I have traveled the world. I have seen the ancient streets of Rome. I have walked the busy paths of London. However, Nicosia holds a special place in my heart. It is the last divided capital in the world. It is a city where history and modern life meet in a beautiful way. I am a mature traveler who loves to explore new places with a loyal companion. My dog is a part of my family. I do not want to leave my furry friend behind when I go for a coffee or a meal. Many people think that Cyprus is slow to embrace a pet-friendly lifestyle. On the contrary, Nicosia is full of hidden gems. You just need to know where to look. I want to share my personal journey through the Pet Friendly Cafes in Nicosia.
The Rules of the Road for Pet Owners
First of all, you must understand the local laws. It is not just about fun and games. Every dog in Cyprus needs a license. This is a serious civic responsibility. The annual fee is usually €20.50. However, if you own a breed that is considered dangerous, the price jumps to €170 or €171. You must also ensure your dog is microchipped. I take this very seriously. I want to be a responsible traveler.
Do you know about the fines? They are steep. Walking a dog without a leash in a public place can cost you €300. Failure to clean up after your pet is also a €300 fine. The authorities are strict because they care about safety. Therefore, I always keep a leash and waste bags in my pocket. Plus, you need to display a “Beware of Dog” sign at your home entrance if you live here. It is all about respect for the community.
Starting the Day at A κχoffee project
My favorite way to start a morning is at A κχoffee project. It is located at Pindarou 29D. This place is a delightful mix of art deco style and modern coffee culture. The interior has warm wood tones and chic blue-and-white accents. It reminds me of a stylish London coffee shop. First of all, the coffee is exquisite. They have an in-house roaster. The smell of aromatic beans is everywhere.
I usually bring my dog and sit at the outdoor tables. The vibe is very chill. Theofania once said this pet-friendly cafe has great coffee and friendly staff. I agree completely. I recommend the flat white. On top of that, you must visit on a Wednesday. Why? They serve a famous cheesecake special. It is to die for. People typically spend about 45 minutes here. I like to stay longer and soak in the sunlight. The afternoon sun creates an artistic view inside the cafe. It makes me feel extra good every time I pass by.
A Fairy Tale Experience at Lala Cafe
Later in the day, I often wander toward Lala Cafe. This spot is located at Stasinou 46 in Acropoli. It is a quaint spot away from the city center. Walking in feels like entering a fairy tale. There are cute armchairs and books hanging from the ceiling. It is a visual wonderland.
The cafe is named after a cat. Lala is a cute cat who often takes a nap on the indoor sofa. She is the true landlord of the place. I love that this is a pet friendly cafe nicosia where animals are truly welcomed. The staff is super kind and helpful. They give the best suggestions for snacks. I highly recommend the pumpkin soup in the winter. It contains lentils, ginger, and lemon. It is extremely exquisite. Additionally, you should try the orange pie. It is a lovely place to spend time with friends or enjoy a quiet moment alone.
Productivity and Peace at The Workshop
Sometimes I need to get some work done. I look for a place that is quiet but inspiring. The Workshop is a hidden gem for this purpose. It is located on Kykladon Street in Strovolos. This cafe strikes a perfect balance between calm and productivity. It is not always packed. Therefore, it is ideal for solo work or group study.
The staff members are very friendly. They make you feel welcome. I often bring my dog and sit in the outdoor seating area. It is one of those dog friendly cafes nicosia where you can settle down and find your work groove. The coffee is high quality. Plus, they offer organic and vegan options. It is a peaceful setting where I can focus without many distractions.
Brunch Favorites for Every Palate
Brunch is a big deal in Nicosia. I love a hearty meal on a Saturday morning. There are so many pet friendly restaurants nicosia to choose from.
First of all, let us talk about Silver Pot. It is on Themistokli Dervi Street. This place is a treasure trove for breakfast lovers. It has a cozy atmosphere. They have been serving delightful vegetarian options since 2011. I love their blueberry cheesecake. Though it can be noisy inside, it is worth a visit for the delicious food.
