Special tour Face of the Old and the New Nicosia Town

Discovering Nicosia’s Old and New in a Short Walk

This tour offers a compact yet comprehensive glimpse into Nicosia, the only divided capital in Europe. In just two hours, you’ll wander through both Old Nicosia and modern parts of the city, uncovering the layers of history, art, and culture that make this city so unique. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick but meaningful introduction without feeling rushed.

What I particularly appreciate about this experience is how it balances historic sites like the Leventis Gallery and Famagusta Gate with lively streets like Ermou Street, where traditional crafts still thrive. The fact that you’re guided by a local who shares stories beyond the facts—like the significance of the Venetian influence or the division marked by the Green Line—adds depth that a self-guided walk can’t match.

One consideration is that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as some stops involve walking on uneven surfaces. Also, with a duration of just two hours, it’s a whirlwind that might leave you wanting more if you’re deeply interested in exploring every corner. Still, for a first taste or a quick overview, it hits the mark perfectly.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Insightful Local Guides: You’ll hear stories about Nicosia from someone who lives and breathes its history, like Dr. Savvas, whose personal accounts enrich the experience.
• Diverse Highlights: From the A. G. Leventis Gallery showcasing European and Cypriot art, to historic gates, and vibrant streets, the tour covers a lot of ground.
• Divided City Perspective: Learn why Nicosia is Europe’s only divided capital, and get insight into the city’s ongoing story of separation and reunification.
• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Walking through Ermou Street, you’ll see craft shops and local artisans, experiencing daily life in both old and new Nicosia.
• A Taste of History: Stops include the Archaeological Museum with artifacts from Neolithic to Byzantine periods, and landmarks like the Phaneromeni Church.
• Flexible and Private: With a private group setting, your experience is tailored, and the timings are flexible, allowing for an easy addition to your itinerary.

If you’re visiting Cyprus and want a quick yet insightful overview of Nicosia, this “Face of the Old and the New” tour could be just the ticket. Led by a passionate local guide—like Dr. Savvas, who’s praised for his storytelling and deep knowledge—you get a chance to see the city from both a historical and cultural perspective.

Entering the Heart of Cyprus: Location and Logistics

Starting right next to the entry point of your meeting spot, the tour is designed for convenience, especially if you’re staying centrally. It’s a private group, so you get an intimate experience without the crowds typical of larger tours. The duration is 2 hours, which makes it a great option if you’re short on time but still eager to understand Nicosia’s complex identity.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes because walking is the main activity. The tours run on demand, with flexible starting times—just check availability when booking. Pricing is reasonable given the depth of storytelling and access to sites like the Leventis Gallery (which has an additional €4 entry fee).

What’s Included and What to Expect

Your guide, well-versed in local history and culture, will lead you through key sights like Ermou Street, a hub for traditional Cypriot crafts, and the Famagusta Gate, one of the city’s historic entrances. Expect to hear fascinating stories, such as the Venetian era when parts of Nicosia were fortified, and insights into the city’s ongoing division.

You’ll also visit the Leventis Museum (small but packed with paintings from Greek, Cypriot, and European artists) and hear about iconic landmarks like the Hamam Omerye and Phaneromeni Church—each with its own story. The guide will share stories about the city that go beyond the usual guidebook facts, including personal accounts of the division, as highlighted in reviews praising guides like Dr. Savvas.

Highlights of the Tour: Old Nicosia

The “Old City” is a maze of narrow streets and historic walls. You’ll see Venetian gates, perhaps count how many lead into the old town, and stand in awe of the Famagusta Gate, which once served as a defensive fortress. The Archaeological Museum adds context, displaying artifacts from the Neolithic period through Byzantine times. This part of the tour is a walk through thousands of years of human settlement, and you’ll be encouraged to imagine life here centuries ago.

The Leventis Gallery offers a quiet reprieve from the busy streets, presenting a curated collection of paintings. The guide will tell you stories about the artists and what their works reveal about Cypriot and Greek culture.

Experiencing the Modern City: Ermou Street and Beyond

Transitioning into the newer parts of Nicosia, your guide will take you down Ermou Street, a lively shopping and craft area. Here, traditional artisans still produce Cypriot ceramics and textiles, giving you a taste of living culture. Modern cafes and shops line this street, contrasting sharply with the historic stone walls.

You’ll also learn about the Green Line, the UN buffer zone that divides the city, and hear stories about how this boundary affects daily life—adding a human dimension to the political facts. As one reviewer shared, guides like Dr. Savvas offer insights into the ongoing story of division, making the tour both educational and emotionally resonant.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Though brief, this guided walk offers a well-rounded look at Nicosia’s layered identity. The inclusion of landmarks like Famagusta Gate and Leventis Gallery provides cultural depth, while the stories from the guide make history come alive. The private format means you can ask questions and tailor the experience to your interests.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful introduction to Nicosia. History buffs, art lovers, and those curious about Cyprus’s divided status will find this particularly engaging. If you prefer guided storytelling over self-guided wandering, this tour delivers expert insights in a relaxed setting.

This special tour offers a concentrated dose of Nicosia’s history, culture, and modern life—all wrapped into just two hours. If you’re interested in seeing the city’s highlights without committing to a full-day tour, it’s an excellent choice. The guide’s stories, especially those from a local like Dr. Savvas, make the experience more authentic and memorable.

While it’s not suited for wheelchair users and might leave you wanting more if you’re a deep historian, for most travelers, it hits the sweet spot of value, insight, and authentic local flavor. It’s especially rewarding if you appreciate stories that reveal the city’s ongoing story of division and resilience.

Whether you’re just passing through or want to understand the complex layers of Nicosia’s past and present, this tour provides a solid foundation—plus a few stories to keep you thinking long after you leave.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it perfect for a quick overview or to fit into a busy day.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
No, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users due to walking on uneven surfaces and some historic sites.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak several languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese, and Hungarian, ensuring accessibility for many travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins next to the entry point of the meeting spot and finishes back at the same location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—flexibility that’s appreciated when travel plans are uncertain.

Is there an additional cost for any sites visited?
Yes, the Leventis Museum has a €4 entry fee not included in the tour price, which is worth the small extra cost for its art collection.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and possibly a bottle of water, especially if the weather is warm, to enjoy the walk fully.

This tour is a great introduction to Nicosia’s story, and with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll walk away with more than just pictures—you’ll carry stories about the city’s enduring character.