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.