Girne & Nicosia Historical Tour
Duration: Full day (09:00 - 18:00) Theme: History & Culture Difficulty: Easy – moderate amount of walking Departure: Pickup from hotel/accommodation
Tour Description
It would be a great omission to come to Northern Cyprus and not see the historical texture of Kyrenia and Nicosia. The Girne & Lefkoşa History Tour, one of the island's most preferred day trips, brings together traces from the Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, and British periods along a single route.
The tour begins with the Kyrenia Castle, which has become the symbol of the port city of Kyrenia, and then extends to the enchanting Bellapais Monastery at the foot of the mountains. In the second half of the day, the historical Büyük Han, Selimiye Mosque (the former Hagia Sophia Cathedral), and the narrow Ottoman streets in the walled city of Nicosia, the only capital in Europe that is still divided, are explored.
This North Cyprus history tour is an ideal option for both first-time visitors to the island and travellers seeking a cultural excursion. The tour, conducted in a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle with a professional guide, is offered with hotel pick-up and drop-off service.
Program Schedule
09:00 – Your guide and air-conditioned vehicle will pick you up from your accommodation.
09:30 – 11:00 | Kyrenia Castle & Shipwreck Museum One of the most visited historical sites in Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia Castle was built during the Byzantine period and later expanded by the Venetians and Ottomans. In the museum within the castle, remnants from the 4th century, considered one of the oldest shipwrecks in the world, are displayed.
11:00 – 12:00 | Free time around the historic crescent-shaped Girne Harbour. A photo break and coffee break accompanied by colourful boats, stone buildings, and a sea view.
12:00 – 12:30 | Bellapais Monastery One of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in the Mediterranean, Bellapais Monastery is a 13th-century structure located at the foot of the mountains with a sea view. It is known as the village where the writer Lawrence Durrell also lived.
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Lunch Examples of traditional Cypriot cuisine (mezes, sheftalia, halloumi cheese). Not included in the price, a local restaurant recommendation will be provided.
14:30 – 16:00 | Nicosia Walled City Tour In the world's only remaining divided capital, Nicosia: Visit the Venetian walls, the Büyük Han (16th-century caravanserai), and the Selimiye Mosque (formerly the Cathedral of Saint Sophia). The Surlariçi district, with its Ottoman-era architecture, houses the island's most unique streets.
16:00 – 17:00 | Free Time & Shopping Opportunity to shop and stroll in Nicosia (coppersmiths' bazaar, local handicrafts, souvenir shops).
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Return to Hotel Safe return to your accommodation in a comfortable vehicle.
Highlights Mediaeval castle and ancient sunken ship Gothic monastery with a sea view Vibrant historical texture in the divided capital Opportunity to taste local cuisine Included Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle Professional guidance (TR/EN/RU options) Pick-up and drop-off from the hotel Excluded Lunch Museum/castle entrance fees (if not specified) Personal expenses Things to Know Comfortable walking shoes are recommended Hat and sunscreen are advised in summer The tour may be revised due to weather conditions or border crossing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many hours does the Girne & Lefkoşa History Tour last? The tour lasts approximately 9 hours (09:00 - 18:00), including hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Is a passport required to cross into Lefkoşa? Since you remain within the borders of Northern Cyprus, no additional passport/visa procedures are required; you can cross with just an ID.
Which age group is the tour suitable for? The tour is suitable for all age groups; it involves light to moderate walking, so families with small children and elderly participants can comfortably join.
Is lunch included in the price? No, lunch is not included in the price; our guide will recommend a local restaurant to you.
