Discover North Nicosia’s Hidden Corners on a Private Walking Tour

The Nikosia: Best of North Nicosia Walking Tour offers a focused look at the northern part of Cyprus’s divided capital. Lasting approximately 2 hours, this private experience takes visitors through key sights like Bandabulya Market, the Selimiye Mosque, and Büyük Han. The tour is flexible and customizable, ideal for those who want an in-depth, personalized exploration of Nicosia’s North.

What makes this tour stand out is its private format, allowing for tailored visits and direct interaction with a knowledgeable local guide. The tour’s familiarity with the area ensures that you see both popular landmarks and lesser-known spots. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a more intimate experience without the crowds, and the door-to-door service adds convenience.

A key advantage is the flexibility to customize the itinerary and the inclusion of valuable local advice about other things to do in Nicosia. However, the tour is not included with food or drink, making it a good choice for those who prefer to explore and then find their own refreshment options afterward.

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Key Points

Private, customizable walking experience in North Nicosia lasting about 2 hours
Starts and ends at Barricade Lounge & Bar, with help to book tickets for specific sites
Visits Bandabulya Municipal Market, Selimiye Mosque, and Büyük Han
Led by a live English-speaking guide with in-depth local knowledge
Suitable for wheelchair users and private groups seeking flexibility
Does not include food or drinks, allowing personal choice for refreshment

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Starting Point at Barricade Lounge & Bar

The tour kicks off at the front of Barricade Lounge & Bar, a convenient and recognizable meeting spot. This location sets a relaxed tone for your exploration, and the guide greets you here before setting out on foot.

From this starting point, the guide leads you toward Bandabulya Municipal Market, a site that dates back to 1932. The market offers an authentic glimpse into local life, with stalls selling fresh produce, traditional sweets, and souvenirs. The lively atmosphere makes this a great first stop to understand the everyday rhythm of North Nicosia.

Exploring the Historic Bandabulya Market

The Bandabulya Market is a highlight of the tour, providing a taste of local commerce. Its guided tour allows you to see a variety of goods and learn about their significance in Cypriot culture. The market’s longstanding history makes it an engaging place to observe traditional trading practices.

While browsing, visitors can appreciate the mix of fresh fruits, vegetables, and handmade crafts, giving insight into the region’s culinary and artisanal traditions. The market’s architecture and vibrant stalls are visually interesting, even if not all vendors are included in the guided visit.

Visiting the Iconic Selimiye Mosque

A major highlight is the Selimiye Mosque, which was originally the Saint Sophia Cathedral built in the 13th century. Despite ongoing renovation work, the mosque’s exterior architecture remains impressive, showcasing Gothic sacral design elements that reflect Nicosia’s diverse cultural history.

The guide provides context about the mosque’s transformation from a cathedral to a mosque, illustrating Nicosia’s layered past. Visitors can admire the intricate Gothic details and the dome that dominates the skyline, gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s architectural evolution even during its restoration.

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Discovering the Arabahmet Mosque and Its Historic Quarter

Next, the tour visits the Arabahmet Mosque, located within the Arabahmet Quarter. This neighborhood was once a hub of cultural and commercial activity, with numerous Ottoman and British era buildings.

The guided visit offers insights into the area’s architectural heritage and its role in the city’s history. The mosque itself reflects Ottoman influence, and walking through this historic quarter provides a glimpse into Nicosia’s multicultural past.

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Ending at Büyük Han for a Cultural Pause

The tour concludes at the Büyük Han, an Ottoman caravanserai that now serves as a lively spot for drinks and light meals. Its impressive Ottoman architecture makes it a fitting end to the exploration.

At Büyük Han, visitors can relax and take in the atmosphere, perhaps enjoying a refreshing drink or a leisurely lunch. The Han’s courtyard and surrounding shops offer a charming setting to reflect on what has been seen during the tour.

Additional Stops Include Samanbahçe and More

Some versions of the tour include a visit to Samanbahçe, a historic area that highlights local architecture and urban development. The guide’s familiarity means you can explore these sites with ease, gaining insights into their significance.

The guided nature of the tour ensures you don’t miss key details, and the private group setting allows for questions and personalized attention throughout.

Practical Details: Transport, Access, and Booking

This private walking tour involves mostly walking and public transport, with options to select a different mode of transport if desired. The meeting point is easily accessible, and the tour is wheelchair friendly, making it suitable for a range of travelers.

Booking assistance is provided to help secure tickets for specific sites, streamlining access to locations that might otherwise require advance planning. The full itinerary is flexible, and the cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The customization aspect is a key feature, enabling visitors to tailor the experience to their interests. The focus on local guides ensures authentic storytelling, and the exclusion of food and drinks gives travelers the freedom to choose where or when to eat.

Compared to similar experiences, this tour’s private format and personalized approach make it especially appealing for those wanting a more intimate understanding of North Nicosia’s landmarks and neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts on the Nicosia North Walking Tour

This 2-hour private tour offers an accessible and insightful look at North Nicosia’s highlights, from historic mosques to Ottoman-era architecture. The familiarity of the guide with the area guarantees enriching stories and practical tips for further exploration.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, the careful selection of key sites and the flexibility make it a valuable introduction for newcomers or those with limited time. The convenience of the meeting point, customization options, and wheelchair accessibility add to its appeal.

This tour is well-suited for travelers seeking a personalized, informative, and relaxed exploration of North Nicosia’s most notable sights.

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