Tymbou: A Hidden Gem in Northern Cyprus

Tymbou, also known as Ercan, is a small village located in Northern Cyprus. It is home to the Ercan International Airport (ECN), which serves as the main gateway for travelers arriving in Northern Cyprus. While Tymbou may not be a major tourist destination in itself, it is the perfect starting point for exploring the region. Surrounded by scenic views, rich culture, and historical landmarks, Tymbou provides easy access to nearby attractions.

In this guide, we will explore the tourism aspects of Tymbou, what to do, where to eat, and how to make the most of your visit.

Location Overview of Tymbou

Tymbou is located in the northeastern part of Cyprus, specifically in the Famagusta District. The village is best known for its proximity to Ercan International Airport, which makes it an ideal stopover for travelers coming to North Cyprus. The village is small but provides a peaceful, tranquil setting, making it perfect for tourists who want to experience the serenity of Northern Cyprus away from the bustling city crowds.

Tymbou’s location makes it easy to explore nearby cities like Famagusta, Kyrenia, and Nicosia, each offering unique attractions and rich history. Whether you are visiting for a few hours, a day, or planning a longer stay, Tymbou is the perfect base for your adventures in North Cyprus.

Key Points of Interest in Tymbou:

1. Ercan International Airport (ECN):
   The airport, located just outside the village, is a key point for international travelers. It is the gateway to Northern Cyprus, connecting the region to various cities in Turkey, Europe, and the Middle East. Travelers arriving at Ercan can easily access nearby tourist destinations like Kyrenia, Famagusta, and Nicosia.

2. Scenic Views:
   Tymbou is situated amidst a rural landscape with rolling hills and fields. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Northern Cyprus, with its Mediterranean climate offering pleasant weather throughout the year. The surrounding area is peaceful, making it ideal for hiking and exploring.

Connectivity: Local and International Access

Tymbou offers great connectivity for travelers. Though the village itself is small, it provides easy access to some of the most well-known cities in Northern Cyprus. Let's take a closer look at the local and international connectivity:

International Connectivity:

Tymbou is connected to several major cities worldwide through Ercan International Airport (ECN). Some of the cities with direct flights to ECN include:

• Istanbul (Turkey)
• London (United Kingdom)
• Berlin (Germany)
• Doha (Qatar)
• Beirut (Lebanon)

These international routes make it easy to reach Tymbou and explore Northern Cyprus from major hubs in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Local Connectivity:

From Tymbou, you can easily visit surrounding cities like Nicosia, Famagusta, and Kyrenia. Here’s the approximate distance from Tymbou to each:

• Nicosia: 13 km (8 miles) – approximately 15 minutes by car.
• Kyrenia: 50 km (31 miles) – about 45 minutes by car.
• Famagusta: 80 km (50 miles) – roughly 1 hour by car.

This central location makes Tymbou an ideal base for exploring all the popular tourist attractions in Northern Cyprus.

Things to Explore Around Tymbou

While Tymbou itself is not a major tourist destination, it is ideally located for exploring some of the best attractions in Northern Cyprus. Here are some places you can explore around Tymbou:

1. Nicosia: The Capital City

Nicosia is the capital of Northern Cyprus and is just a short drive from Tymbou. It is a city full of history, culture, and beautiful architecture. Key attractions in Nicosia include:

• The Selimiye Mosque (formerly St. Sophia Cathedral)
• Kyrenia Gate: A well-preserved Venetian-era gate
• Buyuk Han: A historical inn that now hosts cafes, shops, and art galleries
• Leventis Municipal Museum: A great place to learn about the history of Nicosia

Exploring Nicosia offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and local life.

2. Kyrenia: Coastal Beauty

Kyrenia, also known as Girne, is a coastal town about 50 km from Tymbou. Famous for its beautiful harbor, historical sites, and sandy beaches, Kyrenia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Northern Cyprus. Key attractions include:

• Kyrenia Castle: A medieval castle overlooking the harbor with a museum inside
• St. Hilarion Castle: A mountaintop fortress with stunning panoramic views
• Kyrenia Harbor: A scenic harbor with a mix of cafes, restaurants, and shops

The charming coastal town of Kyrenia is perfect for a day trip from Tymbou.

3. Famagusta: Ancient Ruins and Beaches

Famagusta is located about 80 km from Tymbou, and it offers a fascinating mix of ancient history and coastal beauty. Famous sites in Famagusta include:

• Salamis Ruins: An ancient city dating back to Greek and Roman times
• Famagusta Old Town: A charming walled city with Venetian architecture
• Varosha: A once-thriving resort area, now abandoned, which has become a popular site for urban exploration

Famagusta is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and archaeology.

4. Karpaz Peninsula: The Wild Beauty

The Karpaz Peninsula, about 100 km from Tymbou, is one of the last untouched areas of Cyprus. Known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty, it is home to Golden Beach, one of the most famous and unspoiled beaches in Cyprus. Other highlights include:

• Karpaz National Park: Ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the outdoors
• Monastery of Apostolos Andreas: A historical and spiritual site
• Wild Donkeys: Karpaz is known for its population of wild donkeys that roam freely

The Karpaz Peninsula is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Food Options Near Tymbou

Tymbou itself is a quiet village, and food options are limited. However, you can find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and eateries in nearby cities like Nicosia, Kyrenia, and Famagusta. Northern Cypriot cuisine is a fusion of Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean flavors. Some must-try dishes include:

• Kebab: Grilled meat served with rice or flatbread
• Moussaka: A baked dish made with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce
• Meze: A selection of small appetizers like hummus, stuffed vine leaves, and tzatziki
• Keftedes: Fried meatballs made from lamb or beef
• Sheftali Kebab: A traditional Cypriot kebab made with minced meat wrapped in lamb fat

For a true local experience, head to the coastal towns of Kyrenia or Famagusta, where you can enjoy fresh seafood along the harbor.

Public Transport Options Near Tymbou

Tymbou is well-connected to the rest of Northern Cyprus through various public transport options:

1. Taxis

Taxis are available from Tymbou and the nearby Ercan Airport. They are a convenient way to travel to nearby cities and attractions. While taxis are generally affordable, it’s always a good idea to confirm the price before starting the journey.

2. Buses

Public buses are available to Nicosia, Famagusta, and other major cities. The bus network is reliable and affordable, though it may not serve remote areas like the Karpaz Peninsula. The buses are a great way to travel between the major cities, and it is possible to reach popular attractions by bus.

3. Car Rentals

For more flexibility and ease of travel, renting a car is a great option. There are several car rental agencies available at Ercan Airport, which can be used for traveling around Northern Cyprus. Renting a car will allow you to visit more remote areas at your own pace, such as the beaches of Karpaz Peninsula or the ancient ruins of Salamis.

Best Time to Visit Tymbou and North Cyprus

The best time to visit Tymbou and Northern Cyprus is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant with moderate temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The summer months (June to August) can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters (December to February) are mild and less crowded.