Nicosia: Inside the Buffer Zone

This is not a regular city walk, but a passage through a town frozen in time. It will give you an insight into the current situation of the Buffer Zone “Green Line” off the beaten track, on streets that are hard to discover without the experience of a local guide. You will see the Venetian walls and how they form a border around the old city, so unusual that once seen on a map will never be forgotten as a design synonymous with the unique shape of this ancient fortification.

Highlights

  • ✺

    Ledra Palace Hotel
    Explore the iconic landmark hotel in the Buffer Zone UN controlled area

  • ✺

    Checkpoints
    Witness the checkpoints that allow passage between the two sides

  • ✺

    Green Line
    Tracing history through the Green Line, you will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and history of the Cyprus conflict

  • ✺

    Meet the Locals
    Engage with locals living in the area. Many families have been separated by the Buffer Zone for decades, and talking to them can offer valuable insights into the challenges they face and their hopes for reunification

  • ✺

    Venetian Walls
    The well-preserved Venetian Walls that once protected the city are a fascinating historical attraction

  • ✺

    Taste
    Traditional Cypriot coffee and local pastries in the oldest bakery in the city

7.JPEG

Our meeting point is strategically positioned in the heart of Nicosia, just to the west and in close proximity to the historic old city. You'll find us at a conveniently located parking area with amenities, situated just before the Ledra Palace Hotel Checkpoint. Notably, the main bus station is just an 8-minute stroll away from our meeting point.

Our journey embarks within the buffer zone, where we explore the southern part of the city and trace the renowned "Green Line" that bisects the city's core, creating a tangible division between the southern and northern sections. This division has persisted for over four decades, keeping Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots apart. Our adventure commences at the iconic Ledra Palace Hotel, once celebrated as the capital's largest and most opulent hotel.

You'll have the unique opportunity to witness how life has evolved on either side of this historical schism, something previously unimaginable until recent agreements facilitated the opening of border crossings. Our expedition takes us to Ledra Street, a bustling thoroughfare at the heart of the walled city. This street, once marred by bullet holes, military checkpoints, and barricades, has now been revitalized into one of the city's most popular pedestrian commercial hubs, featuring abandoned buildings that nature has gradually reclaimed over decades of time.

Our journey culminates in the old quarter of the city, near the Ledra Street checkpoint, where you'll have a chance to soak in the rich history and culture that Nicosia has to offer.

 

  • “Eleni is an amazing guide. She’s not only profoundly knowledgeable on the topic of Cyprus (and Nicosia’s) division, but also shares her touching, personal story. She guides through historical, but also modern parts of Nicosia with an unmatched excitement.”

    Katarìna

  • “Eleni made us all feel seen, and her personal approach makes you leave connected, just as if you have talked to a good friend. I highly recommend this experience - Especially at the beginning of your stay in Nicosia, as you’ll have a lot of tips to take-away.”

    Lucy

  • “Without a doubt the most informative tour I have ever been on! It was an incredible few hours in which so much was covered and I came away feeling like I have now got a much greater knowledge of the events of the islands partition. The tour is well worth doing and Eleni is such a lovely person and a warm soul."

    James

  • “Her lived experience adds to the knowledge through first hand accounts of what she went through, I couldn't recommend more going on this tour! A wonderful woman with an interesting life and an impressive knowledge. A must for anyone visiting Nicosia!”

    Ronan

Pricing

€60/ person

Option One: Public

*subject to availability.

Join our 3.5-hour Public guided walk package. This means you will be joining fellow travellers for a shared exploration

€100/ person

Option Two: Private

*subject to availability.

Join our 3.5-hour Private guided walk package. This means you will have a personalised one-on-one exploration.

€50/ person

Option Three: Group

*subject to availability.

Join our 3.5-hour Group guided walk package. This is ideal if you are a group of 3 or more and would like to join a public walk with fellow travellers. For private group walks, get more info here

✺ Frequently asked questions ✺

  • As this is a half day activity, the duration of the walk is up to 3.5 hours long.

  • You can send an enquiry or contact us directly via email

  • For the city tours, you will be required to bring a valid ID or passport, (as it is sometimes required in the Buffer zone). Ensure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, bring a sunhat, sunscreen, extra water, and your smile 😊

  • Yes! You will receive a discount if you book for more than one tour and a further discount for 2+ tours booked.

  • Families are always welcome! If your younger children are comfortable walking for at least 3 hours, then there should not be any difficulties. Do contact us if you need further clarification

  • You can reschedule a tour up to 72 hours before the original date. To receive a full refund you need to cancel at least 3 days before the event. For any changes or cancellations, you can communicate via email.