Bellapais Abbey in Northern Cyprus

Bellapais is located on the northern slope of the Kyrenia Mountains, approximately five kilometres from the centre of Kyrenia. Today, the village is considered one of the most visited tourist destinations in Northern Cyprus thanks to its well-preserved medieval abbey, panoramic views of the coast, historic streets and vibrant cultural life.

Despite its small size, Bellapais is rarely limited to a visit to the monastery alone. You can spend several hours here strolling through the historic centre, visiting souvenir shops, art galleries and restaurants with terraces overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

• Bellapais in brief
• History of the abbey
• Architecture and what to see inside
• Concerts and festivals
• How to get there
• Tickets and opening hours
• What else to see nearby
• Practical tips
• Frequently asked questions

Bellapais in brief

Bellapais Abbey is a Gothic monastic complex in the village of Bellapais on the slope of the Kyrenia Range. It offers views of Kyrenia, the sea and the northern coast. The site is suitable for a short trip from Kyrenia, a walk among historic ruins, photography and an evening concert during the events season.

Bellapais can conveniently be included in an itinerary together with Kyrenia Castle, Kyrenia's Old Harbour and Saint Hilarion Castle.

History of the abbey

The monastery was founded in the 12th century by Augustinian monks. During the medieval period, it was an important spiritual centre: it contained a church, cells, a refectory, an inner courtyard and utility rooms.

During the Lusignan period, the complex was expanded and rebuilt in the Gothic style. It was then that the arches, cloister, vaulted halls and architectural details appeared that today make Bellapais one of the most recognisable landmarks in Northern Cyprus.

After the Ottoman conquest, the monastery gradually lost its former significance. Some of the rooms were used for practical purposes, and later the complex came to be viewed primarily as a historical monument. During the British period, work began to preserve the ruins, making Bellapais accessible to visitors.

Architecture and what to see inside

The main value of Bellapais lies in its Gothic architecture. The church, inner courtyard, cloister, refectory, vaulted passages, stone arches and fragments of monastic rooms have survived on the site.

Particular attention should be paid to the refectory. It is a large vaulted hall with good acoustics, which is why it is used for chamber concerts and festival events. The terraces and open areas of the complex offer views of Kyrenia and the coast.

Usually, 45–60 minutes is enough to see the grounds. If you plan to take photographs, spend some time in the village or visit a nearby café, it is better to allow 1.5–2 hours.

Concerts and festivals

Bellapais is known as a concert venue thanks to the acoustics of its refectory. Classical concerts, chamber programmes and festival events take place here. Notable events include the Bellapais Spring Music Festival and the International North Cyprus Music Festival.

It is better to check the concert programme in advance: the schedule changes by season, and tickets for events are sold separately from regular admission to the abbey grounds.

• Event listings in Northern Cyprus
• Bellapais Spring Music Festival
• International North Cyprus Music Festival

How to get there

The village of Bellapais is located approximately 5 km from the centre of Kyrenia. By car or taxi, the journey usually takes 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic.

You can also take the Girne/Kyrenia — Bellapais minibus. According to the timetable at the stop, the shuttle departs from the Baldöken area towards Bellapais several times a day: 10:00, 11:30, 13:00, 14:30, 16:00 and 17:30. Return departures from Bellapais are listed at 10:45, 12:15, 13:45, 15:00, 16:45 and 18:15. It is better to check the timetable locally before travelling, as it may change.

By car, you can drive to the village and leave your vehicle in a small car park near the abbey.

If you are planning a trip around Kyrenia and the surrounding area, you can compare car rental options through Localrent. For a trip without a car, you can book a transfer through KiwiTaxi.

Tickets and opening hours

Admission to the abbey is paid. In 2026, the entrance fee is 60 TL, but the current price should be checked at the ticket office, as prices for museum sites may change. Concessionary conditions may apply to schoolchildren and students.

The best time to visit in summer is in the morning or closer to sunset. It can be hot in the open areas during the day, and there is little shade on the grounds.

What else to see nearby

Bellapais is not only an abbey but also a small village with narrow streets, viewpoints, cafés and restaurants. After touring the complex, it is worth taking a walk around the surrounding area.

• Lawrence Durrell's house. The writer Lawrence George Durrell, author of Bitter Lemons, lived in this house. A separate chapter of the book is connected with his experience of living on the island and buying a house there.
• Idle Tree. An old symbolic tree under which tourists and local residents like to stop.
• Bellapais village. Charming streets, souvenir shops, tavernas and views of Kyrenia and the sea.

For a half-day itinerary, you can combine Bellapais with Kyrenia Castle and the Old Harbour. If you have a full day, add Saint Hilarion Castle.

• Kyrenia Castle: what awaits travellers inside
• Saint Hilarion Castle: what to see, how to get there and admission cost
• Sights of Northern Cyprus

Practical tips

• Wear comfortable shoes: there are stone steps and uneven surfaces on the grounds.
• In summer, it is better to arrive in the morning or after 16:00.
• Before a concert, check whether admission to the abbey is included in the event ticket.
• Morning or the time before sunset is best for photographs.
• If you are travelling by minibus, check the return timetable in advance.

If you are planning to stay in Kyrenia, you can compare hotels and apartments in advance on Trip.com. Excursions around Kyrenia, Bellapais and the mountain castles can be found on Tripster or Sputnik8.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Bellapais Abbey located?

The abbey is located in the village of Bellapais above Kyrenia, approximately 5 km from the city centre.

How much time is needed to visit Bellapais?

45–60 minutes is enough for the abbey itself. With a walk through the village and a café visit, it is better to allow 1.5–2 hours.

How much does admission to Bellapais Abbey cost?

In 2026, the indicative price is 150 TL, but it is better to check the price at the ticket office before visiting.

How can I get to Bellapais without a car?

From Kyrenia, you can take a taxi or the Girne/Kyrenia — Bellapais minibus. It is better to check the minibus timetable at the stop before travelling.

Is there parking near the abbey?

Yes, there is a small car park near the abbey.

Are concerts held in Bellapais?

Yes. Concerts and festival events are held at the abbey. Concert tickets are sold separately from regular admission.

What can you see near Bellapais?

Nearby, you can visit Bellapais village, Lawrence Durrell's house, Kyrenia's Old Harbour, Kyrenia Castle and Saint Hilarion Castle.