No city may be more defined by a border than Nicosia. The dividing line between south and north Cyprus slices Nicosia in two, giving it a foot in both worlds. The island's largest settlement, Nicosia offers visitors a fortified old town, relaxed pedestrianized neighbourhoods and good dining and nightlife options, making it the ideal base to explore further afield.

Take a Nicosia private tour and explore this city in Cyprus with a local guide.

Nicosia was settled 4500 years ago, and has been ruled by Romans, Byzantines, Lusignans, Venetians and Ottomans, each of whom left their mark. Meet your guide at the Selimiye Mosque, once the Gothic Cathedral of St Sophia, until the Ottomans converted it in 1570. Admire the gorgeous Büyük Han caravansarai, then walk to Paphos gate and cross the border on foot, your guide by your side.

Want to explore further? Our guides organize trips to the Troodos mountains and Kakopetria village, or to Larnaca's salt lake and St. Mamas Monastery in Guzelyurt

Nicosia

An amazing city, from the Neolithic Age until today. Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus since the 12th century AD. It's built on layers of tradition, and culture, both from the Western Europe, as well as the Middle East. Its medieval center is circled by a unique fortification system with 3 doors and 11 bastions, built by the Venetians.
We will walk in the city within the walls, both in the Greek part as well as in the Turkish part, through the dividing line and try to understand the history of the city.
I live in Nicosia since I was 13 years old and I know the city very well.
Visiting the city with me will give you a personal touch of the historic sites.

Visit the main spots of both Greek and Turkish Parts on this half-day tour

Discover Nicosia Walking Tour

Interaction of religions in Cyprus: from Early Christianity to Modernity - Indoor Live Virtual tour

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As a Tunisian with Muslim background, who studied in conservative Catholic South Germany, my contact with religions in Cyprus was just amazing. So many contrasts packed in tiny cities, often on the same street. . .

Being at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, Cyprus always played a crucial role in the power struggle of Mediterranean civilizations. Its prime location caused its glory as well as its doom. From a crowning site for Jerusalem's kings to deserted ghost towns and piling ruins.

From subliminal messages to politically "incorrect" representations, we study the cohabitation of different religions in Cyprus and their mutual interaction stressing the sociopolitical impact of these encounters.

We focus on the architectural and artistic representation of faith and point out the resulting unique blends, which make up the peculiarity of Cyprus.

This is an Indoor Live Virtual Tour delivered personally and live by me using live video conferencing

Maronite Altar in Aramaic language, Kormakitis

Maronite nun in St George Church, Kormakitis

Live streamed by me from Nicosia using live video-conferencing software

Unique Divided Capital of Cyprus, Nicosia and Romantic Larnaca

We will have a trip to the only divided capital in the world - Nicosia (Lefkosia). Here we will admire the Archbishop's Palace, which took much fighting during the invasion of 1974, and St John's Cathedral (Ayios Ioannis) with frescoes of 18th century. We will then walk through Laiki Geitonia - a traditional neighborhood of Nicosia with narrow winding streets and craft shops. Arriving at the liveliest part of the old city - Ledra Street, you will have free time for souvenir shopping. You will have a chance to enter the Northern Part of Nicosia, beyond the division line and we will visit Buyuk Han and Ayia Sofia Church.

Saying goodbye to Nicosia, we will drive towards the charming and diverse Larnaca (Larnaka), where we will visit Agios Lazaros Church - one of the finest examples of Byzantine architecture. Arriving at the famous palm tree lined sea front - Finikoudes Promenade you will have explore the Medieval Castle.

Full Day Tour offers you day of impressions, fantastic spots, and outstanding sightseeing

Join me on a guided journey through Varosha, an abandoned Ghost Town that holds the echoes of the past, present, and uncertain future. Its streets, frozen in time, bear witness to the grandeur of old residential homes, hotels, and forsaken shops.

Enclosed by barbed wire fences, its sandy beaches and abandoned houses evoke a poignant sense of isolation amidst an overgrown wilderness. As a former resident, you'll delve into personal narratives and childhood memories intertwined with the town's history. Once a bustling tourist destination, Varosha's abrupt abandonment in 1974 amid conflict left it deserted for 47 years, until its recent reopening. Varosha remains a poignant emblem of Europe's forgotten cities.

Our exploration continues to the old quarter of Famagusta, a historic district distinguished by well-preserved medieval walls, Gothic architecture, and a vibrant, bustling atmosphere. Along the journey, we visit a renowned pastry shop celebrated for its exquisite Baklava and tea.

