Limassol, the fastest developing and second largest town in Cyprus, is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, a rich and colourful history, and its thriving commercial centre. This, as well as the city’s close proximity to the sea, is what make Limassol a truly diverse hotspot, ideal for anyone wishing to enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle of luxury and style.
What to See
There is no shortage places to discover in the bustling city of Limassol, no matter your preferences. These are some of the main points of interest, all of which make up a great way to spend a leisurely day in this seaside city.
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Molos Seafront Promenade
The Molos Seafront Promenade is one of the city’s most impressive beachside parks, stretching out all along the waterfront of the Olympion Beach to the Old Port of Limassol.
Thanks to extensive renovations, this beautiful area is now dotted with palm trees and green areas, and features walkways, bike lanes and skating ramps, outdoor gym areas and children’s playgrounds, decorative sculptures, and playful fountains.
Wooden docks extend out into the sea, offering visitors up close and personal views of the Mediterranean at their feet, while a wide variety of cafés and restaurants can be found all along the promenade, and are perfect for a beachside coffee and snack.
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Limassol Marina and Old Port
The Limassol Old Port, where the Molos Seafront Promenade culminates, was once a traditional fishing port that has been transformed into a lively waterfront space featuring trendy cafés and restaurants, all of which boast uninterrupted sea views, and a picturesque pier that is great for a moonlight walk above the water.
In a nod to its original roots, many of the traditional fishing boats are still docked there, lending an air of nostalgia and a distinctly island vibe to the area. Adjacent to the Old Port, one will come across the Limassol Marina, a landmark project that is the first of its kind in Cyprus. The 40,000 square meter Marina features berths for luxury yachts, and a plethora of restaurants, cafés and bars, as well as shops, a spa and a gym.
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Limassol Castle
The Limassol Castle, located right in the centre of the old town, stands tall and imposing, overlooking the lively Castle Square. It is said that the Castle is where King Richard the Lionheart married Queen Berengaria and crowned her Queen of England.
Today, the Castle houses the Medieval Museum of Cyprus, featuring an impressive array of ancient artefacts. Meanwhile, the surrounding Castle Square is always buzzing with activity, as it is home to the popular Carob Mill Restaurants and events venue. Little shops, trendy bars and street vendors can be found all around the perimeter of the area on any given night, making this bustling area a top choice among locals and visitors alike.
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Limassol Beach Restaurants
There is nothing quite like enjoying a delicious meal right next to the waves, and there is certainly no shortage of beachfront restaurants in Cyprus to choose from.
From trendy beach bars that are practically right on the water, to traditional fish taverns that serve up the catch of the day, the entire coastline of Limassol will have you spoilt for choice.
Noteworthy Events in Limassol
- Wine Festival, Limassol Municipal Gardens, August/September
- Limassol Carnival, all across Limassol, usually takes place around February/March
- Cyprus Rally, all across Cyprus, May
- Lemesia Sporting Event, various locations across Limassol, March to December
- Russian-Cypriot Festival, Seafront Promenade, June
- Beer Festival, Seafront Promenade, July
- European Dance Festival, Rialto Theatre, June
- Shakespeare Nights, Curium Amphitheatre, June
What To Do
Limassol is buzzing with activity. Here are just some of the key spots to add to your Limassol to-do list.
This award-winning waterpark, located in the village of Fasouri, is Cyprus’ largest. It features the biggest wave pool in Europe, and a super long lazy river.
The ancient amphitheatre is one of the island’s most impressive archaeological attractions, dating back to the 2nd century BC. Today, it is used for cultural events and theatrical performances.
The ancient city of Amathus is believed to be one of the island’s original four kingdoms, founded in 1100BC. Today, visitors can peruse the many treasures revealed by extensive archaeological excavations.
Anexartisias is the city’s main shopping street, featuring clothing, footwear and accessories stores with many international high-street brands.
Located in the Zakaki area of Limassol, Lady’s Mile is a popular beach that boasts warm, shallow and clear waters
The Akrotiri Salt Lake nearby is a hub of biodiversity and a great place to spot some migratory birds making their stop in Cyprus.
Limassol’s main shopping mall is the second largest in Cyprus, and features a large variety of shops, a large food court, and an ice skating ring.
Just outside of Limassol, this beach is known for its large white rocks that are ideal for exploring. The area is also home to a number of fish taverns and camping spaces.
The marina of the St. Raphael Hotel is Limassol’s smaller marina, home to fine dining establishments located right by the water.
Limassol is known for its ultra-luxurious beachfront hotels, ranging from the deluxe, 5-star Parklane Resort and Spa, Four Seasons, Amathus, to the luxury boutique hotel, Londa, and newly completed Amara Hotel.
Located right in the heart of the city centre, the Limassol Municipal Garden is a lush green area that is home to an open-air garden theatre, and a zoo that is ideal for families.
Limassol has a rich cultural scene, with its two main theatres, the Pattihio Municipal Theatre and the Rialto Theatre, as well as a number of smaller ones, showcasing numerous local and international performances each year.
Housed in one of Limassol’s most stunning buildings, the Municipal University Library is used by both the public and the Cyprus University of Technology.
This charming maze of streets in the Old Town of Limassol is home to bohemian eateries, quaint souvenir shops and artists’ studios, perfect for an afternoon of browsing.
Cyprus is also home to countless beautiful villages that are worth exploring for a real taste of local traditions and history. Since many of these villages are located in mountainous regions, the temperatures are noticeably lower, creating a pleasant atmosphere for a bit of sightseeing.