From Paphos: Nicosia The Last Divided Capital Full Day

Explore the fascinating story of Nicosia, the last city in the world that remains divided. Starting in Paphos, this full-day tour offers a comprehensive look at the Cypriot capital’s unique split between its Greek and Turkish sectors. For $65.85 per person, the 8-hour guided experience includes pickup, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, and visits to significant historic and cultural sites. While the tour offers a detailed glimpse of Nicosia’s division, it is best suited for those interested in history, politics, and urban contrasts. The tour’s pacing is well-balanced, though some may find certain stops like Archbishop’s Palace brief.

A notable highlight is the crossing of the Green Line buffer zone, which provides a rare opportunity to see both sides of the city firsthand. However, there are some limitations, such as the lack of included meals and some stops being pass-by or outside visits, which may influence your overall experience. This tour offers a practical way to learn about Cyprus’s divided capital in just one day, making it suitable for those with limited time or a curiosity about ongoing geopolitical stories.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $65.85, this full-day tour lasts approximately 8 hours and includes guided commentary.
• Unique Crossing Experience: You cross the Green Line buffer zone to explore both Greek and Turkish-occupied parts of Nicosia.
• Historic and Cultural Highlights: Stops include St John’s Cathedral, Archbishop’s Palace, and St. Sofia Cathedral.
• Transport and Comfort: Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup service from Paphos.
• Limited Meals Included: Lunch is not included, giving you freedom for lunch and shopping at Ledra Street.
• Mixed Reviews: The experience has a 3.5/5 rating based on three reviews, with some noting excellent insights and others highlighting issues with the local company.

From Paphos to Nicosia: Starting the Journey

The tour departs early from Paphos at 7:30 am, ensuring plenty of time for the day’s exploration. The first stop is a two-hour drive to Nicosia, providing a comfortable start to the day in an air-conditioned vehicle. This initial segment is straightforward, setting the stage for a full day of sightseeing and learning.

Visiting the Neolithic Settlement of Choirokoitia

On the way, there’s a 15-minute coffee break at the Neolithic Settlement of Choirokoitia. While admission tickets are not included, the stop offers a brief chance to stretch and appreciate ancient history, as the settlement is a noteworthy archaeological site of early Cypriot civilization.

Exploring St John’s Cathedral and the Liberty Monument

In Nicosia, the guide leads visitors inside St John’s Cathedral, where admission is included. The cathedral’s architecture and history are focal points, complemented by a visit to the nearby monument of Liberty. This stop lasts about 25 minutes and provides insight into the city’s religious and national symbols.

Passing the Archbishop’s Palace

A quick pass-by of the Archbishop’s Palace offers a glimpse of this significant religious building. At just 10 minutes, it’s a brief view, but it emphasizes the religious authority within Nicosia.

Walking to the Ledra Street Crossing Point

The tour’s highlight is a 2-hour walk toward the UN Buffer Zone at the end of Ledra Street. This area marks the de facto border between the Greek and Turkish sectors and is a lively zone for lunch and shopping. Travelers get free time to explore, take photos, or pick up souvenirs, making this stop both a cultural and a practical break.

Crossing into Turkish-occupied Nicosia at St. Sofia Cathedral

Crossing the green line, visitors explore St. Sofia Cathedral from outside, appreciating its architecture and symbolic importance. The 1-hour stop combines sightseeing with reflection on the city’s division.

Returning to Paphos

In the late afternoon, the tour departs Nicosia and heads back to Paphos, where guests are dropped off at their hotels. The return journey offers a chance to unwind and process the day’s intense political and cultural contrasts.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

This tour is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate. It includes all fees and taxes, and the mobile ticket feature simplifies the booking process. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, which adds flexibility for those unsure about their plans.

The Realities of the Tour Experience

While the itinerary promises a comprehensive exploration of Nicosia’s division, reviews reveal mixed experiences. One reviewer criticizes the local company, citing issues with pickup reliability, but others praise the day’s informative nature and the opportunity to see more of the Green Line than other tours. The guides’ explanations and the pace of the tour are generally appreciated, but some stops may feel rushed or limited in time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, political watchers, or anyone interested in Cyprus’s ongoing division. It offers a practical way to see both Greek and Turkish segments of Nicosia without needing extensive planning. The guided commentary and crossing of the Green Line are unique features that set this tour apart.

Limitations and Recommendations

Potential travelers should note that lunch is not included, so planning for a meal during the free time at Ledra Street is advisable. The pass-by stops and relatively short visits to certain sites mean that those seeking in-depth exploration may find the tour brief. It’s also wise to consider reviews about the local company’s reliability if punctuality is critical.

Final Thoughts on the Nicosia Last Divided Capital Tour

This tour provides a straightforward, guided introduction to Nicosia’s division, crossing the Green Line and visiting key landmarks. Its value lies in the opportunity to stand in both parts of the city and learn about its history and politics firsthand. While it offers a good overview, some may find the limited time at each site insufficient for a deep dive. The tour suits those with curiosity about Cyprus’s geopolitical story and a desire for a cost-effective, guided day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all fees and taxes, guided tour, air-conditioned transport, and pickup from Paphos.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and coffee/tea are not included, giving you flexibility to dine at Ledra Street during free time.

How long does the crossing of the Green Line take?
The walk toward Ledra Street and crossing into the Turkish sector takes about 2 hours, including free time for exploration.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved and the brief stops at some sites.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include St John’s Cathedral, Liberty Monument, Ledra Street crossing, and St. Sofia Cathedral outside viewing.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

What is the guide’s role during the stops?
The guide provides commentary at key sites, explaining the history and significance of Nicosia’s division and its landmarks.

How is transportation arranged?
All transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup service from Paphos included.

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time in Ledra Street.