World by City

Cyprus Cyprus

North Nicosia

North Nicosia forms the northern part of the divided city of Nicosia and is the largest city in Northern Cyprus. Carrying the history of the island's division, it offers a distinctive atmosphere to explore.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

North Nicosia
Gateway airport
Larnaca International Airport (LCA)
Best season
Mar–May, Oct–Dec
Time zone
Asia/Nicosia
Sights covered
37 places

Sights worth seeing

See all 37 →
Church of Cyprus

Temples & religious sites

Church of Cyprus

This venerable Orthodox church is said to have been founded by the Apostle Barnabas and looks back on a long history, having gained autocephalous status in 431. Centered on its archbishopric seat in Nicosia, it offers a window into the traditions of the Cypriot Orthodox faith.

Saint Sophia Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

Saint Sophia Cathedral

This Gothic cathedral was converted into a mosque and is considered the largest and oldest Gothic building in Cyprus. Inside, you can explore its unique interior, where traces of both the cathedral and the mosque remain.

Cyprus Museum

Museums & galleries

Cyprus Museum

A museum showcasing a broad range of ancient Cypriot artifacts, the largest and oldest of its kind in Cyprus. It's conveniently located on Museum Street in central Nicosia.

Buffavento Castle

Castles & palaces

Buffavento Castle

Buffavento Castle is a fortress in Northern Cyprus whose exact construction date is unknown, though it's believed to date from the Byzantine era. Its blend of Byzantine and Frankish architecture makes it a fascinating stop for history-minded travelers.

Venetian walls of Nicosia

Heritage & monuments

Venetian walls of Nicosia

These walls encircle Nicosia and were rebuilt by the Venetian Republic in the mid-16th century in preparation for war with the Ottoman Empire. Among the best-preserved fortifications in the eastern Mediterranean, they make for a great walk around the city.

Haydar Pasha Mosque

Museums & galleries

Haydar Pasha Mosque

A historic building originally built as St. Catherine's Church before being converted into a mosque. It's considered one of Nicosia's finest examples of Gothic architecture, making it a highlight for travelers interested in architecture.

Arabahmet Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Arabahmet Mosque

The Arabahmet Mosque, built in the late 16th century, stands in the Arab Ahmet district in western North Nicosia. Its garden also holds the graves of once-prominent local figures.

St. John Theologian's Cathedral in Nicosia

Temples & religious sites

St. John Theologian's Cathedral in Nicosia

A leading Cypriot Orthodox cathedral located in central Nicosia. It's an easy stop to combine with sightseeing around the city center.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

11° Jan
11° Feb
13° Mar
18° Apr
23° May
27° Jun
31° Jul
30° Aug
27° Sep
22° Oct
17° Nov
13° Dec

Getting there

Check flights to North Nicosia first

Pick a departure airport and date to jump straight to results for Larnaca International Airport (LCA).

Check fares and seat availability on the flight search site.

Getting around the city

Book transport

Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.

North Nicosia Tours & Experiences Booking

Book local tours, tickets, and experiences in advance to enjoy without waiting. Check available products and prices now.

Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

Local data

Get an eSIM for Cyprus before you go

Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.

Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

Where to stay

See all stays →

Pick your dates — we'll search North Nicosia hotels for you

Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.

Hotel membership

Staying at Accor hotels often? ALL Accor+ Explorer

A paid annual membership. It includes two free nights a year across Asia-Pacific, 30% off dining and 15% off drinks, and 15% off stays at more than 4,500 hotels worldwide.

Explore the membership

Visit stories: North Nicosia

Have you been to this city?

Share your visit story with photos you took yourself. Once checked, it goes into the Magazine.

Share your visit story

Guides by theme