The World's Last Divided Capital
Running through the middle of the town since 1974
, the 'Green Line' has cut Nicosia, Cyprus' capital, in two since 1974. Split between Turkish Cyprus and Greek Cyprus, the Northern side represents the Turkish faction as capital of Northern Cyprus (the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, being a term unaccepted by the UN), while the Southern side belongs to the Greeks, taking place as the capital of the republic of Cyprus.
Removing politics from the equation the southern side of Nicosia is a wonderful spot for remote getaways, a good departure from the sometimes overcrowded beaches and tourist infestations rife within the rest of the country. The city retains a much cleared idea of Authentic Cyprus than the resorts scattered over the island. From the vacation rentals and villas in Cyprus, a villa in Nicosai will find you just steps away from a host of distinctively Cypriot delicacies such as the coffees and cafs in which you can spend hours, observing life as it passes. The old city is a pleasant roaming ground full of churches and charming museums. Here is a guide to your vacation in Nicosia.
Getting Around
Nicosia is a vast, sprawling city that takes up nearly a third of the island of Cyprus, the majority of the spaces fall in to the Southern part of the city. In the Old city it is easy to get around by foot, giving you opportunity to take in the sites of the museums and the traditional Greek Cypriot shops.
Private Taxis are abundant, usually Mercedes all with the letter T at the front of their number plate. Be sure that the meter is running otherwise you may find yourself getting a raw deal.
Daytime Activities
Throughout Old Town there are many great museums holding some fascinating pieces, through the range of museums we have a solid document of Cyprus history, through ancient, to contemporary. The Cyprus museum holds some of the oldest archaeology, dating back to the 9th Century BCE, and travels up through various ages of antiquity, for a feel and picture of Cyprus's cultural heritage this museum is a must see. Going back even further is the Leventis Municipal Museum, which goes to 2300 BC, while the coinage museum offers 3000 years of coin history.
Whilst trawling through the museums, an essential port of call is the Ledatory Observatory Museum, with most building in the town barely stretching over 2-3 floors, this considerably taller structure towers over at 12 floors. This gives you a great opportunity to view the city, all around the Southern side of the, and peering past the barrier in to the northern side of the city.
The Hamam Oreye Spa is located within the heart of Old City, and offers a great all inclusive service for a very reasonable 20, which will give you towels, tea, disposable underwear and all the other essentials for a luxurious soak. The building dates back to the 14th Century and much of its history remains prevalent.
Evening
Eating in Nicosia couldn't be easier, there is a great deal of eateries around all competing for your tourist Euros. The kebab houses must be visited, mostly family run, these are a Cypriot institution and offer great value for your Eurobuck, simply follow the smell, on most street corners you will find a good little local place.
Since 1938 Zanettos has served up fine quality meze, and has that wonderful feel of remoteness and secret joy as it is tucked away within the city. Any local knows the way and will be happy to help you find it.
Night
With a burgeoning student community Nicosia has a bustling night-life, the locals here are sociable creatures who enjoy being out rather then in. Everything starts at around 10 o'clock here. Local wines have been out of favour for a while but are beginning to make a comeback. The Koumandaria is the favourite dessert wine and a local delicacy, yet commonly consumed is the Cyprus Brandy, which is lighter and distinct from other continental brandies. The Brandy Sour is a favourite local cocktail.
Plato's bar within Old Town is a wonderful little joint, bright and friendly, with a great selection of Belgian beer. It prides itself as a refined location, you won't get in in shorts.
Babylon Bar is a local institution, converted from a 1950's house it has a warm intimate feeling, complete with log fire, this is a great place for summer's relaxing.
by: VacationRentalPeople
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