Planning the day
Cross early, do Salamis before the heat, then the walled city in the afternoon when the cathedral façade glows in the low sun. Combine with a swim at the beaches near Salamis in summer.
Food
Cafés and small restaurants cluster around Namık Kemal Square by the cathedral. Try şeftali kebab, meze and Turkish coffee or fresh juice.
Money and etiquette
- Turkish lira locally; euros and cards often accepted.
- Dress modestly to enter mosques.
- Do not photograph military zones, including around Varosha.
Sample plans
Half a day
The walled city: Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, Othello Castle and a walk on the walls.
One day
Morning at Salamis and St Barnabas, afternoon in the walled city.
Combined
Continue across the north to Kyrenia and return via Nicosia.
