Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus and has a rich history and culture to offer. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, Nicosia is the last divided capital of Europe. The southern part of the city is Greek, while the northern part is Turkish, resulting in a unique cultural diversity.
If you want to travel to Nicosia from Agia Napa, then you have several options. You can get there comfortably by intercity bus or by car. The intercity bus runs about every hour and the travel time is about 90 minutes. A round trip ticket costs only 9 €. The exact departure times can be viewed on the website of the bus company IntercityBuses.
In Agia Napa the bus stops at the following stops:
- Kryou Nerou Avenue – Marina Hotel
- Agia Napa Monastery
- Nissi Avenue – Giouri Gkagkarin
- Nissi Avenue – Vatheias Gonias
- Nissi Bay Beach
- Waterpark
Once in Nicosia, it is recommended to explore the city on foot. Stroll through the narrow streets and discover charming cafes, traditional restaurants and impressive historical buildings. Cross the border at Ledra Street to enter the Turkish part of the city. To cross the border you only need your German identity card or passport. A visa is not required. The identity card is checked on both the Greek and the Turkish side.
The Greek part of Nicosia
Nicosia is a city full of history, culture and impressive sights. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this divided capital and be enchanted by its beauty.
Let’s start our tour of Nicosia with a visit to Oxi Open Air Market. Here you can immerse yourself in the local culture and discover fresh produce, spices and handicrafts. Enjoy the lively hustle and bustle and sample local specialties. Afterwards, head to the Liberty Monumentum, an impressive monument that commemorates Cypriot independence. It was erected in 1973 and is a symbol of the struggle for freedom and unity.
Famagusta Gate is one of the three preserved city gates of Nicosia and a historical landmark of the city. Here you can admire the impressive architecture and learn more about the history of the city. Continue with the Agios Ioannis Cathedral. The cathedral is an architectural jewel and an important religious building in Nicosia. Admire the magnificent interior and the impressive dome.
Afterwards, head to Ledra Street. Ledra Street is a busy shopping street in Nicosia and a popular meeting place for locals and tourists. There you can find stores, cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy the local life. At the end of Ledra Street is the border crossing to the Turkish part of Nicosia.
The Turkish district
After crossing the border you can admire the sights in the northern part of Nicosia. First of all, you will go to Bandabulya Munincipal Market. Bandabulya Munincipal Market is another lively market in Nicosia that offers a wide selection of fresh produce, spices and local handicrafts. Here you can purchase unique souvenirs and enjoy the hustle and bustle. Not far away is the Büyük Han Caravanserai, a historic 16th century building that now serves as a cultural center. Here you can admire traditional handicrafts and relax in one of the cafes.
The Selimiye Mosque, formerly known as St. Sophia Cathedral, is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of Nicosia’s religious diversity. Admire the mix of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture and enjoy the view of the city. Afterwards, walk through the alleys of Samanbahce, a charming neighborhood in Nicosia that invites you to stroll and explore. Here you will find traditional houses, small stores and cozy cafes. Finally, we will go to Kyrenia Gate, one of the most famous city gates of Nicosia and a popular meeting place for locals and tourists.
