Meilleure Période pour Visiter
March to May, September to November
Devise
Euro (€) / Turkish Lira (₺)
Langue
Greek, Turkish, English
Fuseau Horaire
EET (UTC+2)
Discover Nicosia
Nicosia isn't just another European capital; it's the world's last divided city, where the UN-controlled Green Line cuts through its heart. This unique status means you can walk from the Greek Cypriot south, with its Byzantine churches and Venetian walls, through the Ledra Street checkpoint into the Turkish Cypriot north, where Ottoman-era mosques and the magnificent Büyük Han caravanserai await. The palpable history is matched by a vibrant, authentic energy found in its bustling tavernas, traditional coffee shops, and the winding lanes of the Laiki Geitonia quarter.
Beyond the political narrative, Nicosia offers a profound cultural immersion. You can admire 12th-century frescoes at the Chrysaliniotissa Church, haggle for antiques in the Arasta market, and watch the sunset from the top of the Shacolas Tower Observatory, all within a compact, walkable center. The city's duality is its defining feature, offering two distinct worlds, two currencies (Euros and Turkish Lira), and a fascinating blend of Greek and Turkish Cypriot life that you can experience in a single day.
Why Visit Nicosia?
Walk Through Living History: Cross the Green Line at Ledra Street and experience the unique reality of a divided capital. Explore the 16th-century Venetian Walls that encircle the old city and see the transformation of the Selimiye Mosque, which was originally the Gothic Cathedral of Saint Sophia.
A Feast for Foodies: Indulge in the birthplace of halloumi cheese, savor authentic meze platters with over 20 small dishes, and taste traditional souvlaki from street-side grills. Don't miss trying 'kleftiko' (slow-cooked lamb) in a local taverna.
Architectural Time Capsule: Witness a stunning convergence of architectural styles, from Byzantine churches like the Archangelos Michael to the Ottoman-era Büyük Han caravanserai and the modern Eleftheria Square, all within a short walking distance.
Authentic, Uncrowded Culture: Unlike coastal resorts, Nicosia offers a genuine, lived-in Cypriot atmosphere. Sip strong Cypriot coffee in a traditional 'kafeneio', explore the craft workshops in Laiki Geitonia, and mingle with locals at the weekly municipal market.
World-Class Museums: Delve deep into the island's 10,000-year history at the Cyprus Museum, home to priceless archaeological treasures. Also visit the Leventis Municipal Museum for urban history and the poignant Ledra Museum & Observatory at the checkpoint.
Unique Shopping Experience: Shop for traditional lace (lefkaritika), local pottery, and silverware in the old town. The contrast is fascinating: buy modern goods in the south and hunt for Turkish delight, spices, and textiles in the north's Arasta Bazaar.
Nicosia est Connue Pour
Prêt à explorer Nicosia?
Nicosia Neighborhoods
Laiki Geitonia & Old City (South)
The restored heart of the Greek Cypriot old city, a pedestrianized area of cobblestone lanes, traditional architecture, and craft shops. It's the most tourist-friendly historic quarter, buzzing with tavernas and cafes.
Highlights:
Best for:
Ledra Street & The Green Line
The central commercial artery that runs straight up to the UN buffer zone. This area is defined by its proximity to the division, featuring the crossing point, observation posts, and a mix of modern shops and historic sites.
Highlights:
Best for:
Sultanahmet & Selimiye Quarter (North)
The historic core of Turkish Cypriot Nicosia, centered around the magnificent Selimiye Mosque. The vibe is distinctly Ottoman, with narrow streets, traditional houses, and the grand Büyük Han caravanserai.
Highlights:
Best for:
Ermou & Makariou (Modern Center)
The modern commercial and administrative hub south of the walls. This area offers a contemporary contrast with high-street shopping, government buildings, cafes, and a more local, everyday pace of life.
Highlights:
Best for:
Principales Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Always carry your passport (or a clear photocopy) when crossing the Green Line into the north. You will need to show it at the checkpoint.
- •For the best halloumi, visit the municipal market (Laiki Agora) in the morning and look for the cheese stalls. Ask for 'saganaki' style—fried and served with lemon.
- •The Cyprus Museum is free on Sundays. Plan your visit then, but arrive early as it can get busy.
- •When in the north, withdraw Turkish Lira (₺) from ATMs after crossing for the best rates. Euros are widely accepted but change is often given in Lira.
