Büyük Han North Nicosia
A beautifully preserved Ottoman caravanserai in North Nicosia, now a vibrant hub of artisan shops and cafes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere
Büyük Han North Nicosia
Best Time
Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully preserved Ottoman caravanserai in North Nicosia, now a vibrant hub of artisan shops and cafes.
"A charming and truly remarkable place that beautifully showcases old Cypriot culture and traditional architecture."
🎯 Free Entry!
Admission to Büyük Han is free, making it an accessible cultural experience.
☕ Relax with Coffee
Sip traditional Turkish coffee or tea in the central cafe and soak in the historic ambiance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Courtyard
Central courtyard
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved Ottoman-era caravanserai, a hub of culture and commerce.

Artisan Shops
Around the courtyard
Discover unique handmade souvenirs and local crafts from talented artisans in charming little shops.

Central Mosque
Center of the courtyard
Admire the unique architecture of the small mosque situated at the heart of this historic inn.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Crossing the Divide
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry!
Admission to Büyük Han is free, making it an accessible cultural experience.
☕ Relax with Coffee
Sip traditional Turkish coffee or tea in the central cafe and soak in the historic ambiance.
🛍️ Souvenir Hunting
Find unique, affordable handmade crafts and souvenirs from local artists.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through the arches and alleys to discover every charming corner.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry!
Admission to Büyük Han is free, making it an accessible cultural experience.
☕ Relax with Coffee
Sip traditional Turkish coffee or tea in the central cafe and soak in the historic ambiance.
🛍️ Souvenir Hunting
Find unique, affordable handmade crafts and souvenirs from local artists.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through the arches and alleys to discover every charming corner.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Büyük Han for its charming atmosphere, historical significance, and authentic Cypriot culture. It's lauded as a peaceful oasis with beautiful architecture and unique artisan shops. Some find it can get busy on weekends, but the free entry and central location make it a highly recommended stop.
"Büyük Han is an absolutely charming and truly remarkable place to visit. Stepping inside feels like travelling back in time, as it beautifully showcases the old Cypriot culture and traditional architecture. The historic stone courtyard, lined with little shops and artisan workshops, creates a warm and authentic atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere.
It’s a wonderful spot to wander around, soak up the history, and enjoy a coffee or traditional sweets while surrounded by centuries-old arches and stone walls. Every corner tells a story, and you can really feel the heritage of the island here. Whether you’re interested in history, local crafts, or simply want to experience the unique charm of old Cyprus, Büyük Han is an absolute must-visit."
Paul Sunbed
"Büyük Han is one of the most impressive historical landmarks in the heart of Nicosia. Built in 1572 during the Ottoman period, it is beautifully preserved and offers a real sense of history.
The courtyard is wide and atmospheric, surrounded by stone arches and traditional architecture. Inside, there are small artisan shops, souvenir stores, and cozy cafés. Sitting in the courtyard with a coffee is a very relaxing experience.
The entrance is free, and the location is very central, just a short walk from Ledra Street and the main attractions of the old town. It can get busy on weekends, so coming earlier in the day is a good idea.
Overall, it’s both a cultural and relaxing spot — definitely a must-visit for anyone coming to North Cyprus."
Aren Saman
"Built in 1572 by the Ottomans, supposedly to celebrate the successful taking over of the islands from the Venetians, the Buyuk Han (the Great Inn in Turkish) is now a large bazaar on the Turkish Cypriot side of Nicosia / Lefkosia, with a small mosque in its centre.
It has that singular oriental vibe imbued within it, so visiting it is a truly specific experience highly recommended to anyone visiting the northern part of the divided city. Some very interesting items are on display that can be bought here for very affordable prices.
Although, if you're supposed to cross the border over back to the southern side, I'm not sure whether there would be any issues with the border patrol.
Still, a site very much worth visiting."
Nikola Radovanović
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Büyük Han is located in the heart of North Nicosia. You can easily reach it by crossing the border from South Nicosia via the Ledras Street crossing. From there, it's a short walk into the old town.
