Things to do in Limassol
Cyprus' second-largest cosmopolitan city entices a wide variety of travelers, ranging from those keen on savoring the breathtaking Mediterranean sea-sun-sand trilogy, to those who prefer to explore the island's culture and tradition by visiting the ample archaeological sites and museums. Limassol also constitutes a pivotal spot for international business, attracting a vast array of multiethnic entrepreneurs. Located on Akrotiri Bay on the sunny southern coast of the island, Limassol offers lively nightlife, a plethora of energetic festivals, and features a broad spectrum of cafes, restaurants beach bars and clubs that line the bustling seafront. Recently, modern development projects at the old port area as well as the construction of the Limassol Marina, have rendered the town an even greater gem and attraction pole. Starting from Yermasoyia area where the complex is located, a tourists’ sought after region because of its vivacity, offering ample entertainment with its clubs, restaurants, pubs, traditional tavernas and cafes, one can take a 10 minute drive towards the Amathus archaeological site where the ruins of the ancient city-state of Amathounda can be visited.
The coastline stretching from Yermasoyia to Amanthounda is strewn with various organized beaches and seaside restaurants catering to an assortment of tastes and palates. One can also relish the beautiful shoreline promenade by taking a stroll or riding a bicycle on the meandering lanes unrolling from Yermasoyia to Amathounda. Further towards the east (between Limassol and Larnaca), there’s another well-known, sandy shoreline, called Governor’s beach. It encompasses many fish restaurants and watersports, and is ideal for children as well because of its shallow, clean blue waters.
On the west part of town, one could visit the ancient city of Kourion that comprises notable historic sites, in addition to the amphitheater, such as the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, the Houses of Achilles and Gladiators, the Baths and Aqueducts. Sea lovers can enjoy the crystal clear waters of the "Blue Flagged", 1km long coast of Kourion Beach, while they are at it. Another celebrated beach with shoreline restaurants in Limassol, is Lady’s Mile, an unspoiled and stunning 5km coastline with calm, shallow waters and golden brown fine sand, that runs along the east side of Akrotiri. Lady’s Mile is quite close to MyMall, the biggest shopping mall in Limassol.
“An impeccable experience of sunlit relaxation in a both innovative and traditional setting on the Mediterranean coast. Limassol can be relished in a variety of ways!”
The well maintained Castle of Kolossi, situated 14km west of Limassol, was initially constructed in the 13th century and then re-built during the 15th century. It served as the command center of both the Templar Knights as well as the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. In earlier times, the surrounding land around Kolossi Castle was cultivated with sugarcane and vineyards, from which the famous Cyprus wine Commandaria was produced. Commandaria earned its name from the Kolossi headquarters – called the Grand Commanderie.
The Old Town of Limassol, in the very heart of the city, is full of character. Enveloping the Medieval Castle and Square (at present housing the Cyprus Medieval Museum), the historic center radiates out in a web of narrow lanes where beautiful, stone-built, old houses with ornamented balconies and austere facades, lie next to modern boutiques. The area is bustling with lovely cafes, bars and restaurants, appealing to both locals and tourists.