Nicosia, the capital of Northern Cyprus, is one of the island’s main political, cultural, and economic centers. Located right in the heart of the island, Nicosia is unique for being the world’s only divided capital. Hosting both Turkish and Greek sectors, the city stands out with its multicultural character.
Hidden Gems: Nicosia is full of undiscovered spots within its historical fabric. Büyük Han, a masterpiece from the Ottoman era, is both a historical monument and a hub for cultural activities. The old walled city of Nicosia is like an open-air museum, where a walk through its streets takes you back in time. Additionally, small art galleries and handicraft workshops hidden in the narrow streets of the city are lesser-known but definitely worth visiting.
Places to Visit:
Büyük Han: A historical inn from the Ottoman period, now hosting art galleries, cafes, and souvenir shops.
Selimiye Mosque: A Gothic-style building originally built as St. Sophia Cathedral, later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman era. Its architecture is stunning.
Derviş Paşa Mansion: One of the best-preserved Ottoman houses in Cyprus, now serving as an ethnography museum.
Nicosia City Walls: These Venetian-era walls encircle the city. Walking along them offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
Things to Do:
Street Art Tours in Nicosia: The walled city area has various street art pieces waiting to be discovered, making it a fun and cultural activity.
Museum Tours: You can visit the Cyprus Museum of Modern Art and Leventis Museum, both of which house impressive collections.
Explore Historic Markets: The historic markets in Nicosia offer local products and handmade crafts.
Cafe Recommendations:
Bibliotheque Café: Ideal for book lovers. This cozy spot offers a peaceful atmosphere with great coffee and desserts.
Sabor: A modern cafe known for its quality coffee and stylish design.
Home Café: Famous for its spacious garden and relaxed vibe, this is a great spot for brunch.
Bar Recommendations:
No.3 Pub: One of Nicosia's most popular bars with live music and a wide drink selection.
Silver Rocks Bar: Located in the old city, this bar stands out with its historic charm and friendly atmosphere.
77 Bar: A centrally located bar known for its delicious cocktails.
Restaurant Recommendations:
Eziç Nicosia: A restaurant that combines traditional Northern Cyprus cuisine with modern touches.
Fasıl Restaurant: Famous for its Turkish and Cypriot appetizers (meze) and delicious meat dishes.
Piatsa Gourounaki: A great place for Mediterranean food lovers, offering fantastic Greek dishes.
Best Beaches Nearby: Although Nicosia itself doesn't have a coast, you can find beautiful beaches not far from the city:
Alagadi Beach: A turtle nesting area, perfect for a day surrounded by nature.
Glapsides Beach: Close to Famagusta, this beach is famous for its wide sandy shore and crystal-clear waters.
Escape Beach Club: Near Kyrenia, this beach offers both sunbathing and water sports opportunities.
How to Get There from Turkey: The easiest way to reach Nicosia from Turkey is by flying to Ercan Airport. There are direct flights from major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir to Northern Cyprus. Ercan Airport is located about 20 km from Nicosia city center. You can reach the city center from the airport by taxi or airport shuttle services.
A holiday in Nicosia offers a rich experience filled with both cultural and natural beauty.