If you’re thinking of booking a holiday to Cyprus, you’re probably picturing sun-drenched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lazy days by the Mediterranean. But, the beauty of a visit to this island is the opportunity to blend beach and culture; to delight body and mind. Beyond the coastal beauty lies a city brimming with history, culture, and a unique geopolitical story. Nicosia, the last divided capital in Europe, offers an intriguing mix of Greek and Turkish Cypriot influences, medieval streets, and vibrant modern life.
For those who need a break from the beach, a 48-hour trip to Nicosia is the perfect amount of time to soak in the city’s rich heritage, sample its diverse cuisine, and experience a place unlike anywhere else in Europe.
Contents:
- Exploring the South
- Crossing the Border to North Nicosia
- Final Thoughts
- Where to Stay
- How to Get There
Day 1: Exploring the South (Greek Cypriot Side)
Morning: Arriving and Getting Your Bearings
Ask your Shuttle Direct driver to drop you off close to Ledra Street, the bustling heart of Nicosia’s old town. It’s a pedestrianised area, positioned perfectly for exploring both sides of the city, with plenty of cafés, boutiques, and historic buildings lining the way.
From here head over to the Shacolas Tower Observatory from where you can get a stunning panoramic view of the city. You’ll be able to see the Green Line, the United Nations buffer zone that divides the island, as well as the terracotta rooftops of the old town and the striking minarets of North Nicosia.
Midday: Museums and History
Begin your cultural deep dive at the Leventis Municipal Museum, an excellent introduction to Nicosia’s fascinating past, from medieval times to the present day. Afterward, visit the Cyprus Museum, the country’s best archaeological museum, featuring artefacts dating back over 9,000 years, including treasures from the Bronze Age and Greek antiquity.
For lunch, grab a table at one of the many charming local tavernas serving traditional Cypriot dishes like souvlaki, halloumi, and afelia (slow-cooked pork in red wine).
Afternoon: Walking the Venetian Walls & Old Town
After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the Venetian Walls, the star-shaped fortifications built in the 16th century to protect the city. Along the way, you’ll pass Famagusta Gate, one of the best-preserved entrances to the old town.
Then, explore the atmospheric streets of Laiki Geitonia, a beautifully restored quarter filled with quaint alleyways, craft shops, and cafés. It’s a great place to pick up handmade souvenirs and enjoy a traditional Cypriot coffee.
Evening: Dining & Nightlife in Nicosia
As night falls, treat yourself to dinner at Piatsa Gourounaki, a favorite among locals and visitors alike, serving grilled meats, fresh salads, and mezze platters in a lively setting.
If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, head to Pivo Microbrewery to try some locally brewed craft beers or visit Lost+Found, one of the best cocktail bars in the city, known for its creative drinks and laid-back atmosphere.
Day 2: Crossing the Border to North Nicosia
Morning: Crossing the Green Line & Exploring North Nicosia
One of the most unique experiences in Cyprus is crossing from the Greek Cypriot south into the Turkish Cypriot north. You’ll need your passport, but the crossing at Ledra Street is quick and hassle-free.
As soon as you step into North Nicosia, you’ll notice a different architectural style, with Ottoman-era buildings, bustling markets, and a more Middle Eastern influence. Start your exploration at the Buyuk Han, a stunning 16th-century Ottoman caravanserai that now houses artisan shops and cozy cafés. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a Turkish coffee and take in the surroundings.
Midday: Visiting Mosques and Markets
A short walk away is Selimiye Mosque, formerly the grand Gothic cathedral of St Sophia, which was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest. The fusion of European and Islamic architecture makes this one of the most fascinating landmarks in Cyprus.
Stroll through the Bandabulya Market, a traditional covered bazaar where you’ll find spices, dried fruits, Turkish delights, and handcrafted goods. For lunch, try a Turkish Cypriot specialty like Lahmacun (thin, crispy flatbread with minced meat) or Köfte (spiced meatballs).
Afternoon: Return to the South & Unwind
Cross back into the south in the early afternoon and take some time to relax before wrapping up your Nicosia adventure. If you want more culture, visit the A.G. Leventis Gallery, home to an impressive collection of European and Cypriot art.
Alternatively, take some time to wander Onasagorou Street, a lively area full of cafés and boutique shops. It’s a great spot to reflect on your journey over a glass of local Commandaria, one of the world’s oldest wines, dating back to the days of ancient Cyprus.
Evening: One Last Meal Before Departure
For your last night in Nicosia, dine at Aigaion House, a hidden gem serving modern Cypriot cuisine with a creative twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the octopus stifado (slow-cooked in wine and spices) or, if you want to enjoy something more familiar (but prepared the way it really should be), go for the moussaka made with local vegetables and creamy béchamel.
