Bellapais, Kyrenia Travel Guide

Discover the serene beauty of Bellapais in Kyrenia, Cyprus – a tranquil village rich in history, stunning views, and authentic Cypriot charm.

Nestled in the foothills of the Kyrenia mountain range, Bellapais is a picturesque village that offers a serene escape for tourists. Known for its stunning views, charming narrow streets, and rich history, Bellapais is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the authentic Cypriot lifestyle. One of the main attractions of Bellapais is the Bellapais Abbey, a 13th-century monastic complex that stands as a testament to the village's medieval past. The abbey's stunning Gothic architecture and beautiful gardens provide a peaceful setting for visitors. Don't miss the chance to attend one of the many classical music concerts held here, which add to the enchanting atmosphere. Beyond the abbey, Bellapais boasts a variety of quaint cafes and traditional tavernas where you can savor local delicacies. The village is also a great starting point for scenic walks and hikes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Mediterranean Sea. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, Bellapais has something special to offer.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bellapais.

Visit the Bellapais Abbey early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the narrow, cobbled streets of the village.
Don't miss the local tavernas for a taste of traditional Cypriot cuisine.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Kyrenia mountain range and the Mediterranean Sea.
If you plan to attend a concert at the abbey, book your tickets in advance as they can sell out quickly.

Explore Bellapais: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Bellapais

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Gizli koy

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Mevlevi Lodge Museum

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Cape kormakitis

Discover the untouched beauty of Cape Kormakitis, Cyprus: a haven for birdwatchers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking serene coastal escapes and authentic cultural experiences.

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Zeyko beach

Discover Zeyko Beach in Ozanköy, North Cyprus: a serene escape with golden sands, turquoise waters, and stunning natural beauty, perfect for relaxation and authentic Cypriot experiences.

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Best landmarks in Bellapais

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Bellapais Abbey

Experience the historical beauty of Bellapais Abbey in Cyprus, a serene monastery with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.

4.7

Girne (Kyrenia) Castle

Discover Girne Castle: A historical fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into Northern Cyprus' rich past.

4.7

Peace and Freedom Museum

Explore the Peace and Freedom Museum in Kyrenia, a captivating journey through Cyprus's rich history and its quest for independence.

4.7

Kybele Restaurant Girne Kıbrıs

Discover the best of Cypriot cuisine at Kybele Restaurant in Girne, where every meal is an unforgettable experience.

4.3

Best restaurants in Bellapais

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Eziç Peanuts

Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Eziç Peanuts in Kyrenia – where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

4.5

Nima Restaurant & Lounge Bar

Experience exquisite dining with stunning Mediterranean views at Nima Restaurant & Lounge Bar in Kyrenia, Cyprus.

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Kybele Restaurant Girne Kıbrıs

Discover authentic Cypriot flavors at Kybele Restaurant in Girne—where every meal tells a story.

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Alesta Kebap House

Experience the rich flavors of authentic Turkish cuisine at Alesta Kebap House in Kyrenia - a culinary delight not to be missed!

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Best bars in Bellapais

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Eziç Peanuts

Experience the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine at Eziç Peanuts in Kyrenia, where every meal is a celebration of local culture and hospitality.

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Nima Restaurant & Lounge Bar

Discover the exquisite dining experience at Nima Restaurant & Lounge Bar in Kyrenia, where Mediterranean charm meets culinary excellence.

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Kybele Restaurant Girne Kıbrıs

Experience the best of Cypriot and international cuisine at Kybele Restaurant in Girne, where exceptional flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Sky Lounge & Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyrenia at Sky Lounge & Bar, where stunning views and exquisite drinks create unforgettable moments.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Bellapais

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Sky Lounge & Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyrenia at Sky Lounge & Bar, where stunning views meet delicious cocktails and an upscale atmosphere.

4.4

Groggy lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine at Groggy Lounge in Kyrenia, where every night is filled with music, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

4.4

Odyssey Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyrenia at Odyssey Club, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments await you.

4.3

Chamada Club Girne

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyrenia at Chamada Club Girne, where music, dancing, and memorable moments await you.

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Best shops in Bellapais

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China Bazaar

Discover unique treasures and local flavors at China Bazaar in Ozanköy, a vibrant shopping destination for tourists.

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Bellapais Coffee House

Discover the tranquil charm of Bellapais Coffee House, a perfect retreat for coffee lovers in the heart of Beylerbeyi.

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Enya Shop

Explore Enya Shop in Kyrenia for unique clothing that beautifully blends local culture with contemporary fashion.

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Boutique Cyprus Gifts

Explore Boutique Cyprus Gifts for unique, handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Cyprus, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

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Explore Bellapais on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Bellapais, mapped for you.

