Special tour Face of the Old and the New Nicosia Town

Discover the Heart of Cyprus with the Face of the Old and the New Nicosia Town Tour

Exploring Nicosia isn’t just about ticking off historic landmarks; it’s about experiencing a city that embodies duality—where ancient walls and modern streets coexist. This 2-hour private tour offers a purposeful stroll through the Old City’s narrow lanes and the bustling modern avenues, revealing Cyprus’s layered history and vibrant culture. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll navigate through centuries of stories, art, and architecture that make Nicosia uniquely captivating.

What makes this tour truly appealing? First, it combines the timeless charm of Old Nicosia with the vitality of the new town. Second, the inclusion of spots like Ermou Street, the A. G. Leventis Gallery, and the Leventis Museum promises a well-rounded cultural experience. And third, the stories shared by the guide—particularly from someone with deep local roots—bring the city’s history to life.

The only potential downside? With just two hours, the tour is slightly condensed, so travelers interested in an in-depth exploration of every nook might find themselves wishing for more time. Still, for those who want a lively overview of Nicosia’s core highlights, it hits the sweet spot. This experience is best suited for travelers eager to get an authentic taste of the city’s historical layers while enjoying a personalized, flexible walk.

Key Points

• Highlights both old and new Nicosia in one seamless tour
• Includes key sites such as Ermou Street, Leventis Gallery, and the Archaeological Museum
• Led by a local expert, who shares fascinating stories and insights
• Short duration with flexibility, perfect for a quick cultural fix
• Accessible for most travelers (not wheelchair accessible)
• Affordable price point for such a rich experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Look at Nicosia’s Contrasts

The “Face of the Old and the New Nicosia Town” tour offers a well-crafted snapshot of Cyprus’s capital, balancing the city’s ancient roots with its modern expressions. Starting from the meeting point—conveniently located next to the entry—you’ll quickly find yourself walking through streets that have witnessed centuries of change.

Exploring Old Nicosia

The tour begins with a visit to the historic Old City, a place where ancient walls, gates, and alleys tell stories of bygone eras. You’ll see the small Leventis Museum, which contains artifacts spanning from the Neolithic period through Byzantine times. This museum is a hidden gem for those interested in archaeological finds, and it adds valuable context to the city’s long history.

As a traveler, you’ll appreciate how this site provides a tangible connection to the past. The guide shares stories about what life was like when these artifacts were in use—something that’s often missing from standard city walks. You might find yourself marveling at the craftsmanship of ancient tools or imagining how early Cypriots lived and traded.

The Gates of Old Nicosia—there are many—serve as physical reminders of the city’s layered defenses and changing sovereignties. Our guide pointed out several gates, emphasizing how they once controlled access and signaled the city’s importance through history.

Strolling through Ermou Street and Beyond

Next, the tour takes you to Ermou Street, a lively thoroughfare lined with shops that retain traditional Cypriot crafts. You’ll see artisans at work, creating textiles, ceramics, and jewelry—perfect for picking up authentic souvenirs or simply understanding the city’s ongoing craftsmanship tradition.

The guide shared insights about how Ermou Street has been a hub for local trades for generations, adding a layer of cultural significance to your walk. Watching the vibrant street life, you can sense the city’s blend of tradition and commerce.

Art and Culture — The Leventis Gallery and the Archaeological Museum

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the A. G. Leventis Gallery, which presents a diverse collection of European, Greek, and Cypriot paintings. The artwork provides a window into the wider Mediterranean cultural landscape, and you’ll hear stories about specific pieces that have fascinating histories.

Near the gallery, the Archaeological Museum holds finds from different periods—Neolithic tools, Byzantine relics, and more. The guide explained how these artifacts reflect the long continuity of human habitation on the island, adding depth to your understanding of Cyprus.

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The Stories that Bring the City Alive

One of the most appreciated aspects, based on reviews, is the guide’s storytelling ability. Dr. Savvas was mentioned as a guide who goes beyond just listing sights; he shares personal stories, historical anecdotes, and insider insights that leave visitors feeling more connected. For example, he discussed the city’s division—Nicosia is famously the only divided capital in Europe—and explained how this shapes everyday life.

The Divided Capital

While not a focus of the tour, the city’s division is an ever-present reality. The guide’s stories helped contextualize how the buffer zone and Green Line influence life on both sides. For travelers interested in political history, the stories shared in this tour add a compelling layer.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs a modest fee, including a professional, multilingual local guide. It’s a private group experience, which ensures personalized attention—something many travelers value highly. The tour lasts two hours, making it ideal for those with limited time but who still want a meaningful overview.

The meeting point is straightforward—just next to the entry—and the tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking through cobblestone streets and historic sites.

Price vs. Value: Considering the depth of storytelling, access to multiple key sites, and personalized experience, the tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly suitable for history buffs, art lovers, or travelers who want an authentic introduction without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

Accessibility and Considerations

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as some sites have uneven surfaces. Also, the short duration means it’s more of an overview than an exhaustive exploration—perfect for a quick cultural fix but perhaps not enough for deep historians.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour For You?

This private tour is perfect for travelers who want to get a succinct yet meaningful introduction to Nicosia’s rich history and vibrant culture. The combination of historic sites, art collections, and local storytelling makes it a well-rounded experience that caters to those who value insights gained from a knowledgeable guide.

If your time in Cyprus is limited but you still crave an authentic, insider view of the city’s contrasts, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially good if you appreciate the arts and history, or if you’re curious about the city’s political and cultural complexities.

For those who prefer in-depth, slow-paced exploration or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider longer, more accessible options. Nonetheless, for a quick, engaging, and personalized introduction, this tour offers genuine value.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect quick overview of Nicosia’s highlights.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven walking surfaces and site accessibility.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese, and Hungarian.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins next to the entry point of the meeting location and finishes back at the same spot, simplifying logistics.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a professional local guide and the private group experience. Entrance fees to some sites, like the Museum of Medieval Stone Artifacts, are paid separately if visited.

Is there any flexibility with cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing you to plan with confidence.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced, insightful, and personalized way to experience Nicosia’s layered past and lively present. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a meaningful introduction to the city’s culture, art, and history—all wrapped in the stories of a passionate local guide.

You can check availability for your dates here: