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Nicosia, the last divided capital city in Europe, offers a unique blend of Greek and Turkish Cypriot cultures, historic architecture, and buzzing bazaars. From its cobbled streets in the Old Town to modern boutiques and artisan workshops, Nicosia is a goldmine for meaningful, handcrafted souvenirs — many of which you won’t find anywhere else on the island.

Based on local recommendations, traditional items often found in city markets, and souvenirs popular with both visitors and Cypriots, here’s your guide to what to buy in Nicosia — plus the best places to shop and practical tips to make the most of it.

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Top 10 Souvenirs from Nicosia, Cyprus

1. Lefkara Lace (Lefkaritika)

This intricate handmade lace is part of Cyprus’s cultural heritage and has even been recognized by UNESCO. Patterns are passed down through generations, and doilies, table runners, and handkerchiefs make elegant keepsakes.

Commonly found in artisan shops in the Old Town and in nearby Lefkara village.

2. Hand-Painted Ceramics

From dishes and bowls to decorative wall tiles, Cypriot ceramics often feature traditional motifs like pomegranates, olive branches, or ancient symbols. Many are hand-painted and totally unique.

3. Carob Syrup and Locally Made Sweets

Carob trees grow all over Cyprus, and the syrup is often used in cooking and as a natural sweetener. Look for bottled carob syrup, loukoumia (Cyprus delights), or spoon sweets made with local fruits.

4. Copper and Brass Items

Inspired by Ottoman influence, Nicosia has long produced hand-hammered copper trays, coffee pots (cezves), and decorative lanterns. Many are made in small workshops in the old quarters.

5. Commandaria Wine

Said to be the world’s oldest named wine still in production, Commandaria is a sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes. It’s a deeply Cypriot souvenir and a delicious one, too.

6. Traditional Olive Wood Products

Craftsmen in and around Nicosia make beautiful cutting boards, salad servers, bowls, and icons from richly grained olive wood. They’re practical, sustainable, and easy to pack.

7. Religious Icons and Byzantine Art

If you’re visiting the Archbishop’s Palace or local churches, you’ll likely see hand-painted icons — many shops sell miniatures or printed versions, ideal for collectors or religious gifts.

8. Filfar Orange Liqueur

A Cypriot specialty, Filfar is a sweet, citrusy liqueur made from local oranges and a secret blend of spices. You’ll find it in decorative bottles perfect for gifting.

9. Handmade Soaps and Skincare

Made with olive oil, herbs, and essential oils, these artisanal soaps and beauty products are gentle on the skin and carry the scents of Cyprus: lavender, rosemary, myrtle, and rose.

10. Local Art and Handicrafts

From modern paintings and embroidered textiles to jewelry featuring ancient Cypriot motifs, Nicosia’s art scene blends the old and the new in unexpected ways.

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Where to Shop in Nicosia

• Laiki Geitonia (Old Town):
  A maze of narrow lanes near Ledra Street packed with souvenir shops, artisan stalls, lace makers, and pottery vendors. It’s tourist-friendly but full of character.
• Ledra Street and Onasagorou Street:
  These busy central streets are lined with local boutiques, design shops, and food stores offering Cypriot wine, sweets, textiles, and jewelry.
• Buyuk Han (North Nicosia):
  Located in the Turkish Cypriot sector, this restored 16th-century caravanserai now houses craft shops, artist studios, and souvenir stalls, often with Turkish Cypriot goods like ceramics, embroidered textiles, and copperware.
• Cyprus Handicraft Centre:
  A government-backed hub promoting authentic Cypriot crafts — perfect if you want to be sure you’re getting traditional, locally made items.

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Shopping Tips for Nicosia

• The euro (€) is used in the south (Republic of Cyprus), while the Turkish lira (₺) is used in the north (TRNC). Both sides accept cash, and some shops accept card.
• Bargaining isn’t common in formal stores, but small discounts may be possible in markets or stalls — especially for multiple items.
• Ask about the meaning behind traditional items — many crafts carry symbolism tied to family, religion, or island heritage.
• If buying antique-looking items, make sure they’re legal to export and not genuine antiquities, which are protected.
• Support family-run businesses and cooperatives, where your purchase goes directly to the maker.

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Final Thoughts

Souvenir shopping in Nicosia is about discovering stories — through lace patterns, copper crafts, sweet wines, and sacred icons. Whether you walk away with a lace table runner, a bottle of Filfar, or a hand-painted ceramic dish, you’ll be carrying home a memory of a divided yet deeply unified city — and a piece of Cyprus’s rich cultural soul.

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