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Nicosia (Lefkosia)
The capital of the Republic of Cyprus is also its cultural heartbeat. Overlooked by most visitors, reduced to a day-tour jaunt from beach resorts, Nicosia (or Lefkosia, as it's officially known) is a curious and fascinating mix of vibrant street life, confronting division and rich history.
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Attractions
Must-see attractions for your itinerary
Venetian Walls
Nicosia (Lefkosia)
The Venetian walls form a border around the Old City and are so unusual that, once seen on a map, you’ll never forget the odd snowflake-like shape.
Cyprus Museum
Nicosia (Lefkosia)
Just outside the Old City walls, this excellent museum houses the island's most important collection of archaeological finds. Highlights include Hall 11's…
AG Leventis Gallery
Nicosia (Lefkosia)
Located just outside the Old City, this art museum features three collections displaying European paintings and sculpture from the 16th to the 20th…
Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre
Nicosia (Lefkosia)
This contemporary-art museum is housed in a former power station, and is the city’s equivalent to London’s Tate Modern. The former industrial setting is…
CVAR
Nicosia (Lefkosia)
Opened in 2014, CVAR's collection of art and archival material showcases the story of modern Cyprus. Galleries full of paintings and other artworks…
Leventis Municipal Museum
Nicosia (Lefkosia)
The best place in town to get to grips with Nicosia's rich and convoluted history. The permanent collection inside this handsome neoclassical mansion…
Chrysaliniotissa Quarter
Nicosia (Lefkosia)
Centred around the Panagia Chrysaliniotissa church, this residential neighbourhood on the edge of the Old City rubs right up against the Green Line, and…
Archbishop Makarios III Cultural Foundation – Byzantine Museum & Art Gallery
Nicosia (Lefkosia)
This foundation next door to the Archbishop's Palace is home to the magnificent Byzantine Museum, which holds a collection of more than 300 icons and…
Articles
Latest stories from Nicosia (Lefkosia)

Beaches
The best day trips from Nicosia include visits to ancient ruins, beautiful beaches and historic castlesJan 13, 2022 • 8 min read
- Art and CultureThe 9 best museums and churches in Nicosia: from the sublime to the divine
Jan 8, 2022 • 7 min read
ActivitiesThe 15 best things to do in Nicosia: from Venetian walls to Turkish bathsJan 4, 2022 • 8 min read
Guidebooks
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