North Cyprus is significantly cheaper than most Mediterranean destinations. Here is a detailed breakdown of what things actually cost, from meals to accommodation.
The short answer is no — North Cyprus is one of the most affordable Mediterranean destinations, typically 30-50% cheaper than Greece, southern Spain, or South Cyprus. The Turkish Lira is the main currency, and its depreciation against the pound and euro in recent years has made North Cyprus good value for foreign visitors. However, prices have risen significantly since 2022-2023 due to high inflation in Türkiye, so the gap is narrowing. Here is an honest, up-to-date breakdown of what things actually cost in 2025-2026.
Budget hotels and guesthouses start from £35-55 per night for a double room. Mid-range hotels with pools and breakfast typically cost £65-120 per night. Five-star resorts and all-inclusive properties range from £130-280 per night, which is still significantly cheaper than equivalent properties in Greece or Croatia. Self-catering apartments and Airbnb options start from £30-50 per night for a basic studio. In high season (July-August), prices increase by 25-50%.
Eating out in North Cyprus remains affordable by European standards, though prices have risen noticeably. A typical restaurant meal with a main course costs £8-15 per person. A three-course dinner with wine at a mid-range restaurant is around £25-40. Street food like kebabs, gözleme, and börek costs £3-6. A Turkish coffee or tea is about £1-1.50. A large beer at a bar costs £3-5, and a bottle of local wine from a supermarket is £4-7. Supermarket groceries are roughly 25-35% cheaper than in the UK, though the gap has narrowed.
Car hire is the most practical way to get around and costs £25-45 per day for a basic car including insurance. Petrol costs approximately £1.25-1.50 per litre, still cheaper than the UK. Taxis are metered in some areas but often negotiated; expect to pay £12-20 for a short town trip and £50-80 for longer intercity journeys. Local minibuses (dolmuş) cost just £1.50-3 per journey within towns.
Entrance fees to historical sites like Salamis, St Hilarion Castle, and Bellapais Abbey range from £3-7 per person. Beach clubs charge £5-12 for a day's use of sun loungers and umbrellas. Water sports such as jet skiing cost £25-40 for 15 minutes. A full-day boat trip typically costs £35-55 per person including lunch. Spa treatments at hotels are roughly half the price of UK equivalents.
Compared to other Mediterranean destinations, North Cyprus remains one of the cheaper options, though the gap has narrowed. A week's holiday in Kyrenia costs roughly 20-35% less than a comparable week in Bodrum, 35-45% less than the Greek islands, and 45-55% less than the French Riviera. South Cyprus is approximately 25-35% more expensive than North Cyprus for equivalent services. The only comparable bargains in the Mediterranean are Albania and parts of Montenegro.
British pounds and euros are widely accepted in tourist areas, but you will get better value using Turkish Lira at local shops and restaurants.
Yes, North Cyprus is roughly 30-50% cheaper than popular Mediterranean destinations like Greece or southern Spain. The Turkish Lira's weakness against the pound makes it excellent value.
A typical restaurant main course costs £5-10. A three-course dinner with wine at a mid-range restaurant is around £15-25. Street food like kebabs costs £2-4.
The Turkish Lira is the official currency, but British pounds and euros are widely accepted in tourist areas. Using TL at local establishments generally offers better value.
A mid-range week for two costs approximately £500-700 including accommodation, meals, car hire, and activities — significantly less than most Mediterranean alternatives.
Prices are rising due to inflation, but North Cyprus remains very affordable compared to other Mediterranean destinations. The falling Turkish Lira continues to benefit visitors paying in pounds or euros.