Explore Lefkoşa, the North Cyprus capital. Discover top attractions, cultural highlights, history, and travel tips in this complete Nicosia guide.
The North Cyprus capital, Lefkoşa (internationally known as Nicosia), is unlike any other city in the world. It’s the last divided capital in Europe, where the northern Turkish Cypriot side meets the southern Greek Cypriot side, separated by a UN-patrolled buffer zone.
Rich in history, culture, and modern energy, Lefkoşa is the political, cultural, and economic heart of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the North Cyprus capital — from its ancient past to its modern present.
📍 Where is the North Cyprus Capital?
Lefkoşa is located in the center of the island of Cyprus. It has been the island’s capital for centuries and now serves as the administrative center of North Cyprus. The city is divided by the Green Line, which separates the TRNC from the Republic of Cyprus.
The northern part, known as Lefkoşa, is the capital of Northern Cyprus, while the southern part remains the capital of the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus.
🏰 Top Attractions in Nicosia (Lefkoşa)
1. Selimiye Mosque
- Formerly St. Sophia Cathedral, built during the Lusignan era
- One of the most iconic landmarks in North Cyprus
2. Büyük Han (The Great Inn)
- A restored 16th-century Ottoman inn, now a cultural center
- Full of cafes, art shops, and traditional craft stalls
3. Arasta Street & Old Market
- Bustling with local vendors, Turkish delight shops, spices, and souvenirs
- A great place to experience local daily life
4. Venetian Walls
- The old city is still surrounded by well-preserved Venetian walls, built in the 16th century
- Walk along them for great city views
5. Green Line / Ledra Palace Checkpoint
- Cross the border on foot into South Nicosia to experience the contrast between the two sides
- One of the most symbolic places in Cyprus
🧭 Cultural Experience in the North Cyprus Capital
Lefkoşa offers a deep cultural blend of Ottoman, Venetian, and British colonial influences. As the capital, it is home to:
- Museums: Mevlevi Tekke Museum, Lapidary Museum, and National Struggle Museum
- Galleries and art events throughout the year
- A youthful atmosphere thanks to local universities and institutions
🍴 What to Eat in Lefkoşa
As the culinary hub of North Cyprus, Nicosia has something for every taste:
- Traditional meze restaurants
- Street food like döner, börek, and lahmacun
- Local desserts such as kadayif and Turkish ice cream
- Cozy cafés with Turkish coffee and modern lounges
The Büyük Han is a particularly popular spot to enjoy local flavors in a historic setting.
🏨 Where to Stay in Nicosia (Lefkoşa)
The city offers a mix of:
- Boutique hotels within the walled city
- Modern business hotels near government and university districts
- Budget guesthouses for backpackers and students
Staying in the Old Town gives you easy access to most historical attractions and lively markets.
🚗 Getting to and Around the North Cyprus Capital
✈️ Arrival:
- From Ercan Airport: 25–30 minutes by car
- From Larnaca Airport (South Cyprus): Approx. 1 hour with a border crossing
🚌 Transport:
- Local buses and minibuses operate within the city
- Taxis and walking are most convenient inside the old city
Driving is on the left, and rental cars are widely available.
💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Nicosia, North Cyprus
- Currency: Turkish Lira (but Euros and Pounds are often accepted)
- Language: Turkish (English widely spoken in tourism areas)
- Climate: Hot summers, mild winters – best visited in spring and autumn
- Safety: Very safe for tourists on both sides of the city
- Crossing the border: Bring your passport; the process is quick and free for most travelers
❤️ Why Visit the North Cyprus Capital?
- Explore the last divided capital in Europe
- Immerse in centuries of history and diverse architecture
- Shop in traditional markets and eat in Ottoman-style courtyards
- Experience the cultural heart of Northern Cyprus
- Use it as a base to explore the rest of the island
🌞 Final Thoughts
The North Cyprus capital is a city of contrasts, where ancient meets modern, and history meets daily life. Whether you’re here for the culture, the history, or just passing through, Lefkoşa offers a unique and authentic experience you won’t find anywhere else on the island.
Use this Nicosia guide to discover the best of the North Cyprus capital, and explore a city full of stories, symbols, and soul. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io