Money & Currency
South Cyprus: Euro (€)
Since 2008, the Euro has been the official currency of the Republic of Cyprus. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere — even at kiosks and beach loungers. Debit cards (Girocard/Maestro) work at ATMs, but not always in stores.
ATMs: Available everywhere (Bank of Cyprus, Hellenic Bank). Fees: Most German banks charge a 1.5–2% foreign transaction fee. DKB and N26 cards: free withdrawals.
North Cyprus: Turkish Lira (TRY)
The official currency in the north is the Turkish Lira. Euros are accepted almost everywhere, but at an unfavorable rate (10–15% loss). Better: withdraw Lira at an ATM in Kyrenia or Famagusta, or exchange small amounts at the border crossing.
Price examples north: Coffee 20–30 TL (approx. 1–1.50€), lunch 150–300 TL (approx. 5–10€), museum 15 TL (approx. 0.50–1€).
💡 Tipp
For a day trip to the north, you don't necessarily need Lira — Euros are accepted everywhere. But for smaller amounts (museum, coffee), it's worth exchanging 20–30€ into Lira to avoid the worse exchange rate.
