The Perfect Walking Tour of Nicosia: A Complete Self-Guided Sightseeing Route
- John Nordmann
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Introduction: Discover Nicosia on Foot
Nicosia, the capital of North Cyprus, is one of the world’s last divided cities and an unforgettable blend of Ottoman, Venetian, British, and modern Cypriot culture. Its compact Old City—encircled by perfectly preserved Venetian walls—makes it ideal for a self-guided walking tour.
This route is designed for visitors who want to explore at their own pace while uncovering historic landmarks, bustling markets, architectural gems, and hidden cafés. Expect around 3–4 hours, depending on how long you stop for museums, photos, and coffee.
_____________________________________________________________________
🚶♂️ The Ultimate Nicosia Walking Tour (Step-By-Step Route)
1. Kyrenia Gate (Girne Kapısı)
Starting Point
Your journey begins at one of the three main gates in the Venetian walls.
Why Visit?
Iconic photo spot
Historic 16th-century Venetian architecture
Information centre nearby
From here, walk directly into the Old City.
_____________________________________________________________________
2. Samanbahçe Quarter – The First Social Housing Project in Cyprus
Just a few minutes inside the walls, you’ll find the charming Samanbahçe Houses, built in the 19th century.
Highlights
Atmospheric cobbled lanes
Rows of yellow-stone houses with blue shutters
Perfect Instagram backdrop
A beautiful insight into early Nicosia neighbourhood life.
_____________________________________________________________________
3. The Great Inn (Büyük Han)
Walking Time: 5 minutes
The heart of Old Nicosia and one of Cyprus’s most significant Ottoman structures (1572).
What to Do
Explore craft shops & artisan boutiques
Relax in the central courtyard
Enjoy traditional Turkish coffee
This is a great place to pause before continuing.
_____________________________________________________________________
4. Selimiye Mosque (St. Sophia Cathedral)
Walking Time: 2 minutes
A short stroll leads you to the island’s most breathtaking landmark: the Selimiye Mosque, originally a 13th-century Gothic cathedral.
Why It’s Unmissable
Best-preserved Gothic architecture in Cyprus
Enormous vaulted interior
Peaceful prayer hall open to visitors
Dress modestly if you plan to go inside.
_____________________________________________________________________
5. Bedesten (St. Nicholas Church)
Walking Time: 1 minute
Opposite Selimiye stands the Bedesten, a stunning medieval church later converted into a covered market.
Highlights
Cultural exhibitions
Impressive blend of Byzantine and Gothic design
Perfect for quick photos
_____________________________________________________________________
6. Bandabulya Municipal Market
Walking Time: 3 minutes
Next, visit the Bandabulya, Lefkoşa’s traditional indoor market.
What You’ll Find
Fresh produce
Local cheeses & olives
Spices, souvenirs, and Cypriot crafts
A few small cafés for a quick snack
This is the authentic daily life of the city.
_____________________________________________________________________
7. Arasta Shopping Street
As you leave the market, you’ll enter Arasta, a lively pedestrian street leading to the border.
Why Visit?
Small shops selling clothes, bags, spices, sweets
Great for affordable shopping
Street vendors and local snacks
A buzzing stretch of Old City life.
_____________________________________________________________________
8. Lokmaci (Ledra Street) Border Crossing
Walking Time: 3 minutes
Even if you don’t cross to the south side, this is an essential stop. Nicosia’s division is a major part of its identity.
What to See
Peaceful buffer zone area
UN presence
View across to bustling Ledra Street
You can cross with your passport if you want to explore the southern side.
_____________________________________________________________________
9. Dervish Pasha Mansion (Derviş Paşa Konağı)
Walking Time: 8–10 minutes
Loop back through the Old City to this beautifully restored Ottoman mansion.
Why It’s Worth It
Insight into 19th-century elite home life
Detailed exhibits on Cypriot culture
Ornate wooden interiors
A must for history lovers.
_____________________________________________________________________
10. Venetian Column & Atatürk Square
Walking Time: 5 minutes
End your walking tour at this central square—political, cultural, and social hub of the city.
Don’t Miss
The 16th-century Venetian Column
Government buildings
Vibrant cafés surrounding the square
A great place to relax after your tour.
_____________________________________________________________________
Suggested Map Route (for Visitors)
Kyrenia Gate
Samanbahçe Quarter
Büyük Han
Selimiye Mosque
Bedesten
Bandabulya Market
Arasta Street
Lokmaci Border
Dervish Pasha Mansion
Atatürk Square
Perfectly walkable, easy to follow, and rich with history.
_____________________________________________________________________
Tips for Exploring Nicosia on Foot
✔ Wear comfortable footwear
Cobbled streets can be uneven.
✔ Go early in summer
Avoid the midday heat—start around 9am.
✔ Bring cash
Some small shops may not accept cards.
✔ Try local street foods
Don’t miss şiş kebab, lokma, and Cypriot coffee.
✔ Explore side streets
Some of the best finds are in the little alleyways.
_____________________________________________________________________
Conclusion: The Best Way to Experience Nicosia
This walking tour takes you through the soul of Nicosia—its history, culture, architecture, food, and people. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, exploring the Old City on foot is the most authentic way to experience the capital of North Cyprus.
📍 Google Maps Walking Route
Here is a direct Google Maps route covering every stop on the Nicosia walking tour:
(Openable on any phone or laptop.)
Comments