Living in Kyrenia: A Complete Expat Guide to the Mediterranean Dream

From charming harbour cafes to mountain hiking trails, Kyrenia offers a lifestyle that blends history, nature, and modern comfort. Here is everything you need to know before making the move.

Sarah Mitchell

January 8, 2025

9 min read

Five years ago, I traded the grey skies of London for the turquoise waters of Kyrenia. It was supposed to be a six-month experiment. I never left. If you’re considering making the same leap, here’s everything I wish someone had told me before I packed my bags.

The Kyrenia Lifestyle: What to Expect

Life in Kyrenia moves at a different pace. Mornings start with Turkish coffee at a harbour-side cafe, afternoons might involve a swim at a secluded cove, and evenings are spent watching the sunset paint the Besparmak Mountains in shades of amber and rose. It’s not just a place to live—it’s a place to truly experience life.

Cost of Living: Surprisingly Affordable

One of the biggest draws is the cost of living. A couple can live comfortably on €1,500-2,000 per month, including rent. A meal at a local restaurant costs €8-15, fresh produce from the weekly market is incredibly cheap, and utilities are a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe.

“I spend less in a month here than I did in a week in London, and my quality of life has improved tenfold. The fresh food, the sunshine, the community—it’s incomparable.”

— Sarah Mitchell, Kyrenia Expat

Healthcare and Education

North Cyprus has a growing network of private hospitals and clinics offering quality healthcare at reasonable prices. Many doctors are trained in the UK or Turkey and speak excellent English. For families, there are several international schools following British or American curricula, plus six universities that attract students from around the world.

Things to Do in Kyrenia

• Explore the 7th-century Kyrenia Castle and Shipwreck Museum
• Hike the Besparmak (Five Finger) Mountain trails
• Visit Bellapais Abbey for sunset concerts
• Discover hidden beaches like Alagadi Turtle Beach
• Browse the weekly Kyrenia farmers market
• Enjoy water sports: sailing, diving, and paddleboarding
• Take day trips to the ancient city of Salamis
• Join the vibrant expat social clubs and events

The Expat Community

Kyrenia has a thriving international community, predominantly British, German, Russian, and Scandinavian. There are active social groups, charity organizations, book clubs, and sports teams. You’ll never feel isolated—the community is welcoming and always happy to help newcomers settle in.

If you’re dreaming of a Mediterranean lifestyle without the Mediterranean price tag, Kyrenia might just be your answer. The combination of natural beauty, rich history, affordable living, and a warm community makes it one of the best-kept secrets in Europe.