The Perfect 3 days in Nicosia capital

Editorial Inspiration
Whether you prefer to explore the cultural side of the capital or bar-hopping in the center, there are plenty of ways to stay entertain in Nicosia city. Travelling around the capital is relatively easy; the distances are not big; just make sure you do not drive around the peak hours. From iconic landmarks to hidden local gems, this itinerary has all the capital’s must-see essentials covered.


Day 1: Museums and The old city of Nicosia
Nicosia boasts to be the capital of culture.  Begin your exploration by visiting some of the finest museums of the island and then continue your adventure towards the inner walls of the capital – the old city.

EXPLORE
Head to the side of the Archdiocese district, and experience the city's history in a museum-manner glance.
In the courtyard of the Archbishop area, you will find the Museum of Folk Art. The Ethnographic Museum presents a fine collection of 19th and early 20th century folk art. The building of the Museum dates back to the 15th century and is Gothic with earlier additions. The Ethnographic Museum is a showcase for local folk arts: embroidery, lace, costumes, pottery, metalwork, basketry, folk painting, leather-work and woodcarving.
Continue with the Byzantine Museum located within in the grounds of St. John Cathedral. The Museum contains the richest and most representative collection of Byzantine art of the island. Carry on to the  European Art Gallery. The Gallery of Archbishop Makarios III Foundation hosts a unique collection of representative works from Europe, Greece and Cyprus from the Renaissance to modern times.

EAT
If sightseeing and culture is not your type of interest the drive towards the other end of Nicosia, the Engomi area. Enjoy your lunch at the sunny veranda of famous Jamie’s Italian Restaurant. Spacious and full of light, the restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal for every occasion, from dinner with family to business lunches or special events. The menu offers a range of delicious, rustic Italian dishes with a Jamie twist, all made using the best local and seasonal produce. The Nicosia restaurant also features a stunning bar with plenty of cosy booths where you can relax and take in the vibrant atmosphere.
Another great choice while in Engomi area is the Elliniko. Conveniently situated within the grounds of the Hilton Park Hotel, To Elliniko has the warm welcoming atmosphere of a traditional ouzomezedopolion and is the perfect place to meet friends or work colleagues for a leisurely meal.

PLAY
Wonder around the Square, walk towards the Pancyprian Gymnasium, which is one of the greatest historical schools of Cyprus and head to Melina Mercury Hall.

BRUNCH
I am sure that a nice drink and a delicious brunch is all you need by now. Have a drink at D.O.T, known for its wonderful brunches.  The drinks menu is as impressive with fruit juices, smoothies and the full range of coffes and tea. 

PLAY
Wonder around the area, gaze at the beautiful restored houses and just relax.

EAT AND DRINK
After the sunset, enjoy the cool breeze of the capital and treat yourself with a nice glass of ‘tsippouro’ at Tsipouraki Mezedaki. Situated in a quit neighbourhood on the corner of Othellou str near the Famagusta Gate, it is a popular place to enjoy an evening as is the only authentic ‘tsipouradiko’ in Nicosia. There are regular evenings with live rembetika and other traditional music. Enjoy a chilled beer, glass of wine or maybe an icy cold Ouzo served with plenty of ice? It goed without saying that it is the perfect place to enjoy Tsipouro too - the drink that is linked with Greek hospitality and tradition. Tsipouro is the ideal choice with meat, seafood and cheese.
 
For those opting for afternoon to unwind over an exotic cocktail or nice glass of wine, a fantastic recommendation is Bastione Restaurant Bar which has a great reputation for its Mediterranean oriented menu with Oriental touches.
 
DAY 2: Walks in the inner city of old Nicosia

PLAY
There couldn’t be a better way to recommend starting your second day but a visit in the Hamam Omerye. Voted as the ‘Best traditional bath spa in Nicosia’ by Lux – Hotel & Spa Awards in 2016. Share some perfect moments with your friends or your mate and we can guarantee that this day will be unforgettable. Their unique services are created to revitalize the body and the mind and enhance your well-being. Try the special Kese - Borek, the original Constantinopole ritual of steam bath that combines scrub and  foam massage and feel like real Pasha.
 
EXPLORE
The best way to explore the inner city of old Nicosia is on foot.  Wonder around the old streets and admire the old Cypriot houses with the hanging balconies and truly amazing traditional coloured doors.   

EAT
Have a stop at Starbucks and enjoy a good cup of coffee or a rejuvenating healthy smoothie.

SEE
After coffee head to Leventis Municipal Museum. Considered one of the best museums of the capital, the museum unfolds the history of the city of Nicosia, from antiquity to the present era.
The old city is filled with small but important museums so as you stroll around make your pick and visit. For the motorcycle aficionados we recommend the Cyprus Classic Motorcycle museum dedicated to the history of the motorcycle in Cyprus. Today, this collection comprises more than 150 motorcycles. At the Museum one can see motorcycles dated between 1914 and 1983, such as Js, MV Aqusta, Matchless, Norton, BSA, Triumph, Ariel, BMW, James, Moto Guzzi, Royal Enfield and many more.

