Kyrenia, Cyprus

Expat Community In Kyrenia

Over the years, Kyrenia along with other places in Northern Cyprus has become more and more popular among expats and travelers resulting in an established expat community today.

Most of the expats who live in Kyrenia have either relocated for work, retirement, business opportunities, or simply because they were seeking a lifestyle change.

The culture, relaxed lifestyle, and lower cost of living are all appealing to them.

Many of those who relocate here are from other European countries such as Russia and the U.K., however, you might run into a couple from the United States from time to time.

The appealing thing about joining the expat community in Kyrenia, and anywhere else in the world, is that it can help give you a sense of belonging.

You’ll also have people to socialize with and a support network should you need help getting set up and finding lawyers or doctors in your new home country.

Once you’re in contact with the expat community in Kyrenia, you’ll be able to join events, gatherings, and activities.

While English is widely spoken in Cyprus, having basic knowledge of Turkish might be a good idea.

Cost Of Living In Kyrenia, Cyprus

Cyprus is one of the EU’s most affordable places to live, especially considering this is a Mediterranean-island destination.

Kyrenia is in Northern Cyprus, which is outside of the eurozone meaning, the cost of living here comes at an even greater discount.

See foreign currency exchange rates here.

A couple could live quite comfortably in Kyrenia on a monthly budget of about US$1,500.

Apartment Or House Rental Budget (For A Couple)

Things To Do In Kyrenia, Cyprus

Kyrenia is known as the tourism capital of Northern Cyprus. With its almost perfect weather year-round, there’s a huge array of outdoor and cultural activities to enjoy.

Let’s take a look at what activities you can take part in during your visit…

• Kyrenia Castle

The Kyrenia Castle is a historic fortress that houses a Shipwreck Museum, one of the oldest known shipwrecks in the world, and offers panoramic view of the harbor.

For example, if you’re looking to learn a bit about history, take in traditional architecture, and enjoys stunning views, this is a great place to consider.

• Kyrenia’s Old Town

Kyrenia’s Old Town is a historic district characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, alleyways, and passages, and traditional architecture.

Stone buildings with wooden balconies and colorful shutters are a common sight.

Make enough time to visit the Old Town without rush. Stop by the boutiques, shops, craft stores, restaurants, and cafés here.

While wandering around, you’ll encounter historical sites and landmarks such as old churches and mosques.

The Old Town also hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year providing an opportunity for visitors to get to know the local vibrant culture.

• Hilarion Castle

St. Hilarion Castle is located on a hilltop providing a vantage point to monitor the surrounding coastline allowing its inhabitants to have surveillance and defense against any potential threats.

This is one of the most iconic historical sites on the island.

The castle itself is divided into three levels each focused on a specific function. The lower level was a defensive outer ward, the middle level was where you would find the living quarters and a chapel, and the upper level had the royal apartments and command center.

• Hiking in Kyrenia

Hiking in Kyrenia is a fantastic way to get to know your surroundings. This region has stunning landscapes, scenic views, and loads of natural beauty. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to consider “sightseeing” in this way.

Here are a few of the different hiking options (with different hiking levels) for you to explore in Kyrenia:

1. Buffavento Castle Trail
2. Hilarion Castle Trail
3. Karaman Village Trail
4. Bellapais Abbey Trail
5. Esentepe Trail

Make sure to prepare things properly to be able to enjoy your hiking experience to the fullest. Wear sneakers, comfortable clothing, and bring sunblock, hat, water, snacks, and a comfortable backpack to carry everything.

• Bellapais Abbey

Bellapais Abbey is also known as the Bellapais Monastery and it’s a historic and cultural landmark.

It also has architectural and artistic value, so if you’re a lover of any of these disciplines, make sure to take some time during your trip to visit this place.

This abbey was founded in the 13th century and served as a religious and education institution.

It’s perched on the hillside gifting the visitor an overview of Kyrenia as well as the Mediterrean Sea.

The Bellapais Abbey has been a place of inspiration for writers such as Lawrence Burrell and artists.

With this in mind, if you’re an artistic person, you won’t want to skip visiting this place.

• Beach Day

Kyrenia is the perfect destination for someone who is looking to spend some time at the beach sunbathing, having fun with water sports, or simply swimming.

