Although Nicosia is the heart of Cyprus, its cultural and administrative capital, the real magic begins when you leave the urban hustle behind and head down the winding roads between hills, vineyards, and pine forests. The Nicosia district hides many stunning villages, each like a living postcard: stone houses, green valleys, ancient churches, and a cozy atmosphere where time seems to stand still. Today, I’ll tell you about five of the most picturesque villages in the Nicosia district that are absolutely worth a visit.
Kakopetria
If the noise of the city has become the background music of your life, and traffic jams your main method of meditation, it’s time to visit Kakopetria. Don’t be alarmed by the name! Even if it sounds like something you'd say after dropping your phone on your foot, this village is actually one of the most scenic and soulful spots in the Nicosia region.
Tucked away in the embrace of the Troodos Mountains at about 700 meters above sea level, it’s only an hour's drive from Nicosia—unless you stop every ten minutes to photograph the surrounding scenery, in which case it might take a bit longer.
Kakopetria’s charming streets are so enchanting that you may lose track of time... and direction. The stone houses with wooden balconies seem made for photoshoots and long conversations about “the eternal” over a cup of Cypriot coffee. Two rivers—Klarios and Garillis—wind through the village, creating a magical backdrop for walks. The air here is as fresh as a mint gum commercial and so clean you’ll want to breathe deeper than usual.
Local taverns are a gastronomic portal. Be sure to try the famous afelia (pork in wine with coriander), fresh halloumi, and the dessert galaktoboureko—so creamy it brings tears of joy to any sweet tooth.
The village also features historic churches, the most popular being St. Nicholas, where you feel as if you’ve just finished a good meditation: peaceful, serene, and ready to hug the world.
In summer, Kakopetria is cooler than the city—a haven for those weary of the sun but still longing to see it. In autumn, the village becomes a palette of gold and burgundy—perfect for walks. And in winter, it even gets snow, so bring a scarf and a desire to build snowmen!
Still unsure? Just imagine: you, a stone house, a cup of Cypriot coffee, birds singing, weak Wi-Fi (thank goodness!), and someone by your side who also doesn't want to rush anywhere.
Fikardou
Fikardou can confidently be called one of Cyprus’s hidden gems—even if that sounds like the start of a tourist brochure. Located in the Troodos mountains at about 1,000 meters above sea level and only 40 km from Nicosia, the village takes its name from the noble Fikardo family, who left a lasting mark on the region’s history.
Another version of the name’s origin refers to “figa antron”—“refuge of fugitives”—from the Byzantine era.
Today, this abandoned village has become an open-air museum. Its residents left in the 19th century, and later it was restored. Now, Fikardou looks as if its inhabitants left just yesterday. Officially recognized as a traditional village, it features no new buildings or plastic signs—only restored stone houses with clay-tile roofs, wooden balconies, and original window designs.
These buildings now belong to the Department of Antiquities and have been turned into museums of rural life. The village once thrived with olive and grape cultivation and zivania production.
Today, the only permanent residents are the family running Yiannakos Tavern. On Sundays, locals from Nicosia and nearby villages flock here, and in season, tourists come for guided tours.
The vibe is like another planet—no rush, goats are respected citizens, and the loudest sound is rustling leaves. The nearby slopes are covered in vineyards, the mountains stretch into the clouds, and the air is scented with thyme. If peace could be photographed, it would look like this. Come here to escape the noise, lose track of time (in the best way), and find… yourself.
Evrychou
Located northwest of Nicosia at the foot of the legendary Troodos mountain range, Evrychou immediately makes a strong case for a perfect village weekend. Coming here feels like jumping off a speeding train of tasks and hopping onto a cozy cart pulled by silence and the scent of apples.
That’s because Evrychou is one of Cyprus’s main apple suppliers. Apples aren’t just grown—they’re revered. In September, the village becomes an apple paradise: a festival, tastings, pies, cider, jams, juices... If you’re allergic to boredom, you need to visit.
Besides apples, Evrychou also grows grapes. Wine cellars are hidden in stone homes like secrets in a grandmother’s chest.
The village also features a historic railway station, now a museum. In the early 20th century, a railway operated here. While trains no longer run, the museum and old tracks are a miniature time machine—a perfect way to feel like both an archaeologist and a romantic.
Views of Troodos, cozy balconies, vintage railway artifacts, and even a Cypriot granny knitting on a porch (yes, really!)—local charm is guaranteed. Visit to rediscover the joy of simple pleasures: fresh air, flavorful food, and slow walks under ancient trees.
Kalopanayiotis
High in the Troodos Mountains in the valley of the Setrachos River lies the village of Kalopanayiotis. The name means “Good Panayiotis,” and it’s no coincidence—it was named after the first settler in the area.
Kalopanayiotis is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the unmistakable Cypriot atmosphere, felt everywhere—from ancient chapels and winding streets to cozy restaurants and boutique hotels.
A funicular operates in the village—yes, really!—and it leads to the unique monastery of Saint John Lampadistis, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Next to it is the Byzantine Art Museum, home to icons from the 12th to 16th centuries. The village also boasts three Byzantine churches dating from the 9th to 15th centuries, famous for their stunning, well-preserved frescoes.
Hiking trails start right outside the village. Anglers can try their luck at the nearby reservoir, and thrill-seekers can explore the area on ATVs.
Kalopanayiotis isn’t just a village—it’s a meditative portal into the past. Cobblestone alleys, tiled-roof houses, grapevines stretching toward the sun like yogis, and an air thick with the aroma of fresh coffee and cinnamon.
Pedoulas
Nestled in a green Troodos valley at nearly 1,200 meters above sea level, Pedoulas looks like it belongs on a box of chocolates: neat houses surrounded by greenery, pine scent, pure mountain air...
And all this is still within Nicosia district—though it feels like a tiny Alpine fairy tale with a Cypriot twist.
Pedoulas isn’t just beautiful—it’s cherry beautiful. This is the official cherry capital of Cyprus! Visit in June to catch the famous Cherry Festival.
But Pedoulas is not just about cherries. The village is home to the Church of Archangel Michael, built in 1474 and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Modest on the outside, it holds stunning frescoes within. Look closely—you might swear the archangels are smiling at you in approval.
If you crave more sacred sites, check out the Icon Museum—impressive even for those unfamiliar with religious art.
Pedoulas is ideal for walks, especially after a hearty meal (and yes, the food here is excellent!). You can hike to neighboring Moutoulas or enjoy a leisurely stroll among pines and cypresses, pondering the meaning of life—or how to fit in one more loukoumades after yesterday’s feast.
For romantics, the village offers breathtaking views of the Maroullena valley, especially beautiful at sunset.
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