Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus, and is located in the centre of the island. Although the city is divided politically, it’s a great place to visit, with lots of archaeological treasure troves and buzzing nightlife. The old city is very pleasant and tranquil, while the newer parts of the city are great for people who love to shop.
Getting there
The easiest way to get to Nicosia is to fly in to Lacarna airport, which is only a half an hour drive away. You can get to Nicosia by taking one of the regular shuttle buses, or by taking a taxi.
There are buses to Nicosia from other cities in Cyprus. You can also fly in to Paphos and get a bus or taxi from there, but it will take you another hour.
Nicosia also has a port, so you can get a ferry if you are coming from Lebanon, Israel, Egypt or Greece.
Things to do in Nicosia
There are lots of museums to see here, including the Cyprus museum, Byzantine museum, National Struggle museum and the Leventis Municipal Museum (voted European Museum of the year at one time). I also recommend going to the Ledra Observatory Museum, which will give you some great views and has a very low entrance fee.
You can also go to the Nicosia Municipal Theatre, just over the road from the Cyprus museum. It holds 1200 people and has a variety of performances on all year long. Another great spot for theatre is the Famagusta gate.
I would also recommend just exploring the old city by foot. This area is mostly unaffected by tourists, and you will see some old Churches and local business, and get a feel for authentic Cyprus life. If you get tired, you can stop for some Cypriot coffee.
Shopaholics will be very happy in Nicosia. Visit the shopping district in Ledra Street, and find traditional jewellers, and diverse shoe and fabric shops. You can also head over to Laiki Geitonia for the souvenir shops, or go to Makariou Avenue and Stasikratous street for the big and expensive brands. All these areas are pretty close together.
There are countless places to find great (and affordable) food in Nicosia. You will get to sample plenty of Greek, Turkish and Arabic dishes. Try a mixed pork kebab at Sham Food in Regenis St, or go to the Plaka Tavern in Archbishop makarios square for some traditional meze.
Getting there
The easiest way to get to Nicosia is to fly in to Lacarna airport, which is only a half an hour drive away. You can get to Nicosia by taking one of the regular shuttle buses, or by taking a taxi.
There are buses to Nicosia from other cities in Cyprus. You can also fly in to Paphos and get a bus or taxi from there, but it will take you another hour.
Nicosia also has a port, so you can get a ferry if you are coming from Lebanon, Israel, Egypt or Greece.
Things to do in Nicosia
There are lots of museums to see here, including the Cyprus museum, Byzantine museum, National Struggle museum and the Leventis Municipal Museum (voted European Museum of the year at one time). I also recommend going to the Ledra Observatory Museum, which will give you some great views and has a very low entrance fee.
You can also go to the Nicosia Municipal Theatre, just over the road from the Cyprus museum. It holds 1200 people and has a variety of performances on all year long. Another great spot for theatre is the Famagusta gate.
I would also recommend just exploring the old city by foot. This area is mostly unaffected by tourists, and you will see some old Churches and local business, and get a feel for authentic Cyprus life. If you get tired, you can stop for some Cypriot coffee.
Shopaholics will be very happy in Nicosia. Visit the shopping district in Ledra Street, and find traditional jewellers, and diverse shoe and fabric shops. You can also head over to Laiki Geitonia for the souvenir shops, or go to Makariou Avenue and Stasikratous street for the big and expensive brands. All these areas are pretty close together.
There are countless places to find great (and affordable) food in Nicosia. You will get to sample plenty of Greek, Turkish and Arabic dishes. Try a mixed pork kebab at Sham Food in Regenis St, or go to the Plaka Tavern in Archbishop makarios square for some traditional meze.
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