End your trip with a moonlit walk through the city, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this cultural crossroads before heading back to the beachside relaxation of Cyprus’ coastal resorts.
Final Thoughts
Nicosia may not have sandy beaches or seafront promenades, but it offers something just as captivating – a rich, layered history, a blend of cultures, and a deep sense of place.
If you’re spending a week or two in Cyprus, a 48-hour city break in Nicosia is well worth it for those who want to balance beach relaxation with cultural exploration. Whether it’s walking the medieval streets, enjoying the delicious food, or crossing the divide between two communities, Nicosia is a city that leaves a lasting impression.
So next time you find yourself in Cyprus, step away from the beach for a couple of days – you won’t regret it!
Where to Stay
Gate Twenty Two Boutique Hotel: With wonderful views over the city, this 4-star hotel offers guests a terrace and bar where they can relax after a day of mind-expanding sightseeing. Centrally located, the accommodation is air-conditioned and all rooms feature free WiFi, a coffee machine, an electric kettle, minibar and a flat screen TV.
Asty Hotel: This hotel is situated in the elegant and picturesque embassy area of Ayios Dometios, slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. All the attractions are easily accessed from the premises, which offers free bicycle hire to guests. Boasting a well-equipped gym, mini golf, a games room and a playground, there’s plenty to keep you occupied when you aren’t pounding the streets with your map in hand.
The Classic Hotel Nicosia – Handwritten Collection: You can’t beat this hotel for location. Based in the historic centre of Nicosia, the accommodation offers total immersion in the local culture. Rooms are spacious and luxuriously furnished, providing aircon, free high speed fiber-optic WiFi, a minibar and a great selection of satellite TV channels.
How to Get There
Fly from major UK airports – Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, and others – to Larnaca Airport (LCA). British Airways, easyJet, Wizz Air, and Ryanair operate frequent direct flights to Larnaca from London and other UK cities, with multiple daily departures, especially in peak season.
A pre-booked Nicosia transfer gets you to the city centre from the airport in around 40-50 minutes. Paphos, served by Ryanair and easyJet, is another option, although it’s further away so you will need to organise a Paphos airport transfer for your arrival. Flights to Cyprus operate year-round, with increased frequency in summer.
If you’re combining a city break with a beach holiday, you can pre-book a Shuttle Direct transfer from Ayia Napa, Limassol or Protaras; the drive takes around 1 hour.
Overview
UK to Larnaca (LCA) Airport: approx 4.5 hours
LCA to Nicosia: 52 km
Transfer from Larnaca to Nicosia: approx 45 minutes
Types of Transfer
Shuttle Direct is a market leader in reliable, comfortable airport transfers from Larnaca Airport. We offer several options, all of which will deliver you to your destination in clean and modern vehicles, on time and efficiently. Our friendly service has your Nicosia transfer covered!
Shuttle Bus: You get the highest value for money with our shuttle bus transfers from LCA to Nicosia. Book your seat in advance of departure from the UK, and you’ll travel to the city centre in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The bus stop at the airport is conveniently located, and your driver will drop you at one of the stops near to your accommodation.
Taxi: If you’re looking for a door-to-door airport transfer, then our pre-booked taxis are highly recommended. One of our helpful drivers will greet you at the airport or hotel and deliver you to the doorstep of your final destination. You can book the return journey in advance for a smooth, prompt departure.
Private Transfer: Customers who want to pay a little extra can start and end their trip in luxury by booking one of our fleet private vehicles for a transfer from Larnaca to Nicosia in style. This would be our recommended service if you are planning to interrupt a beach holiday with a city break in Nicosia. We can arrange a reliable and comfortable pick up from any of the Cyprus resorts.
Minibus Transfer: It’s not uncommon for larger groups to visit the beaches here, and for these parties we have a designated minibus service that you can book. You and your colleagues can travel together by hiring this vehicle for a Larnaca transfer. It’s convenient, easy and a really efficient use of money.
Choosing the Right Transfer
With so many options to transfer from Larnaca Airport to Nicosia, reliably, promptly and comfortably, the choice usually comes down to the balance of cost and convenience.
Cost: The Shuttle bus for individuals and the minibus transfer to Nicosia for groups are our most popular services for cost efficiency. Staffed by professional, friendly drivers, you can be sure you’ll arrive at your destination without any stress or complications – all for a reasonable price!
Convenience: If you’re looking for that extra degree of convenience, and want to be delivered to your door, then the taxi and private vehicle airport transfers are the best options. These are also recommended if you want to travel from your resort to Nicosia for a city interlude.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct operates a fleet of vehicles manned by friendly drivers who will deliver you to Nicosia from Larnaca airport or any other location in Cyprus. As one of the most recommended providers of airport transfer services in destinations across the globe, we pride ourselves on our great communication, professionalism, and punctuality.
