Most travellers come to Cyprus for its beaches, but just an hour inland lies a city unlike anywhere else in Europe. A Nicosia day trip (Lefkosia in Greek, Lefkoşa in Turkish) takes you to the world’s last divided capital, split by the UN-patrolled Green Line.
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Crossing from one side of Nicolsia to the other feels like stepping between two worlds. There are Venetian walls, Ottoman mosques, buzzing bazaars, and café culture all wrapped into one fascinating day.
👋 I’m Hazel, a travel writer sharing laid-back itineraries that mix cultural gems with easy, practical planning tips. I’ve been exploring Cyprus one region at a time, and this Nicosia day trip is one of my favourite ways to see a different side of the island beyond the beaches.
If you’re based in Ayia Napa, Protaras, or Larnaca, a Nicosia day trip makes for a perfect day out. Here’s how to explore both halves of the city in just one day.
Morning – South Nicosia Old Town ☀️
Start your day in Ledra Street, the pedestrianised heart of the city.
From here, you can wander into the maze-like Laiki Geitonia, where restored stone houses hide courtyards filled with cafés, craft shops, and galleries. It’s the most atmospheric corner of the old town, and perfect for a slow stroll and a first Cypriot coffee of the day.
If you love history, pop into the Cyprus Museum. It’s home to ancient artefacts dating back to the island’s earliest settlements, including statues of Aphrodite.
Otherwise, just enjoy the rhythm of daily life in this part of the city, where locals sip frappé under bougainvillaea and scooters zip past Venetian facades.
☕ Coffee stop: Try Hamada Café or Apomero, both tucked into pretty side streets.
Midday – Crossing the Green Line 🚶♀️
By late morning, head to the Ledra Street checkpoint, which is the easiest pedestrian crossing for your Nicosia day trip.
It’s a quick process for most travellers: just show your passport (or EU ID) and you’ll be given a visa slip.
Most visitors (including those from the UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, and many others) can enter without a visa. If you’re travelling on another passport, check with your embassy or government travel advice before you go.
Once across, you’ll immediately notice the change in architecture and atmosphere. Don’t miss:
🕌 Selimiye Mosque – once the grand St. Sophia Cathedral, now converted into a mosque with soaring Gothic arches (pictured above).
🏛️ Buyuk Han – a beautifully restored 16th-century caravanserai that’s now a cultural hub with art galleries, shops, and cafés. This is the perfect lunch stop — order meze, lahmacun (flatbread with spiced meat), or a strong Turkish coffee in the courtyard.
🛍️The Bandabuliya/covered bazaar – stalls selling spices, sweets, embroidered scarves, and everyday local goods.
It’s this contrast that makes a Nicosia day trip so compelling: two distinct cultures living side by side, separated by checkpoints yet united by a shared history.
Afternoon – Museums & Views 🏛️
Cross back to the south side and explore a bit more before heading out.
🏛️ Leventis Municipal Museum – compact, free, and brilliantly curated, this museum takes you through Nicosia’s history from ancient times to today.
🌆 Shacolas Tower – for sweeping views across the walled city and the Green Line snaking through it.
If you’re more into atmosphere than museums, take a detour through Onasagorou Street, known for its street art, indie boutiques, and lively cafés.
Evening – Dinner in the Old Town 🍽️
Wrap up your Nicosia day trip with a hearty Cypriot dinner before driving back to the coast.
😋 Here are some top picks:
- To Anamma – traditional meze in a cosy stone courtyard.
- Piatsa Gourounaki – famous for its souvlaki and casual taverna vibe.
- Erodos Bar Restaurant – a romantic choice featuring live Greek music and generous, locally inspired dishes in a charming setting near the old town.
If you’re not rushing back, stay for a drink in the buzzing old town. Nicosia has a surprisingly fun nightlife scene, with hidden bars tucked behind Venetian walls.
Practical Tips for Your Nicosia Day Trip 📝
- Bring your passport (or EU ID card) to cross the Green Line.
- Dress modestly if you plan to enter mosques.
- Wear comfy shoes – the old town is made for walking, with cobbled streets.
- Parking: Easiest to park just outside the Venetian walls and walk in.
- From Larnaca, Ayia Napa, or Protaras, expect around a 45-60 min drive.
- Solo travel tip: Nicosia is one of the easiest places in Cyprus to explore solo. Everything is within walking distance, and cafés and bars in the old town are welcoming for single travellers.
⚠️ Important Note on Entering via Northern Cyprus
Enter Cyprus through an officially recognised port (like Larnaca or Paphos airports). Entering via Ercan Airport or northern ports is considered illegal entry by the Republic of Cyprus and can cause issues later if you try to cross south.
👉 For full details, see my dedicated guide: Cyprus Border Crossings Explained.
FAQs for Your Nicosia Day Trip 💡
Everything you need to know before planning your Nicosia day trip.
A: Yes, you’ll need to show your passport (or an EU ID card) to cross the Green Line between South and North Nicosia. It’s usually a quick and easy process at the Ledra Street checkpoint.
A: A full day is enough to see the main highlights on both sides of the city, from Ledra Street and Laiki Geitonia in the south to Buyuk Han and Selimiye Mosque in the north. If you want to visit museums in depth, consider staying overnight.
A: Absolutely. Nicosia is only 45–60 minutes by car from all three, making it an easy day trip from the coast. Parking is simple near the Venetian walls.
A: Comfy shoes are a must, since the old town is best explored on foot. If you plan to enter mosques, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Light layers are ideal, as Cyprus can get very hot, especially in summer.
A: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal. Cooler temperatures make walking the city more comfortable. In summer, it can be very hot inland compared to the coast, so plan for shade breaks and plenty of water.
A: Definitely. The city is walkable and lively, and crossing the Green Line is simple on foot. It’s perfect for solo exploring, from museums and markets to cafés and bars where it’s easy to strike up conversation.
Map of This Nicosia Day Trip Itinerary 🗺️
See exactly where to go, from Ledra Street to Buyuk Han and beyond.
This map shows all the key stops on your Nicosia day trip, from old town alleys to viewpoints, museums, and the Green Line crossing.
Final Thoughts ✨
A Nicosia day trip isn’t just sightseeing. It’s a journey through history, culture, and contrasts you won’t find anywhere else in Europe. From sipping coffee in Greek-style courtyards to wandering Ottoman caravanserais, you’ll return to the coast with a whole new perspective on Cyprus.
Related Reading 📚
Planning more adventures in Cyprus? Don’t miss these guides:
🏛️ Famagusta Border Crossing FAQs
👉 Cyprus Border Crossings Explained
🏝️ 12 Best Beaches in Cyprus
🗓️ Famagusta & Varosha Day Trip Itinerary
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