Shopping & Public Markets
The shopping experience is an integral part of an enjoyable vacation. The shopping experience in Northern Cyprus is unique that combines shopping from the world and the modern as well as markets in ancient cities for a slightly different shopping experience. From traditional, colorful and noisy marketers to small and luxurious boutique stores and souvenirs to traditional handmade lace. Almost everywhere you will find one or another opportunity to walk in the pedestrian zone, look in the shop windows and look for new appliances for the home, decorations, clothes and other things. There are many small family businesses here as well as chain stores and large shopping centers that invite you to walk and shop. In Northern Cyprus you will find something to suit everyone, From brand stores, fashion, souvenirs, toys, sweets and more.
In Northern Cyprus there are three main shopping areas in the main cities – Karnaya, Nicosia and Famagusta. Here we will detail what can be found in each of them, from marketers to malls.
Arasta Sokagi, Nicosia
This area is located in the Turkish part of Nicosia, in the city of Pakusha. There you will find a complex of colorful and colorful Turkish areas, an entire market with stalls selling items from the Turkish tradition – from porcelain to pillowcases, silk items, scarves, Turkish sweets and more, as well as bags, shoes and sportswear that are imitations of well-known brands. You can rummage through the items and enjoy an authentic market experience in a special Ottoman atmosphere.
The weekly market
One day a week a popular market is held in each of the major cities of Northern Cyprus. In the market you will find fruits and vegetables as well as nuts, olive oil and Turkish sweets, along with souvenirs, jewelry and linen items. These markets have a good, vibrant and colorful atmosphere. The market is held in Kyrenia on Wednesdays, in Pogamesta on Thursdays and in Guzliurt on Saturdays.
Chateua Lambousa Market in Lapta
This market is located about a 20-minute drive from Kyrenia, and is the largest and most popular market of the markets of Northern Cyprus. In this huge market you will find a wide variety of stalls and you can spend hours wandering between the stalls, soaking up the special atmosphere and enjoying special items from the Turkish tradition, clothes, plants, paintings, handicrafts and more. The market is open every Saturday until 14:30.
Clothing and fashion in Northern Cyprus
If you are looking for a more modern experience, you will also find it in Northern Cyprus. Shops are scattered in the big cities, selling luxury brands to counterfeit items and accessories in various qualities and at discounted prices. The stores range from modern and spacious stores, small and traditional stores and boutique and luxury stores.
In the center of Kyrenia you will find many shops dotted along the narrow streets. Each street has its own unique character, and you can spend hours touring between boutique stores, which sell haute couture to street fashion, as well as souvenirs and jewelry, shoes, bags, and toy stores. Kyrenia is known for fake designer items. If you prefer the original, you will find in this area original stores of Nike, Converse and Adidas at the cheapest prices than those in the country.
In Famagusta you will find a main street with many shops. From clothes and accessories, through jewelry to souvenirs, international clothing brands as well as local, traditional and cheap brands. Here you will find a wide range of leather products, including bags and shoes. A new mall has recently opened in Famagusta, which is actually the first mall in Northern Cyprus and is called City Mall. There you will find the LC WACICI store, an excellent clothing store for the whole family.
What to buy in Northern Cyprus?
Jewelry
Northern Cyprus is characterized by many jewelry stores in all major cities, including gold and silver jewelry and precious stones. The designs are incredibly special, in different sizes and original designs that combine tradition and progress. Usually, the prices will be by weight, and these are reasonable and convenient prices.
Embroidered linen
Cyprus is known for its beautiful linen designs. This is part of the Cypriot tradition that goes back many years to the Venetian period, so women designed intricate lace designs. If you are looking for souvenirs from your visit to Cyprus, you should consider purchasing linen items like tablecloths, headdresses and bedspreads.
Rugs
Turkish Cyprus is heavily influenced by the Turkish tradition, so like Turkey itself it is also known for its famous rugs. The rugs you will find in Northern Cyprus are colorful and lively with traditional designs. You will also find small and modest entrance rugs.
Alcohol and Cigarettes
If you are into alcohol and cigarettes, know that these are popular items to buy in Northern Cyprus, as they are relatively cheap, especially when it comes to Cypriot brands. Northern Cyprus is best known for its brandy and wine. Of course, if you plan to return these items to the country, remember that you will need to report to customs.
