Paphos: Divided Nicosia (North Cyprus walk in) and Larnaca

Thinking about a trip to Cyprus and interested in its unique blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery? This tour promises to take you through some of the island’s most iconic spots—Nicosia’s divided capital, the lively city of Larnaca, and surrounding highlights. It’s designed for those who want a comprehensive day out that balances sightseeing with insights into Cyprus’s complex past.

What really catches our eye about this experience? First, the chance to cross the Green Line into North Nicosia, which is pretty rare and adds a layer of authenticity to the trip. Second, the stops at Salt Lake and St. Lazarus Church are both scenic and meaningful, giving you a taste of natural beauty alongside spiritual sites. A potential hiccup? The full-day itinerary means quite a bit of travel and walking, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with busy days and some early starts.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, culture seekers, or anyone curious about Cyprus’s divided identity. While it’s not aimed at families with very young children or travelers looking for a leisurely or private experience, it’s a strong choice for those wanting to see key sites efficiently in one day.

Key Points

• Cross the Green Line and see both sides of Nicosia, exploring the city’s divided history firsthand
• Visit iconic landmarks such as Salt Lake, Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, and St. Lazarus Church
• Enjoy a well-paced itinerary with enough time for photos, sightseeing, and a quick taste of local life
• Guided experience with an experienced guide and comfortable air-conditioned transportation
• Cost analysis: At $73 per person, it offers a solid overview, though some reviews hint it’s a bit pricey for the length and depth
• Not suited for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to the nature of the stops and walking involved

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Introduction: What to Expect

This tour promises an 8-hour journey through some of Cyprus’s most storied spots, starting from either Paphos or Kouklia. You’ll be picked up in a fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle—crucial comfort considering the long day ahead. Guided by an experienced English-speaking guide, you’ll learn about the island’s divided history, culture, and natural highlights as you go.

The tour balances sightseeing with cultural visits, like the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, and scenic stops such as the Salt Lake. You also get a peek into the bustling, pedestrian-friendly Ledra Street in Nicosia, and the chance to cross into the Northern part of the city for some free exploration and lunch.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is not suitable for children under 13, pregnant women, or wheelchair users—so it’s geared more toward active, curious travelers comfortable with walking and some early mornings.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stops at the Hala Sultan Tekke and Salt Lake

Your first major stops are the Salt Lake and the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque. The Salt Lake is renowned for its striking expanse of white salt flats, which are especially breathtaking after rain or during the flamingo season. You’ll get a quick 15-minute photo session here, enough to snap some shots of the shimmering landscape and perhaps some flamingos if timing aligns.

Just a few minutes away is the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, a sacred Islamic site that’s considered the third most important in the world for Muslims after Mecca and Medina. The mosque is dedicated to Umm Haram, a figure many believe to bring blessings to visitors. The guide will give you about 20 minutes here—enough to appreciate its architecture and learn about its significance.

Visiting the Church of Saint Lazarus

Next up is the Church of Saint Lazarus, a 9th-century marvel with a fascinating history. This church is a pilgrimage site, famous for relics of Saint Lazarus. You’ll have around 30 minutes to explore, walk through its ornate interiors, and absorb the atmosphere of a place that’s been a spiritual hub for centuries.

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Crossing into North Nicosia

Perhaps the most unique part of this tour is the cross into North Nicosia. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours in the northern side, where you can walk along Ledra Street, browse shops, and get a sense of daily life on both sides of the divide. The guide will assist with border crossing procedures, which can be straightforward if you have the right documents, but some reviews note that not everyone can access the north—Armenian, Syrian, Nigerian, Turkmenistan, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi passport holders might face restrictions.

You’ll also have time for lunch and rest in North Nicosia, giving you a chance to sample local cuisine or simply relax after the morning’s sightseeing.

Final stops and drop-offs

After the northern exploration, the bus returns you to your starting points, with plenty of time to reflect on what you’ve seen. The whole day is quite full, with scheduled time in each location, but the pacing is generally considered manageable.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The Positives

Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guide, who provides context about Cyprus’s divided history and landmarks. One reviewer remarked, “Great trip, I enjoyed my day, and it was worth spending a couple of hours in North Nicosia.” The guide’s insights help bring the sites to life, especially if you’re not deeply familiar with Cyprus’s complex past.

The scenic stops at Salt Lake and St. Lazarus Church are highlights. The Salt Lake’s expansive, reflective surface leaves a lasting impression, especially on a clear day. You’ll love the architecture and spiritual significance of the church, which has a centuries-old story that adds depth to your sightseeing.

The opportunity to cross into North Nicosia is a big draw for those interested in the island’s political history. It’s not something you can do easily on your own, which makes this tour stand out.

The Challenges

Some reviews suggest the tour could feel a bit rushed or pricey. One person said, “It’s quite pricey for what it is,” which reflects the fact that, for around $73, you’re covering multiple sites but with limited time at each. If you’re after a deep dive into history or culture, you might find the tour’s structure somewhat surface-level.

The long day might also be tiring, especially if you prefer more leisurely or private experiences. The itinerary involves a fair amount of walking and moving between sites, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for very young children or travelers with mobility restrictions.

Is It Worth It?

Considering what you get—guided visits to key landmarks, crossing into the north, and scenic stops—the price is reasonable, especially when you think about the transportation and guide included. The tour offers a good overview for first-timers wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Cyprus’s divided identity and highlights.

However, some travelers feel it’s a bit on the expensive side for the duration and depth of the experience. If you’re looking for a more in-depth or private tour, you might want to look for alternatives, but for a group, organized day trip, it delivers solid value.

This experience suits history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, or first-time visitors eager to see the highlights without planning multiple days**. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and want to sample both the southern and northern parts of Nicosia in one go. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, private tours, or traveling with very young kids or mobility limitations, this might not be the best fit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 13, mainly due to the walking and the nature of the sites. It’s best suited for older kids or teens.

Are there lunch options included?
Lunch is not included, but you will have time to grab something in North Nicosia. You might find a variety of cafes and local eateries during your free time.

Can I cross into North Nicosia with my passport?
Yes, you’ll cross the Green Line with your passport or ID card, but keep in mind that certain nationalities might face restrictions, so check your visa requirements beforehand.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), water, and your passport or ID are essential.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, with start times varying. Check your booking details for the specific departure.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned and fully insured, providing a comfortable ride between sites.

Are there any restrictions on what I can do during the tour?
Smoking, pets, food, alcohol, and littering are not allowed on the bus or at sites.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Will I get enough time at each site?
The stops are timed to give you a good overview, but if you’re looking for in-depth exploration, be aware that time is limited at each location.

This tour offers a solid introduction to Cyprus’s complex history and vibrant cities, all packed into a full day. While it’s practical and covers a lot of ground, it works best for travelers who are ready for a busy, guided experience that balances natural beauty with historical depth. If you’re curious about the island’s divided past and want a straightforward way to see its key sites, this could be a good match. Just be prepared for a full day of walking and exploring.

You can check availability for your dates here: