Limassol, Cyprus, offers a cosmopolitan experience blending rich history and vibrant modern life along its Mediterranean coastline. It attracts visitors seeking a mix of cultural exploration, beach relaxation, and lively entertainment.
For socializing, the Limassol Old Town area presents a relaxed atmosphere with numerous cafes, bars, and local shops, making it easy to interact with other travelers. The beachfront promenade is particularly active in the evenings, featuring a variety of bars and eateries. The modern Limassol Marina also offers an upscale environment with cafes and restaurants.
Top 8 Things to do in Limassol
Limassol provides a rich tapestry of experiences, from delving into ancient history and local traditions to embracing modern coastal leisure and family-friendly adventures.
1. Exploring Limassol Old Town & Limassol Castle
Wandering through Limassol's Old Town reveals narrow, charming streets, traditional tavernas, and local markets, offering a glimpse into Cypriot culture. One can visit the Limassol Castle, a medieval fortress believed to be where Richard the Lionheart married, which now houses the Medieval Museum of Cyprus. Climbing to the castle's roof provides a good view of Limassol Harbor.
Cost: Entrance to Limassol Castle is approximately €4.50. Exploring the Old Town is free.
Transport: The Old Town and Limassol Castle are centrally located and easily walkable. Multiple city bus routes serve the area, including bus number 30.
2. Visiting Kourion Archaeological Site
Discovering the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion allows one to explore remarkably preserved Greco-Roman ruins, including a magnificent theatre and intricate mosaic murals. Perched on a hillside, the site offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The House of Eustolios, a former private villa converted into a public recreation center, is also a significant part of the site.
Cost: The entrance fee for Kourion Archaeological Site is €4.50.
Transport: Kourion is approximately 19 km west of Limassol. One can take bus number 16 from the Old Hospital (a 15-minute walk from Limassol Marina) towards Kourion Beach, followed by a short walk to the site. The bus fare is around €1.50 during the day. A taxi from Limassol would cost approximately €18-€23.
3. Discovering Kolossi Castle
Exploring Kolossi Castle provides insight into Cyprus's crusading history, as it served as a Grand Commandery for the Knights of St. John. This impressive Gothic fortress, rebuilt in the 15th century, also holds historical significance as the birthplace of Commandaria, one of the world's oldest named wines. Adjacent to the castle are the ruins of a 14th-century sugar mill.
Cost: The entrance fee to Kolossi Castle is €2.50.
Transport: Kolossi Castle is located about 14 km west of Limassol. Bus number 17 from the Old Hospital or bus number 33 from Tzelal Bagiar - Agios Antonios Church 1 will take one directly to the castle in approximately 25 minutes for around €1.50. A taxi fare is estimated between €18-€23.
4. Strolling the Limassol Marina
The modern Limassol Marina offers a sophisticated waterfront experience with luxury yachts, high-end restaurants, cafes, and bars. It is a pleasant area for leisurely strolls, enjoying the sea breeze, and dining, transforming into a vibrant social hub, particularly in the evenings.
Cost: Walking around the Marina is free. Dining, drinks, and shopping costs vary.
Transport: Limassol Marina is situated near the city center and the Old Port, making it easily accessible on foot from the Old Town. Bus number 30 runs along the coastline and stops near the Marina.
5. Experiencing a Troodos Mountain Wine Tour
Embarking on a wine tour into the picturesque Troodos Mountains allows one to delve into Cyprus's flourishing wine industry. Visitors can explore award-winning wineries, sample unique local grape varieties like Mavro and Xynisteri, and enjoy traditional Cypriot meze lunches in quaint villages amidst stunning natural landscapes. Many tours also include scenic drives through the mountains.
Cost: Guided wine tours vary in price; group tours can be around €65 per person, while private tours for up to four people may range from €200-€280. . Costs for self-driving would include car rental and individual tasting fees.
Transport: Most guided tours include hotel pickup from Limassol. For a self-guided experience, a rented car is necessary to navigate the mountain roads and visit multiple wineries.
6. Relaxing at Lady's Mile Beach
Lady's Mile Beach offers an extensive stretch of dark grey sand and calm, shallow, crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and swimming. Facilities include sunbeds, umbrellas, and various water sports activities such as windsurfing and jet skiing. Beachfront tavernas provide fresh seafood and local cuisine. During winter months, the nearby Akrotiri Salt Lake can attract migrating birds like flamingos.
Cost: Access to the beach is free. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, typically costing a few euros each. Water sports activities have separate fees.
Transport: Lady's Mile Beach is about a 10-15 minute drive from Limassol city center. It is accessible by car, or one can take bus number 30 along the coastal road towards the New Port area, then a short taxi ride for approximately €13-€16.
7. Enjoying Fasouri Watermania Waterpark
For a day of exciting water-based fun, Fasouri Watermania Waterpark is Cyprus's largest, featuring over 30 slides and attractions. One can experience thrilling rides like the Kamikaze slide, relax on the lazy river, or enjoy dedicated children's activity pools. The park offers restaurants and bars on-site, providing a full day of entertainment.
Cost: Admission is approximately €30 for adults (12+) and €17 for children (3-12). Extra costs apply for amenities such as towels, lockers, and food/drinks.
Transport: Fasouri Watermania is located approximately 9 km from Limassol. Bus number 19 from EMEL Bus Station Leontiou A' or bus number 33 from Port Parallel Road offers direct routes, with travel times ranging from 11-34 minutes for around €1.50. A taxi from Limassol typically costs €13-€17.
8. Discovering Limassol's Street Art
Exploring Limassol's urban landscape reveals a growing collection of vibrant street art and murals. Local and international artists have transformed various city locations, often around the Old Town, as part of initiatives like the Art Square project and the Revive Festival. These artworks provide a unique blend of modern artistic expression, often with themes of nature and social commentary, and offer a different perspective on the city's cultural pulse.
Cost: Exploring the street art is free of charge.
Transport: The street art is predominantly found in urban areas, particularly within and around the Old Town, making it easily accessible by walking.
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