North Cyprus Travel Guide

Travelling to North Cyprus, or planning a holiday there? Outlined are some basic facts on North Cyprus, it's culture, transport, climate amongst others that you should be aware about before embarking on your journey.

Language

Although Turkish is the official language of North Cyprus, English is very widely spoken.

Communications

The international dialling code 090 392 should precede the seven digit local telephone numbers. "Mersin 10, Turkey" should be added to all postal correspondence to North Cyprus. 

Health services

Health services are on duty 24 hours a day. Visitors may obtain free emergency treatment at State hospitals. A consultancy fee is charged by General Practitioners. 

Financial matters

The local currency of North Cyprus is the Turkish Lira, but Pounds Sterling, US Dollars and Euros are acceptable forms of currency, as are Travellers' Cheques. Main credit cards such as Access and Visa are accepted by banks and the larger hotels and restaurants, but are not generally accepted by garages and smaller shops. There are no currency restrictions on entry to or departure from North Cyprus.

Travel

At present it is an international requirement that flights into North Cyprus stop in transit at one of the mainland Turkish airports. However, it is likely that this requirement will be lifted in the foreseeable future. For flight details, contact Cyprus Turkish Airlines (020 7930 4851 in the UK) or Turkish Airlines (020 7766 9300 in the UK). There are daily ferry services between Mersin, in Turkey, and Kyrenia in North Cyprus. During summer months, additional services operate between Mersin and Tasucu in Turkey and Kyrenia and Famausta in North Cyprus. 

Personal transport

A British or International Driving Licence is valid for the first twelve months for anybody visiting North Cyprus. There are many car hire agencies; several have offices at Ercan Airport. Traffic drives on the left hand side of the road. Petrol is not expensive, but as most petrol stations are located in town centres, it is as well to have a full tank for long journeys. It is also possible to hire bicycles and motocycles. 

Pets

Pets must be kept in quarantine for three months before being permitted entry into North Cyprus.