Discovering Nicosia: A Comprehensive Travel Guide to the Last Divided Capital

Nicosia, the capital city of Cyprus, is a vibrant and historically rich destination that offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions.

As the largest city on the island, Nicosia is home to a diverse population and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities.

A Brief History of Nicosia

Nicosia has a long and complex history that dates back to the Bronze Age.

The city has been inhabited and ruled by a succession of civilizations, including the Mycenaeans, Phoenicians, Persians, Ptolemies, Romans, and Byzantines.

In the 12th century, Nicosia became the capital of the Kingdom of Cyprus and later fell under the control of the Venetians, Ottomans, and British.

Each of these ruling powers has left its mark on the city, resulting in a rich tapestry of architectural and cultural influences.

Why Visit Nicosia

There are many reasons to visit Nicosia, but here are just a few:

Historical Sites: Nicosia is home to several important historical sites, including the Venetian Walls, the Cyprus Museum, and the Selimiye Mosque. These sites offer a glimpse into the city's rich and varied past.

Cultural Attractions: Nicosia is a cultural hub, with a thriving arts scene, numerous museums, and a variety of festivals and events throughout the year.

Shopping and Dining: Nicosia offers a wide range of shopping and dining options, from traditional markets and cafes to modern malls and restaurants.

Friendly People: Cyprus is known for its friendly and hospitable people, and Nicosia is no exception. Visitors to the city are sure to receive a warm welcome.

Unique Perspective: Nicosia is the only divided capital city in the world, with the Turkish-controlled northern part of the city separated from the Greek-controlled south by a UN buffer zone. This unique situation offers visitors a fascinating insight into the complex history and politics of the region.

Getting to Nicosia

Nicosia, the capital city of Cyprus, is a popular destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply soaking up the sun, Nicosia has something for everyone. In this section, we will explore the different ways to get to Nicosia, including by air, sea, and land.

By Air

The easiest way to get to Nicosia is by air, with two international airports serving the city: Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport. Both airports offer regular flights to and from major European cities, as well as the Middle East and North Africa.

From Larnaca International Airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Nicosia, which takes approximately 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport and drive to the city.

From Paphos International Airport, the journey to Nicosia takes around 1.5 hours by car or bus. Again, you can rent a car at the airport or take public transportation.

By Sea

If you prefer to travel by sea, there are several options for getting to Nicosia. The city has two ports, Limassol and Larnaca, which offer ferry services to and from Greece and the Middle East.

From Limassol Port, you can take a bus or taxi to Nicosia, which takes approximately 1 hour. From Larnaca Port, the journey takes around 45 minutes.

By Land

If you're already in Cyprus, you can easily get to Nicosia by car, bus, or taxi. The city is well-connected to the rest of the island by a network of highways and roads.

From Limassol, the journey to Nicosia takes around 1 hour by car or bus. From Paphos, the journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. From Larnaca, the journey takes around 45 minutes.

If you're coming from the Turkish-controlled northern part of the island, you can cross the border at one of the checkpoints and take a bus or taxi to Nicosia.

Regardless of how you choose to get to Nicosia, you're sure to have a memorable and exciting experience in this vibrant and historically rich city.

Exploring Old Nicosia

Old Nicosia, also known as the walled city, is the historic center of Nicosia and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture. The old city is surrounded by the Venetian Walls, a well-preserved fortification that dates back to the 16th century. Within the walls, you'll find a labyrinth of narrow streets, charming courtyards, and historic landmarks. In this section, we will explore some of the top attractions in Old Nicosia.

Venetian Walls and Doors

The Venetian Walls are one of the most impressive landmarks in Old Nicosia. Built-in the 16th century by the Venetians, these walls were designed to protect the city from attack. The walls are approximately 5 kilometers in length and are punctuated by eleven heart-shaped bastions and several gates. Today, the Venetian Walls offer a scenic walk and a unique perspective on the city's history. Don't miss the Famagusta Gate, one of the most well-preserved and ornate of the gates.

Fra Mauro Gate and the Ledra Street Crossing

One of the most significant gates in the Venetian Walls is the Fra Mauro Gate, which leads to the Ledra Street Crossing. This pedestrian crossing is the only crossing point between the Greek-controlled and Turkish-controlled parts of the city, and it's a symbol of the ongoing efforts towards reunification. The Ledra Street Crossing is a bustling area with shops, cafes, and street performers, and it's a great place to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere.

