Nicosia Full Day Shopping Tour From Paphos

The Nicosia Full Day Shopping Tour from Paphos presents an enticing opportunity for travelers looking to explore the unique cultural tapestry of Cyprus. Crossing the UN-controlled Green Line, visitors can explore the distinct Turkish and Greek Cypriot sides of the divided capital, seeing the historic Old Town, iconic landmarks, and traditional villages. With a professional driver and local guide, this tour promises a comprehensive experience, allowing participants to discover diverse crafts, savor Cypriot cuisine, and gain deeper insights into the island’s rich heritage. Whether seeking a cultural adventure or a shopping excursion, this tour is sure to captivate and leave you eager to uncover more.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Paphos.

Key Points

• The tour takes visitors on a full-day small-group excursion from Paphos to explore the divided city of Nicosia, including both the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot sides.
• Participants have the opportunity to cross the UN-controlled Green Line checkpoint and witness the physical division of the capital city firsthand.
• The tour includes visits to the historic Old Town of Nicosia, where visitors can experience the diverse shopping, dining, and cultural offerings of the island.
• Traditional Cypriot crafts, contemporary fashion, and artisanal goods are available for purchase in Nicosia’s markets and shops.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Paphos, an air-conditioned coach, and a local guide who provides live commentary throughout the day.

Overview of the Tour

This full-day small-group tour from Paphos takes visitors to the divided city of Nicosia, allowing them to explore both sides and stop at some villages along the way.

Guests will be picked up from their Paphos city centre hotels and transported by air-conditioned coach with a professional driver. A local guide will provide live commentary during the journey.

To cross the checkpoint into Northern Nicosia, you will need to bring their passports.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller friendly with infant seats available.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and guests are advised to wear appropriate walking shoes.

Inclusions and Pickup Details

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Paphos city centre hotels, as well as an air-conditioned coach and professional driver.

Plus, a local guide will provide live commentary throughout the journey.

Pickup details will be sent 24 hours before the tour, and the exact pickup time will be confirmed.

Passengers must wear appropriate shoes for walking, and they’ll need their passport to cross the checkpoint in Nicosia.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and infant seats are available.

With 69 reviews and an average rating of 4.0, this Nicosia full-day shopping tour from Paphos promises an engaging and informative experience.

Tour Highlights and Destinations

The tour takes visitors to both sides of the divided city of Nicosia, offering a unique opportunity to explore the contrast between the Turkish and Greek Cypriot communities. Along the way, it also includes stops in some villages, providing a broader glimpse into the island’s cultural diversity.

Visitors can expect to explore the following highlights during the tour:

Destination	Description
Old Town of Nicosia	Wander through the historic old town, lined with charming shops and cafes.
Green Line Checkpoint	Cross the UN-controlled buffer zone that divides the city and observe the military presence.
Turkish Cypriot Side	Discover the vibrant Turkish-Cypriot side, with its distinct architecture and lively markets.
Greek Cypriot Side	Explore the Greek-Cypriot side, visiting landmarks and experiencing the local culture.
Traditional Villages	Stop in nearby villages to immerse in the island’s rural charm and authentic way of life.

Crossing the Cyprus Divide

Crossing the UN-controlled buffer zone at the Green Line checkpoint in Nicosia offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the physical division of the island’s capital city.

Travelers will need to present their passports to pass through the checkpoint, which serves as a stark reminder of the long-standing political conflict in Cyprus.

Once across the divide, guests can explore the distinct Turkish and Greek Cypriot neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and character.

The tour highlights include:

• Wandering the historic streets of the Old Town
• Visiting iconic landmarks like the Ledra Street Crossing
• Discovering traditional Cypriot cuisine and culture
• Browsing local shops and markets on both sides of the divide
• Gaining a deeper understanding of the island’s complex history and politics.