Similarly, The Boys At Number Five is a popular city center spot. It has a fun menu featuring dishes named after people. I recommend the English breakfast. It is a cute and intimate restaurant. However, it gets very busy on weekends. I suggest you make a reservation in advance. They allow pets, which is a huge plus for me. Sometimes a dog might bark, but that is part of the charm.
Another great option is Nom. It is located in a picturesque neighborhood. The menu draws inspiration from both local and international cuisines. They offer healthy options like pancakes, bagels, and acai bowls. The interior is stunning. It feels very cozy and inviting. I always feel like the staff is attentive and friendly.
Exploring the Old Town with Pets
Nicosia’s old town is full of character. I love to walk through the narrow alleys. There are many dog friendly places nicosia in this historic area.
Kafenio 11 is an authentic treasure. It is located near the Archbishop Palace. The interior is decorated with bits and pieces from a romantic older time. It has a wonderful atmosphere. On weekends, you can hear live music. The managers are an adorable couple. They make you feel like part of the family. I once sat outside with my little dogs. The employee even said I could sit inside if I wanted. It is a very pleasant experience with reasonable prices.
Nearby, you will find 7 Kleidia. It is on a serene pedestrian street. This spot opens in the late afternoon. It has a very friendly vibe. They serve local craft beers and quality wines. It is a great place to meet and catch up with friends. The staff is amazing. I love the chilled and cozy environment.
Pieto is another favorite of mine. It is located on Ledras Street. It has a vintage feel. The staff is prompt and friendly. I have seen several friendly cats that enjoy the cafe too. They serve huge and tasty sandwiches. Plus, they offer complimentary water, which is a nice gesture. It is a cozy escape from the busy shopping street.
Special Mentions for Coffee Enthusiasts
If you are serious about your coffee, you have several choices. Serious Black Coffee is an exceptional specialty shop. It is in the heart of the city. The atmosphere is super chill. They roast their own coffee, and it is top-notch. I love their flat white. It is a great place to focus or just hang out.
Brew Lab is another excellent choice. It has an amazing atmosphere. They serve coffee from Taf in Athens. The staff is friendly and funny. They even provide free water, which is rare in Nicosia. I love sitting outside and enjoying the weather.
The Daily Roast is a vibrant and artsy spot. It is a haven for coffee aficionados. They have imported beans roasted in-house. I enjoy their self-made sandwiches. Though it can be crowded, it is full of creative energy. It even has its own parking, which is very helpful in Nicosia.
A Quick Bite at Get Fresh
When I want something healthy, I go to Get Fresh. It is located in the city center. They offer super scramble eggs with edamame and broccoli. I also love their gluten-free wholemeal pancakes. It is a popular spot among locals. The staff is helpful and energetic. On top of that, they have a variety of healthy cakes and creative salads. It is a great place for a quick snack and a good coffee.
Sweet Treats for You and Your Dog
Do you have a sweet tooth? Heraclis Ice Cream is a Nicosia institution. It has been open for over 70 years. They use 100% natural ingredients. The gelato is excellent. I love to sit outside on the pedestrian area and watch the world go by. It is great value for money.
If you want a pet friendly brunch nicosia with a twist, try The Smoothie Factory. They have a huge selection of smoothies. I love the Lotus French Toast. The portions are generous. However, it can be very noisy inside because of the blenders. I suggest you grab a seat outside if you are sensitive to noise.
For something unique, visit Refuel. It is a cafeteria that actually offers dog ice cream! My dog absolutely loves it. It is one of those dog friendly restaurants nicosia that goes the extra mile.
Crossing the Border for a Unique Vibe
As I mentioned, Nicosia is a divided city. You can cross the border to the northern side. You must show your passport or ID. It is a simple process. I find it very interesting to see the difference between the two parts.
