Limassol Travel Guide
A Mediterranean Gem Unveiled
Dive into our complete Limassol guide, exploring top attractions, culinary delights, serene beaches, and local secrets. Unlock the ultimate Limassol experience with expert insights.
Overview
Nestled between the azure waves of the Mediterranean and the verdant Troodos Mountains, Limassol, Cyprus’s second-largest city, beautifully marries the charm of its ancient history with the vivacity of modern European living. With roots stretching back millennia, Limassol’s streets are a tapestry of Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, and Ottoman mosques juxtaposed against contemporary architecture, trendy cafes, and an ever-evolving skyline.
The city’s coastal promenade, dotted with swaying palm trees, is a leisurely delight by day and a bustling hub of activity by night. Waterfront restaurants serve delectable Cypriot cuisine, while stylish boutiques showcase international brands and local artisanal creations. However, it’s not just the tangible that makes Limassol enchanting. The spirit of its people – warm, welcoming, and infused with a zest for life – truly sets the city apart. Whether you’re sipping world-class wine from local vineyards, dancing at a lively beachfront club, or delving into the city’s storied past, Limassol promises a journey that captivates both the senses and the soul.
Best Time to Visit Limassol
Like much of Cyprus, Limassol enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by long, hot summers and mild winters. The best time to travel to Limassol is from April to June and September to October, as these months offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and lower accommodation costs, ensuring a more relaxed and cost-effective experience.
- Spring (March to May): This is arguably the best time to visit Limassol. The temperatures are pleasant, the wildflowers bloom, and the tourist crowds are yet to peak. It’s an ideal period for sightseeing and outdoor activities without the scorching summer heat.
- Summer (June to August): These months see the height of tourist season. Days are long, hot, and sun-drenched, perfect for beach lovers. However, it’s also when the city is at its busiest. If you opt for summer, ensure you book accommodations and tours in advance and always carry sunscreen.
- Autumn (September to November): Limassol experiences a second wave of milder temperatures as the summer crowds thin. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, and the vineyards around the city come alive with grape harvesting and local wine festivals.
- Winter (December to February): While winters in Limassol are mild compared to much of Europe, it’s cooler with occasional rains. However, this is also when the city is most tranquil, offering a serene atmosphere devoid of tourist hustle. Plus, the nearby Troodos Mountains offer winter sports opportunities.
In essence, Limassol’s allure is perennial. Whether aiming for sun-kissed beaches, historic walks, or wine-tasting sessions, there’s always a perfect time to experience the city’s offerings.
Amathus Archeological Site
Where to stay
Hotels & Airbnbs in Limassol
Finding the perfect place to stay in Limassol, a city full of charm and warmth, is an exciting part of the travel journey. From the sun-drenched beaches to the bustling city centre, the stunning marina area to the quaint, cobbled streets of the old town, each corner of Limassol offers a unique experience and an array of accommodation options.
For couples seeking romance and luxury, the beachfront area of Agios Tychonas brims with high-end resorts. Among them, the Four Seasons Hotel stands as a testament to luxury and quality service. With its private beach, stunning sea views, and a range of dining and leisure facilities, it provides a haven where elegance and relaxation coexist. Just a little further down the coast, Mediterranean Beach Hotel captures the essence of opulence. With its own private beach, gourmet dining options, and rooms that promise panoramic sunset views, it’s a lovers’ paradise., creating the perfect setting for couples to reconnect.
Families may enjoy staying in the city centre or tourist area, where they’ll find properties like the Royal Apollonia Hotel. This Booking.com favorite is ideal for families, offering a stately escape with its expansive pools, refined dining experiences, and serene spa facilities. Located within walking distance of attractions, parks, and an array of eateries, it ensures a hassle-free stay.
Solo travellers and groups of friends might prefer the old town or city centre, home to the charming NYX Hotel Limassol by Leonardo Hotels. This property, highly rated on Booking.com, is located in the Limassol Promenade district. Nestled amidst cobbled streets, it puts you right in the heart of Limassol’s buzzing cafes, artisan shops, and vibrant nightlife.