Shopping Opportunities in Nicosia

Nicosia’s bustling markets and shops offer visitors a wealth of shopping opportunities, showcasing the city’s diverse cultural heritage and artisanal crafts. From traditional Cypriot pottery and lace to contemporary fashion and jewelry, the streets of Nicosia are a treasure trove for the discerning shopper. Explore the vibrant Laiki Yitonia neighborhood, where local artisans showcase their handmade wares, or wander through the Ledra Street crossing, where both Turkish and Greek Cypriot shops sit side by side. Whether you’re seeking unique souvenirs or simply enjoying the local shopping experience, Nicosia’s shopping scene is sure to delight and inspire.

Product Category	Unique Offerings	Price Range	Availability
Traditional Crafts	Cypriot pottery, lace, embroidery	Moderate to High	Widely available
Contemporary Fashion	Clothing, accessories, jewelry	Moderate to High	Widely available
Artisanal Goods	Handmade soaps, candles, ceramics	Moderate to High	Specialty shops
Food & Spices	Halloumi cheese, olive oil, herbs/spices	Moderate to High	Specialty shops, markets

Local Cuisine and Cultural Experiences

Along With its vibrant shopping scene, Nicosia offers visitors a chance to enjoy the city’s rich culinary and cultural heritage.

Visitors can savor traditional Cypriot dishes like halloumi cheese, moussaka, and souvlaki, exploring the local flavors that have been passed down for generations.

Meandering through the historic neighborhoods, they’ll find opportunities to engage with artisans and learn about the island’s art, music, and folklore.

Some highlights of the cultural experience include:

• Visiting a traditional coffee house for a taste of Cypriot coffee and conversation
• Observing local craftsmen demonstrate their skills in leatherwork, pottery, or weaving
• Attending a live performance of Cypriot folk music and dance
• Exploring the Byzantine churches and museums that showcase the island’s history
• Participating in a hands-on cooking class to learn the secrets of Cypriot cuisine.

Tour Logistics and Requirements

The tour begins with pickup from Paphos city center hotels, where an air-conditioned coach and professional driver await participants.

Visitors then cross the border into the divided city of Nicosia, where a local guide provides live commentary on the drive.

Passports are required to pass through the checkpoint, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers and infant seats are available.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and guests are advised to wear appropriate shoes for walking.

The journey also includes stops in various villages along the way, allowing participants to enjoy the local culture and explore the region beyond the capital city.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Travelers have left 69 reviews on this full-day shopping tour from Paphos to Nicosia, giving it an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars.

Many customers praise the tour for its well-organized itinerary, knowledgeable local guide, and comfortable transportation.

Highlights mentioned include:

• Exploring both the Greek and Turkish sides of the divided city of Nicosia
• Discovering charming Cypriot villages along the way
• Ample time for shopping and sightseeing in Nicosia’s old town
• Seamless hotel pickup and drop-off service
• The opportunity to learn about the island’s history and culture

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Customers can typically not customize the tour itinerary. These small-group tours have fixed schedules to ensure efficient logistics. However, customers should check with the tour operator if any customization options are available upon request.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Coach?

The tour operator doesn’t mention whether there’s Wi-Fi available on the coach. However, they do provide an air-conditioned vehicle and a professional driver to transport guests from Paphos to Nicosia and back.

What Happens if I Need to Cancel the Tour?

If the customer needs to cancel the tour, they should contact the tour provider as soon as possible. Cancellation fees may apply, depending on the tour’s policy. The provider will guide the customer through the cancellation process.

Can I Take Photographs at the Checkpoints?

Travelers can take photographs at the checkpoints during the tour, but they should be mindful of any restrictions or rules set by the authorities. It’s best to check with the tour guide before taking photos at sensitive areas.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s likely an option for a private tour. Many tour operators offer private tours for a surcharge, which allows travelers to have a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide and flexible schedule.

Recap

The Nicosia Full Day Shopping Tour from Paphos offers a comprehensive exploration of Cyprus’ divided capital.

Visitors can cross the Green Line checkpoint to discover the distinct Turkish and Greek Cypriot sides, immerse in the local culture, shop for crafts and artisanal goods, and savor Cypriot cuisine.

With a professional driver and guide, the tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the island’s rich heritage and contemporary offerings.