Life in Nicosia, the vibrant capital of Cyprus, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. As the last divided capital in the world, it’s a city where ancient stone walls and medieval architecture meet contemporary cafes, art galleries, and bustling shops. By day, Nicosia is lively with students, professionals, and travelers exploring its museums, markets, and quaint Old Town streets, while at night, the city comes alive with music, nightlife, and cozy tavernas serving authentic Cypriot cuisine. Known for its welcoming and safe atmosphere, Nicosia has a warm community vibe and a diverse, multicultural feel. The city also offers easy access to both mountains and coastlines, making it perfect for day trips to Cyprus’s stunning beaches or scenic hikes. With sunny weather most of the year, life in Nicosia is laid-back but filled with opportunities to engage in the local arts, history, and unique Mediterranean culture.

The University of Nicosia provides students with comfortable, single-occupancy residences featuring private kitchens, bathrooms, and balconies. Located in Nicosia’s upscale Makedonitissa neighborhood, these housing options are close to the University of Nicosia campus and surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. Each building offers a range of amenities, including gyms, game rooms, study spaces, and laundry facilities, creating a vibrant, supportive environment for international students to live, study, and socialize nearby.

While meals aren’t included in the program besides a welcome and farewell dinner, Cyprus offers a diverse food scene with options for every budget. You’ll find traditional Cypriot dishes like souvlaki, halloumi, and fresh seafood, as well as Mediterranean-inspired meals in restaurants, cafes, and street vendors around town. International cuisine is also widely available, from Western fast food to Italian, Middle Eastern, and Asian eateries. Vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions can also find plenty of choices within walking distance. Local grocery stores carry familiar brands, and neighborhood markets are great for fresh, seasonal produce.

Cyprus boasts a unique cultural blend shaped by Greek and Turkish influences, alongside centuries of history from ancient empires and modern Mediterranean traditions. This cultural mix is evident in everything from language and cuisine to festivals and music. Traditional Cypriot foods, like meze, halloumi, and olive-rich dishes, are celebrated at lively gatherings, and many towns host annual festivals that showcase folk music, dance, and crafts passed down through generations. With a deep-rooted emphasis on hospitality, Cypriots are known for warmly welcoming visitors, often going out of their way to make newcomers feel at home. Religious traditions, both Greek Orthodox and Muslim, coexist here, and the island’s art, architecture, and customs reflect this peaceful diversity. Modern Cyprus embraces a laid-back, social lifestyle, with bustling cafes, vibrant open-air markets, and picturesque towns where tradition and modernity harmoniously intertwine.