Nicosia: Old Town Walking Tour with a Guide in Nicosia

If you want to experience the vibrant culture of Nicosia, the best way is to take a walking tour of its old town. An experienced guide can provide you with insight and history while showing you the sights and architectural wonders of the city. If you’re traveling to Nicosia, this activity is sure to give you a memorable experience.

Overview

A 3-hour guided tour of the old town of Nicosia will take you through narrow cobbled streets lined with Renaissance, Baroque and neoclassic style buildings from different periods. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s history, cultural heritage, and architecture. You’ll visit some of the city’s main attractions, such as the Venetian Walls, the Ottoman Mosques, Laiki Geitonia (an old Middle Eastern market), and the Gothic Cathedral of St. Sophia. As you wander through the city, your guide will recount stories of its past and present, from the Venetians who took control of the city in the 15th century to its current status as the last divided capital in Europe.

What to Expect

The tour begins in front of the Venetian Walls of Nicosia, a medieval fortification built between 1567 and 1590 to protect the city from invading forces. As you stroll along the walls, your guide will fill you in on the history of this impressive defensive structure and how it kept the city safe during different historical periods.

From there, you’ll head to Laiki Geitonia, a lively market that has been around since Ottoman times. Here, you’ll find local artisans selling traditional Cypriot gifts and souvenirs and sample some of the area’s delicious food specialties.

Your next stop is a must-see for any traveler to Nicosia: the Gothic Cathedral of St. Sophia. Built in 1358, this impressive cathedral was once home to an important cathedral library. While here, you’ll learn about its long history and significance to Nicosia.

Next, you’ll explore the city’s iconic Ottoman mosques, which include the Selimiye Mosque, built in 1525, and the Tekke Mosque, which dates back to 1700. Your guide will explain the importance of these buildings to the city’s Muslim population and describe their unique architectural features.

Your walking tour will end at Venizelos Square and the Ledra Street barricade—a poignant reminder of the city’s status as the last divided capital in Europe. After taking some time to explore this symbol of a city divided by politics, your guide will point out any nearby attractions worth a visit before making his way back to your starting point.

Why Take a Guided Tour?

Touring Nicosia’s old town with a knowledgeable guide is the perfect way to learn about its culture and history. Not only will a local be able to provide insight into the city’s past and present, but they can also answer any other questions you may have about Cyprus and its culture.

Plus, having someone lead the way is much more convenient than trying to navigate Nicosia’s winding backstreets on your own! Knowing where you’re going also ensures that you get to see all the major sights and don’t miss out on any hidden gems.

Tips for Booking a Tour

When looking for an experienced guide for your tour of Nicosia’s old town, it’s important to read customer reviews and check out the guide’s ratings. This will help ensure that you get the best experience possible and avoid any disappointments! For your convenience, GetYourGuide provides pre-vetted tour guides for this activity so you can book with confidence.

It’s also important to take into account any other activities or attractions you may be interested in visiting while in Nicosia. Having an experienced guide can help ensure that you maximize your time by prioritizing places to visit that fit your interests and schedule.

My Personal Opinion

Personally, I think this is one of the best ways to get to know Nicosia and its unique culture. Guided tours provide a great mix of insights into both its historical past and its present-day context. What’s more, they ensure that you don’t miss out on any major attractions or potential hidden gems in this beautiful city! Booking with GetYourGuide can give you even more peace of mind, as all their tour guides have been thoroughly vetted for quality assurance.

If you are looking for an in-depth introduction to Nicosia’s fascinating old town, consider taking a guided walking tour for an unforgettable experience sure to leave an impression. Book your tour today here!