EAT
While you are in the area head to Manolito Pizza & Pasta for a tasty pizza or a delicious plate of pasta. If you fancy a snack rather than a meal there are great sandwiches and submarines to choose from too and if you haven't got time to enjoy the relaxing and friendly atmosphere at Manolitos - which sometimes includes live music too - there is an efficient take away service too!

SHOP
As you walk up and down the streets of old Nicosia you will find many shops to choose from for clothing, jewellery, accessories, and galleries as well as health stores and little gadget shops.

EAT AND DRINK
If you are wandering and you hear some really good music check the street sign because you are probably in Great Alexander Street home to The Patio Cocktail, Wine & Tapas Bar. Check out events calendar because Patio hosts some great events too.

EXPLORE
Continue shopping in the streets of Ledras and Onasagorou, feel the cool evening breeze of the capital and loosen up watching the people strolling around.

DRINK
Care for some wine? Head to the The Winery. The place hosts an impressive wine list featuring more than 300 labels from 15 different countries - including some rare wines!

Day 3: Athalassa Park and the city center

PLAY
Start you day with a brisk walk, a gentle jog or just relax at Athalassa Park (10 minutes drive from the city center). The park is the perfect choice with more than 500 different species of trees to admire and entertainment provided by the wild ducks and other water birds that swim happily on its lakes. The park is the biggest green area of the capital and it is a true green heaven. It is unbelievable to think that the park is not a natural park but is indeed mad-made.

PLAY
Maintaining the pleasure mode, head to Dessange. In this luxurious paradise, you have the opportunity to find hair salon for men and women as well as make-up services. Treat yourself with the latest hair trents straight from Parisian experts. 

EAT
Garden Day & Night is the perfect choice any day and time of the week but its 'brunchellor' is the perfect - and really relaxing - way to start the day! Try the delicious Garden pancakes.

SEE
As you enjoy your dreamy brunch, it is now time to just pop opposite and visit the Cyprus Museum (Archaeological), the island’s foremost museum. Founded in 1888 and houses archaeological treasures of Cyprus with 14 galleries of original art pieces from the Neolithic 9th millennium BC to the Byzantine periods. Highlights include a statue of 'Aphrodite of Soli' which has become the symbol of Cyprus, a collection of gold jewellery, pottery, three limestone lions, two sphinxes from Tamassos necropolis and the remains of the royal tombs of Salamis. The museum may not compare to Acropolis Museum or the Louvre, but it’s collection is indeed very impressive, with treasures dating back to the 8th millennium BC.

EAT
We are sure you must be hungry by now. Drive towards TGI Fridays the recently renovated Nicosia City Center at Diagorou street. There are so many great dishes to choose from: ultra cool salads, great appetizers, burgers, sandwiches and hearty Jack Daniel grills, chicken and Tex Mex - what a choice!
If you missed pizza then right opposite there’s Marzano offering  mouth-watering Italian dishes including pizza, pasta, salads, grills, and irresistible desserts...

SEE
Few steps away you will find the renowned Leventios Art Gallery

SHOP
Walk towards the main shopping area of the capital. Make sure you stop at some of the area’s best boutique stores and famous retail street names.  On Makarios avenue, head towards Yamamay, the popular Italian brand with amazing selection of women’s and men’s underwear, sleepwear and summer clothing and swimsuits.

PLAY
Have a short break from your shopping spree and enter the Quick Spa. You will be surprised by the variety of excellent hair, body and face treatments, massage, nails and make-up services. You will also be surprised by the wonderful organic products that respect your whole body and  help you to improve yourself. 
If you want some tan but no time to head to the seaside then no worries, go to the Nat’s Solarium & Spa center. Nat’s Spa is the first Solarium and Spa Centre in Cyprus to offer clients the use of the new Tron Sunbed and UVA Intensive tanning booth - both use the latest technology with remarkable results.

EAT
It is unusual to find a restaurant that specialises in hamburgers that isn’t ‘fast food’  but at the Artisan’s Burger Bar you can enjoy a really five star burger with salads and sides and no one will hurry you at all!
For a Greek twist set off to Valtou Rigani which has succeeded into elevating traditional Greek recipes including ‘souvlaki’ using fresh ingredients and herbs freshly cut from the back garden. Valtou Rigani is not only popular for dinner but is also a favourite for lunch offering ‘home made’ recipes.

WORK
Nicosia capital is the main business and administrative centre of Cyprus so leisure and business can always be combined. Check out for some great conferences and seminars occurring all year round.

EAT & DRINK
After a creative meeting we recommend the Mezostrati. The traditional Cypriot tavern will treat you with luscious ‘mezedes’. The tempo changes at Mezostrati on a Friday and Saturday night and during Sunday lunchtime as the tavern’s three singers delight everyone by singing all the much-loved Greek songs.
Another great place to meet and relax with friends is Tesla’s Pigeon and the ‘After Work, early drinks offers’ are definitely too tempting to miss!

CLUBBING
If you want to feel the beat, the ZOO club is your choice, one of best established night clubs in the capital.

TRAVEL
In case you are travelling to Larnaka or Pafos International Airport then check out the Kapnos Shuttle Service time schedules for your easy of mind, luxury and fastest way to the airport.