Home to sweeping coastal scenery and a thriving wine industry, this lively city is the gateway to some of Cyprus’ most important historic attractions.
Limassol is a buzzing and sophisticated city, famed for its fantastic nightlife and intriguing cultural sites. Cyprus’ second-largest city is ideal for travelers seeking to indulge at cosmopolitan restaurants and bars, as well as those hoping to discover the island’s compelling history.
Take a walk through the city’s Old Town and shop for traditional handicrafts and products, which are sold along the cobblestone streets. Explore the city’s Turkish heritage at the 16th-century Grand Mosque or follow the pleasant waterfront promenade to see the Sculpture Park.
At the center of the Old Town, you’ll find the modest 16th-century Limassol Castle. Best known as the place where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre, this ancient castle has been renovated into a museum of medieval artifacts. Browse collections of armor, pottery and sculptures or see the views from the castle’s rooftop terrace.
Take a trip east of Limassol to visit the Amathus Ruins, one of the island’s most important archeological sites. Walk through the remains of the city’s agora and admire the ancient Acropolis ruins. A little further east you’ll find Kolossi Castle, the original production center of Cyprus’s famous Commandaria dessert wine.
Save time to see the Kourion Ruins, which are located west of the city. Take a look at the intricate mosaics decorating the site’s centuries-old villas and catch a performance at the restored 3rd-century amphitheater.
Don’t leave without experiencing Limassol’s exciting nightlife at the bars found along the illuminated waterfront. Sample typical Cypriot dishes like sheftalia, which is grilled sausage made with pork, lamb, onions and parsley, at a charming taverna.
One of the best times of year to visit Limassol is during the Apokreo Festival, the biggest carnival in Cyprus, which takes place 2 weeks before Greek Orthodox Lent. If you visit during the summer, be sure to see the Limassol Wine Festival in late August, when local wineries offer tastings and traditional dances are performed.
Limassol is well connected to both Paphos and Larnaka airports.