Kaplıca Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kaplıca with our complete travel guide, featuring top attractions, hiking routes, food and drink scene, transportation options, safety and health tips, and more.


Introduction to Kaplıca

Located in the Famagusta district of Northern Cyprus, Kaplıca is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. The town gets its name from the natural hot springs that have been a popular attraction for centuries. Whether you are looking for a relaxing retreat, an active holiday, or a cultural excursion, Kaplıca has something for every type of traveler. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Kaplıca.

List of Places to Visit in Kaplıca

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Salamis Ancient City
  • St. Barnabas Monastery
  • Icon Museum

Kaplıca has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, and there are plenty of cultural attractions to explore. Salamis Ancient City is a must-visit, situated in a picturesque area by the sea and featuring well-preserved ruins from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras. St. Barnabas Monastery is another significant sight, dedicated to the first bishop of Cyprus and housing a museum with artifacts from the early Christian period. The Icon Museum displays an impressive collection of religious icons and artwork from the Eastern Orthodox tradition.

Natural Attractions of Kaplıca: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kaplıca Hot Springs
  • Kantara Castle
  • Karpaz National Park

The hot springs are the star attraction in Kaplıca, offering visitors the chance to soak in mineral-rich, therapeutic waters that are believed to have healing properties. Another must-see is Kantara Castle, a historic fortress that sits atop a hill with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coast. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring Karpaz National Park, located on the tip of the Karpaz Peninsula, which is home to diverse wildlife, secluded beaches, and tranquil forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kaplıca

  • Kaplıca to Salamis Ancient City
  • Çamlıca Plateau Hike
  • Karpaz Peninsula Bike Trail

Kaplıca and the surrounding areas are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking and biking. The route from Kaplıca to Salamis Ancient City is a popular trail that takes you along the coastline with stunning views of the sea. The Çamlıca Plateau Hike offers a more challenging trek through lush forests and hills, while the Karpaz Peninsula Bike Trail is a unique way to explore the scenic beauty of the peninsula on two wheels.

Best Things to Do in Kaplıca: Activities and Tours

  • Beach Hopping and Water Sports
  • Boat Tour of Karpaz Peninsula
  • Turkish Bath Experience

The beaches in Kaplıca are top-notch, with crystal-clear waters and pristine sands. Visitors can engage in various water sports such as jet-skiing, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Boat tours of the Karpaz Peninsula are another popular activity, allowing you to discover the region’s hidden coves and beaches that are only accessible by boat. For a more cultural experience, the traditional Turkish bath (or hammam) is a treat that includes steam, scrubbing, and massages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kaplıca

Day Activity
1 Arrival and Relaxation at Kaplıca Hot Springs
2 Visit to Salamis Ancient City and St. Barnabas Monastery
3 Hike to Çamlıca Plateau and Local Market Visit
4 Boat Tour of Karpaz Peninsula
5 Day Trip to Famagusta and Othello Castle
6 Visit to Kantara Castle and Beach Day
7 Turkish Bath and Departure

This week-long itinerary covers all the must-see attractions in Kaplıca, as well as some exciting day trip options to nearby destinations.

Food and Drink Scene of Kaplıca

Must-Try Dishes

  • Meze Platter
  • Kleftiko
  • Stuffed Vine Leaves

The food scene in Kaplıca is a delightful mix of Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and seasonal produce. The meze platter is a quintessential appetizer that includes a variety of dips, salads, and small bites. Kleftiko is a traditional Cypriot dish that features slow-cooked lamb with herbs and vegetables, while stuffed vine leaves are a popular vegetarian option.

Local Beverages

  • Turkish Coffee
  • Ayran
  • Grape Rakı

Turkish coffee is a staple beverage in Kaplıca, served strong and sweet with a touch of cardamom. Ayran is a popular yogurt-based drink that is refreshing and pairs well with spicy dishes. Grape Rakı is the local alcoholic drink, often enjoyed after dinner with friends or family.