Saint George and Simeon Church in Famagusta Old City

Exploring the abandoned city with a former resident

Ghost Town of Varosha & Famagusta

A visit to the last divided capital in Europe the medieval walled city of Nicosia on foot. We drive through the walls and Bastions of Nicosia and Famagusta Gate. We firstly visit the Archbishop's Palace and its surroundings such as St. John's Cathedral, Byzantine Museum with icons from tenth century AD, mosaics fifth century AD and frescoes dated from the eleventh century AD. We also stop at the statue of Liberty. Many historical sights remaining from Byzantine, Lusigninian and Ottoman eras will be seen and visited. The Levention Museum of Nicosia will be also be visited. The tour will include its crossing through the popular neighborhood of Nicosia and Ledra street that leads to the checkpoint for the northern part of Nicosia where we will visit St. Sophia Cathedral twelve the biggest Gothic Church of Eastern Mediterranean, the closed market and the Buyuk Khan.
Our last visit to the Archeological Museum in Nicosia with its rare collection of antiquities from the Neolithic to the Byzantine times

Entrance fee to the Byzantine Museum 
Entrance fee to the Cathedral of St. John 
Entrance fee to the Archaeological Museum 

Visit the last divided capital with a local guide

Day trip to Nicosia on a walking tour

Today we'll be visiting the North of the island. Kyrenia was a small fishing port in 10BC. After decades it has been in the interest of many civilizations. St. Hilarion Castle is located up, to the mountains. I'll show you the beautiful scenery and a lot to tell you about the castle while we climb the steps. Our next stop of the day will be Bellapais. It takes its name from the Monastery located in the village. This is one of my favorite spots in Kyrenia. I am sure you will agree with me as we walk along the narrow streets of the unique village of Kyrenia. The last stop of the day will be the beautiful Castle in the harbor. The Castle is known as Kyrenia Castle and it was in use for many decades by different civilizations. I will tell you all about it when we visit the Castle and the Shipwreck Museum. What is so special about the Museum? You will have free time for coffee while you enjoy the scenery of the harbor. It will be a full-day tour of Kyrenia with an unforgettable experience to fall in love.

Visit St. Hilarion Castle &amp; Bellapais Monastery &amp; Kyrenia Castle with a local guide

Kyrenia Full Day Tour

Discover Famagusta and North Cyprus on this highlights private tour

We'll start our tour enjoying the scenery as we cross over the Mountains and Mesaria Plain. Then it's on to St. Barnabas Monastery which is now an icon museum. After spending 30 minutes at the monastery, we will continue to see the ancient city of Salamis which dates back to BC and has the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Cyprus where we will spend almost an hour here before we have a lunch .

Our adventure continues with a visit to the St, Nicolas Cathedral which is now known as Lala Mustafa Mosque and was built in French Gothic Style. I'll make sure you also get some free time within the old city for shopping or more sightseeing before we head to the Ghost town area.

Explore from the Roman Ancient site into Medieval Wall city of Famagusta

Nicosia, the last divided capital of the world - Indoor Live Virtual tour

As a Tunisian who lived in Germany in the late 90's, just after the fall of the Berlin Wall, Nicosia the last divided capital of the world has a special taste. It reveals its secrets to the attentive observer, who reads in the stones the stories of cohabitation in peace and in war, over long centuries.

Follow me through narrow streets and deserted quarters to discover the architectural and ethnical diversity of this unique city including the "must-sees" like Büyük Han and Selimiye Mosque, but focusing on the less known parts: Faneromeni, Ömeriye, Arabahmet, etc. . .

We witness the living wounds of the separation in the heart of the city and the ongoing rehabilitation program on both sides. We do not ignore the elephant in the room. We also see the signs of great glory from the Antiquity to Modern times.
I do not what impression you will get after this tour, but I guarantee you to have a strong one!

Graffittis at the Green line, Nicosia North

War barrels along the green line, Nicosia South

EU and USAID renovation projects, Nicosia South

Archbishop Palace and Makarios statue, Nicosia South

Inside the Buffer Zone - Nicosia Private Tour

Experience a unique city stroll, delving into Nicosia frozen in time. Join me as we explore the "green line, " observing life as it has evolved on either side of this historic divide. You'll gain insights into the current state of the Buffer Zone, uncovering hidden streets and witnessing the iconic Venetian walls that encircle the old city.