Bellapais Essentials

Bellapais is easily accessible from central Kyrenia. You can take a local bus from Kyrenia's main bus station, which operates regularly and takes about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, taxis are readily available and provide a convenient and quick option for getting to Bellapais. If you prefer walking, the distance is approximately 5 kilometers, offering a scenic route along the coast.
Bellapais is a compact village, making it easy to explore on foot. The main attractions, including the Bellapais Abbey, are within walking distance. For those who prefer cycling, bike rentals are available in Kyrenia, and cycling to Bellapais is a pleasant option. Public transport is limited within the village, but taxis can be hired for trips to nearby areas.
Bellapais is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard safety precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being cautious in quiet areas at night. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying aware of your surroundings is recommended.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Kyrenia. It’s wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies can be found in Kyrenia and Bellapais, offering over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting the Bellapais Abbey. Avoid shorts and revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, and cover your shoulders and knees when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to the elderly. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine at restaurants. Don’t waste food, as it’s considered disrespectful.
To experience Bellapais like a local, visit the village in the early morning when the streets are quieter and the air is fresh. Engage with local artisans and shopkeepers, as they are often eager to share stories and show you their crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy traditional Turkish coffee at a local café while taking in views of the abbey. Attending local events or festivals can also provide a deeper insight into the culture and community.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Bellapais

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Bellapais. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMerhaba
  [mer-ha-ba]
- GoodbyeHoşça kal
  [hosh-cha kal]
- YesEvet
  [e-vet]
- NoHayır
  [ha-yır]
- Please/You're welcomeLütfen
  [lütfen]
- Thank youTeşekkür ederim
  [te-shek-kür e-de-rim]
- Excuse me/SorryÖzür dilerim
  [ö-zür di-le-rim]
- How are you?Nasılsınız?
  [na-sıl-sı-nız]
- Fine. And you?İyiyim. Ya siz?
  [i-yi-yim. ya siz]
- Do you speak English?İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?
  [in-gi-liz-ce ko-nuş-yor mu-su-nuz]
- I don't understandAnlamıyorum
  [an-la-mı-yo-rum]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüyü görmek istiyorum, lütfen
  [me-nü-yü görmek is-ti-yo-rum, lütfen]
- I don't eat meatEt yemem
  [et ye-mem]
- Cheers!Şerefe!
  [şe-re-fe]
- I would like to pay, pleaseÖdemek istiyorum, lütfen
  [ö-de-mek is-ti-yo-rum, lütfen]
- Help!Yardım edin!
  [yar-dım e-din]
- Go away!Uzaklaş!
  [u-za-klaş]
- Call the Police!Polisi arayın!
  [po-li-si a-ra-yın]
- Call a doctor!Doktor çağırın!
  [dok-tor ça-ğı-rın]
- I'm lostKayboldum
  [kay-bol-dum]
- I'm illHastayım
  [ha-sta-yım]
- I'd like to buy...Satın almak istiyorum...
  [sa-tın al-mak is-ti-yo-rum]
- I'm just lookingSadece bakıyorum
  [sa-de-ce ba-ki-yo-rum]
- How much is it?Ne kadar?
  [ne ka-dar]
- That's too expensiveBu çok pahalı
  [bu çok pa-ha-lı]
- Can you lower the price?Fiyatı indirebilir misiniz?
  [fi-ya-tı in-di-re-bi-lir mi-si-niz]
- What time is it?Saat kaç?
  [sa-at kaç]
- It's one o'clockSaat bir
  [sa-at bir]
- Half past (10)(10) Buçuk
  [(10) bu-çuk]
- MorningSabah
  [sa-bah]
- AfternoonÖğleden sonra
  [öğ-le-den son-ra]
- EveningAkşam
  [ak-şam]
- YesterdayDün
  [dün]
- TodayBugün
  [bu-gün]
- TomorrowYarın
  [ya-rın]
- 1Bir
  [bir]
- 2İki
  [i-ki]
- 3Üç
  [üç]
- 4Dört
  [dört]
- 5Beş
  [beş]
- 6Altı
  [al-tı]
- 7Yedi
  [ye-di]
- 8Sekiz
  [se-kiz]
- 9Dokuz
  [do-kuz]
- 10On
  [on]
- Where's a/the...?... nerede?
  [... ne-re-de]
- What's the address?Adres nedir?
  [a-dres ne-dir]
- Can you show me (on the map)?(Haritada) gösterebilir misiniz?
  [(ha-ri-ta-da) gös-te-re-bi-lir mi-si-niz]
- When's the next (bus)?Bir sonraki (otobüs) ne zaman?
  [bir son-ra-ki (o-to-büs) ne za-man]
- A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....'ya)
  [bir bi-let (....'ya)]

History of Bellapais

Bellapais, which translates to 'Beautiful Country' in French, has its roots in the medieval period, particularly in the 12th century when the Augustinian monks established a monastery. This monastery, known as the Bellapais Abbey, became a center of spirituality and education, attracting pilgrims and scholars from across the region.
The Bellapais Abbey, completed in the 14th century, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture in Cyprus. It served not only as a monastic residence but also as a place of refuge during times of conflict. The abbey's ruins are a prominent feature of the neighbourhood and provide insight into the island's religious and cultural life during the Frankish period.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Bellapais became a melting pot of cultures, influenced by various rulers, including the Venetians and Ottomans. This cultural exchange is reflected in the architecture, cuisine, and traditions of the area, as well as in the vibrant community that thrived around the abbey.
The 20th century saw significant changes in Bellapais due to the political turmoil in Cyprus. The village remained a symbol of resilience, preserving its historical charm and continuing to attract artists and writers. Notably, the English author Lawrence Durrell resided in Bellapais during the 1950s, capturing its beauty and complexity in his works.
Today, Bellapais is known for its picturesque landscapes, historical significance, and vibrant arts scene. The village attracts tourists seeking to explore its rich history, particularly the Bellapais Abbey, which remains a focal point for cultural events and gatherings. The community continues to celebrate its heritage while embracing modern influences, making it a unique destination in Kyrenia.