Kyrenia Harbor travel guide in North Cyprus with boat tours and castle access by Arekeh Group

Historic Kyrenia Harbor

Stroll along wooden boats, seaside cafés and golden Mediterranean sunsets.

1–3 hours Kyrenia Visit: Free Best time: Sunset
Kyrenia Harbor waterfront with boats and castle views in North Cyprus

Quick Facts

What makes Kyrenia Harbor unique

History
From Byzantine to Ottoman times – the iconic horseshoe-shaped harbor.
Cafés & restaurants
A line of waterfront cafés and restaurants with castle and sea views.
Boat tours
Coastal cruises and swimming stops starting from around €15.
Neighbouring sights
Direct access to the historic Kyrenia Castle beside the harbor.

Harbor Story & Experience

Where history and modern life meet

Historical roots

Kyrenia Harbor dates back to the Byzantine era and expanded under Venetian and Ottoman rule. Its horseshoe shape, stone breakwater and wooden piers give the town its authentic maritime character.

Castle & shipwreck museum

Right next to the harbor stands the ancient Kyrenia Castle, home to a shipwreck museum featuring a 4th-century BC merchant vessel. Combining a castle visit with a harbor walk makes for a full, memorable day.

Sea tours

Daily boat trips depart from the harbor to turquoise bays along the coast. Swimming, sunbathing and a tasty seafood lunch are some of the highlights of this experience.

Location

Kyrenia Harbor in the centre of the coastal city of Kyrenia

How to get there

  • From city centre: 5–10 minutes on foot
  • Parking: several public car parks around the harbor
  • Bus / dolmuş: stops on the main street close to the harbor
  • Castle access: entrance to Kyrenia Castle on the eastern side of the harbor

Tip: Visit around sunset for the best photos and the liveliest atmosphere.

Visitor Information

Key things to know before visiting the harbor

Opening hours & best time

  • Access: 24/7 (public space)
  • Best time: late afternoon and sunset
  • Busy times: weekends and summer evenings

Costs

  • Harbor walk: free
  • Boat tours: from around €15–20 (depending on tour type)
  • Cafés / restaurants: a wide range for different budgets

What should I bring?

  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Sunscreen and a bottle of water
  • Camera or phone for sunset photos
  • If taking a boat tour: swimwear and a towel

Facilities nearby

  • Many cafés and restaurants around the harbor
  • Public toilets in the surrounding area
  • Easy access to taxis and public transport
  • Close to local markets and small shops

Safety tips

  • Be careful near the edge of the pier – surfaces can be slippery.
  • On busy nights, keep an eye on your personal belongings.
  • For boat tours, use sunscreen and drink enough water.

Visitor Reviews

What travellers say about Kyrenia Harbor

M.K.
Maryam Kazemi
September 2024

The sunset at the harbor was incredible. We took a boat trip and then had dinner in one of the cafés right by the water. An experience we will never forget.

H.R.
Hamid Rahimi
October 2024

Very lively and energetic, especially at night. I really recommend bringing a camera – every corner is photogenic.

R.S.
Reza Soltani
November 2024

One of the most beautiful harbors in the Mediterranean. From walking along the quay to going on a boat tour, everything was great.

10% discount for online boat tour bookings

Harbor walk & boat tour with Persian-speaking guide

Custom programs available for families and groups.

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