Nicosia (also Lefkosia) is the capital of Cyprus. It is the biggest city of Cyprus with the population of 270 000 people. Nicosia is a modern, dynamic capital with lots of shops, two modern shopping malls, restaurants and entertainment.

As the last divided city in Europe; Nicosia enjoys a certain degree of international notoriety. However, the Cypriot capital does have a rich past (its roots go as far as 670 BC) and it offers a unique experience for its visitors.

The old walled city of Nicosia is very exceptional and definitely the place to head for first. Encircled by strong fortress walls built by the Venetians in the 16th century, the enchanting old city is scattered with medieval buildings preserving the nostalgic atmosphere of years past, monuments of historical interest as well as little shops, cafés and tavernas. The old city is mainly pedestrian-only.

The new Nicosia developed outside the walls became a contemporary business and cultural center, with moders facilities of a cosmopolitan European capital.

Things to do:

1. Museums

The unique Cyprus Museum, housing island's most important collection of Cypriot antiquities and treasures from the Neolithic Age to the Roman Period, is not to be missed. The Jewels Museum and the Municipal Arts Center and Ethnological museum are well worth a visit. The 'Levention' Municipal Museum offers imaginative presentation for those interested in the capital's history.

2. Open air market

Open air market operates every Wednesday in old Nicosia, Ochi Square.

3. Hamam Omerye Baths

Visit famous Turkish baths in old Nicosia for a different experience. Treatments, massage and a lot more.

Address:
8 Tyllirias Square, Nicosia
Tel: +357 22460570

4. Nicosia Race Club

The Nicosia Race Club offers you the excitement of horse racing! Pari-mutuel bets accepted.

Location:
Ayios Dometios, Nicosia
Tel: +357 22782 727
e-mail: info@nicosiaraceclub.com.cy

5. Football

Football is the most popular sport in Cyprus. There are two main local football clubs: Omonia and Apoel. You can visit a football match on Nicosia Neo GPS Stadium for a truly wild sport atmosphere!

6. Walking Tours

Get acquainted with Nicosia through walking. Contact the tourist information in old Nicosia.

7. Shopping

Nicosia The main shopping areas in Nicosia are Arch. Makarios Avenue, the parallel street behind it, Stasikratous Street, and Ledra Street. In addition to shopping for handicrafts, embroidery, pottery and other local made items, visitors to Nicosia might like to take advantage of the capital's modern commercial centers to buy such items as the latest design fashions, prescription eye wear, perfumes and liqueurs.