From Paphos to Divided Nicosia (North Cyprus Walk In) and Larnaca

Set out on a captivating journey from Paphos to the divided city of Nicosia, where Cyprus’s complex history comes alive. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll traverse the Green Line and discover the unique architectural styles of both sides of the city. After exploring Nicosia’s cultural contrasts, head to the historic coastal town of Larnaca, uncovering the connections between these two Cyprus destinations. This tour offers a chance to delve deeper into the island’s past, beyond its stunning beaches.

Key Points

• This one-day tour offers the opportunity to explore the divided city of Nicosia and the historic city of Larnaca, providing insights into the cultural and architectural differences.
• The tour includes knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a lunch break in Northern Nicosia, with the highlight being the crossing of the Green Line border.
• Participants must have a valid passport or ID card, and certain nationalities may require special visas to cross into Northern Nicosia.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is unsuitable for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
• The overall rating of the tour is 3.5 out of 5, with some complaints about vehicle comfort and air conditioning, as well as issues with overcrowding.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The tour offers visitors the opportunity to experience both the divided city of Nicosia and the historic city of Larnaca in a single day.

With a knowledgeable guide, travelers will explore the capital’s split between Greek and Turkish sides. The tour includes comfortable transportation and a lunch break in Northern Nicosia, making it ideal for history enthusiasts seeking more than just beach experiences.

The highlights include crossing the Green Line border and discovering the unique cultural and architectural differences between the two halves of the island.

Inclusions and Logistics

As part of the tour, an experienced guide and hotel pick-up/drop-off are included.

Travelers will be transported in a fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.

Lunch isn’t provided, so personal expenses are the responsibility of each participant.

Pickup details will be emailed after booking. For non-hotel guests, meeting points are available.

The tour has a maximum of 19 travelers, and passports or ID cards are required to cross the border.

Special visas are needed for certain nationalities visiting Northern Nicosia.

Participant Requirements and Restrictions

Although the tour has a maximum of 19 travelers per group, participants must fulfill certain requirements. Visitors will need a valid passport or ID card to cross the border into Northern Nicosia.

Those with Armenian, Syrian, Nigerian, Turkmenistan, Nepalese, or Bangladeshi passports require special visas for the northern part of the city. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting religious sites.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. Following these simple guidelines ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Customer Feedback and Experiences

How have customers responded to this tour? Reviews have been mixed, with an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 based on 10 reviews.

Some key customer experiences include:

Complaints about vehicle comfort and air conditioning during hot weather, as well as issues with overcrowding due to passenger capacity limits.

1. Complaints about the vehicle’s comfort and air conditioning during hot weather conditions.

2. Issues regarding the passenger capacity of the vehicles, which have led to overcrowding.

3. While the operator has responded to complaints by offering refunds or alternative arrangements, some customers have expressed ongoing dissatisfaction with the tour.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Prices for the North Cyprus Walks tour start at $73.61 per person, with variation based on group size.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts. For added flexibility, customers can reserve their spots now and pay later.

Upon booking, travelers will receive immediate confirmation of their reservation.

Exploring Divided Nicosia

Travelers embark on an eye-opening journey as they cross the U.N. buffer zone separating the island’s divided capital, Nicosia.

The tour explores the contrasts of this unique city, witnessing the physical division that has defined Cyprus for decades.

Highlights include:

1. Visiting the Ledra Street crossing, where the divide is most apparent, with the opportunity to peer into Northern Nicosia.

2. Exploring the old town of Northern Nicosia, with its historic architecture, markets, and cafes that offer a glimpse into the Turkish Cypriot way of life.

3. Gaining insights into the island’s complex history and the ongoing efforts towards reunification from the knowledgeable guide.

Discovering Larnaca

After exploring the divided capital of Nicosia, the tour moves on to the vibrant coastal city of Larnaca.

Visitors will discover the historic Larnaca Salt Lake, home to flocks of stunning flamingos during the winter months.

The tour also stops at the Church of St. Lazarus, an iconic 9th-century church that houses the tomb of the saint.

Travelers can stroll along the lively seafront promenade and enjoy views of the marina before indulging in a local lunch.

The tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Larnaca’s mix of cultural, natural, and culinary highlights.

Connecting the Two Cities

With the vibrant Larnaca visit complete, the tour now connects the two distinct cities of Nicosia and Larnaca.

The journey highlights how these cities, divided by history, are united by shared culture and traditions.

Key aspects of the connecting experience include:

1. Traversing the U.N. Buffer Zone, a stark reminder of the island’s complicated past.

2. Taking in the contrasting atmospheres of the Greek and Turkish Cypriot sides of Nicosia.

3. Enjoying a lunch break in Northern Nicosia, providing insights into the region’s diverse culinary influences.

This comprehensive tour offers a unique opportunity to bridge the divide and gain a deeper understanding of Cyprus’ complex heritage.

Ask Away

Is the Northern Nicosia Lunch Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price does not include the lunch break in Northern Nicosia. Travelers are responsible for their personal expenses, including the cost of lunch, during the tour.

Can Travelers Bring Their Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, as lunch is not included in the price. However, a lunch break is provided in Northern Nicosia, where travelers can purchase meals at their own expense.

Are There Any Restrictions on Taking Photographs During the Tour?

Travelers are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour, but they should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience or infringing on others’ privacy. Some religious sites may have restrictions on photography that should be observed.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Requests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate special requests, but this may incur additional costs. Travelers should discuss any specific needs or preferences with the tour operator when booking to ensure the experience meets their requirements.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting Religious Sites in Nicosia and Larnaca?

The dress code for visiting religious sites in Nicosia and Larnaca requires covering shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and participants should bring appropriate attire to comply with the modest dress requirements of these sacred locations.

Final Words

This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Cyprus’s complex history and cultural diversity. From the ancient ruins of Paphos to the divided streets of Nicosia and the historic coastal town of Larnaca, travelers can explore the island’s past and present, guided by knowledgeable experts. With comfortable transportation and a chance to experience both sides of Nicosia, this captivating journey is a must for history enthusiasts.