Nicosia, the capital city of Cyprus, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. With a population of approximately 310,000 people, it is the largest city on the island and serves as the administrative, commercial, and cultural center of the country.
Despite its relative safety compared to other cities in Europe, Nicosia does have its share of crime, and visitors should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The crime rate in Nicosia is generally low, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur in tourist areas and crowded places, particularly during the summer months when the city is bustling with visitors.
While Nicosia has a generally low crime rate, it is important to be aware of the city's history of political conflict. In 1974, Cyprus was invaded by Turkey, leading to the division of the island into two parts, the Greek Cypriot south and the Turkish Cypriot north. Today, a UN buffer zone divides the city of Nicosia, with the northern part of the city under the control of the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. While the buffer zone is generally safe to visit, visitors should avoid entering the restricted areas without permission.
Like in any city, there are certain areas in Nicosia that can be considered more dangerous than others. These include the neighborhoods of Ayios Dometios, Kaimakli, and Ayios Andreas. Visitors should exercise caution when walking alone or at night in these areas, particularly around the border area and the buffer zone.
As a general rule, it is advisable to avoid carrying large sums of cash and valuable items with you when out and about in Nicosia, particularly in crowded areas. Visitors should also be careful when using ATMs, particularly those located outside of banks or in isolated areas.
Despite the potential risks, Nicosia is generally a safe city to visit, with friendly and welcoming locals who are always happy to assist visitors. During the day, the city is bustling with activity, with shops, restaurants, and cafes open for business. It is generally safe to walk around during the day, but visitors should take care to stay in well-lit areas and avoid dark or deserted alleys.
In the evenings, visitors should exercise caution when walking alone, particularly in quiet or poorly lit areas. It is generally safe to take a taxi or public transportation at night, but visitors should be careful to only use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked or unlicensed vehicles.
Other safety advice specific to Nicosia includes being careful when crossing the street, particularly on busy roads where traffic can be heavy. Visitors should also be aware of the hot and dry climate in Nicosia, particularly during the summer months when temperatures can soar above 40°C. It is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat.
Nicosia is a fascinating and exciting city to visit, with a rich history and culture. While there are certain areas of the city that should be avoided, particularly at night, visitors who take necessary precautions are unlikely to encounter any major safety issues. By following the advice outlined above, visitors to Nicosia can enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer while staying safe and secure.