Getting to Girne
Girne (Kyrenia) sits on the north coast of Cyprus. Most visitors arrive through one of two airports and continue by road. This guide explains the realistic options, what to plan for a late arrival, and how our reception can help — with the caveats that matter for cross-border travel.
Which airport should you use?
Two airports serve most trips to Girne. Ercan Airport, on the northern side of the island, is the closest to the city and usually the most direct by road. Larnaca Airport, in the south, often has a wider range of international flights, but reaching Girne from there means travelling north and crossing between the two parts of the island.
Paphos Airport, also in the south, is farther still and rarely the practical choice for a Girne stay unless it suits a specific flight. For most visitors the decision comes down to Ercan versus Larnaca.
| Airport | Side of island | Getting to Girne | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ercan | North | Shortest road trip, typically around 45 minutes | The most direct arrival |
| Larnaca | South | Longer, often 2–2.5 hours including a crossing | Wider international flight choice |
| Paphos | South | Farthest; only if a specific flight suits | Rarely practical for Girne |
Arriving through Ercan Airport
From Ercan the drive to Girne is short — commonly around 45 minutes, though it varies with traffic and exactly where you are staying. From the terminal you can take a private transfer arranged in advance, a taxi from the rank, or collect a rental car if you plan to explore the coast.
For a first visit or a late landing, a transfer booked ahead is the calmest option, because a driver is waiting when you come through.
Arriving through Larnaca Airport
Larnaca is farther and the journey longer — often two to two and a half hours in total, because it includes crossing from the south of the island to the north. Travellers usually use a transfer or taxi that handles the crossing, or drive a hire car.
Because procedures at the crossing can change and are outside anyone's control, allow extra time, keep your documents to hand, and confirm current requirements from official sources before you travel. Treat any journey time as an estimate, not a promise.
Ways to travel from the airport
| Option | How it works | Consider it if… |
|---|---|---|
| Private transfer | Booked ahead; a driver meets you | You land late, travel with luggage or family, or want it settled in advance |
| Airport taxi | Available on arrival, no booking | You prefer to arrange on the spot; fares vary by distance |
| Rental car | Collected at the airport | You plan day trips to Bellapais, St Hilarion or the beaches |
| Shared transfer | Lower cost, stops en route | You are flexible on timing and happy to share |
Driving and parking preparation
If you will drive, plan the route and where you will leave the car before you set off. Avenue Hotel is in central Girne, where parking is on nearby streets rather than a hotel lot, and our reception can point you to the easiest place to stop for your arrival.
A quick message before you travel saves circling unfamiliar streets after a long day.
Planning a late arrival
Late flights are common, and the last leg is much smoother when it is planned in advance. Decide how you will get from the airport to the door, and let us know roughly when to expect you so check-in is ready.
Send your flight number and arrival time before you travel — it is the single most useful thing you can give us.
What to send the hotel before you arrive
- Your arrival airport and flight number
- Your landing date and time, and whether it is late
- The number of guests and amount of luggage
- Whether you would prefer a transfer, a taxi, or to drive
Good to know
Which airport is closest to Girne?
Ercan Airport is the closest and usually the most direct by road. Larnaca is farther and involves crossing to the north of the island.
Can Avenue Hotel help arrange transport?
We are happy to help you arrange a private transfer — send your flight details on WhatsApp and we will help organise the trip. The transfer is provided by a driver rather than a fixed hotel service, so details are confirmed case by case.
What information should I send before arrival?
Your arrival airport, flight number, landing time, the number of guests and luggage, and whether you would like a transfer, taxi or to drive. That lets us give accurate, current guidance.
Is advance planning recommended for late arrivals?
Yes. Plan the last leg before you travel and tell us roughly when to expect you, so a late landing stays calm and check-in is ready.
Should I rent a car for a stay in Girne?
It depends on your plans. The city centre, harbour and old town are walkable from the hotel; a car mainly helps for day trips to the mountains, Bellapais or the beaches.
Last reviewed · 2026-07-10