Nicosia, Cyprus Travel Guide

Recommended Attractions - Cyprus Museum: The largest and most important archaeological museum in Cyprus, with a rich collection covering numerous archaeological discoveries from the Neolithic period to the early Byzantine period, such as pottery, jewelry, and sculptures, helping you understand the development of Cypriot civilization. - Byzantine Museum and Art Galleries: Home to Cyprus's richest collection of Byzantine art, along with four galleries exhibiting representative works from the Western European Renaissance to the present day, as well as masterpieces by Greek and Cypriot artists. - Ledra Street: A pedestrianized street in Nicosia with numerous shops and cafes on both sides. Notably, half of the street is located in South Cyprus and the other half in North Cyprus, with a checkpoint in between. Pedestrians can pass through by presenting their passport or other identification documents. - Ömeriye Turkish Baths: Built in the 16th century and gifted to the city by an Ottoman general, it was awarded the "Europa Nostra" prize in 2005 and offers steam baths and other treatments to the public. - Machairas Monastery: One of the oldest and most important monasteries in Cyprus, located in the village of Deftera, 40 km from Nicosia city center. Surrounded by mountains at an altitude of about 900 meters, it offers beautiful scenery and features simple architecture with ornate interiors. Recommended Food - Halloumi: A unique cheese specific to Cyprus, it has a distinctive taste. Grilled halloumi has a crispy exterior and a soft interior. - Meze: A platter containing a variety of small dishes, such as olives, taramosalata, grilled meats, and seafood, perfect for sharing with friends. - Souvla: Similar to the Greek souvlaki, it consists of large chunks of lamb or pork slow-roasted to juicy perfection. - Cyprus Coffee: Traditional strong coffee with a unique brewing method that concentrates its flavor. It is often served with fruit or dessert after meals. Accommodation Options - City Center Hotels: Hotels like the Hilton Nicosia offer convenient access to transportation, surrounding restaurants, and shops, with city views, suitable for both business and leisure travelers. - Resort Hotels: Seaside resort hotels in Ayia Napa, such as the Grecian Bay Hotel, offer beautiful surroundings, comprehensive facilities, and a wide range of entertainment activities, ideal for relaxing vacations. Transportation Guide - Airport Transportation: Larnaca Airport and Paphos Airport are near Nicosia. You can take the airport bus or a taxi to the city center. - City Transportation: You can rent a car for convenient travel to surrounding attractions. Public buses are also available, but they run less frequently. Taxis are another option, but they are relatively expensive. Things to Note - Visa: Obtain a Cyprus visa in advance or ensure you meet the visa-free requirements. - Currency: Euro is used in South Cyprus, while Turkish lira is used in North Cyprus. Pay attention to currency exchange. - Religious Etiquette: When visiting religious sites such as churches and monasteries, dress modestly, ensuring your knees and shoulders are covered.