Cyprus Tours in December 2026

Two of us took a bit of a chance travelling in late November to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, but we were pleasantly surprised at the temperatures in the low 20s, and we were able to swim in the sea and one of the hotel pools (much colder!). We stayed in Girne (the Turkish name for Kyrenia), a very charming port and dramatic castle, at the Pia Bella Hotel which was three buildings around two pools and a lovely garden with a bar where we gathered in the evening. Our leader Gizer was splendid – he started each day sorting out our picnic lunches, told us all about the history as our very able driver took us to the start of walks, and led us along mountainsides and up to precipitous castles. Each evening he briefed us in detail about plans for the next day, and then on three evenings took us to outstanding restaurants, with a wide range of mezze and delicious main courses. He recommended restaurants we tried on other nights, all really good and reasonable price. Most of us joined the trips to Famagusta and the ghost town Varosha, and to Nicosia on the way to the airport on the last day – seeing these places was very moving and helped us to begin to understand the issues. A fantastic trip which we really enjoyed – a lovely group, comfortable hotel and well organised.

Walking in North Cyprus was a lovely surprise. The trip was very well organised by Exodus and we had a fantastic guide called Gizer who was very knowledgeable, kind and professional. The trip was a hotel based walking trip at Christmas time. The weather on the whole was perfect for walking and showing off the amazing scenery. (just one afternoon of rain) The walks were varied, quite tough at times but very rewarding. We mostly visited castles and monasteries during the walks. The hotel was a good standard with nice big rooms and very friendly staff. The group were amazing and inspirational. The Guide was fantastic and organised great restaurants with really good food at very reasonable prices for us all. He was the perfect host to show off this beautiful part of the world and he ensured all of us enjoyed our holiday.

Pleasant and interesting escape from Christmas cold. Walks, culture, food, hotel and company all good. Two suggested improvements: Minibus used crammed with 23 seats so minimal legroom, making journeys uncomfortable for all but the shortest. Use hotel more for evening meals to enable cheaper and more transparent holiday costs. Trips out to restaurants were nice, but expensive, with further long minibus journeys.

The tour leader was excellent, taking care to monitor the weaker walkers and providing detailed and balanced information about the history of the island. The hotel is a bit faded, though the staff were friendly and helpful. The location meant that going into the town centre was a bit of a fag; a hotel closer would have made the stay more enjoyable. Our itinerary was affected by the weather, but so far as it went, it was fine.

Had a great trip, interesting part of the world Hotel they use is 40 minutes out of town (bus can be used for half the distance, 35 TRL), not many restaurants near to hotel. 20EUR to use Sauna Walking was good with an interesting mix of history, fairly easy walking. Very muddy when wet on some of the days Not sure why Famagusta is an optional excursion, this was probably the most interesting day. We were told the wine farm/tasting could be arranged (Etel Winery), but couldn't be done when we asked, so line that up early in the week if you want to do it . Also missed one of the more interesting castles in the itinerary , safety related we were told . We considered hiring a car but ran out of time We were not aware that crossing back in Cyprus has very low cigarette/alcohol limits (we were searched at the border) , so bear that in mid if you plan on taking anything back to the south On a few days we had a very brief beach drink stop en route back to the hotel , arriving back at the hotel around 2-3pm. Personally I would have preferred longer stops, relaxed drinks , and have a short beach walk. There were 5 tips that could be paid, Guide, Driver (normal), hotel reception, kitchen staff and room cleaners.