- •Experience a traditional 'kafeneio' (coffee shop) in the old town. Order a 'café tou ellinikou' (Greek coffee) and watch the world go by.
- •Visit the Shacolas Tower Observatory just before sunset for stunning panoramic views of the entire divided city as the lights come on.
- •On Wednesdays and Saturdays, explore the huge flea market near the Green Line on the north side for everything from antiques to household goods.
- •Many smaller museums and churches close for a long siesta (often 1pm-4pm). Always check opening hours in advance.
- •Taxis in the south do not use meters; agree on a price before getting in. Ride-hailing apps like Bolt are also available.
- •For a unique souvenir, buy a bottle of Commandaria, the world's oldest named wine, from a local winery shop like ETKO or KEO.
Nicosia Food Scene
Nicosia's food scene is a delicious reflection of its divided status, blending Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot culinary traditions. Meals are social, lengthy affairs, centered around shared meze platters, grilled meats, and fresh, local ingredients like halloumi and olives.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Taverna
- • Zanettos (for meze)
- • Pyxida Fish Tavern
- • To Anamma
A full meze is for 2+ people and includes 20+ dishes—come hungry and plan for a long, leisurely meal.
Street Food & Quick Bites
- • Giannos Souvlaki on Onasagorou St
- • Pizza Sicilia for Cypriot-style pizza
- • Nicosia Municipal Market stalls
The best souvlaki is often from small, busy grills with a line of locals. Eat it wrapped in pita with tzatziki.
Turkish Cypriot Cuisine
- • Sedir Restaurant (North)
- • Büyük Han içinde (cafes in the caravanserai)
- • Arasta Bazaar food stalls
Try 'lahmacun' (Turkish pizza) and 'kebabs' in the north. Finish with 'baklava' and Turkish coffee.
Café Culture
- • Kala Kathoumena (for brunch)
- • The Gym (specialty coffee)
- • Büyük Han courtyard cafes
Cypriot coffee is strong and sludgy. Let the grounds settle and don't drink the last sip.
Populaire Auprès
Best Time to Visit Nicosia
Spring
Spring (March-May) is arguably the best time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, with daytime temperatures between 20-28°C, and the landscape is green and dotted with wildflowers.
Pros:
- + Ideal weather for walking and exploring
- + Fewer crowds than summer
- + Beautiful blooming scenery
Cons:
- - Occasional rain showers, especially in March
- - Easter period can be busy with local travelers
Summer
Summer (June-August) is intensely hot and dry, with temperatures frequently soaring above 35°C. The city can feel quiet during the midday heat as locals retreat indoors.
Pros:
- + Long, sunny days
- + Lively evening atmosphere in cafes and tavernas
- + Less rain
Cons:
- - Extreme heat can be exhausting for sightseeing
- - Peak tourist season in July/August
Autumn
Autumn (September-November) brings relief from the heat. September remains warm, while October and November are mild and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities.
Pros:
- + Comfortable temperatures
- + Sea is still warm for coastal day trips
- + Grape harvest season (wine festivals)
Cons:
- - Possibility of brief thunderstorms in October
- - Days get shorter towards November
Winter
Winter (December-February) is mild but can be cool and rainy, with occasional sunny days. Temperatures average 10-16°C. It's the low season, offering a more local experience.
Pros:
- + Lowest accommodation prices
- + No crowds
- + Authentic local life
Cons:
- - Unpredictable weather with rain
- - Some attractions may have shorter hours
- - Can be chilly, especially in the evenings
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Day Trips from Nicosia
Troodos Mountains
1 hour 15 min by car or bus
Escape the city heat for pine-scented air, picturesque villages, and stunning Byzantine churches listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. It's a haven for hiking, wine tasting, and seeing traditional Cypriot life.
Kyrenia (Girne)
45 min by car from North Nicosia (requires crossing)
A beautiful harbor town on the north coast dominated by a dramatic medieval castle. The old port is lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for a seafood lunch with a view.
Ancient City of Salamis
1 hour by car from North Nicosia (requires crossing)
Explore one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Mediterranean, featuring vast Roman ruins including a gymnasium, theatre, and baths, near the modern city of Famagusta.
Nicosia Budget Guide
Nicosia is moderately priced for Europe. Costs are higher in the Greek Cypriot south than the Turkish Cypriot north. Budget travelers can manage well, especially by eating street food and using public transport.