Where to Stay in Kaplıca: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Mirams Hotel
  • Kaplıca Beach Hotel
  • Ayser Hotel

There are plenty of accommodation options in Kaplıca to suit every budget and style preference. Mirams Hotel is a top-rated luxury hotel situated right on the beach, offering stunning sea views, an outdoor pool, and an excellent spa. Kaplıca Beach Hotel is a more affordable option that still offers all the necessary amenities, including a private beach. Ayser Hotel is a cozy guesthouse with a homely ambiance, run by friendly and welcoming hosts.

What to Buy in Kaplıca: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Lefkara Lace
  • Traditional Pottery
  • Olive Oil

Kaplıca has a bustling market scene with plenty of souvenirs and local products to choose from. Lefkara lace is a popular handicraft that originated in Cyprus and features intricate designs and patterns. Traditional pottery is another item to look out for, with unique shapes and colors that reflect local customs and traditions. Finally, olive oil is a must-buy, made from locally grown olives and considered among the finest in the world.

Local Culture and Customs of Kaplıca

Kaplıca is a predominantly Muslim town, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions. Modest clothing is recommended when visiting mosques or other religious sites. Alcohol is widely available in bars and restaurants, but public intoxication is frowned upon. It is essential to remove your shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit Kaplıca

The best time to visit Kaplıca is between April and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and most attractions are open. The hot springs can be enjoyed year-round, but the summer months are the peak season when the town is bustling with tourists. Winter is a quieter time in Kaplıca, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kaplıca

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Bargain in markets

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public places
  • Be disrespectful to locals or other tourists
  • Sunbathe topless on public beaches
  • Be loud or rowdy at night

Safety and Health

Safety in Kaplıca

Kaplıca is a relatively safe town, with little or no instances of violent crime. It is always advisable to be cautious when traveling alone and avoid walking in unlit areas at night. Pickpocketing and theft can occur in crowded tourist areas, so it is essential to keep valuables secure.

Health in Kaplıca

There are no specific health concerns in Kaplıca, but it is advisable to drink bottled water and avoid tap water. The hot springs are therapeutic and safe, but visitors with respiratory or skin conditions should seek medical advice before soaking in the water. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent, as well as any necessary prescription medicines.

Getting to Kaplıca: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kaplıca

  • Ercan International Airport (ECN)
  • Larnaca International Airport (LCA)

The closest airport to Kaplıca is Ercan International Airport, which is located in Northern Cyprus and offers flights from Turkey and other nearby destinations. Larnaca International Airport is another option, situated in Southern Cyprus, but requires crossing the border to get to Kaplıca.

Bus Stations Near Kaplıca

  • Famagusta Bus Station
  • Nicosia Bus Station

Famagusta Bus Station is the main bus hub in the region, with connections to other towns and cities in Northern Cyprus. Nicosia Bus Station is another option, providing services between Northern and Southern Cyprus.

Other Options

  • Car Rental
  • Taxi

Renting a car is a great option for exploring Kaplıca and the surrounding areas at your own pace. Taxis are widely available, especially in tourist areas, but are more expensive than public transport.

How to Get Around in Kaplıca

The easiest way to get around Kaplıca is by car or taxi, but there are also public buses that connect the town to other parts of Northern Cyprus. Some attractions, such as the hot springs or Salamis Ancient City, are within walking distance from the town center.

Where to Go Next from Kaplıca: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Famagusta
  • Karpaz Peninsula
  • Nicosia

There are plenty of exciting day trip options from Kaplıca, including the ancient city of Famagusta, the scenic Karpaz Peninsula, and the vibrant capital city of Nicosia. All are easily accessible by car or public transport.

Conclusion

Kaplıca is a unique travel destination that offers visitors a refreshing change of pace from the more developed and touristy areas of Cyprus. Whether you are looking to relax, explore, or learn about the local culture and heritage, Kaplıca has something for you. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has given you all the information and inspiration you need to plan your perfect trip to Kaplıca.

The Kaplıca Beach The Kaplıca Beach