When residents leave the capital for the beaches, villages and islands, with cars packed for holidays and suitcases in hand, the city takes on a different character. The streets empty, traffic drops noticeably, and August in Nicosia takes on a quieter, almost different rhythm. Some people stay behind by choice, others out of necessity, while some simply did not manage to get away.
And that is when you discover another side of Nicosia. A city without the usual traffic jams, with easier parking, quieter streets and tables that are much easier to find, even at your favourite spots. It is the time of year when you can move around the centre without rushing, enjoy a coffee or meal at your leisure and take a stroll without the usual crowds.
Of course, there is another side to it. The August heat in Nicosia is no joke, and for many people, heading for the mountains or the coast is the only option. But for those who remain in the capital, August does not necessarily mean that everything comes to a halt.
There are restaurants and bars with cool courtyards and gardens, pools for a summer dip, open-air cinemas, cultural events, museums and galleries, as well as plenty of options for food and drinks that make summer days and nights in the city much more interesting.
Nicosia may empty in August, but it does not stop offering things to do. And perhaps this is the best time to experience the city in a different way.
Food and drinks in courtyards, gardens and terraces
If you are staying in the capital but want to feel as though you are on an exotic island, head to the garden at Garden Day & Night (22662626). Throughout August, you can enjoy good food, tasty cocktails, live music, DJ sets and special events. Live performances include Hoviq on Wednesdays and the Flashback live show on Fridays, featuring Angelos Avgousti, Christos Nicolaou, Myrto Meletiou and Papigion Band. George Tsalikis will also perform on 27 August.
You can also try one of the city’s newest arrivals, Rubi (22 270202), a bistronomy restaurant from the team behind Sentio. Its menu combines creative cuisine with quality ingredients.
If you find yourself in the city centre, the beautiful courtyard at Beba (22 252626) offers a cool retreat. Thomas Bekas welcomes guests with Greek-inspired creative dishes prepared by chef and co-owner Varnavas Elias.
For something more relaxed, head to Vetrina (22653535) at The Landmark Nicosia from 16:00 to 24:00 for coffee and dessert. You can return in the evening for dinner and cocktails. Inside the hotel, Incognito bar is also open from sunrise to sunset.
At Seline Rooftop Bar (94000600), you can enjoy views of the quieter capital from above and experience a rooftop setting combining Japanese fusion dishes, signature cocktails and an atmospheric setting. With its contemporary character and elevated hospitality concept, Seline welcomes guests daily, making it an ideal setting for after-work drinks, evening outings and special moments under the stars.
Sawa (22766777), which serves authentic Syrian cuisine, will also remain open throughout August.
Pralina Experience (22 665588) is another option, returning with a new culinary philosophy focused on contemporary Mediterranean cuisine.
At Tocayo (70088089), the sophisticated, high-end restaurant with its minimalist-chic décor, dishes are designed for sharing and draw strong influences from Southeast Asia and Latin America.
Palaia Elia (22 252600) in Strovolos is also open from the afternoon until late, with its square providing a meeting point for those looking for a complete night out in the city.
Loukoullos (22 844000) has returned to the idyllic poolside setting of the Cleopatra Hotel in the heart of Nicosia. It serves authentic Greek flavours, generous meze, fresh seafood, Greek wines and ouzo, with an atmosphere reminiscent of a summer holiday in the Greek islands.
At the atmospheric courtyard of Aigaion (22253030), you can enjoy delicious meze in a beautiful setting.
Add Scale (22 444440) to your list. The restaurant at MAP Boutique Hotel follows the culinary philosophy of award-winning Greek chef Athinagoras Kostakos. It is also home to the Best Margherita Pizza in the World.
At 3 Dimostheni Severi Street, Sky Lounge (97676777) brings together signature cocktails, excellent food and memorable summer evenings under the Nicosia sky.
Pyxida (22445636) is another summer retreat in the capital, offering authentic seafood dishes in a beautiful setting.
In the heart of old Nicosia, on Talou Street, The Hide Nicosia (99 588677) is a distinctive bar for craft beer, premium spirits and good music.
For a taste of Greece, head to To Elliniko (77 778300) in Engomi, a popular destination for authentic Greek flavours.
Jamie’s Italian (22 028939) is also celebrating 10 years in the capital this year with a special anniversary menu inspired by Italy’s picturesque Amalfi Coast.
Do not miss the Garden of Chrysaliniotissa (22343447), which has once again set up tables beneath the trees, offering an authentic and almost nostalgic experience centred around Cypriot cuisine.
For cocktails, music and food, head to the beautiful courtyard of The Old Powerhouse (94040100).
Summer nights filled with culture
August in Nicosia may move at a slower pace, but the city’s summer nights remain full of life and culture.
The “Summer Nights in Nicosia” events have returned this year with a refreshed programme, turning squares, parks and neighbourhoods across the capital into open-air spaces for art and entertainment.
There are several reasons to head out during August.
On Wednesday, 19 August, Eleftheria Square’s lower level will host an exhibition of winning photographs from the 4th International Nicosia Photo Marathon from 14:00 to 21:00, marking International Photography Day and organised by the Nicosia branch of the Cyprus Photographic Society.
