Although Nicosia is the capital city of Cyprus, it’s often overlooked, so we’re here to explore the city’s best bits and share with you why it’s a favourite among international property buyers.

Old Nicosia

Naturally, the capital city houses most of the parliamentary offices and the Presidential Palace where our current President of the Cyprus Republic, Nicos Anastasiades, resides. Old Town Nicosia is made up of beautiful, old-timey buildings that are architectural masterpieces.

An important feature of Nicosia is the Venetian Walls which surround the city. First built in the Middle Ages but rebuilt in the mid-16th century. Designed to protect the Palace in medieval times, the Venetian Wall is the longest preserved wall in Europe with three gates and 11 heart-shaped bastions – truly a sight to behold.

Throughout the old town, there are lots of small galleries that display the art of modern Cypriot artists. Unsurprisingly, this is the liveliest part of the historical town and where many top attractions can be found. Don’t miss the Byzantine Museum, the famous shopping streets of Nicosia and for any Mamma Mia fans – the Church of Agios loannis Kastri.

 

New Nicosia

You can find the city’s main square, Eleftheria (Freedom) Square in the centre of the town just below the Venetian walls. There lies the town hall, post office and library – just a short walk from the main shopping streets.

This is the true hub of the city. It’s where locals and tourists come together to create a young and vibrant atmosphere. It is the place to go to find shops with branded products, modern eating places and upmarket wine bars. There’s lots of cafes and restaurants that are full of life throughout the day and in the evening there’s a wide choice of both Cypriot and international cuisines to choose from.

National Parks

It’d be wrong to talk about Nicosia without mentioning its impressive greenery. Athalassa National Park is a well-kept public park on the south-eastern edge of Nicosia. With an area of 840 hectares, it’s the place to be when the sun is shining. There’s a crystal-blue lake, woodland forests and multiple nature trails for cycling, hiking or just your daily walk.

There’s also two other parks just walking distance away. Spyros Kyprianou Park and Acropolis Park are both lovely and often play host to open-air activities such as yoga in the summer months.

You can easily spend all day in Nicosia’s parks as there’s lots of amenities nearby. Whether you go alone to enjoy a good book or take the family for a picnic in the sunshine, the park is a cheap and cheerful day out for all.

Surrounding areas worth a visit

Nicosia’s public transport is really efficient and for only €2 you can visit surrounding areas in as little as 20 minutes. The city of Tamasos is home to some of Cyprus’ royal tombs, the Macheras Monastery and the Asinou Church which was built over 800 years ago.

If you enjoy a glass of wine, make sure to take a trip to the Troodos wine villages and the unique Omodos vineyards.

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