Bellapais Abbey in Northern Cyprus: what to see, events, how to get there, and entrance fee

Bellapais Abbey is located in the village of Bellapais above Girne, approximately 5 km from the city center. In 2026, it is one of the main attractions of Northern Cyprus: it is worth allowing 1.5–2 hours for touring the abbey and walking through the village. You can get there by car, taxi, or the Girne/Kyrenia — Bellapais minibus; tickets for concerts at the abbey are sold separately from the entrance to the grounds.

• Bellapais at a Glance
• 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 at a Glance

Bellapais Abbey is a Gothic monastic complex in the village of Bellapais on the slope of the Kyrenia mountain range. From here, you can enjoy views of Girne, the sea, and the northern coast. The site is perfect for a short trip from Girne, walking through historical ruins, taking photos, and attending an evening concert during the event season.

It is convenient to include Bellapais in an itinerary along with Kyrenia Castle, the old harbor of Girne, and St. 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 center, featuring a church, cells, a refectory, a 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, which today make Bellapais one of the most recognizable monuments of Northern Cyprus.

After the Ottoman conquest, the monastery gradually lost its former significance. Some of the rooms were used for agricultural needs, and later the complex began to be perceived primarily as a historical monument. During the British period, work began on preserving the ruins, making Bellapais accessible to visitors.

Architecture and What to See Inside

The main value of Bellapais is its Gothic architecture. The church, inner courtyard, cloister, refectory, vaulted passages, stone arches, and fragments of monastic quarters have been preserved on the site.

The refectory is especially worth noting. It is a large vaulted hall with excellent acoustics, which is why it is used for chamber concerts and festival events. Views of Girne and the coast open up from the terraces and open areas of the complex.

45–60 minutes is usually enough to tour the grounds. If you plan to take photos, sit in the village, or visit a nearby cafe, it is better to allow 1.5–2 hours.

Concerts and Festivals

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

It is best to check the concert program in advance: the schedule changes by season, and event tickets are sold separately from the regular entrance to the abbey grounds.

• Event Calendar 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 center of Girne. 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 schedule 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 best to check the schedule on-site before your trip, as it may change.

By car, you can drive to the village and leave your vehicle in a small parking lot next to the abbey. As of early 2026, the parking price is 60 TL.

If you are planning a trip around Girne and its surroundings, you can compare car rental options via Localrent. For a trip without a car, you can book a transfer via KiwiTaxi.

Tickets and Opening Hours

Visiting the abbey requires a fee. In 2026, the entrance cost is 60 TL, but you should check the current price at the ticket office, as museum entrance fees are subject to change. Discounted rates may apply for 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 just an abbey, but also a small village with narrow streets, viewpoints, cafes, and restaurants. After touring the complex, it is worth taking a walk around the neighborhood.

• Lawrence Durrell’s House. The writer Lawrence George Durrell, author of the book "Bitter Lemons," lived in this house. A separate chapter of the book is dedicated to his experience of living and buying a house on the island.
• Idle Tree. An old symbolic tree under which tourists and locals like to stop.
• Bellapais Village. Cozy streets, souvenir shops, taverns, and views of Girne and the sea.

For a half-day itinerary, you can combine Bellapais with Kyrenia Castle and the old harbor. If you have a full day, add St. Hilarion Castle.

• Kyrenia Castle: What awaits the traveler inside
• St. Hilarion Castle: What to see, how to get there, entrance fee
• Attractions of Northern Cyprus

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes: there are stone steps and uneven areas on the grounds.
• In summer, it is better to arrive in the morning or after 16:00.
• Before a concert, clarify whether visiting the abbey is included in the event ticket.
• Morning or pre-sunset time is best for photos.
• If traveling by minibus, check the return schedule in advance.

If you plan to stay in Girne, you can compare hotels and apartments in advance on Ostrovok. Excursions in Girne, Bellapais, and mountain castles can be viewed on Tripster or Sputnik8.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Bellapais Abbey located?

The abbey is located in the village of Bellapais above Girne, about 5 km from the city center.

How much time is needed to visit Bellapais?

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

How much does it cost to enter Bellapais Abbey?

In 2026, the reference price is 60 TL, but it is better to check the price at the ticket office before visiting.

How to get to Bellapais without a car?

From Girne, you can take a taxi or the Girne/Kyrenia — Bellapais minibus. It is best to check the minibus schedule at the stop before the trip.

Is there parking near the abbey?

Yes, there is a small parking lot next to the abbey. At the beginning of 2026, it costs 60 TL.

Are concerts held at Bellapais?

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

What is there to see near Bellapais?

Nearby you can see Bellapais village, Lawrence Durrell’s house, Girne old harbor, Kyrenia Castle, and St. Hilarion Castle.