From Paphos: Nicosia The Last Divided Capital Full Day

Exploring the last divided capital of Europe, Nicosia, is a captivating journey that beckons travelers to uncover the island’s complex history. This full-day tour from Paphos promises an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the charming Old Town and across the heavily guarded Green Line, where the contrasting Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities coexist. From savoring local cuisine to witnessing the poignant reminders of a divided nation, this excursion offers a thought-provoking glimpse into Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage, leaving one to ponder the profound impact of the island’s tumultuous past and the resilience of its people.

About Your Stay

• A full-day guided tour from Paphos to Nicosia, the last divided capital of Europe, to explore the historic old town and witness the division of the city.
• Includes transportation, guided tour, lunch, and coffee/tea, with the option to reserve and pay later.
• Offers an opportunity to cross the heavily guarded Green Line and experience the stark contrast between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot parts of the city.
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues, back problems, or serious medical conditions due to extensive walking and lack of wheelchair accessibility.
• Rated 3.3/5 based on 3 reviews, with a price of €55.00 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

From Paphos, travelers can embark on a full-day tour to explore Nicosia, the last divided capital city in the world.

The tour earns a 3.3 rating based on 3 reviews, and it’s priced at €55.00 per person. The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, starting at 7:30 am.

Included in the price are all fees and taxes, an air-conditioned vehicle, a guided tour, lunch, and coffee/tea. Travelers will receive confirmation upon booking and can select a pickup point.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for certain travelers.

Meeting and Pickup

Travelers receive confirmation upon booking and can select a pickup point for the Nicosia tour.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for flexibility. This full-day excursion from Paphos to the last divided capital city of Nicosia is accessible by public transportation, though the tour itself isn’t wheelchair-friendly.

Infants must sit on laps during the journey. The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions, but most others can participate.

Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, making it convenient to plan their Nicosia exploration.

Accessibility and Recommendations

According to the information provided, the Nicosia tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible.

However, it’s located near public transportation, making it accessible for those who can walk or use mobility aids.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as the tour may involve extensive walking and exposure to potentially strenuous activities.

Despite these limitations, the tour is suitable for most travelers, and the majority of participants are likely to find the experience enjoyable and informative.

Exploring Nicosia’s Old Town

The old town of Nicosia, a captivating remnant of the island’s tumultuous past, beckons visitors to explore its winding alleyways and well-preserved medieval architecture.

Amidst the charming shops and cafes, the old town’s striking landmarks, like the Gothic St. John’s Cathedral, offer a window into Cyprus’ rich history.

Visitors can wander the Ledras Street, a bustling pedestrian zone that spans the Green Line, the demarcation between the Greek and Turkish sides of the divided city.

Here, the legacy of conflict and the hope for reunification coexist, inviting guests to gain a deeper understanding of Nicosia’s complex identity.

With its blend of historical significance and contemporary vibrancy, the old town promises an immersive experience for those seeking to uncover the heart of this unique capital.

Crossing the Green Line

One of the most profound experiences for visitors to Nicosia is crossing the Green Line, the demarcation that has divided the city for decades.

This heavily guarded buffer zone runs right through the heart of the old town, separating the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities.

Crossing the checkpoints on either side offers a rare chance to experience the effects of this longstanding division firsthand.

Visitors can explore the abandoned buildings, shops, and homes in the buffer zone, gaining a deeper understanding of the complex history and ongoing efforts towards reunification.

The contrast between the two halves of the city is striking, serving as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced in resolving this enduring conflict.

Visiting the Buffer Zone

Visitors exploring Nicosia’s divided city will find the buffer zone, known as the Green Line, a captivating and poignant experience.

This heavily guarded no-man’s land, dividing the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, offers a unique opportunity to see the physical manifestation of the island’s long-standing conflict.

Crossing the barricades, travellers can walk through the deserted streets, admiring the crumbling buildings and abandoned shops that serve as a haunting reminder of the division.

The eerie silence is interrupted only by the occasional sound of soldiers patrolling the area, underscoring the fragility of the peace.

For many, this visit provides a deeper understanding of the complex political and social dynamics that have shaped Nicosia’s history.

Discovering Cypriot Culture

Beyond the haunting divide of the Green Line, Nicosia offers a rich tapestry of Cypriot culture that beckons exploration.

Stroll through the picturesque Old Town, where time-honored traditions and artisanal crafts thrive. Admire the intricate Byzantine architecture, and step into the serene courtyard of the Selimiye Mosque, a stunning example of Ottoman influence.

Savor the flavors of Cypriot cuisine, from meze platters to fragrant halloumi cheese. Discover the stories woven into the city’s history, from ancient Greek and Roman roots to the lingering effects of the island’s division.

Nicosia’s cultural mosaic invites visitors to engage with the vibrant spirit that transcends its geopolitical boundaries.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Traveler reviews of the "Nicosia: The Last Divided Capital" tour offer a mixed but generally positive assessment of the experience.

Based on a limited number of reviews, the tour holds a 3.3 out of 5 rating. Feedback highlights the informative nature of the walking tour, with one reviewer praising the insights provided on the Green Line dividing the city.

Another reviewer had a negative experience with the local tour company Explore Cyprus.

Worth The Stay

This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating history and culture of Cyprus. Travelers will explore Nicosia’s charming Old Town, cross the heavily guarded Green Line, and witness the poignant contrasts between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities. With comfortable transportation, a guided tour, lunch, and coffee/tea included, this full-day excursion provides a memorable and comprehensive experience for anyone interested in the island’s rich heritage.