Getting Around Northern Cyprus

Road Network, Traffic

Car, Camper Van

Rental

It's possible to rent a vehicle in Northern Cyprus with an international driving permit. As with many things, rentals are cheaper in this part of the island than in the South. A local quirk: while driving is on the left across the entire island, many local rental companies offer vehicles with either left- or right-hand drive—it's up to you to choose. Note that you can drive in the North with a car rented in Southern Cyprus, but the reverse is not allowed.

Buses and Shared Vehicles

Buses

There is a fairly extensive network of buses and minibuses connecting the different towns in the TRNC. There aren’t really set schedules, but departures are generally frequent and fares are cheap.

Shared Taxis

In addition to the bus network, and on the same routes, there’s also a system of shared taxis called dolmuş, just like in Turkey. As always, they only leave when full.

Two Wheels

Motorcycle

Bicycle

Hitchhiking

Absent Modes of Transport

There are no trains, domestic air routes, or maritime lines within the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus—or anywhere else on the island, for that matter.

In Town

Taxis

Other Means

What to Choose for Getting Around?

As always, having a (rental) car is ideal. That said, buses or shared taxis, which are much more economical, can also be sufficient for getting around. At a pinch, you can just rent one when needed if you want to explore Karpas Peninsula, which is indeed more pleasant to visit when you’re independent in terms of transport.

Distances Between Cities

Distances (km) between the main cities on the island (Republic of Cyprus and Northern Cyprus):

• City in the Republic of Cyprus or "divided."