North Cyprus Border Crossings

Traveling from South Cyprus to Northern Cyprus

In April 2003, a significant development took place in Cyprus: for the first time since 1974, border crossings were opened, allowing both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots to travel freely between the North and South of the island. This historic change enabled many Cypriots to revisit their former homes, reconnect with old friends and family, and explore areas they had not seen in decades. Today, weekends in Kyrenia Harbour and Bellapais are often busier with Greek Cypriots visiting, and many continue to make pilgrimages to St. Andreas in Karpaz, Northern Cyprus.

Border Crossing Regulations

There are no major restrictions on crossing between South and North Cyprus. Since Cyprus joined the EU in 2004, travel between the two regions has become much easier, enabling visitors to explore the entire island. Locals frequently cross for shopping, while tourists also find it convenient to travel between the two sides. Below are some important tips to help you navigate border crossings.

Crossing the Border with a North Cyprus Rental Car

While it is legally permitted to take a North Cyprus rental car across the border, rental companies in Northern Cyprus typically do not allow their vehicles to be taken to the South due to insurance limitations. Most South Cyprus insurance providers do not cover damages to rental cars from the North. Private vehicles from both sides are allowed to cross with the purchase of an additional insurance policy.

For those renting a car in South Cyprus, crossing into Northern Cyprus is possible. However, some South Cyprus car hire companies prohibit their vehicles from being taken to the North, so it is advisable to confirm this with the rental provider in advance. If the rental company permits cross-border travel, you will need to purchase additional insurance at the crossing point.

For convenience and cost savings, many travelers opt to arrange a taxi transfer from Larnaca Airport to their hotel in Northern Cyprus and rent a car locally.

North Cyprus car hire services offer competitive rates and provide free delivery to border crossing points in Nicosia, as well as taxi transfers from Larnaca to Kyrenia.

Border Crossing Points

There are several official border crossings between South and North Cyprus:

• Metehan (Agios Dometios/Kermiya) – Nicosia

  • Open to vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.

• Ledra Palace/Ledra Street – Nicosia

  • Open for pedestrians, cyclists, and diplomatic vehicles only.

• Dhekelia (Beyarmudu/Pergamos/Pile)

  • Open to vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.

• Akyar (Strovilia/Agios Nikolaos) – Famagusta

  • Located in the British Eastern Sovereign Base Area on the Larnaca-Famagusta road; open to pedestrians, vehicles, and cyclists.

• Yesilirmak (Limnitis) – Guzelyurt (Morphou)

  • Open to pedestrians, vehicles, and cyclists.

Border Crossing Restrictions

When traveling from South to North Cyprus, it is recommended not to carry any documents related to real estate transactions. Additionally, travelers should adhere to the customs restrictions on the amount of tobacco, alcohol, and other duty-free goods they can bring across the border.

Passport Stamping

Upon crossing into Northern Cyprus, travelers have the option to either receive a stamp in their passport or obtain a separate visa form, which will be stamped instead.

Taxi Transfers from Larnaca to North Cyprus

Booking a taxi transfer with a Northern Cyprus taxi company is often more affordable than using a South Cyprus service. Approximate fares are as follows:

• Larnaca Airport to Kyrenia: £80 - £100 each way (when booked with a North Cyprus taxi service).

For a smooth and cost-effective journey, it is recommended to pre-book a taxi transfer with a Northern Cyprus provider.

Read on Directions from Larnaca Airport to Kyrenia.