Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Hiring a car
Local costs

Nicosia travel guide

Nicosia Tourism | Nicosia Guide

You're Going to Love Nicosia

Nicosia is the world's last divided capital city and is split at the "Green Line" between Turkish-controlled Northern Cyprus and Greek-controlled Southern Cyprus. There are five different checkpoints to cross between the two regions, with the Ledra Street crossing being the most used. Nicosia is popular for its archaeological sites, pristine beaches, and culture.

Article

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Nicosia

1. Famagusta Gate

Recently converted into a cultural center, this gate now provides weekly exhibitions and community performances.

2. Byzantine Museum

This museum is famous for having one of the most comprehensive Orthodox icon and artwork collections in the world.

3. Hamam Omerye

Dating back to the 14th century, this hamam was once a Christian church and Muslim mosque at various times throughout history.

4. Büyük Han

This open caravan-style setting in North Nicosia is filled with many boutique shopping and eating opportunities.

5. Selimiye Mosque

Formerly known as the Cathedral of Saint Sophia, this 13th-century structure sports Gothic architecture and is the burial site of many former rulers in Cyprus.

1. Famagusta Gate

Recently converted into a cultural center, this gate now provides weekly exhibitions and community performances.

2. Byzantine Museum

This museum is famous for having one of the most comprehensive Orthodox icon and artwork collections in the world.

3. Hamam Omerye

Dating back to the 14th century, this hamam was once a Christian church and Muslim mosque at various times throughout history.

4. Büyük Han

This open caravan-style setting in North Nicosia is filled with many boutique shopping and eating opportunities.

5. Selimiye Mosque

Formerly known as the Cathedral of Saint Sophia, this 13th-century structure sports Gothic architecture and is the burial site of many former rulers in Cyprus.

What to do in Nicosia

1. Walking Forward Into The Past

The Old City of Nicosia is a strange conglomeration of Ottoman and Greek culture and history. Through its street names, religious buildings, architecture and markets, there is a deep sense that, once upon a time, wars were waged and the sands of time shifted here. Today, however, modern restaurants, cafes and bookstores operate side by side, giving it a very European flair. It is the Venetian fortifications which run for 1.86 miles around the old city, however, that tie it to a moment in time that is even more ancient. The walls were built in the Middle Ages and while they're finally starting to crumble, the impressive Famagusta Gate is still well-preserved.

2. Restored To Its Former Glory

The Büyük Han is a classically restored piece of architecture from the late 1500s that was used as a resting place and accommodation for merchants and traveling caravans. These quarters once housed horses and hammams but today are thronging with visitors who come to experience its venerable ambiance take the opportunity to rest amidst its variety of restaurants, shops and cafes.

3. For The Converted

A true testament to the power of shared faith, Nicosia's Selimiye Mosque was previously the Cathedral of Saint Sophia. The present-day mosque is an interesting conglomeration of traditional Gothic church features with the kind of tall, spindly minarets found on Ottoman Empire mosques. Whether intentional or not, this inclusive design is also reflected in the interiors. The "church" and "mosque" feature tall columns with a clear division for pews and a long, wide corridor in the middle. It is decorated simply, with the white and black columns adding to the ascetic atmosphere.

4. At The Heart Of History

With Cyprus right at the epicenter of history, war and culture, and Nicosia bristling with ancient fortifications, it makes sense that the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia would be the country's oldest and largest archaeological museum. From the Neolithic period to the Byzantine era, with rock-cut tombs, Egyptian amulets, and Mycenaean artifacts from ancient Kourion, the museum accurately captures all of history within its cleverly designed rooms. The progression of rooms from 1 to 14 is intended to symbolize a linear movement through time. The museum's collection is so vast that only a small fraction is on display on any given day. A testament to just how much history the human race has experienced.

5. Wine Not?

High above the Lefkara Valley is the Dafermou Winery, where visitors can take a trip to see how local wines are aged and processed. Take a tour through the vaults of floor-to-ceiling barrels and the gorgeous estate surrounded by green hills beneath blue skies. Once you're done soaking up information, why not sip a little wine? Visitors can head into the tasting room - just don't be surprised if there's a wedding in progress.

1. Walking Forward Into The Past

The Old City of Nicosia is a strange conglomeration of Ottoman and Greek culture and history. Through its street names, religious buildings, architecture and markets, there is a deep sense that, once upon a time, wars were waged and the sands of time shifted here. Today, however, modern restaurants, cafes and bookstores operate side by side, giving it a very European flair. It is the Venetian fortifications which run for 1.86 miles around the old city, however, that tie it to a moment in time that is even more ancient. The walls were built in the Middle Ages and while they're finally starting to crumble, the impressive Famagusta Gate is still well-preserved.