Our meeting point, conveniently situated near the old city and the Ledra Palace Hotel Checkpoint marks the starting point of our journey. As we venture into the buffer zone and explore the southern part of the city, we'll trace the path of the infamous "Green line, " a barrier separating Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. From the grandeur of the Ledra Palace Hotel to the revitalized Ledra Street, adorned with abandoned buildings bearing the scars of history, our walk offers a glimpse into a divided city slowly reconnecting. Our exploration concludes in the old quarter, near the Ledra Street checkpoint.

This tour can also be customized.

Exploring an abandoned Home by the Green Line of Nicosia

Private Group Walk Inside the Buffer Zone

Family Private Group Walk by the Green Line

The Iconic Ledra Palace Hotel in the UN Controlled area

Journey through a frozen city, exploring life along the green line in the last divided capital of Nicosia

Our first visit will be at Curium city kingdom and the Greco-Roman theatre that originally goes back to 12 BC. The house of Eustolios with its mosaics and Roman bath. We will pass by the ancient stadium and the sanctuary of Apollo Hylatis.
On our way to Paphos, we will have a short stop at the birthplace of Goddess Aphrodite the goddess of love.
We will visit the archaeological park (UNESCO World heritage site) the house of Dionysus, Aion, and Theseus mosaics which are the best well-preserved mosaics found in the eastern Mediterranean with its mythological stories of the Greek gods. we will also visit the Odeon and the Forum of the city.
The tour also includes free time for lunch (at own expense) on the harbor front. We continue with a visit to the pillar of St. Paul and the ruins of the 4th century AD church of Panayia Chysopolitissa with its floor mosaicsA final visit to the tombs of the kings dated from the 4th century AD.
We will finish back to our starting point or another agreed-upon location.

Entrance fee to Kourion City kingdom 
Entrance to Paphos Mosaics 
Entrance to the Tombs of the Kings 

Paphos Mosaics The house of Dionysus and Theseus

Explore the birthplace of Aphrodite and Legends on a private tour

Paphos Tour

Walk through historic Nicosia and discover its highlights.

To be able to make the most of your trip abroad, you need someone who can be a mirror of the culture you want to explore. Let me take you on a tour back in time, where we'll explore Nicosia, the capital of the island which is the only capital of Europe that is divided into 2 parts. A beautiful part of the city is hidden in the old town of Nicosia embraced by the well-preserved stony Venetian walls. In the old days, you could only enter the city from 3 Gates. Today we'll visit 2 of them. Kyrenia Gate, Samanbahce Quarter, Venetian Column, St. Sophia Cathedral, Bedesten, and Bandabuliya are some of the places that we'll visit. Buyuk Han, the nicest Kervansaraybuilt in 16AD is attracting everyone with its souvenir shops and atmosphere. We'll sit and taste the local borek and the Cypriot coffee while I'll tell you more about it.
I was born and raised in Nicosia therefore, I can show you the city as no one else can. So, join me on this tour to have a wonderful day, full of history, culture, and laughter.

Tour the only divided city in Europe on this half-day tour

Full-day tour from Nicosia to Famagusta & Kyrenia, A Circle Private Tour

You will have the chance to see all the best main sightseeing attractions plus learning all about the history about Cyprus. We firstly drive to Famagusta Wall City and walk towards St Nicolas Cathedral, which is now known as Lala Mustafa Mosque where free time will be given for coffee break & sightseeing. Ghost town can be added to the tours as you wish!

The trip continues with a visit to the ancient city-kingdom of Salamis, founded right after the Trojan War by the archer Teucer who came from the Greek Island of Salamis. Time will be given there for a guided tour around the archaeological site which includes a beautiful ancient Greek theater and marble columns, Roman baths and a Gymnasium. You can also visit St Varnavas Monastery instead of Salamis if you wish.
We continue driving towards Kyrenia and we will drive around coastline to come to Kyrenia with visiting a gorgeous Bellapais Abbey & Kyrenia Harbor.

Historical Private Tour including all the main Sightseeing Points

South Cyprus: highlights and rarities - Indoor Live Virtual tour

Let us discover together the highlights of South Cyprus in a well-paced journey in time and space. taking us from Paphos, the birth place of Aphrodite to Nicosia, the last divided capital of the world. The Troodos Mountains with their hidden monasteries, The Hospitaliers' bastion in Limassol and the harbor city of Larnaca are the milestones of our route.

