Exploring Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, in 3 days offers a unique opportunity to dive into a city that blends its rich history with a vibrant present. Nicosia is notable for being the world’s last divided capital, with its northern part in Turkish Cypriot control and the southern part in Greek Cypriot control. This guide focuses on maximizing your time, covering both cultural and historical landmarks, as well as providing time for leisure and exploration in this fascinating city.
Day 1: Southern Nicosia (Greek Cypriot Side)
Morning: Historical Beginnings
- Start: 9:00 AM, Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia
- Description: Begin your journey with a visit to the Leventis Museum, where you can learn about the city’s history from ancient times through to the present day.
- Time Allocation: 2 hours
- Cost: Free
- Next: 11:30 AM, Archbishop’s Palace and the Cathedral of St. John
- Description: Explore the religious and political heart of Greek Cypriot Nicosia, including a visit to the opulent Archbishop’s Palace and the nearby Cathedral with its exquisite frescoes.
- Time Allocation: 1.5 hours
- Cost: Free for the Palace, small fee for the Cathedral
Afternoon: Cultural Immersion
- Lunch: 1:00 PM, enjoy traditional Cypriot cuisine at a local tavern.
- Time Allocation: 1 hour
- Next: 2:30 PM, Cyprus Museum
- Description: Discover the island’s archaeology and ancient artifacts, offering insights into its more than 10,000 years of history.
- Time Allocation: 2 hours
- Cost: Approximately €4.50
- Stroll: 4:30 PM, walk through Laiki Geitonia
- Description: Wander through this traditional neighborhood with its narrow streets, handicraft shops, and cafes, perfect for experiencing the local vibe.
- Time Allocation: 1.5 hours
Evening: Dinner and Leisure
- Dinner: 6:30 PM, dine in one of the area’s renowned restaurants, offering a mix of local and international dishes.
Day 2: Northern Nicosia (Turkish Cypriot Side)
Morning: Crossing the Divide
- Start: 9:00 AM, Ledra Street and the Checkpoint
- Description: Begin your day by walking across the Green Line from south to north through the Ledra Street pedestrian crossing. Experience the contrast between the two sides of the city.
- Time Allocation: 30 minutes
- Cost: Free, but carry ID for crossing
- Visit: 9:30 AM, Büyük Han and Selimiye Mosque
- Description: Explore Büyük Han, a restored Ottoman caravanserai, and the Selimiye Mosque, formerly the Cathedral of Saint Sophia, showcasing the blend of Lusignan and Ottoman architectural styles.
- Time Allocation: 2 hours
Afternoon: Cultural Exploration
- Lunch: 12:00 PM, sample traditional Turkish Cypriot cuisine.
- Time Allocation: 1 hour
- Next: 1:30 PM, The Dervish Pasha Mansion and the Mevlevi Tekke Museum
- Description: Visit these cultural landmarks to understand the lifestyle and traditions of the Ottoman period in Cyprus.
- Time Allocation: 2 hours (1 hour each)
Evening: Panoramic Views and Dinner
- Viewpoint: 4:00 PM, walk to the top of the Shacolas Tower for a panoramic view of the city.
- Time Allocation: 1 hour
- Cost: Small entrance fee
- Dinner: 6:00 PM, conclude your day in the North with dinner in one of the traditional eateries or kebab houses.
Day 3: Relaxation and Modern Nicosia
Morning: City Parks and Art
- Start: 9:00 AM, Municipal Gardens and the House of Arts and Literature
- Description: Enjoy a peaceful morning in the city’s green spaces and explore contemporary Cypriot art and literature.
- Time Allocation: 2 hours
- Cost: Free for Gardens, small fee for House of Arts
Afternoon: Shopping and Modern Culture
- Lunch: 12:00 PM, dine at a café in the modern part of the city, exploring contemporary local cuisine.
- Time Allocation: 1 hour
- Shopping and Exploration: 1:30 PM, visit the modern shopping districts and Nicosia’s contemporary art scene.
- Description: Spend your afternoon browsing through boutiques for local crafts, fashion, and art.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
Evening: Farewell Dinner
- Dinner: 5:30 PM, enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant with views of the city, offering a blend of local and international cuisine.
General Tips:
- Transportation: Nicosia’s center is walkable, but you can use buses for longer distances. Taxis are also an option.
- Currency: Euro (€) is used in the south, Turkish Lira (₺) in the north. Many places in the north also accept Euros.
- Crossing the Divide: Carry your passport. Checkpoints are generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared.
This itinerary provides a comprehensive overview of Nicosia, offering insights into its divided history, rich culture, and vibrant modern life, all within a 3-day visit.