That evening, from 19:30 to 21:00, Sonare Flute & Piano Duo will perform works by Cypriot composers alongside selections from the international repertoire in a musical dialogue between flute and piano.
A week later, on Wednesday, 26 August at 20:00, the programme moves to Aglantzia and the square outside the “To Skali – Andreas Petrou” Cultural Centre. “A Magical City” promises a nostalgic musical journey through nighttime Nicosia, featuring Kaiti Oikonomidi, Alexandros Fokas and Panagiotis Kleitos.
August comes to a musical close on Monday, 31 August at 20:00 at the square of old Engomi, Archbishop Makarios III Square, with “Sweet Summer Night”, a tribute to favourite summer songs by the musical group “Periplanomena Karavia”.
A date at the Constantia summer cinema
Summer nights in Nicosia would not be complete without an open-air cinema.
As the heat of the day fades, the lights go down, and the big screen illuminates the night sky, Constantia summer cinema once again becomes one of the city’s most appealing destinations.
There is something timelessly charming about watching a good film under the stars, with an ice-cold beer or popcorn in hand.
The August programme offers a range of films from different countries, genres and cinematic cultures.
The programme includes Left-Handed Girl on 15 August, followed by Kapodistrias on 16 August. Girls Will Be Girls will be screened on 19 August, followed by The Cut on 20 August.
On 21 August, DJ Ahmet takes its turn, while Smaragda, which won Best Cypriot Film at the Cyprus Film Days International Festival, will be screened on 22 August.
On 23 August, the screen will feature the tender and distinctive story of The President’s Cake.
The programme continues on 26 August with Deaf Spanish director Eva Libertad’s drama combining spoken Spanish with sign language and noted for its performances.
On 27 August, Caravaggio’s Shadow, Michele Placido’s historical drama, returns audiences to 1600s Rome and the turbulent world of the great painter.
On 28 August, Kneecap brings the explosive story of the Irish hip-hop group of the same name to Constanzia, combining music, humour and political satire.
The August programme concludes with Banel & Adama on 29 August and My Sunshine on 30 August.
A night of bowling
If the Nicosia heat has you looking for a cool and different night out, the renovated Kykko Bowling (22350085) is a good option for groups and families.
With 16 modern bowling lanes, billiards, table tennis, darts and table football, it offers plenty of options for games and entertainment. The fully air-conditioned venue also provides a welcome escape from the summer heat.
Families can also make use of the children’s play area and inflatables, while the menu of burgers, pizzas, nachos, club sandwiches and BBQ ribs completes a summer night out.
And the best part? You do not have to decide who will win before you arrive. Bowling will decide!
Pools and nearby summer escapes
Nicosia may not have a coastline, but there are plenty of ways to escape the summer heat without travelling far.
The city’s pools and hotel pools offer an ideal solution for a refreshing day, whether you want an affordable family outing or a more relaxed pool day with cocktails, a sun lounger and good company.
And if the sea is essential, nearby destinations such as Protaras, Larnaca and the free Famagusta area can turn a summer day into a short getaway.
For an affordable swim in the city, Nicosia Municipal Swimming Pool on Louki Akrita Street is one of the most practical options, particularly for families. The capital’s only open municipal pool has a large pool for adults and children, sun loungers and particularly affordable entrance prices.
If you prefer a hotel pool and want more comfort, Hilton Park Nicosia in Engomi has a large outdoor pool, a separate children’s pool, comfortable Mykonos Beds, a pool bar and snacks and light meals. It is a good option for spending several hours without leaving the capital.
In central Nicosia, The Landmark Nicosia, Autograph Collection offers a more luxurious version of a pool day. Its large outdoor pool, sun loungers and pool service provide the setting for a relaxing day, while access is also available to outside guests. The wellness gym area remains open as well.
For something more casual and affordable, Tropicana Complex in Kaimakli is an option for those who simply want to cool off without spending too much. Its outdoor pool, relaxed atmosphere and snack bar make it suitable for a spontaneous summer outing, while the adult admission price includes a coffee or drink.
Another option in the city is Cleopatra Hotel, where the renovated outdoor pool creates a small oasis in the centre of Nicosia, complete with waterfalls, lush greenery and a pool bar. It is a good choice if you want to combine a swim with food and drinks without travelling far.
Summer in Nicosia may require a little planning, but you do not necessarily have to go far to find some relief from the heat.
Walks in the parks
When the Nicosia heat becomes intense, the city’s parks offer a small escape into greenery.
A walk, some cycling, a picnic or simply a coffee under the trees can be enough to take a break from the city’s pace.
Acropolis Park, Athalassa National Forest Park, Agios Demetrios Park in Strovolos, Aglantzia Academy Park and Nicosia Municipal Gardens are among the options for a greener summer outing.
Cool off at Nicosia’s malls
Nicosia’s shopping malls are an easy option on hot August days, combining shopping, food, coffee, cinema and entertainment under one very welcome thing: air conditioning.
Whether you want to browse the shops or enjoy a meal, coffee or film, Mall of Cyprus, Nicosia Mall and Mall of Engomi offer a way to spend a few hours away from the summer heat.
Just choose your mall — and enjoy the air conditioning!
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