Nicosia (Lefkoşa): Things to Do, North Cyprus (2026)

Nicosia, known in Turkish as Lefkoşa, is the capital of North Cyprus and its historic inland city. Within star-shaped Venetian walls you will find the Gothic Selimiye Mosque, the restored Ottoman caravanserai of Büyük Han, the Bandabulya covered market and a maze of old streets. It is a strong day trip or a cultural base away from the coast.

Nicosia, or Lefkoşa in Turkish, is the capital of North Cyprus and its main inland city. Set behind distinctive star-shaped Venetian walls, the old city holds a dense layer of history, from Gothic cathedrals turned mosques to Ottoman inns, markets and mansions, wrapped in narrow back-streets that see far less mass tourism than the coast.

The walled old city is where to spend your time. Its centrepiece is the Selimiye Mosque, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral converted to a mosque, its pointed arches and carved portals topped by later Ottoman minarets. Directly nearby stands the Büyük Han, a beautifully restored 16th-century caravanserai whose courtyard now holds cafés, craft shops and galleries. The Bandabulya covered market, the Kyrenia Gate and a scatter of smaller museums and mansions fill out an easy walking route through the old town.

Nicosia suits travellers drawn to history and culture rather than beaches. Many visit as a day trip from Kyrenia or Famagusta, both a short drive away, though the old city and its restaurants reward a slower, unhurried visit for those who want to linger.

Things to do

Nicosia's walled old city is best explored on foot. The Selimiye Mosque, originally a Gothic cathedral, is the standout landmark, with the restored Büyük Han caravanserai directly nearby, its courtyard cafés a natural place to pause. The Bandabulya covered market, the Kyrenia Gate and a walk along a section of the Venetian walls round out the essentials, while smaller museums and Ottoman mansions reward those with more time. Arasta Street offers shopping between the sights. The listings below cover these and more.

See all attractions in Nicosia (Lefkoşa)

More ideas: Rainy Day Activities in North Cyprus

Where to stay

Nicosia has a smaller range of accommodation than the coastal towns, weighted towards city hotels serving business and culture visitors rather than beach resorts. Staying in or near the old city puts the main sights within walking distance. Many people visit Nicosia as a day trip and stay on the coast instead, but a night here suits those wanting an unhurried look at the old town. Prices span budget to upper mid-range.

See all hotels in Nicosia (Lefkoşa)

Planning where to stay: North Cyprus: Top All-Inclusive Luxury Hotel Experiences

Where to eat

Dining in Nicosia leans to traditional Cypriot and Turkish cooking, from meze and grills to kebabs, with the Büyük Han courtyard and the old-city back-streets holding characterful cafés and restaurants. The covered market is a good place to sample local produce and flavours. Expect everything from a quick café stop to a full meze meal across the price bands below.

See all restaurants in Nicosia (Lefkoşa)

More on eating out: Nicosia Street Food: What to Try & Where

Getting there

Nicosia is inland and easily reached by road. Most visitors arrive at Ercan Airport, roughly 30 to 40 minutes away, or drive over as a day trip from Kyrenia or Famagusta, each a short journey. A hire car is convenient, and once in the old city everything is walkable. If you are crossing from the south of the island, note the Ledra Street crossing in the old town is for pedestrians, while vehicles use the crossing on the western edge of the city.

Getting around: Ercan Airport to Nicosia North: Transfer Options Guide

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable times to explore Nicosia on foot, with mild days well suited to walking the old city. Being inland, the city gets notably hot in high summer, so early starts and shaded courtyards help in those months. Winters are cool and quiet, and perfectly fine for sightseeing. Unlike the coast, the appeal here is year-round history and culture rather than beach weather.

Timing your trip: Best Time to Visit Nicosia (North): Seasonal Guide

Last updated: 31 August 2026

Places to visit in Nicosia (Lefkoşa)

Frequently asked questions

Is Nicosia worth visiting?

Yes, for history and culture. The walled old city holds the Selimiye Mosque, the Büyük Han caravanserai, the Bandabulya market and atmospheric back-streets that see far less tourism than the coast.

Nicosia or Lefkoşa, what is the difference?

They are the same city. Nicosia is the English name and Lefkoşa is the Turkish name. The northern part is often called North Nicosia.

How many days do you need in Nicosia?

A focused half-day covers the Selimiye Mosque, Büyük Han, the market and a stretch of the walls. A full day adds the smaller museums, lunch and shopping at a relaxed pace.

What is Nicosia known for?

Its star-shaped Venetian walls, the Gothic Selimiye Mosque, the restored Büyük Han caravanserai, the Bandabulya covered market and its layered Ottoman and medieval old city.

Can you visit Nicosia as a day trip?

Yes. Many visitors come as a day trip from Kyrenia or Famagusta, each a short drive away, and see the main old-city sights comfortably in a few hours.