Follow me through extremely well preserved Roman floor mosaics, Byzantines frescoes with rare depictions, Saints' relics making the fortune of monasteries, Muslim shrines in the Christian South, Street art along the infamous green separation line and much more.
We also get an inside in the gastronomy culture of Cyprus with its sweets and wines.

Our journey opens you a window to look at South Cyprus' highlights as well as some of its unique / rare features.

Indoor Live Virtual tour conducted by me from Nicosia using live video-conferencing software

Larnaca: The oldest living city of Cyprus

Nestled in the heart of Cyprus, Larnaca echoes with centuries of history, culture, and spirituality. The city's ancient streets whisper tales of Byzantine and Ottoman influences, inviting visitors to explore its rich heritage. From the iconic St. Lazarus Church to the imposing Larnaca Fort, each landmark unveils a chapter of the city's diverse past, while the ethereal aura of Hala Sultan Tekke and the picturesque Larnaca Salt Lake offer moments of tranquil reflection amidst natural beauty.

A stroll along the bustling Finikoudes Promenade reveals the contemporary allure of Larnaca, where the sea breeze mingles with the scent of local delicacies served at family-run taverns.

Just a short drive from Larnaca lies Kiti, a hidden gem renowned for its Byzantine art treasures. Among its many wonders, the Angeloktisti Church stands as a testament to the island's artistic legacy. You will leave with a deeper understanding of Cyprus's cultural heritage and its enduring significance on the world stage.

Explore Larnaca: Unveil Timeless Traditions and Culture in Cyprus

A day trip to Paradise - Kyrenia and Famagusta

A full day tour to the occupied part of Cyprus offering you perspectives of Cyprus intriguing spots the medieval town of Famagusta. Our tour begins by crossing the checkpoint to the North side of Cyprus.

We firstly visit Salamis the Ancient City Kingdom and St. Barnabas Monastery-Icon and archaeological museum.

We continue our tour to the walled city of Famagusta, Saint Nicolas Cathedral, The Venetian Palace and its surroundings we and pass by the tower of Othello.

A panoramic view of the ghost city of Famagusta since 1974 and then a short walk to the golden sand beach.

After crossing the plane of Mesaoria, we visit Kyrenia town and its castle, and the picturesque harbor.

Our last visit will be at Bellapais historical village with its nice handicrafts, narrow streets and the Abbey of Bellapais with one of the nicest views in the northern part of the Island.

Lunch at a local restaurant either in Famagusta or in Kyrenia.

** A passport is required for the North side of the island.

Entrance fees to: 
Salamis ruins
St. Barnabas Monastery 
Kyrenia Castle 
Bellapais Abbey 

Join me on a private tour full of archeology, history and tradition.

Discover Nicosia's highlights on this walking tour

Nicosia (Lefkosa/ Lefkosia) is one of Europe's most ancient capitals and has been the capital of the island for more than 1. 000 years. The beautiful part of the city is hidden in the old part of Nicosia, embraced with Stoney Venetian walls for decades. Today the capital is divided into 2 parts. We'll walk in the walled city of Nicosia and visit many sites. Walking through Arabahmet Quarter you'll see some remarkable examples of traditional Ottoman architecture. Venetian Column, St. Sophia Cathedral, Buyuk Han, and Bedesten are some of the sites that we see today. You'll drink our traditional Cypriot coffee in Buyuk Han while you rest and I tell you about the history and the culture of the island. We then cross the border and walk in South Nicosia towards the Famagusta Gate to see more historical sites.

I was born and raised in Nicosia therefore I can show you the city as no one else can. So come and join me on this tour to have a wonderful day, full of history, culture, and laughter.

Lefkosia tours

Explore with 68 tours and 9 guides.

Marina C.

$ 285 (USD)

Houssem B.

$ 108 (USD)

Olga K.

$ 456 (USD)

Eleni E.

$ 599 (USD)

Savvas S.

$ 413 (USD)

Sirin S.

$ 297 (USD)

Cemaliye M.

$ 409 (USD)

Houssem B.

$ 108 (USD)

Eleni E.

$ 456 (USD)

Savvas S.

$ 571 (USD)

Sirin S.

$ 205 (USD)

Cemaliye M.

$ 477 (USD)

Houssem B.

$ 114 (USD)

Eleni E.

$ 456 (USD)

Savvas S.

$ 687 (USD)

Sirin S.

$ 228 (USD)

Meet your local guides in Lefkosia

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