2. Restored To Its Former Glory

The Büyük Han is a classically restored piece of architecture from the late 1500s that was used as a resting place and accommodation for merchants and traveling caravans. These quarters once housed horses and hammams but today are thronging with visitors who come to experience its venerable ambiance take the opportunity to rest amidst its variety of restaurants, shops and cafes.

3. For The Converted

A true testament to the power of shared faith, Nicosia's Selimiye Mosque was previously the Cathedral of Saint Sophia. The present-day mosque is an interesting conglomeration of traditional Gothic church features with the kind of tall, spindly minarets found on Ottoman Empire mosques. Whether intentional or not, this inclusive design is also reflected in the interiors. The "church" and "mosque" feature tall columns with a clear division for pews and a long, wide corridor in the middle. It is decorated simply, with the white and black columns adding to the ascetic atmosphere.

4. At The Heart Of History

With Cyprus right at the epicenter of history, war and culture, and Nicosia bristling with ancient fortifications, it makes sense that the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia would be the country's oldest and largest archaeological museum. From the Neolithic period to the Byzantine era, with rock-cut tombs, Egyptian amulets, and Mycenaean artifacts from ancient Kourion, the museum accurately captures all of history within its cleverly designed rooms. The progression of rooms from 1 to 14 is intended to symbolize a linear movement through time. The museum's collection is so vast that only a small fraction is on display on any given day. A testament to just how much history the human race has experienced.

5. Wine Not?

High above the Lefkara Valley is the Dafermou Winery, where visitors can take a trip to see how local wines are aged and processed. Take a tour through the vaults of floor-to-ceiling barrels and the gorgeous estate surrounded by green hills beneath blue skies. Once you're done soaking up information, why not sip a little wine? Visitors can head into the tasting room - just don't be surprised if there's a wedding in progress.

1. Walking Forward Into The Past

The Old City of Nicosia is a strange conglomeration of Ottoman and Greek culture and history. Through its street names, religious buildings, architecture and markets, there is a deep sense that, once upon a time, wars were waged and the sands of time shifted here. Today, however, modern restaurants, cafes and bookstores operate side by side, giving it a very European flair. It is the Venetian fortifications which run for 1.86 miles around the old city, however, that tie it to a moment in time that is even more ancient. The walls were built in the Middle Ages and while they're finally starting to crumble, the impressive Famagusta Gate is still well-preserved.

2. Restored To Its Former Glory

The Büyük Han is a classically restored piece of architecture from the late 1500s that was used as a resting place and accommodation for merchants and traveling caravans. These quarters once housed horses and hammams but today are thronging with visitors who come to experience its venerable ambiance take the opportunity to rest amidst its variety of restaurants, shops and cafes.

3. For The Converted

A true testament to the power of shared faith, Nicosia's Selimiye Mosque was previously the Cathedral of Saint Sophia. The present-day mosque is an interesting conglomeration of traditional Gothic church features with the kind of tall, spindly minarets found on Ottoman Empire mosques. Whether intentional or not, this inclusive design is also reflected in the interiors. The "church" and "mosque" feature tall columns with a clear division for pews and a long, wide corridor in the middle. It is decorated simply, with the white and black columns adding to the ascetic atmosphere.

4. At The Heart Of History

With Cyprus right at the epicenter of history, war and culture, and Nicosia bristling with ancient fortifications, it makes sense that the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia would be the country's oldest and largest archaeological museum. From the Neolithic period to the Byzantine era, with rock-cut tombs, Egyptian amulets, and Mycenaean artifacts from ancient Kourion, the museum accurately captures all of history within its cleverly designed rooms. The progression of rooms from 1 to 14 is intended to symbolize a linear movement through time. The museum's collection is so vast that only a small fraction is on display on any given day. A testament to just how much history the human race has experienced.

5. Wine Not?

High above the Lefkara Valley is the Dafermou Winery, where visitors can take a trip to see how local wines are aged and processed. Take a tour through the vaults of floor-to-ceiling barrels and the gorgeous estate surrounded by green hills beneath blue skies. Once you're done soaking up information, why not sip a little wine? Visitors can head into the tasting room - just don't be surprised if there's a wedding in progress.

Where to Eat in Nicosia

Piatsa Gourounaki offers Greek-style BBQ food in South Nicosia for around ₺40 per person.

When to visit Nicosia

Nicosia in April
Estimated hotel price
S$ 181
1 night at 3-star hotel
Nicosia in April
Estimated hotel price
S$ 181
1 night at 3-star hotel

The best time to visit Nicosia is in the summer months between May and August, when the high volume of tourists really brings the city to life with events, tours, and outdoor sports activities.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Nicosia

Plane

Ercan International Airport (ECN) is located eight miles east of North Nicosia in the Turkish side of Cyprus, and is the closest airport to the capital. Visitors can then connect to the city by shuttle bus, taxi, or intercity transit.

Car

The journey from Larnaca to Nicosia can be made in just 50 minutes by following the A2 and A1 highways.

Bus

The Intercity Bus Route Larnaca-Nicosia drops off at several stops in the city, including Limassol Avenue, Dionysiou Solomou Square, and Archbishop Makariou C' Avenue for around ₺8.

Plane

Ercan International Airport (ECN) is located eight miles east of North Nicosia in the Turkish side of Cyprus, and is the closest airport to the capital. Visitors can then connect to the city by shuttle bus, taxi, or intercity transit.

Car

The journey from Larnaca to Nicosia can be made in just 50 minutes by following the A2 and A1 highways.

Bus

The Intercity Bus Route Larnaca-Nicosia drops off at several stops in the city, including Limassol Avenue, Dionysiou Solomou Square, and Archbishop Makariou C' Avenue for around ₺8.

Airports near Nicosia

ECNNicosia Ercan
PFOPaphos
LCALarnaca

Airlines serving Nicosia

Lufthansa
Good (7,199 reviews)
KLM
Good (1,372 reviews)
British Airways
Good (7,113 reviews)
SWISS
Good (1,655 reviews)
Turkish Airlines
Good (3,896 reviews)
Air France
Good (1,468 reviews)
Austrian Airlines
Good (808 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (8,845 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (3,285 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (3,596 reviews)
Scandinavian Airlines
Good (1,419 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (9,695 reviews)
LOT
Good (1,096 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (1,222 reviews)
Finnair
Good (1,312 reviews)
Ryanair
Good (5,150 reviews)
Ethiopian Air
Good (790 reviews)
ITA Airways
Good (1,001 reviews)
Egyptair
Good (358 reviews)
JetBlue
Good (2,913 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Nicosia

North Nicosia - the Turkish section of the city features many mosques, spa facilities, administrative buildings, and performance spaces.

Popular Neighborhoods in Nicosia

South Nicosia - the Greek side of the city has many museums, restaurants, and archaeological sites, and is slightly more developed than its northern counterpart.

Laiki Geitonia - in this quarter you can find many souvenir shops all accessible within a pedestrian-friendly area.

South Nicosia - the Greek side of the city has many museums, restaurants, and archaeological sites, and is slightly more developed than its northern counterpart.
Laiki Geitonia - in this quarter you can find many souvenir shops all accessible within a pedestrian-friendly area.

Where to stay in popular areas of Nicosia

Most booked hotels in Nicosia

See all
Lordos Beach Hotel & Spa
4 stars
Excellent (9.1, Excellent reviews)
S$ 262+
View
Sun Hall Hotel
4 stars
Excellent (8.9, Excellent reviews)
S$ 225+
View
Golden Bay Beach Hotel
5 stars
Excellent (8.9, Excellent reviews)
S$ 290+
View
Centrum Hotel
3 stars
Excellent (8.7, Excellent reviews)
S$ 122+
View
Lysithea Hotel
2 stars
Excellent (8.6, Excellent reviews)
S$ 73+
View
Hilton Nicosia
5 stars
Excellent (8.6, Excellent reviews)
S$ 228+
View

How to Get Around Nicosia

Public Transportation

There are many buses connecting riders within North and South Cyprus. A single ride ticket costs ₺6.

Taxi

Taxis in Nicosia do not have a distinctive color, but will generally carry a sign denoting their purpose. Tariffs start at ₺12 and cost up to ₺30 for a trip around the city center.

Car

Daily rental cars can be picked up from Ercan Airport, Larnaca Airport, or several destination points in downtown Nicosia. Rates start at ₺70 a day.

Public Transportation

There are many buses connecting riders within North and South Cyprus. A single ride ticket costs ₺6.

Taxi

Taxis in Nicosia do not have a distinctive color, but will generally carry a sign denoting their purpose. Tariffs start at ₺12 and cost up to ₺30 for a trip around the city center.

Car

Daily rental cars can be picked up from Ercan Airport, Larnaca Airport, or several destination points in downtown Nicosia. Rates start at ₺70 a day.

Find car hire in Nicosia

The Cost of Living in Nicosia

Shopping Streets

Ledra street is the main shopping thoroughfare, selling jewelry, fabrics, shoes, and other cultural souvenirs. Makariou Avenue features more international stores like H&M and Marks and Spencer.

Groceries and Other

Lemar Supermarket is the biggest grocery store in the North, while Alphamega Acropolis is the largest in the South. A dozen eggs costs ₺10.

Cheap meal
S$ 17.11
A pair of jeans
S$ 90.55
Single public transport ticket
S$ 2.14
Cappuccino
S$ 5.05

Nicosia Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Nicosia city guide for the best Nicosia travel tips. To help you organise your Nicosia trip ideas, this Nicosia visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.