Nicosia: Green Line and Buffer Zone Guided Walk

Nicosia , Cyprus

Nicosia: Green Line and Buffer Zone Guided Walk

Active

(140 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

I love nothing more than sharing the sights, sounds and secrets with intimate knowledge of the best places off the beaten path, on streets rarely discovered. I've been leading recreational walks for many years, purely out of interest and passion for my city. I enjoy connecting and showing people around this great city and I feel the best way to connect is on foot!
The intention is to leave you with an insider’s perspective of Nicosia.
Kindly note that a minimum of two guests is required for our walk to go ahead.

Available options

Nicosia: Green Line and Buffer Zone Guided Walk

What's included

Guided walk, entrance fees

Detailed itinerary

The Famagusta Gate is the most significant of the gates of Venetian Lefkosia, built in the 16th century, It is the Gate that once opened on the road leading to the most important Port of Cyprus in Famagusta.

This is not a regular city walk, but a passage through a town frozen in time. It will give you an insight into the current situation of the Buffer Zone “Green Line” off the beaten track, on streets that are hard to discover without the experience of a local guide.You will see the Venetian walls and how they form a boarder around the Old City, so unusual that once seen on a map will never be forgotten as a design synonymous with the unique shape of this ancient fortification. On our walk we will explore the Southern side of the city and follow the infamous “Green line” that cuts through the centre, separating the city into southern and northern sections. This division has kept the two major communities, of Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots apart for more than four decades. Our journey begins at the Ledra Palace Hotel known in its era as the largest and most majestic hotels of the capital. You will witness life having evolved along either side of this schism, something once impossible to do until recent agreements between the two sides to open border crossings. We will explore Ledra Street located at heart of the aforementioned walled city now once again rekindled to one of the most popular pedestrian commercial streets accented by abandoned buildings reclaimed by nature through decades of lost time scarred by bullet holes, military outposts and barricades.

Guests will experience both the Ledra Palace and Ledra Street crossing and have an understanding of the two intrinsically different cultures as we walk by them.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

49 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

91 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Accessible Toilet available at meeting point

Meeting point

The parking lot where we will meet is situated to the west of the Nicosia. It is located near the Green Line, just before the Ledra Palace Check point on the right side. Further down is the Goethe Institute. Make sure to enter "Markou Drakou Avenue" and enter the postal code number 1102

About Nicosia

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is the world's last divided capital, with the southern part under the Republic of Cyprus and the northern part under the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. It is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant street life, offering a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions.

Top Attractions

Cyprus Museum

The Cyprus Museum is the island's most important archaeological museum, housing a vast collection of artifacts from the Neolithic period to the Roman era.

Museum 2-3 hours €4.50

Selimiye Mosque

Originally a Gothic cathedral, Selimiye Mosque is a stunning example of architectural conversion. It stands as a symbol of the city's divided history.

Religious 1 hour Free

Ledra Street

Ledra Street is a bustling shopping district that crosses the Green Line, connecting the southern and northern parts of the city.

Shopping A few hours Varies by store

Must-Try Local Dishes

Halloumi

A semi-hard, grilled cheese with a unique flavor, often served as a meze or appetizer.

Snack Vegetarian

Kleftiko

Slow-cooked lamb with herbs and vegetables, traditionally cooked in a sealed clay pot.

Main Course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Troodos Mountains Boat trips from Kyrenia Spa treatments Beach days in the north Visiting museums and historic sites Attending local festivals Swimming and water sports in the north Skiing in the Troodos Mountains

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

This is the best time to visit Nicosia with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek, Turkish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

EET (UTC+2), EEST (UTC+3 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nicosia is generally safe for tourists, but caution should be exercised in certain areas, especially at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when crossing the Green Line
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas
• Use reputable taxi services and agree on the fare before starting the journey

Getting there

By air

Ercan International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
Larnaca International Airport • 56 km (35 miles) from city center

By bus

Kyrenia Gate, Ledra Palace

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Nicosia. They are affordable and cover most areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town

Day trips

Kyrenia (Girne)

30 km (18.6 miles) from Nicosia • Full day

A picturesque coastal town with a historic harbor, medieval castle, and beautiful beaches.

Troodos Mountains

70 km (43.5 miles) from Nicosia • Full day

A mountain range with scenic landscapes, hiking trails, and historic churches.

Festivals

Nicosia International Film Festival • September Cyprus International Fair • October

Pro tips

Cross the Green Line to experience both sides of the city
Visit the historic sites early in the morning to avoid crowds
Try local dishes at traditional taverns and meze restaurants
Explore the city's vibrant nightlife in the New Town
Take a day trip to the Troodos Mountains for stunning landscapes and hiking trails