Nicosia, Europe's last divided capital
Nicosia is the last divided capital in Europe — and that is exactly what makes a day in this city so special. Within the star-shaped Venetian city walls you'll find centuries-old churches, mosques, craft shops and coffee houses, all within walking distance of each other.
The old town within the walls
Start on the shopping street Ledra Street and wander into the side streets from there: the Laiki Geitonia quarter with its restored townhouses, Faneromeni Square where students drink coffee under the orange trees, and the impressive Famagusta Gate in the old city wall. If you want to dive into 11,000 years of island history, visit the Cyprus Museum — the finest archaeological collection on the island.
Crossing the Green Line
Unique in the world: in the middle of the shopping street you cross the Green Line on foot, passport in hand, into the northern part of the city. There you'll find the Gothic Selimiye Mosque (once a cathedral) and the Büyük Han, a beautifully restored Ottoman caravanserai with workshops and tea houses around a courtyard.
Niki's insider tip
Plan Nicosia as a contrast day between beach and mountains — after the coast, the city feels like another world. Have a Turkish coffee in the courtyard of the Büyük Han, and bring your passport, or you won't get across the Green Line.
When to go
year-round; mornings or late afternoon in summerChoose your walking time
The old city can be explored year-round. In the hottest months we start early or walk later, with plenty of shade and coffee stops.
We adapt the day plan and activities to the weather, local conditions and any seasonal opening hours.
