Special tour Face of the Old and the New Nicosia Town

Travelers considering a visit to Cyprus’s bustling capital will find this 2-hour private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into both the ancient and modern sides of Nicosia. Designed for those with a curiosity for history, art, and local culture, this guided experience promises an authentic look at what makes Nicosia unique — the only divided capital in Europe.

We particularly appreciate how this tour balances historical insights with lively street scenes, offering a taste of both the medieval charm and contemporary vibrancy of the city. Plus, the chance to hear stories directly from a local guide adds a personal touch that many generic tours lack. However, since the tour is relatively short, it might not satisfy travelers seeking an exhaustive exploration — but it’s perfect for those wanting a meaningful overview without a hefty time commitment.

If you’re after a cultural introduction, enjoy art and architecture, or want your first glimpse of a city straddling East and West, this experience likely suits you best. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate small-group, private tours that allow for a more personalized narrative and flexibility.

Key Points

• Balanced experience covering both Old and New Nicosia
• Visit highlights like Ermou Street, A. G. Leventis Gallery, and more
• Learn stories about the city’s history, culture, and division from a local guide
• Includes visits to important landmarks and museums with expert commentary
• Duration of 2 hours makes it a quick yet meaningful overview
• Private group ensures a personalized, flexible experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Tour? A Detailed Look

When thinking about exploring Nicosia, most visitors want to understand its complex identity—a city divided yet united, ancient yet contemporary. This tour hits those points directly, guiding you through historic landmarks while sharing stories that bring the city’s past and present to life.

The Itinerary: From Old to New

The tour begins with a meeting point next to the entrance, where you’ll meet your guide — a local with a wealth of knowledge who can answer questions and tailor the narrative to your interests. The first stop is Old Nicosia, a city surrounded by medieval walls and gates that once served as the main defense. You’ll learn about the city’s Venetian past, adding context to the beautiful architecture and layout. The guide will also point out the gates leading into the Old City, emphasizing their historical importance.

A highlight here is a visit to Levention Museum, a smaller venue packed with artifacts spanning from the Neolithic period to Byzantine times. We loved the way the guide connected these pieces to the broader story of Cyprus, making history tangible and engaging.

The tour then takes you to Ermou Street, a lively corridor lined with traditional Cypriot craftspeople and shops. Here, you can observe the city’s living culture, seeing artisans still practicing age-old trades. The street itself is visually stimulating, combining historic charm with everyday life.

Next, you’ll visit the A. G. Leventis Gallery, a treasure trove of European, Greek, and Cypriot paintings. The gallery provides insight into the artistic legacy of the region and offers a peaceful environment to appreciate local and European art.

The narrative continues with visits to Phaneromeni Church and the Hamam Omerye, reflecting on the city’s religious and Ottoman influences. The guide shares stories about their origins and significance, enriching your understanding of Nicosia’s layered history.

Highlights and Unique Features

What makes this tour particularly special is the storytelling aspect. As one reviewer pointed out, “Dr. Savvas was a great storyteller with deep knowledge of Cyprus’ history, especially leading up to the 1974 invasion.” His personal stories and insights about the city’s division add depth, making the experience more than just sightseeing.

You won’t get a generic run-through of facts. Instead, you’ll hear authentic tales about how Nicosia became divided, the impact of Venetian, Ottoman, and British rule, and contemporary issues surrounding the city’s border zone.

Value and Practical Details

At just 2 hours, the tour offers a compact yet insightful overview of Nicosia. The price, considering it is a private tour with a professional local guide, represents good value especially if you prefer a customizable experience. The tour is conducted in multiple languages (Spanish, French, German, Chinese, English, Hungarian), accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the amount of walking and cobbled streets, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Meeting points are flexible, starting at the entrance and concluding back at the same spot, making it easy to integrate into a day of exploring.

The tour also has a full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind to travelers uncertain about their plans.

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Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides as the tour’s biggest asset. One said, “Dr. Savvas was a great storyteller with a deep knowledge of Cyprus’ history,” adding a layer of richness to the experience. Another appreciated the local stories about the city’s division, giving context to the physical landmarks.

The visual aspect of the tour is also praised; “You’ll love the views of the old city walls and the vibrant street scenes,” one traveler noted. The art visits, especially at the Leventis Gallery, resonate with those interested in cultural pursuits, making the tour appealing for art lovers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you want a comprehensive, engaging introduction to Nicosia that combines history, art, and street life, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for first-time visitors looking to get their bearings and understand the city’s complex identity quickly.

Travelers who enjoy stories from locals and private, flexible experiences will find this especially appealing. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer shorter tours that still deliver depth, especially if time is limited.

However, if you’re seeking an in-depth exploration of every corner or have mobility concerns, this may be a bit too brief or inaccessible.

The Sum Up

This private tour of Nicosia’s old and new sides offers a compact yet meaningful peek into one of Europe’s most intriguing capitals. You’ll come away with a better understanding of the city’s layered history, vibrant arts, and ongoing division, all delivered by a guide passionate about sharing Cyprus’s story.

The tour’s strength lies in its personalized storytelling, diverse stops, and authentic atmosphere. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want an intimate, informative experience that combines history, culture, and local life, all within a manageable two-hour window.

While it might not satisfy those craving a comprehensive city guide, it’s perfect for first-time visitors or curious travelers eager for a taste of Nicosia’s unique charm and contradictions.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but enriching introduction to Nicosia.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, Chinese, English, and Hungarian.

Is the tour private or group?
It’s a private experience, allowing for a more personalized and flexible visit.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is next to the entry, and the tour finishes back at the same location.

Is there an age limit or anything unsuitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, but no specific age restrictions are mentioned. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

What’s included in the price?
A professional local guide is included in the price. Entrance to the Archaeological Museum costs 4 EUR and is not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any additional costs?
Apart from the optional museum entrance fee, no other costs are specified, but if you wish to visit additional sites, there might be extra charges.

Is this tour suitable for those interested in art?
Absolutely. The visit to the A. G. Leventis Gallery offers a fine look at European, Greek, and Cypriot paintings, making it appealing to art enthusiasts.

This Nicosia tour packs a lot of history, culture, and local flavor into just two hours, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting an authentic and engaging glimpse of Cyprus’s capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: