North and south, one island
The whole island, explained.
Most Cyprus guides stop at the line. Talk Cyprus covers both sides of it: how to cross, what a hire car can do, how banking, healthcare and residency work in the north and the south, and what changed this month.
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Crossing the line
Crossing points, hire cars in both directions, entry through Ercan, and what you can carry across.
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Practical and documentation
Residency, banking, healthcare, shipping a car, pets, phones and schools, covering both sides of the island.
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Car hire
Hiring a car in the south or the north, and what each allows at the crossing points.
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Property
Buying on either side of the island, and the due diligence each side demands.
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Travel and places
Things to do, beaches and landmarks, area by area, on both sides of the island.
Latest guides
- Cypriot food explained: meze, halloumi and the dishes to try
How meze works and the Cypriot dishes worth ordering on both sides of the island, with Greek and Turkish names so you can find them on any menu.
Verified 19 Oct 2026 - Place names in Cyprus: English, Greek and Turkish side by side
Why most places in Cyprus have two or three names, which ones you will see on signs and maps, and a list of the main towns and sites in all three.
Verified 19 Oct 2026 - Cape Greco: walks, sea caves and swimming spots
Walking Cape Greco park near Ayia Napa: trails, the sea caves and arch, Konnos Bay, boat trips, cliff jumping risks, parking and heat.
Verified 19 Oct 2026 - The best beaches in and around Ayia Napa and Protaras
Sandy bays from Agia Thekla to Kapparis: where to swim around Ayia Napa, Cape Greco and Protaras, with facilities, crowds and safety notes.
Verified 19 Oct 2026 - The best beaches in and around Famagusta
Famagusta beaches from Palm Beach and the Varosha shore to Glapsides, Salamis and the bay up towards Boğaz, with what each is like.
Verified 19 Oct 2026 - Salamis: visiting the ancient city, history and tips
How to visit the ruins of Salamis near Famagusta: the gymnasium, baths, theatre, basilicas and agora, plus the Royal Tombs and St Barnabas.
Verified 19 Oct 2026