Budget
€40-60 per person (hostel dorm, street food, buses, free sights)
per day
Mid-Range
€80-150 per person (3-star hotel, taverna meals, some taxis, museum entries)
per day
Luxury
€200+ per person (boutique hotel, fine dining, private tours, car rental)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Many of the best experiences (walking the walls, exploring neighborhoods) are free.
- •Eating in the north (Turkish Cypriot side) is generally cheaper than in the south.
- •Buy a combo ticket for the Cyprus Museum and other state museums for a discount.
- •Tap water is safe to drink, saving money on bottled water.
- •Use the city's free public WiFi hotspots in squares and public buildings.
Nicosia Hidden Gems
The Hamam Omerye
A beautifully restored 14th-century Ottoman bathhouse located just inside the Venetian walls in the south.
It offers a serene, authentic Turkish bath experience in a historic setting, complete with marble chambers and a peaceful courtyard cafe—a true oasis in the city.
The Dervish Pasha Mansion
A traditional Ottoman-era house museum in the Arabahmet neighborhood of North Nicosia.
It's a perfectly preserved example of 19th-century urban life, with period furnishings and a lovely courtyard, offering an intimate glimpse into the past away from the main tourist trail.
The Liberty Monument
A large, striking monument located just outside the walls near the Paphos Gate.
While the monument itself is notable, the area underneath it houses a small, free museum with poignant dioramas depicting the 1955-59 EOKA struggle, offering deep historical context often missed by visitors.
The Faneromeni Church & School Complex
A 19th-century church and adjacent historic buildings in the old city, south of the Green Line.
The area is a beautiful, quiet architectural ensemble. The marble mausoleum in the churchyard contains the relics of bishops executed by the Ottomans, and the old school building is an architectural landmark.
The 'Street of the Knights' (Odos Ippoton)
A quiet, picturesque street in the Laiki Geitonia area, lined with old houses featuring ornate wooden balconies.
It feels like stepping back in time. It's far less crowded than the main pedestrian lanes, perfect for photography and imagining medieval Nicosia, as it was once home to the island's knightly orders.
Nicosia Culture & Customs
Cypriot culture is warm, hospitable, and family-oriented, with a strong emphasis on socializing over food and coffee. The division has created two distinct but intertwined cultural identities—Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot—each with its own traditions, yet sharing a common Cypriot heritage.
Cultural Etiquette
- •A handshake and direct eye contact are common greetings. Close friends may kiss on both cheeks.
- •Dress modestly when visiting churches and mosques (cover shoulders and knees).
- •It's polite to accept offers of coffee or a small sweet. Refusing can be seen as rude.
- •Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 5-10% in restaurants is standard for good service.
- •Avoid discussing the political division unless your local companion brings it up first; it's a sensitive topic.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Nicosia
Is it safe to visit Nicosia and cross the Green Line?
Yes, it is very safe for tourists. The Green Line is monitored by UN peacekeepers. Crossing at official checkpoints like Ledra Street is a straightforward process for most passport holders (EU, US, Canada, UK, etc.). Always carry your passport.
Do I need a visa to cross into North Nicosia?
For most tourists, no separate visa is required for a day visit. Upon crossing, you will receive a paper visa stamp at the checkpoint. Ensure your passport is valid. Stamps from the north may cause issues if you plan to visit Greece or the Republic of Cyprus later, so request the stamp on a separate piece of paper.
What currency should I use?
Use Euros (€) in the south and Turkish Lira (₺) in the north. Euros are widely accepted in the north, but you'll likely get change in Lira at a poor rate. It's best to withdraw a small amount of Lira from an ATM after crossing for smaller purchases.
What is the best way to get around the city?
The historic center is best explored on foot. For longer distances, use local buses or taxis. There is no integrated transport between the south and north; you must walk across the checkpoint and use separate transport systems on each side.
Can I use my mobile phone in both parts?
Yes, but roaming charges can be high when crossing. EU roaming rules apply in the south. In the north, which is not in the EU, different rates apply. It's advisable to turn off data roaming or buy a local SIM card if you plan extensive time in the north.
What should I wear in Nicosia?
Dress is generally casual but conservative for religious sites. Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets. In summer, light, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are essential due to the intense heat.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Credit cards are widely accepted in the south and at larger establishments in the north. However, many smaller shops, tavernas, and markets in both parts, especially in the old town, are cash-only. Always carry some cash.
What language barriers will I face?
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, shops, and restaurants in both the south and north, especially by younger people. Learning a few basic Greek or Turkish phrases (like hello and thank you) is appreciated and enhances your experience.
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