Nicosia (Lefkoşa): Cyprus's historic capital
Oriental old town flair, the Büyük Han and the Selimiye Mosque — Nicosia is a worthwhile cultural and day trip destination in the heart of the island.
Nicosia in Northern Cyprus — a capital city steeped in history.
The old town of Nicosia (Lefkoşa) Located within a star-shaped Venetian city wall, it is a dense network of alleyways, bazaars, and historical monuments. Instead of a beach, you'll find an oriental flair here—ideal for a city break or a day trip from the coast.
Büyük Han, Selimiye Mosque & Old Town.
In the heart of the old town lies the Büyük Han, a restored Ottoman caravanserai with a courtyard, cafes, and handicrafts. Just a few steps away, the Selimiye Mosque, with its Gothic towers, dominates the skyline—all around, alleyways and Ledra Street invite you to stroll.
- Büyük Han. Ottoman caravanserai with a charming courtyard.
- Selimiye Mosque. A striking landmark of the old town.
- Old Town & Ledra Street. Alleys, bazaar atmosphere and cafes.
Day trip to Nicosia.
- Arrival. Easily accessible by rental car from the east coast (Long Beach / İskele) — ideal for a day trip.
- Divided city. Nicosia is divided into a northern and a southern part; a pedestrian border crossing on Ledra Street connects both sides. Bring a valid form of identification.
- Best time. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for strolling through the city.
- Holiday basis. Most people stay overnight on the coast — e.g. at Long Beach. Arrival information can be found on the Arrival page.
Highlights in Nicosia.
Accommodation in and around Nicosia.
Bookable units in the region — subject to availability. We recommend the coast as a base for your holiday.
Nicosia is particularly suitable for a day trip. For your holiday, we recommend accommodation on the coast — we would be happy to advise you.
Accommodations at Long Beach View all accommodationsOrte in Nikosia (Lefkoşa)
- Aladdin Minimarket
- Amsterdam Kiosk
- Athenon Kylinis Mezedopoleio
- Belça
- Bimar Market
- BMBaketball Court
- Bubulla Peak
- Cafe Yeri
- Caffè Nero
- Ciddi Home Center Ltd.
- City Pride
- Clepsydra Watches
- Costa
- Demir Market
- D‘ Avila
- Elliagne – Creative & Strategic Branding Agency
- Ercan Mini Market
- Ficus Tree Apartment
- Fitness Lim
- Four Seasons
- Gala
- Gerogiannis
- Gloria Jeans Coffee
- Gym 4 You
- Hollywood
- Hotel Centrum
- Kantaras Convenience Store
- Magi Barber
- Maink’s Food
- Meyhaneci
- Monastery Viran Kilise
- MP Cafe Mamülcüoğlu
- Mukta
- Nepali Discount Market
- Nilay Yoga Studio
- Omophita Gate
- Physio Fit
- platform
- Pralina
- Pyxida
- Sivri Tepe
- Sky Hotel
- So Easy Kiosk
- Spartakos
- Starbucks
- The Classic Hotel
- Training
- Ugaret Minimarket
- Vienna Bakeries
- Yellow 17
- ŞAŞKARA market
- Διγενής Μόρφου
- Ζορπάς
- Στέλιος & Χριστόδουλος
- Το Μαγειρεία της Προδρομου
- Φτανοκαυκάλλα
Impressions from Nicosia
My own photos will follow — the gallery temporarily shows placeholder images.
Places in Nicosia on the map.
Restaurants, beaches, sights & tips in Nicosia — filtered directly for the region.
Nicosia — Your questions.
What are the main tourist attractions in Nicosia?
Where is Nicosia (Lefkoşa) located?
Is Nicosia suitable for a beach holiday?
What is the Büyük Han?
Is it possible to cross the border in Nicosia?
Culture in Nicosia, seaside holiday.
Combine a day trip to Nicosia with a relaxing beach holiday. Explore the coastal region or write to us.