North Cyprus may be best known for its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and tranquil beaches, but when the sun sets, the island comes alive with vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away at a club, enjoy a drink by the sea, or experience the local culture in a lively bar, North Cyprus offers a range of evening entertainment to suit all tastes. Here’s your guide to the best places to experience nightlife in North Cyprus.
1. Kyrenia – The Heart of North Cyprus Nightlife
Kyrenia is undoubtedly the nightlife capital of North Cyprus. With its bustling harbor, picturesque streets, and vibrant bar scene, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a night out. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening or an exciting night on the dancefloor, Kyrenia has it all.
Why Visit: The harbor area in Kyrenia is home to a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars with a beautiful view of the sea. If you’re looking for something more energetic, the town is also home to a few lively nightclubs that stay open into the early hours.
Pro Tip: Start your evening with a sunset drink at one of the harbor-side bars. As the night deepens, head to the clubs near the center, like Club Phytos or Club Ghetto, where you can dance to the latest tunes.
2. Famagusta – A Blend of History and Fun
The city of Famagusta offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern nightlife. Known for its medieval walled city, Famagusta also has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars, pubs, and beach clubs where you can enjoy a fun evening.
Why Visit: Famagusta has a more relaxed vibe compared to Kyrenia, but it offers plenty of places to enjoy a drink and socialize. The town is dotted with stylish bars and beach clubs where you can sip cocktails with a view of the Mediterranean.
Pro Tip: Check out the Breeze Bar near the beach for a relaxed atmosphere with live music and stunning views, or head to The Rafters Pub for a more traditional pub experience with friendly locals.
3. Nicosia – The Best of Both Worlds
The capital city of North Cyprus, Nicosia, offers an exciting mix of modern bars, traditional coffeehouses, and trendy clubs. This vibrant city has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a chic bar to enjoy a cocktail or a club to dance until dawn.
Why Visit: Nicosia’s nightlife scene caters to all tastes. You’ll find bars serving everything from classic cocktails to local Turkish Cypriot drinks, with many places offering live music or DJs. Nicosia is also home to many international-style clubs, offering a cosmopolitan experience.
Pro Tip: For a more traditional evening, visit The Selimiye Mosque Square, where you’ll find local coffeehouses and lively tavernas. If you prefer dancing, head to the Nicosia Walled City area for clubs like Sky Club or Piazza Club.
4. Bafra – Beach Clubs and Late-Night Parties
If you’re looking for a beachside escape with a mix of relaxation and nightlife, Bafra offers an excellent combination of both. This coastal area near Famagusta is home to several beach clubs that transform into lively party spots at night.
Why Visit: Bafra’s beach clubs are the perfect place to enjoy the sound of waves while sipping on cocktails. After the sun sets, the clubs turn into vibrant party hubs, attracting both locals and tourists who want to dance to live DJs and enjoy the beach atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Check out Acapulco Beach Resort for a mix of sunbathing during the day and partying at night. With regular beach parties and themed events, it’s a favorite among those who want to enjoy a lively nightlife scene right on the beach.
5. Bellapais Village – Chill Vibes and Scenic Views
For a more relaxed and romantic evening, Bellapais village, near Kyrenia, offers a peaceful atmosphere with stunning views over the Mediterranean and Kyrenia mountains. Here, you can enjoy traditional Cypriot food, sip local wine, or listen to live music.
Why Visit: Bellapais is a charming village known for its laid-back vibe and incredible views. In the evening, the village’s traditional tavernas and cafes come alive with local music, offering an authentic taste of Cypriot culture.
Pro Tip: Visit Bellapais Abbey for a quiet sunset view before heading to Bellapais Gardens for dinner. The village’s quaint restaurants often feature live folk music and serve delicious local dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.
6. Lara Beach – Relaxing by Day, Partying by Night
Lara Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in North Cyprus, is home to several luxury resorts, but it’s also a great place for those who want to experience a bit of nightlife with an exclusive vibe.
Why Visit: Lara Beach is more tranquil compared to other beach spots in North Cyprus. However, the luxury resorts here often host glamorous evening events, including live music performances, themed parties, and exclusive dinners by the sea.
Pro Tip: If you’re staying at one of the beach resorts, check out their event schedule for any special themed nights or parties. These are perfect for an elegant evening out with beautiful beach views.
7. Magusa (Famagusta) – Beach Bars and Relaxed Vibes
Magusa, the historic port town of Famagusta, has a small but lively nightlife scene. This area is home to some cool beach bars where you can unwind and enjoy a chilled-out atmosphere with friends or family.
Why Visit: Magusa is quieter than Kyrenia or Nicosia but still offers a great place to relax and enjoy a drink with a sea view. The beach bars here offer a variety of cocktails and snacks, perfect for a relaxed evening after a day at the beach.
Pro Tip: Head to Kervansaray Beach in Magusa for a more tranquil beach bar experience, where you can enjoy a cocktail by the sea with less noise and more relaxation.
8. Turkish Cypriot Coffeehouses – A Taste of Tradition
For those looking for a more authentic Cypriot nightlife experience, visiting a traditional Turkish Cypriot coffeehouse is a must. These coffeehouses serve locally brewed Turkish coffee, tea, and an array of local sweets, providing an opportunity to soak up local culture.
Why Visit: Turkish Cypriot coffeehouses offer a more relaxed and cultural experience. Sip on strong coffee while enjoying traditional sweets like baklava and loukoum (Turkish delight). These cafes are perfect for socializing and experiencing local life after dark.
Pro Tip: In Nicosia and Kyrenia, visit the historic Buyuk Han for a truly traditional coffeehouse experience. This old caravanserai has been converted into a cultural hub, with local shops, galleries, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink.
Conclusion: Nightlife for Every Mood in North Cyprus
From lively dance clubs in Kyrenia to relaxing beach bars in Magusa, North Cyprus offers a diverse range of nightlife options that cater to all tastes and moods. Whether you want to dance until dawn, enjoy a cocktail by the sea, or explore the island’s traditional tavernas, you’ll find plenty of options to make your evening memorable.
Looking for a night out in North Cyprus? We can help you plan your perfect evening of fun and entertainment!