Welcome to North Cyprus Ercan International Airport!
Ercan International Airport (ECN), the primary gateway to the Turkish-speaking North of Cyprus, is located just 20 kilometres (12 miles) northeast of the capital city, Lefkosa (Nicosia). It is the only airport that serves passengers flying into this part of Cyprus and serves the cities of Girne (Kyrenia), Iskele, Gazi Magusa (Famagusta), Guzelyurt and surrounding areas. The South of Cyprus, also known as the Republic of Cyprus, is the Greek-speaking part of Cyprus, separated from the north by border checkpoints and served by Larnaca International Airport (LCA) and Paphos International Airport (PFO). Ercan International Airport (ECN) offers an excellent starting point for exploring this unique and beautiful part of the island of Cyprus. The airport connects North Cyprus to a range of international destinations, including cities across the whole of Turkey, the UK, and the Middle East. With several major airlines operating flights from this airport, it’s easy to arrive and embark on your North Cyprus adventure. The airport itself is modern and well-equipped, offering all the services you need, including currency exchange, duty-free shops, and car hire facilities.
When you hire a car from Ercan, you'll have the freedom to explore not only the capital city of Lefkosa but also the picturesque towns, coastal areas, and stunning natural landscapes that North Cyprus has to offer. From the mountain ranges and beaches to the ancient ruins and lively markets, a hire car is an ideal way to uncover the region’s treasures at your own pace. Ercan Airport’s prime location means you’ll be quickly connected to the main roads that traverse the island, including the D3 road, which runs directly into Lefkosa, and the more scenic routes leading out to the Kyrenia Mountains, the beaches and restaurants of Iskele and Famagusta, and connects to Girne and the Karpaz region.
In recent years, the road network in North Cyprus has been significantly extended and is generally well-maintained, with wide roads and clear signage throughout. Driving is on the left side of the road, and the relaxed pace of life in this part of Cyprus makes it an enjoyable place to sightsee and navigate. From Ercan Airport, the main route to capital city Lefkosa is the D3, which takes you straight into the heart of the city in approximately 30 minutes (20 km / 12 miles). Once in Lefkosa, drivers can easily follow the D1 and D2 roads, which connect the city to key regions such as Kyrenia, Famagusta, and the Karpaz Peninsula.
Lefkosa itself is the last divided capital city in the world, split with the southern part under the control of the Republic of Cyprus (South Cyprus) and the northern part governed by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The two parts are separated by the Green Line, with border checkpoints that are passable by cars and pedestrians with proper ID and passports. The city’s main thoroughfares reflect this division.
Driving in North Cyprus
Key streets such as Ataturk Boulevard (D1) and Namik Kemal Avenue (D2) are vital for navigating the northern part of the city, while the buffer zone can be crossed at checkpoints if you wish to explore the southern side - the Greek-speaking capital, Nicosia. As you travel beyond the capital, the road network takes you to the idyllic north coast of Cyprus, where you’ll find the charming town of Kyrenia (Girne). Just 40 kilometres (25 miles) from Lefkosa, Kyrenia offers a blend of historical sites, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The drive along the coastal road is a fantastic way to experience the breathtaking scenery, with the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the majestic Kyrenia Mountains on the other.
One of the highlights of North Cyprus is its stunning coastline. From Ercan, driving north towards the popular seaside city of Kyrenia, you'll find beautiful beaches such as Alagadi Beach and the more secluded escapes around Karpaz. Kyrenia itself is home to a picturesque harbour and the Kyrenia Castle, which offers sweeping views over the town and the sea. The castle also houses the Shipwreck Museum, showcasing the remains of an ancient Greek ship that sank off the coast of Cyprus more than 2,000 years ago. For a truly memorable experience, take a short drive to the village of Bellapais, nestled in the hills on the outskirts of Kyrenia. Bellapais is famous for its medieval abbey, Bellapais Abbey, which offers spectacular views of Kyrenia and the surrounding landscape. The village is also home to traditional Cypriot architecture, charming cafes, and local craft shops. Beyond Kyrenia, the Dipkarpaz and the Karpaz Peninsula is a paradise for nature lovers. The region is home to the famous Golden Beach, a 3 kilometre stretch of unspoiled sand where you can relax and swim in the clear turquoise waters.
The Karpaz area is also known for its wild donkeys, which roam freely across the peninsula, adding a unique and charming aspect to the landscape. This area is perfect for hiking and exploring, with several ancient sites to visit, including the ruins of the St. Andreas Monastery. This untouched region offers dozens of pristine beaches, some significant archeological sites, and picturesque villages. The drive from Lefkosa to the Karpaz is approximately 100 kilometres (62 miles), and the road leads you through rural landscapes where you can enjoy the island's untouched charm (about a 1.5 hour drive)
Another fantastic spot for history enthusiasts is Famagusta, about 65 km (40 miles) east of Lefkosa. Famagusta is home to the ancient city of Salamis, one of the largest and most important archaeological sites in Cyprus. The ruins of this ancient city offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, with Roman baths, a theatre, and a grand agora to explore.
Keen to do a North Cyprus road trip? One of the most exhilarating and scenic road trips in North Cyprus is the drive from Lefkosa to the Karpaz Peninsula. This journey takes you through the rural heartland of North Cyprus, where you’ll pass rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. The road offers breathtaking views of the coastline as it winds its way north, providing plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the sights. Along the way, you can visit the ancient ruins of the St. Andreas Monastery, which sits in a remote location offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Further along the coast, you’ll encounter the wild donkeys of the Karpaz Peninsula, roaming freely across the hillsides. As you approach the easternmost point of Cyprus, you’ll reach Golden Beach, a pristine stretch of sand perfect for swimming and relaxation. The entire journey is around 100 km (62 miles) and takes approximately two hours, but the natural beauty and historical sites along the way make it a truly memorable experience.
Tips and FAQs
Experience the joy of driving in North Cyprus, where quiet, scenic roads wind through untouched landscapes. Cruise past tranquil beaches, picturesque villages, and rolling hills dotted with olive trees. With minimal traffic, except in rush-hour Lefkosa and Girne (Kyrenia) you can explore at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and panoramic views, making every journey an unforgettable adventure in this serene paradise.
North Cyprus Ercan International Airport (ECN)
Number of terminals: 1 terminal
Location of car rental desks: Ground level, near arrivals
Distance to fuel station: Approximately 5 km (3 miles)
Nearest city: Lefkosa (Nicosia)
Major roads: D3, D1, D2
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