with set stops, but the guide can share personalized insights during the journey.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible? No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to site terrain.
What is the main highlight of the tour? Many say it’s the stunning views from St Hilarion Castle, combined with the charm of Bellapais village and the lively Kyrenia harbor.
This tour blends scenic beauty, history, and local flavor into a memorable North Cyprus experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a deeper dive, it’s a journey worth considering.