On the northern side, I enjoy Cafe No. 3. It has beautiful architecture and a nice design. There is space upstairs for study or work. They have WiFi available. I once heard a saxophone player there, and it was lovely. Though some people find the service inconsistent, I have had good experiences.
I also like Lorenza Coffee. It is a charming cafe near the Buyuk Han. The owners are very friendly and kind. They serve homemade quiche and fresh lemonade. It is a great spot to revive while taking in the sights of the old city.
Where to Play: Dog Parks and More
After a nice coffee, my dog needs some exercise. Nicosia has several special dog parks. These are fenced areas where dogs can run without a leash.
Rosewood Dog Park is the perfect place. It is completely secure. It offers 6000 square meters of fun. There is a paddling pool, tunnels, and steps. You need to book in advance, but it is worth it. The clubhouse even sells snacks and drinks.
I also visit Akadimias Park. It has a fully fenced off-leash area. There are separate sections for small and large dogs. They have water fountains and waste disposal stations. It is a safe and social environment for my pet.
The National Forest Park of Athalassa is another great option. It has over 20km of trails. It is a green oasis in the city. There is a dedicated off-leash section for dogs. However, there are no bins or water fountains in that section. Therefore, you must bring your own water and bags.
Traveling with Your Pet in Nicosia
How do you get around? It is a bit tricky. Intercity buses only allow small animals up to 8 kg in a carrier. This is at the driver’s discretion. Taxis are more flexible, but you should book in advance. Small dogs must be in a carrier. Large dogs must be muzzled and on a leash.
I find that owning a car is the best way to live an active lifestyle with a dog in Cyprus. It allows you to visit the best parks and remote beaches freely. Speaking of beaches, there are official dog beaches on the island. For example, Gliki Nero in Paralimni is an option. However, some people say these beaches are remote and rocky. I prefer the welcoming atmosphere of the private cafes in Nicosia.
Health and Safety in the Sun
Living in a Mediterranean climate brings specific risks. You must protect your dog from Leishmaniasis. This is a serious disease transmitted by sand flies. It is common on the island. I use special repellent collars and treatments prescribed by my vet.
Overheating is another danger in the summer. I always carry water with me. I avoid walking my dog during the hottest part of the day. Also, be careful about poisoning. Some people scatter poisoned bait to control stray animals. You must stay vigilant during your walks.
FAQ
Is Cyprus pet friendly?
Cyprus is gradually becoming more pet-friendly. Some people feel the island has been slow to change, but it is getting there. You can now find many sandy beaches, though those for pets are often in remote areas. Private businesses are often more welcoming than public spaces.
Can dogs go inside a café?
Yes, they can! Several spots in Nicosia allow dogs inside. A κχoffee project is a pet-friendly cafe where you can sit indoors. Lala Cafe is another spot where you will find a resident cat and can bring your own pet inside. The Coffee House in Egkomi also welcomes dogs inside and outside.
Where can I go with my pet?
You have many choices. First of all, you can visit cafes like The Workshop or Get Fresh. Additionally, you can visit one of the 7 official dog beaches, such as Gliki Nero. If you want exercise, the National Forest Park of Athalassa has over 20km of trails. Plus, you can play at Rosewood Dog Park, which offers 6000 square meters of secure space.
How do I bring my pet to Cyprus?
First of all, your pet needs a 15-digit microchip. Then, you must get a rabies vaccine once the pet is 12 weeks old. You must wait at least 21 days after the shot before you enter the country. Additionally, you need an official Animal Health Certificate. Finally, you must notify the airport vet 48 hours before you arrive.
Concluding words
Nicosia is a city of change. It offers a mix of history and a new, animal-friendly lifestyle. You can find high-quality coffee at Brew Lab or a cozy work spot at The Workshop. While the laws are strict, they keep everyone safe. You must remember to use a leash and carry waste bags to avoid a €300 fine.
There are over 81 exceptional pet-friendly experiences to find in the city. Therefore, you can enjoy a full life with your furry friend in the capital. Your next adventure with your dog starts at a sun-drenched cafe.
