Cyprus’s divided yet welcoming capital city
Nicosia is a constant hive of activity and, while elegant tree-lined suburbs surround the modern city centre, holiday-makers focus on the sightseeing opportunities offered in the extensively renovated old town – a picturesque fusion of 16th-century walls, pedestrian precincts, pavement cafes and charming squares.
Located on the island’s northern interior, Nicosia has been Cyprus’s capital since the 12th century, and is now Europe’s only divided city. The “green line” – a United Nations buffer zone – separates the government-controlled south from the Turkish-occupied northern section.
The city is the centre of Nicosia District on the Mesaoria Plain, taking in the valleys of Solea and Pitsilia and parts of Marathasa. All are within easy reach of Nicosia, offering holiday-makers the chance to explore mountain villages, orchards, hill resorts, Byzantine churches and monasteries on a pleasant day trip away from the city.
See Co-op Holidays for the cheapest last-minute holidays to Nicosia.