Which checkpoints can be used to enter the TRNC?

To travel from the Republic of Cyprus to the northern part of the island, the TRNC, you can only use specific checkpoints.

The territories of the two states—the Republic of Cyprus, a member of the EU, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey—are separated by a UN buffer zone.

The checkpoints include two inspection points—one when exiting the Republic of Cyprus and another when entering the TRNC after crossing the buffer zone, also known as the Green Line.

All checkpoints between Cyprus and the TRNC

• Ledra Street Checkpoint
• Ledra Palace Checkpoint
• Agios Dometios Checkpoint
• Deryneia—Famagusta Checkpoint
• Pila—Pergamos Checkpoint
• Strovilia—Famagusta Checkpoint
• Astromeritis Checkpoint
• Pyrgos Checkpoint
• Lefka Checkpoint

Ledra Street Checkpoint

Ledra Street

The most popular checkpoint among tourists, located in the center of Nicosia. Only pedestrians are allowed. It operates 24/7.

• Location of Ledra Street Checkpoint on the map

Ledra Palace Checkpoint

Ledra Palace

Another checkpoint in Nicosia, also in the center, near the Ledra Palace Hotel. It is also pedestrian-only. It operates 24/7 but may close at night during the off-season.

• Location of Ledra Palace Checkpoint on the map

Agios Dometios Checkpoint

Agios Dometios

Known as Metehan on the northern side. It is the only checkpoint in Nicosia that can be crossed by car (but another one will open soon). Pedestrians can also cross, but it is less convenient as it is located slightly away from the center.

• Location of Agios Dometios Checkpoint on the map

Deryneia—Famagusta Checkpoint

Deryneia—Famagusta

The easternmost border crossing. It is open 24/7 for both pedestrians and vehicles. Pedestrians can reach it by bus from Ayia Napa. This is the most convenient crossing for trips from Protaras, Paralimni, and Ayia Napa to the occupied part of Famagusta province, including visits to Varosha.

• Location of Deryneia—Famagusta Checkpoint on the map

Pila—Pergamos Checkpoint

Pila—Pergamos

Located near the village of Pila between Larnaca and Ayia Napa. It operates from 10:00 to 19:00 and is near a British military base (the road partially passes through its territory). On the TRNC side, drivers exit in the village of Pergamos, known as Beyarmudu in Turkish.

• Location of Pila—Pergamos Checkpoint on the map

Strovilia—Famagusta Checkpoint

Strovilia

This checkpoint passes through a long corridor that includes not only the buffer zone but also a British military base. It is the shortest route from Larnaca in the south to Famagusta in the north. It operates from 10:00 to 19:00.

• Location of Strovilia—Famagusta Checkpoint on the map

Astromeritis Checkpoint

Astromeritis

This checkpoint is located in the western part and is most convenient for those heading to the Güzelyurt region. It is accessible for both vehicles and pedestrians, but the latter may find it inconvenient due to the lack of public transport and the need to walk over two kilometers through the buffer zone. It operates 24/7, but car insurance can only be purchased during the day (until 19:00 in summer and 17:00 in winter).

• Location of Astromeritis Checkpoint on the map

Pyrgos (Limnitis) Checkpoint

Pyrgos (Limnitis)

The westernmost checkpoint, leading from Pyrgos to the village of Yeşilırmak. It is most convenient for travelers from Paphos and Polis heading to Lefke in the north. It operates only during the day, and purchasing insurance for the northern part often requires waiting for the right person.

• Location of Pyrgos Checkpoint on the map

Lefka Checkpoint

Lefka

The least-known checkpoint, often ignored by many. It is not particularly interesting for tourists. Firstly, insurance for the northern part is not issued here, and secondly, it is off the beaten tourist path. However, it is the most convenient way to travel from Troodos to the western part of the TRNC. It operates only during the day.

• Location of Lefka Checkpoint on the map

Frequently Asked Questions about Checkpoints in Cyprus

Which crossings are open 24/7?

All crossings operate 24/7, except for Pyrgos, Lefka, Pila—Pergamos, and Strovilia—Famagusta.

Where in Nicosia can you cross the border by car?

The only crossing is Agios Dometios, or as it is called in the TRNC, Metehan (Ayios Dometios—Metehan). The other two crossings in the capital only allow pedestrians. However, another vehicle checkpoint is expected to open in early 2025.

What should you consider when crossing the border?

Car insurance from the Republic of Cyprus is not valid in the northern part of the island. However, at the entrance to the TRNC, you can purchase local insurance at the checkpoint. However, in some places, it is only sold during the day (Pyrgos, Astromeritis, Pila, Strovilia), and at the Lefka checkpoint, insurance is not sold at all.

Also, note that many rental companies do not allow visits to the northern territories. It is best to contact the rental company in advance and clarify this issue. The easiest way is to choose an option with free cancellation when booking through a search aggregator, and after booking and paying a deposit (10-15%), contact the provider using the details in the voucher. This option is definitely available with Localrent.

Follow us on Instagram and Telegram to learn everything useful about life and travel in Cyprus!