Limassol
Country: Cyprus · Region: Eastern Mediterranean · Currency: Euro
Limassol is Cyprus's second largest city and principal sea port, offering a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a renovated historic old town, beaches, and archaeological sites. It serves as a major cruise destination with regular international ferry routes.
Top sights
Limassol Castle, Kourion archaeological site, Amathus ancient royal city, Kolossi Castle, Akti Olympion beach-side walking park, St. Catherine's Church
Things to do
- Limassol Castle
- Historic castle in the old town area with nearby renovated colonial and Ottoman-period architecture.
- Kourion
- Archaeological site 13 km west featuring a well-preserved Greco-Roman theatre, House of Achilles, Altar of Apollo, and views of Curium Beach; entrance €4.50.
- Amathus
- Ancient royal city located approximately 10 km east of Limassol.
- Kolossi Castle
- Former crusader stronghold located around 10 km west of Limassol; entrance €2.50.
Beaches
- Governor's Beach
- Long sandy beach outside Limassol with beach-side fish restaurants and white stone coast to the west.
- Lady's Mile Beach
- Long mostly-pebbly, partly sandy beach along the south-west coast with several fish restaurants and a nearby salt lake for bird watching.
Where to eat
- Kyrenia Fish Tavern
- Beach-side tavern in Yermasoyia tourist area offering traditional Cypriot fish meze for €21.
- Draught Microbrewery
- Restaurant and bar in the Carob Mill next to Limassol Castle with its own small beer brewery and grill specialties.
Bars and nightlife
- GSpot Beach Cafe
- Laid-back beachfront cafe on the coastal road near Limassol Zoo, frequented by locals for coffee and smoothies.
Getting around
Use bus route #30 along the beach road (€1.50 per trip), taxis (expensive and often ignore meters), or the dedicated bicycle lane stretching from Old Port to Dasoudi.
What to eat
Try traditional Cypriot meze (meat or fish variety with multiple small dishes) at restaurants catering to locals, or kebab for affordable fresh meals; avoid colorful tourist cafes.
Tips
Book accommodations and restaurants in advance during major European football matches, as the city is known as Cyprus's party capital with extensive sports bar culture.
Best for
Ancient history, beaches, nightlife