The Cyprus Museum

The Cyprus Museum is the largest and oldest archaeological museum in Cyprus, and it's home to a vast collection of artifacts that date back to the Neolithic period. The museum's exhibits include pottery, sculptures, jewelry, and other objects that tell the story of Cyprus's rich history. The museum is located in the heart of Old Nicosia, and it's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in archaeology and history.

The Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum, also known as the Museum of the Great Leader, is a small but fascinating museum that's dedicated to the history of the Turkish Cypriot community. The museum's exhibits include artifacts from ancient Greek and Roman sites, as well as more recent objects that tell the story of the Turkish Cypriot struggle for independence. The museum is located in the northern part of Old Nicosia, and it's a great place to learn about the city's complex history.

The Byzantine Museum

The Byzantine Museum is a small but charming museum that's dedicated to the Byzantine period in Cyprus. The museum's exhibits include icons, mosaics, and other artifacts that date back to the Byzantine era. The museum is located in a beautiful 16th-century building, and it's a great place to learn about the island's religious and cultural heritage.

The Buyuk Han

The Buyuk Han is a beautiful 16th-century inn that's located in the heart of Old Nicosia. The inn was built by the Ottomans to accommodate traders and travelers, and it's now a popular cultural center that hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and other events. The Buyuk Han is a great place to relax, have a coffee, and soak up the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Experiencing Modern Nicosia

Nicosia is not just a city steeped in history, but also a thriving, modern city with a vibrant cultural scene. In this section, we will explore some of the top attractions in modern Nicosia.

The Café Culture of Nicosia

One of the most enjoyable ways to experience modern Nicosia is to take part in the city's café culture. Nicosia is home to a wide variety of cafés, from traditional Greek coffee shops to modern, trendy establishments. Many of these cafés are located in the city's old town, making them the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing. Whether you're in the mood for a strong Greek coffee, a refreshing iced coffee, or a sweet pastry, you're sure to find the perfect café in Nicosia.

Shopping in Nicosia

Nicosia is a shopper's paradise, with a wide variety of shops and markets selling everything from traditional Cypriot handicrafts to high-end designer clothing. The city's main shopping areas are located in the center of the city, near the Ledra Street Crossing. Here, you'll find a mix of modern malls and traditional shops selling everything from souvenirs to electronics. If you're looking for something a little more unique, be sure to check out the city's many markets, such as the Ouzeri Market, where you'll find a wide variety of fresh produce, local cheeses, and traditional Cypriot delicacies.

Contemporary Art Galleries

Nicosia is home to a thriving contemporary art scene, with several galleries and exhibitions showcasing the work of local and international artists. Some of the top contemporary art galleries in Nicosia include the Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre, the Cyprus Museum of Modern Arts, and the Alpha C.K. Art Gallery. These galleries feature a wide variety of contemporary art, from painting and sculpture to photography and video installations.

Live Music Venues

Nicosia is a city that loves its music, and several live music venues showcase both local and international talent. Some of the top live music venues in Nicosia include the Pantheon Cultural and Arts Centre, the Faneromeni Church Square, and the Hydra Bar. These venues feature a wide variety of music, from traditional Cypriot music to jazz, rock, and electronic music. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or simply enjoy some live music, Nicosia has something for everyone.

Day Trips from Nicosia

Nicosia is an excellent base for exploring the rest of Cyprus. Here are three-day trips from Nicosia that you won't want to miss:

The Troodos Mountains

If you're looking to escape the city and enjoy some natural beauty, then a trip to the Troodos Mountains is a must. The Troodos Mountains are a range of peaks in central Cyprus, and they offer a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and skiing (in the winter months). The mountains are also home to several charming villages, where you can enjoy traditional Cypriot food and hospitality.

Some of the top attractions in the Troodos Mountains include the Kykkos Monastery, the Troodos National Forest Park, and the Omodos Village. The Kykkos Monastery is one of the most famous and richest monasteries in Cyprus, and it's home to a stunning collection of Byzantine art. The Troodos National Forest Park offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites. The Omodos Village is a picturesque village with narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and a beautiful square.