Nicosia, Cyprus

For a taste of modern Nicosia, head to the recently revamped Makarios Avenue high street – home to international fashion brands, franchise stores, and plenty of new cafes and restaurants. For a more high-end shopping experience, the leafy Stasikratous Street is the place to be. Lined with prestigious stores and gorgeous boutiques, the ultimate shopping experience awaits!

No holiday in Nicosia would possibly be complete without spending a few hours at The Cyprus Museum, the island’s main and largest archaeological museum, charting the development of Cyprus’ civilisation from the Neolithic Age to the Early Byzantine period (7th century).

The lovely Leventis Municipal Museum, tucked away in the old town, is also one for the bucket list, taking visitors on a fascinating tour through the history of Nicosia, from the Chalcolithic period (c. 3000 BC) through to the Medieval and Ottoman eras, and on to the present day.

When you’re exploring the island’s capital, be sure to visit some of the archaeological sites and monuments that shed light on its fascinating history. The well-known Famagusta Gate is one of the most important gates of Venetian Nicosia and boasts an impressive façade and a large, vaulted passage.

The House of Hatzigeorgakis Kornesios is also a must-see, one of the most imperative examples of urban Cypriot architecture of the last century of Ottoman domination that survives in Old Nicosia. Located near the Archbishop’s Palace, this religious and political monument has long been integral to the city’s identity.

You don’t want to miss the beautiful Faneromeni church in the heart of the old town. Built in 1872 within the old city walls, this was the largest church in Nicosia. Always a central meeting point in the city, the church today is surrounded by cafes and eateries where you can watch the world go by. Be sure also to visit Agios Ioannis (St. John’s) Cathedral, built on the site of the 14th century Benedictine Abbey of Agios Ioannis, the Evangelist of Bibi.