Yes, once you cross the border on Ledras Street, Büyük Han is centrally located within the old city and is well-signposted.
Parking in the old city can be challenging. It's generally recommended to walk or use public transport to reach the vicinity and then explore on foot.
The most common way is to walk across the border at the Ledras Street crossing. Be prepared for passport checks.
Yes, Büyük Han is surrounded by many historical landmarks and attractions within the old city of Nicosia.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Büyük Han is completely free. You can wander through the courtyard and browse the shops without any admission fee.
While there are no official posted hours for the courtyard itself, the shops and cafes typically operate during daytime business hours. It's best to visit during the day.
The shops and cafes within Büyük Han operate independently, and you would pay for any purchases or services directly to them.
It's advisable to check local listings for public holidays in North Cyprus, as some shops and cafes might have reduced hours or be closed.
The historic nature of the building means some areas might have uneven surfaces. However, the main courtyard is generally accessible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic architecture, browse artisan shops for unique souvenirs, enjoy a coffee or traditional sweets at the cafe, and soak in the authentic Cypriot atmosphere.
Absolutely! The historic stone arches, the central mosque, and the vibrant shops offer many picturesque opportunities for photography.
You'll find a variety of artisan shops selling handmade crafts, jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and traditional souvenirs.
Wi-Fi availability can vary. Some cafes might offer it, but it's not guaranteed throughout the entire complex.
It's described as a calm oasis with a unique oriental vibe, offering a relaxing and authentic cultural experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located in the center of the courtyard where you can enjoy traditional Turkish coffee, tea, and local sweets.
The cafe typically serves traditional Turkish coffee, tea, and a selection of local pastries and sweets.
Yes, the surrounding old city of Nicosia has numerous restaurants and eateries offering a variety of local and international cuisine.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally expected that you would purchase refreshments from the onsite cafe if you wish to sit and relax.
The cafe's offerings are typically limited to traditional sweets and coffee. For more diverse options, explore the restaurants in the surrounding area.
📸 📸 Photography
The central courtyard with its stone arches, the unique mosque, and the charming shopfronts are all excellent for capturing memorable photos.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout Büyük Han for personal use. Be respectful of shoppers and cafe patrons.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and historical sites. It's best to avoid flying drones without explicit permission.
It's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals or their stalls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific play areas, the open courtyard allows for some freedom to move around. Grabbing a traditional sweet or Turkish coffee at the cafe can be a fun treat for everyone. Remember that the ground can be uneven, so keep an eye on younger children.
💰 Budget Travelers
For a very affordable treat, grab a traditional Turkish coffee or a local pastry at the cafe in the courtyard. This offers a taste of local culture without a significant expense.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visit during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The interplay of light and shadow within the courtyard creates a dramatic and atmospheric effect. Be sure to capture the details of the artisan crafts as well.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Ottoman History
This historic inn was designed to accommodate travelers and their animals, providing shelter, food, and a secure place to conduct business. The central mosque within the courtyard highlights the religious importance of the site for its inhabitants. Today, Büyük Han stands as one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in Cyprus, offering a tangible connection to the island's rich and layered past.
Visiting Büyük Han is more than just seeing an old building; it's an immersive experience into the historical trade routes and cultural exchanges that shaped Cyprus. The atmosphere within its stone walls evokes a sense of bygone eras, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
The Vibrant Present: Culture and Commerce
The central courtyard remains a focal point, featuring a cozy cafe that serves traditional Turkish coffee, tea, and local sweets. This provides a perfect spot for visitors to relax, soak in the ambiance, and observe the daily life unfolding within the han. The blend of historical architecture and contemporary artisan activity creates a unique and engaging atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of visitors.
Büyük Han serves as a testament to how historical sites can be preserved and repurposed to foster local culture and economy. It's a place where the past and present converge, offering an authentic glimpse into the enduring spirit of Cypriot craftsmanship and hospitality.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit