Background

Nicosia Old City: A Journey Through Time

Explore Nicosia Old City: A historic Cypriot treasure where ancient walls embrace a vibrant, modern culture and a city divided tells a compelling story.

4.4

Nicosia Old City, or Lefkosia's Old Town, is the historic heart of the capital of Cyprus, encircled by Venetian walls. A blend of cultures is on display within the walls, which have stood for centuries, and modern life thrives in the shops and cafes alongside ancient landmarks.

A brief summary to Nicosia Old City

  • Prevezis 10, Nicosia, CY

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the Old City is best explored on foot due to its cobbled streets.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful exploration.
  • Check out local events calendars for festivals or exhibitions during your visit.
  • Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Shacolas Tower Museum & Observatory for panoramic views of the city.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Laiki Geitonia, walk south towards the Old City entrance. Pass shops and cafes until you reach the Venetian walls. Look for the Ledra Street border crossing, and have your passport ready for security checks. Continue straight on Prevezis Street to reach Nicosia Old City. There is no fee to enter Nicosia Old City.

  • Public Transport

    From Solomos Square, take bus number 30 towards the Old City area. The bus fare is approximately €1.50, payable to the driver. Get off at the bus stop closest to the Ledra Street crossing, then walk to Prevezis Street where Nicosia Old City is located.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Nicosia. A short taxi ride from Eleftheria Square to Nicosia Old City will cost approximately €5-€8. Ensure the taxi is metered or agree on a fare before starting your trip.

  • Driving

    If driving, several parking areas are available near the Old City. Parking lots include Trikoupi Street and Tempon Street. Parking fees vary, with some lots offering free parking during specific hours. The Old GSP parking lot offers a hi-tech, cashless system with license plate recognition; rates start at €2 for up to 1 hour. Consider using the SensiPark app for automated payments.

Unlock the Best of Nicosia Old City

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Nicosia Old City

Nicosia Old City is a captivating area brimming with over 5,000 years of history. Continuously inhabited since the Chalcolithic Era, it showcases a unique blend of Byzantine, Gothic, Ottoman, and British colonial architectural styles. The city's heart is enclosed by the well-preserved Venetian Walls, constructed in the 16th century. Inside these walls, you'll discover a vibrant mix of historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks. Wander through the narrow streets, explore historic sites like the Selimiye Mosque (formerly St. Sophia Cathedral) and the Büyük Han (Great Inn), and immerse yourself in Cypriot culture. The Cyprus Museum and the Leventis Municipal Museum offer insights into the city's past. Nicosia remains the world's last divided capital, with the Green Line separating the southern Greek Cypriot part from the northern Turkish Cypriot part. This division creates a unique atmosphere, blending historical depth with modern resilience. Explore the open-air markets, sample local cuisine, and witness the ongoing efforts to revitalize this historic urban center.

Popular Experiences near Nicosia Old City

Popular Hotels near Nicosia Old City

Select Currency