Weekend in Nicosia

Central square designed by Zaha Hadid, with a large sunken amphitheatre and reflecting pools. Connects old town and modern Nicosia.

Tip: Free to loiter. Bring a picnic and sit on the steps—best views of the Venetian walls. Visit at sunset for good light and less heat. No admission charge.

Pedestrian crossing between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot sides of Nicosia. Check passports and walk across the buffer zone to see the divided city's unique character.

Tip: Go early morning to avoid queues. Take your passport—you'll need it to cross, and you can walk directly into North Nicosia's market area.

Marked path along the UN-controlled buffer zone. See abandoned buildings, military outposts, and street art in a zone that divides the city.

Tip: Free self-guided walk from Ledra Street to Paphos Gate. Watch for blue signs indicating the Green Line. No photos of military personnel. Takes 45 minutes at a steady pace.

Large Venetian fortification gate from the 16th century. Now serves as a cultural venue with exhibitions and events inside the arched chambers.

Tip: No entry fee for the courtyard and exterior. Look for free art exhibitions in the vaulted rooms—check the noticeboard outside. Best visited late afternoon for cool shade.

Main national museum housing Cypriot artefacts from Neolithic to Roman periods. Includes the famous Golgoi idol and royal tombs exhibits.

Tip: Free on the first Sunday of each month. Otherwise it's €4.50. Allow 1.5 hours—it's compact but packed. The ground floor has the best pieces.