Here’s a list of beaches you should consider visiting when in Kyrenia:

1. Escape Beach
2. Diana Beach
3. Lara Beach
4. Camelot Beach
5. Alagadi Turtle Beach
6. Kervansaray Beach
7. Deniz Kiri Beach
8. Golden Bay Beach

Safety In Kyrenia, Cyprus

Kyrenia, along with the rest of Cyprus, is generally considered safe for both tourists and residents. If you’re an expat here, you don’t need to worry about serious crime or violence.

However, like anywhere else in the world, petty theft may occur. We always recommend you always be cautious and have basic precaution.

Things to always do keep in mind wherever you are in the world including Kyrenia are:

• Always keep your belongings on you when you’re out.
• Don’t wear obviously expensive clothes and jewelry.
• Don’t flash large amounts of cash in public.
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash.
• Keep your bag on your front when in large crowds and in public transportation.
• Lock your house front door, back door, and windows when leaving.
• Lock your car and keep all valuables out of sight when getting out of the car.
• Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
• Avoid walking on deserted and dark roads at night and alone.
• Stay up to date on local news and safety precautions issued by local authorities.

Health Care In Kyrenia, Cyprus

Kyrenia has health care facilities offering various medical services to both locals and expats. The quality of these services will vary depending on the facility, but generally speaking, health care is really good in Cyprus.

In fact, Cyprus is renowned for its inexpensive, high-quality public and private health care systems, which is a deciding factor for many expats choosing to relocate here.

Kyrenia, Cyprus, has both public and private health care sectors.

The public health care system in Kyrenia have limited resources and a smaller capacity. Although health care professionals are generally qualified, the level of care may not reach your standards. Plus, waiting times are longer in public health cares than in private ones.

Most expats prefer private health care in Cyprus.

The hospitals and clinics that belong to this branch are better equipped, have a larger capacity, tend to be more organized, and have the best health care professionals you can find here. Plus, you’re more likely to find English-speaking doctors, nurses, and technicians.

Whether you’re planning on relocating to Kyrenia or if you’re simply thinking about visiting, we recommend you research and get health insurance.

Health care in Cyprus is affordable but specialists, certain specialized treatments, and emergencies will run a higher tab than general practitioners.

Visa And Residency For Kyrenia

Kyrenia is part of Northern Cyprus, so visa and residency requirements differ from Southern Cyprus.

If you’re coming from the United States, you don’t need a visa to enter the country and stay for up to 90 days. If you want to relocate here, you’ll need to apply for residency. One way of doing that is by purchasing property.

Once you’ve initiated the purchase of a property in Northern Cyprus, you are eligible to apply for residency and reside in the country while it is processed.

The property in question does not need to be in your own name, nor does it need to be fully paid off.

Eligible dependents include your children under the age of 18, and your spouse. Gay marriage is not yet legally recognized in either the north or south.

Also, other family members would only be entitled to apply if their name appears on the contract, and they have some rights to the property.

The application is straightforward, and you can live in the country while it’s being processed, and you can reapply as needed.

Visit or contact your local Cyprus Embassy or Consulate for more information on residency options.

Weather In Kyrenia, Cyprus

Kyrenia enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The weather here is generally pleasant, being one of the things that attract expats and tourists to this region. If you’re looking to relocate someplace warm and sunny, Kyrenia might be the place for you.

Spring in Kyrenia runs from March to May. Temperatures during this season typically range from 59°F to 73°F.

Spring is actually a popular time for visitors searching for warmer climates but not too hot. This is a great time to plan your scouting trip if you’ve never been to Kyrenia before or if you just want to visit but enjoy being outdoors.

The summer in Kyrenia get hot and dry with very sunny days. Temperatures tend to reach 86°F during this season which runs from June to August.

However, if you plan to visit Kyrenia during this time, we strongly recommend you carry a large water bottle with you as its extremely important to always keep yourself hydrated. You should also always have a cap or hat with you and sunblock to protect yourself from the sun.

The autumn here is from September to November. Though temperatures start to get a bit cooler during this time, they remain at a comfortable 81°F and will rarely drop below 64°F. Like spring, autumn is a great time to visit Kyrenia if you’re enjoy outdoor activities.

Winter in Kyrenia sees temperatures ranging from about 59°F to about 63°F. Though temperatures are not extremely cold, you are likely to experience more rainfall. If you plan to visit Kyrenia during this time, we recommend you bring light layers and rain gear.

Overall, the weather in Kyrenia is pleasant year-round, making this an ideal destination for someone who’s looking to escape extreme winters and stuffy summers.