Discover Nicosia
Nicosia (Greek: Lefkosia, Turkish: Lefkoşa) is with 340,000 inhabitants (total, both sides) the largest city in Cyprus — and the only divided capital in the world. Since 1974, the Green Line (UN buffer zone) has separated the Greek Cypriot southern city from the Turkish Cypriot northern city. In some places, the buffer zone is only a few meters wide — you can look into another world from a café.
The Venetian city walls from the 16th century enclose the old town like a star — 11 bastions, perfectly symmetrical. Within the walls: narrow alleys, restored townhouses, museums, kafenions, and a vibrant art scene in the south; bazaars, caravanserais, and mosques in the north.
Nicosia is not a classic tourist city — and that is precisely its charm. Here you experience the real Cyprus: the political complexity, the cultural depth, the hospitality of both sides. A visit to the Green Line is an unforgettable experience.
Orientation
The old town lies within the star-shaped Venetian walls and is compact enough to explore on foot:
- Laiki Geitonia: The restored old town district in the south. Cobblestone streets, souvenir shops, restaurants, craft businesses. Touristy but charming.
- Faneromeni Quarter: East of Laiki Geitonia. The hip side of Nicosia: concept stores, bars, street art, young galleries. Around the Faneromeni Church.
- Ledra Street: The main shopping street leading directly to the Ledra Street border crossing. Shopping, cafés, then suddenly: UN buffer zone.
- Northern Cyprus (Lefkoşa): Beyond the Green Line. Büyük Han (caravanserai), Selimiye Mosque (former cathedral), Bedesten, Bandabulya Market.
- New City: Outside the walls — modern districts, shopping malls, the Cyprus Museum.
💡 Tipp
The border crossing at Ledra Street (pedestrian) is the easiest way to the north. An ID card is sufficient, the check takes 2 minutes. No visa required for EU citizens.
