Capital North Nicosia Discovery Tour
Duration: Half day (09:30 - 14:30) Theme: History & Culture Difficulty: Easy, city walking focused Departure: Pickup from hotel/accommodation
Tour Description
The only capital city in the world that is still divided: Nicosia. This tour is designed for you to explore step by step the historical walled city area on the northern (North Cyprus) side of the city. From the Venetian-era walls to the Ottoman bazaars, from caravanserais to the old cathedral converted into a mosque, you will have the opportunity to see Nicosia's layered history on-site.
This Nicosia tour is specially designed for history enthusiasts, city tour lovers, and visitors curious about the political and cultural history of Northern Cyprus.
Program Schedule
09:30 – Your guide and air-conditioned vehicle will pick you up from your accommodation.
10:15 – 10:45 | Venetian Walls & Kyrenia Gate View the fortified structure surrounding the city, built by the Venetians in the 16th century, from the historic entrance gate, Kyrenia Gate.
10:45 – 11:30 | Büyük Han Explore the 16th-century Ottoman caravanserai, Büyük Han. Today, this historical structure, revitalised with artist workshops and cafes, sheds light on the trade life of the era.
11:30 – 12:15 | Selimiye Mosque (Former Hagia Sophia Cathedral) Visit the Selimiye Mosque, built in Gothic architecture and transformed from a cathedral to a mosque. It is one of the most striking architectural structures in the city.
12:15 – 13:00 | Arasta & Bedesten A short walk in the historical market area (Arasta); the exterior of the Bedesten and the narrow streets around it are explored.
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Free Time & Local Delicacies Free time in Surlariçi; coffee or light snack break at local cafes (not included in the price).
14:30 – Return to Hotel Safe return to your accommodation in a comfortable vehicle.
Highlights City tour in the world's only still-divided capital Venetian-era walls and historical gates Ottoman caravanserai Büyük Han Selimiye Mosque, where Gothic and Ottoman architecture intertwine Authentic market and street texture Included Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle Professional guidance (TR/EN/RU options) Pick-up and drop-off from the hotel Excluded Food and beverage expenses Museum entrance fees (if any) Personal expenses Things to Know Comfortable walking shoes are recommended (the sidewalks inside the walls may be uneven) Modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is recommended for the visit to Selimiye Mosque Hat and water supply are recommended in the summer months The tour is half a day, so it can be combined with another activity in the afternoon Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many hours does the North Nicosia Capital Discovery Tour last? The tour lasts approximately 5 hours (09:30 - 14:30), including pick-up and drop-off from the hotel.
Is crossing to the southern (Greek) side of Nicosia included in this tour? No, this tour only covers the historical area on the Northern Cyprus side (North Nicosia).
Is there a dress code for entering Selimiye Mosque? Yes, since the mosque is open for active worship, shoulder and knee-covering clothing is recommended, and headscarves are suggested for female participants (available at the entrance).
Which age group is the tour suitable for? The tour is suitable for all age groups; it mainly involves flat walking within the city, but the sidewalks may be uneven in some areas.
