Explore Nicosia in One Day: Convenient and Time-Efficient!
If you're visiting Cyprus for a vacation, many of our customers often ask us, "Which places should we not miss before leaving Cyprus?" It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that "history oozes from every corner" of the island, which has been home to numerous civilizations for thousands of years. Each region boasts historical sites, chapels, and natural beauty.
If you're coming to Cyprus for business, chances are you'll be spending your day in Larnaca, where many major companies are located. If you have limited time for sightseeing during your short stay in Cyprus, we have compiled a list of the most important places you must see in Nicosia. You can easily visit these locations with your rental car or, for a more comfortable trip, you can opt for chauffeur-driven car rental.
Make sure to explore within the city walls. Nicosia's inner walls will take you on a journey through time, revealing traces of various civilizations from the Venetians to the Ottomans.
A must-visit is the Great Inn (Büyük Han). Located in the heart of the inner walls, this inn was built in 1572 by Muzaffer Pasha, who served as the governor of the Ottoman Empire. It now houses souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes, and you can visit it free of charge between 08:00 and 18:00 on weekdays. Admission to the Great Inn is free.
Do not leave the inner walls without visiting the Bedesten. Formerly known as St. Nicholas Church, this Bedesten dates back to the 1400s and showcases unique Gothic architecture. It has witnessed the Lusignans, Venetians, Ottomans, and British periods and is now used as an exhibition and event area. Remember, visiting the Bedesten is free.
The Lusignan House is another significant structure within the inner walls. Located on Yenicami Street, this house is within walking distance of the Bedesten and the Great Inn. With its Gothic architectural style, it attracts the attention of tourists. The Lusignan House can be visited on weekdays from 08:00 to 15:30, except on Thursdays when it is open from 08:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 17:00.
There is an entrance fee for the Lusignan House.
The Mevlevi Tekke Museum is another must-visit location within the Nicosia walls. This structure, which was used as a dervish lodge during the Ottoman period, is now open to visitors as a museum. The museum can be visited from 08:00 to 15:30 every day except Thursdays, and on Thursdays, it is open from 08:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 17:00. There is an admission fee for the museum.
One could say that Kumarcılar Hanı (Gamblers' Inn) and the Great Inn are side by side. The han, built during the Ottoman era, served as a marketplace for the sale of wheat. It is constructed with cut stones. Archaeological studies have revealed that the han was built on another foundation believed to have been constructed by other civilizations in the same region.
This structure, which has witnessed many different civilizations, has survived to this day and has become a popular destination for tourists. It is open for visitation from 08:00 to 18:00 on weekdays. Admission to Kumarcılar Hanı is free.
Dervish Pasha Mansion is located in Arabahmet District. It consists of two floors and has been opened as a museum after restoration works. The mansion can be visited every day of the week (except Thursdays) from 08:00 to 15:30, and on Thursdays, it is open from 08:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 17:00. There is an entrance fee to the mansion.
With a rental car, it is easy and possible to explore the island in one day. For a safe journey and to reach more destinations, we recommend renting a chauffeur-driven car.
You can find the must-see places, the flavors you must taste, and more information on our website.
As the Kyrenia Rent a Car team, we wish you a great vacation and a warm welcome.
Remember, you can conveniently pick up and return your rental car at the same location for added convenience. Don't miss out on the incredible wonders awaiting you in Nicosia! Optimize your time with a seamless Larnaca to Nicosia transfer, ensuring you make the most of every moment. Book your transfer and start your adventure today.
