Things To Do
in Nicosia
Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, sits on a high plateau where centuries of history meet modern life. Its old town is ringed by Venetian walls, with narrow lanes, mosques, churches, and lively cafes that tell the story of a city divided by the Green Line. The southern part offers cultural institutions, markets, and nightlife, while the northern side reveals a cross-border ambiance and historic sites.
The city is a gateway to Cyprus’ mountains, coast, and multicultural heritage, making it a unique base for exploring the island.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ledra Street, where you can stroll through the bustling pedestrian zone filled with shops and cafés. Enjoy a traditional Cypriot breakfast at a local tavern, sampling halloumi and fresh bread. As you wander, take in the beautiful architecture of the historic buildings lining the streets.
Visit the Cyprus Museum, where you can admire an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts that highlight the island's rich history. Afterward, head to the Buyuk Han, a beautifully restored Ottoman caravanserai, to enjoy lunch at one of its charming cafés and explore the artisan shops. Spend some time relaxing in the serene courtyard, surrounded by the sounds of local musicians.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the old city walls, offering stunning views of Nicosia. Find a cozy restaurant in the city center for dinner, indulging in traditional Cypriot dishes like kleftiko or meze. End your evening with a glass of local Commandaria wine while enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day at the Ledra Palace Border Crossing, where you can learn about the history and significance of the divided city. Explore the buffer zone and visit the United Nations Buffer Zone exhibition to gain insight into Cyprus's complex past. Take a guided tour to better understand the cultural and political dynamics of the area.
Cross into the Turkish-occupied part of Nicosia and visit the Selimiye Mosque, a stunning example of Gothic architecture transformed into a mosque. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, sampling Turkish delights and mezes that reflect the unique culinary blend of the region. Following lunch, explore the nearby Arasta Street, known for its charming shops and vibrant street life.
Return to the Greek side and treat yourself to dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city. Savor the flavors of Cypriot cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of Nicosia's skyline. Cap off your night with a leisurely walk, taking in the illuminated streets and vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $900 |
| 🚌Public transportation weekly pass | $22 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical sites within a compact, walkable old town
- Easy access to Mediterranean cuisine and coffee culture
- Close proximity to nature and mountains for day trips
- Safe and tourist-friendly with bilingual signage
- Border area can feel restrictive and requires proper ID for crossings
- Summer heat can be intense for outdoor activities
- Some sites near the border may have limited direct access from certain areas
- "Kalimera" - Good morning
- "Efharisto" - Thank you
- "Parakalo" - Please / You're welcome
- "Yia sou" - Hello / Hi
- "Ohi" - No / Not
- "Pos iste?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Nicosia
Visit one of these nice places.
The ancient walls encircling the old town glow golden at sunset, offering dramatic silhouettes and cityscape views.
A vibrant pedestrian street with cross-border views and momentary glimpses of the divided city; great for street photography and people watching.
Panoramic city views from the observation deck, perfect for skyline shots of both old and new Nicosia.
Historic gate and surrounding squares provide characterful architectural shots and lively evening scenes.
Food in Nicosia
Nicosia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled or fried Cypriot cheese served as a starter or part of meze; widely available at tavernas and markets.
Must-Try!
Large skewers of marinated meat cooked over charcoal; a Cypriot specialty often enjoyed in tavernas on weekends.
Lamb slow-roasted in parchment with vegetables and herbs; a flavorful, rustic dish found in many traditional restaurants.
Layered eggplant, potatoes, and minced meat with a creamy bechamel topping; a comforting classic in Cypriot homes and eateries.
Grape leaves stuffed with herby rice and sometimes meat; a common part of mezze spreads.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic covered market area near the old town offering fresh produce, olives, cheeses, herbs, and baked goods; best in the morning.
Bustling pedestrian zones where you can sample quick bites, pastries, and local street food amid lively city life.
Casual clusters of eateries in and around the old town where small plates and Cypriot snacks are easy to sample.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting such as 'Kalimera' (good morning) or 'Kalispera' (good evening) in Greek is appreciated in the southern part; English is widely understood. In the north, Turkish greetings like 'Merhaba' are common among locals who speak Turkish or Greek mixed with English in tourist areas.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove hats when entering mosques or churches where appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Nicosia
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of around 5-10% is common if service is good; some places include a service charge, so check the bill. Taxis and delivery services typically do not require large tips.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas; cash is always handy for markets and small eateries. Contactless payments are increasingly common, but carry some local currency for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, flowering jacaranda and citrus trees; great for walking tours and outdoor coffee breaks.
Hot and dry with temperatures often in the high 80s to mid-90s F (30–35°C). Seek shade, hydrate, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Warm days with cooler evenings; pleasant for exploring streets and parks without the peak-summer heat.
Mild and occasionally rainy; layers are useful, and indoor cultural venues are good to visit during showers.
Nicosia at Night
Hiking in Nicosia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day trips from Nicosia offering forest trails, scenic viewpoints, and a break from the city heat.
A gentle forest hike near the Troodos region with a cascading waterfall and shaded paths.
Airports
How to reach Nicosia by plane.
The major international gateway to Cyprus, about a 40–60 minute drive from Nicosia by road; frequent flights to Europe and beyond.
Occasionally serves international routes and is a common alternative to Larnaca; typically a longer drive to Nicosia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots in the broader metropolitan area, with a growing expatriate and student population.
A vibrant, international segment drawn to the university ecosystem and modern amenities in the city center.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular team sport; local clubs and national competitions attract strong support.
Popular in urban areas with local leagues and fan interest.
Pleasant cycling routes around the city and nearby hills; road and mountain biking are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nicosia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Cypriot cuisine includes many vegetarian options such as grilled vegetables, hummus, falafel-style dishes, stuffed grape leaves, salads, and cheese-based meze. When dining out, ask for plant-based preparations and request olive oil-based dressings instead of butter or ghee.