A layover in Nicosia is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Ercan International Airport sits just 75 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Nicosia, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Cyprus vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Nicosia is roughly 75 minutes from ECN via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Nicosia, we’d suggest Selimiye Mosque (St. Sophia Cathedral) and Büyük Han (Great Inn). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside ECN — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Ercan CIP Lounge
- Ercan Duty-Free Shops
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Nicosia: Kybele Restaurant and Ezic Peanuts. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Gloria Jean’s Coffees or Airport Fast Food & Cafe. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
The Best Way Into Nicosia from ECN
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~75 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~95 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Nicosia might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Storing Your Luggage at Ercan International Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at ECN may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Nicosia’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ECN should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Cyprus and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at ECN, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Nicosia count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ECN. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.