Nicosia Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nicosia, the heart of Cyprus, stands as a beacon of history and culture on this Mediterranean island. As the world's last divided capital, the city offers a unique blend of vibrant modern life and ancient charm, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the globe.
Situated at the center of Cyprus, Nicosia is a tale of two cities, with the southern part serving as the capital of the Republic of Cyprus, and the northern part, the capital of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The Green Line, a UN-patrolled buffer zone, slices through the urban landscape, offering a poignant reminder of the island's complex political situation.
The city's rich past is showcased in its numerous museums and historic sites. The Cyprus Museum holds the island's most extensive collection of Cypriot antiquities, displaying artifacts that span thousands of years. The Venetian walls, built in the 16th century to protect the city, encircle the old town, providing a striking example of military architecture.
The heart of Nicosia beats within the old town, where winding streets and traditional Cypriot architecture paint a picture of times gone by. Visitors can explore the charming Laiki Yitonia district, a pedestrianized neighborhood restored to its historical glory, offering artisan shops, cafes, and a glimpse into the city's vibrant culture.
For those interested in religious history, Nicosia is home to the stunning St. John's Cathedral, with its remarkable frescoes and religious icons. The Selimiye Mosque, formerly St. Sophia Cathedral, stands as a testament to the city's diverse heritage, combining Gothic architecture with Islamic modifications.
Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty to delight in Nicosia's modern commercial districts, with a mix of international brands and local boutiques. The city's culinary scene is equally inviting, offering a blend of traditional Cypriot fare and contemporary dining experiences. Halloumi cheese, souvlaki, and meze platters are local delights not to be missed.
Nicosia Attractions - What to See and Explore
Nicosia offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: St. Sophia Cathedral, Büyük Han, Famagusta Gate, Cyprus Folk Art Museum. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Nicosia – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Nicosia, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Olympus, Kolossi Castle (Limassol), Kourion (Limassol).
Best Time To Visit Nicosia
Learn when is the best time to travel to Nicosia weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience Nicosia
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Tzatziki
Tzatziki, also known as cacık or tarator, is a versatile and flavorful dish originating from Southeast Europe and the Middle East. Whether served as a dip, soup, or sauce, it typically features strained or diluted yogurt mixed with cucumbers, garlic, salt, olive oil...
Dish
Feta
Feta is a cherished white cheese from Greece, traditionally crafted from sheep's milk or a blend of sheep and goat milk. Renowned for its crumbly, aged, and slightly granular texture, feta is a staple in salads, pastries, and as a table cheese.
Cheese
Souvlaki
Souvlaki, or souvlakia in plural, is a cherished Greek fast food consisting of small pieces of meat—and occasionally vegetables—grilled on a skewer. Typically enjoyed hot, straight off the skewer, it's frequently accompanied by pita bread, fried potatoes, lemon...
Dish
Halloumi
Halloumi, sometimes spelled haloumi, is a distinctive cheese known for its semi-hard, unripened, and brined characteristics. Crafted from a blend of goat's and sheep's milk—and sometimes cow's milk—halloumi possesses a high melting point, making it ideal for frying...
Cheese
Greek cuisine
Greek cuisine is a delightful aspect of the Mediterranean culinary world, celebrated for its fresh ingredients and rich flavors. It prominently features a variety of vegetables, olive oil, grains, fish, and meats, including pork, poultry, veal, beef, lamb, rabbit,...
Cuisine
Region: Nicosia