In Limassol, each neighbourhood has its character and charm, and your choice of accommodation lets you experience the city from a unique perspective. But no matter where you choose to stay, you’ll be greeted with the same warm Cypriot hospitality that will make your visit unforgettable. Let’s dive into some specific accommodations that interest you!
Limassol’s Luxury Resorts That Redefine Opulence
For those seeking the highest level of comfort and service, Limassol’s luxury resorts stand ready to impress. The Amara Hotel – Sea Your Only View delivers sophistication and elegance with its plush rooms, private beach, and top-tier dining experiences. Not to be outdone, the Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, offers lavish rooms, an expansive pool area, and a luxurious spa, ensuring an unforgettable stay.
Best Kept Mid-Range Accommodation Secrets
Travellers seeking quality accommodation at a reasonable price will find plenty of options in Limassol. The Alasia Boutique Hotel offers well-appointed rooms, a peaceful pool area, and exceptional service, all in a central location. Alternatively, the Crowne Plaza Hotel presents a unique blend of design-focused decor and a relaxed beachfront atmosphere.
Live Like a Local: Unforgettable Holiday Rentals
If you prefer a home-away-from-home experience, Limassol’s holiday rentals are the way to go. Olympic Residence Deluxe Apartments deliver spacious living areas, kitchen facilities, and an ideal location close to key attractions. Castle Holiday Apartments also offer a welcoming, homely ambience, with the added perks of a refreshing swimming pool and proximity to the city’s beautiful beaches.
Experience Limassol on a Budget
Budget-conscious travellers need to maintain comfort and location in Limassol. Lima Sol House Hostel provides affordable, stylish accommodations in the city’s heart. For those who prefer a more traditional hotel experience, Odysseia Hotel Kapetanios offers budget-friendly rooms, a welcoming pool area, and a location just a stone’s throw from the beach.
Ready to secure your dream accommodation in Limassol? Make your reservation hassle-free using our interactive map below, where you can explore each hotel’s location. Alternatively head over to Booking.com to finalize your plans. Enjoy your stay!
Things to Do
Tours & Activities in Limassol
Limassol, a vibrant city nestled on the southern coast of Cyprus, is a realm where the whispers of ancient tales meet the heartbeat of modernity. With sun-kissed beaches like Lady’s Mile Beach, the historical tapestry of the ancient city-kingdom of Amathus, and the serenity of the Troodos Mountains, Limassol is a canvas of diverse experiences awaiting your brushstrokes.
In Limassol, every horizon beckons with promise, and an array of curated tours from Viator is your compass to the heart of this captivating city. Venture beyond the beaten path and let Limassol reveal its essence through a palette of coastal, inland, and aquatic adventures.
Embrace the Adventurer Within
In Limassol, every path leads to adventure, beckoning the bold and the brave. Imagine yourself embarking on the “Surf and Turf Full Day Jeep & Boat Combination Tour from Limassol,” where you conquer land and sea, feeling the exhilaration of a jeep safari followed by the tranquillity of a boat tour, a true testament to Limassol’s diverse landscapes. Add to this the thrill of the “Land Sailing in Limassol” experience, where you’re breaking waves and soaring across the land, powered by nothing but the wind. It’s not just an activity; it’s an affirmation of life’s thrilling possibilities.
A Cultural and Culinary Tapestry
The cultural richness of Limassol is a saga best experienced through its local flavours and age-old traditions. Begin with the “Vino Venture: Explore With A Local – Troodos Mountains thru Wine!” tour, where each sip of exquisite local wine is like turning a page in the rich book of Cypriot history. For a hands-on culinary experience, the “Village Venture: Troodos Mountains Food & Wine Small Group Day Tour” is your passport to visit 5 traditional product workshops and taste a variety of Cypriot delicacies at carefully selected villages on Troodos mountains.
Stepping Through Historical Echoes
History in Limassol isn’t just preserved in museums; it’s etched in every street and inscribed in every ancient stone. Walk through this living history with the “Private Walking Tour of Limassol,” where stories of the past unfold with each step. Complement this with “The Grape Escape: Troodos Mountains thru Wine Small Group Tour,” where the history of the Troodos Mountains is narrated through the art of winemaking, each glass a reflection of Limassol’s rich heritage.
Family Bonds Strengthened in Fun
Fun in Limassol is a family affair, a bond strengthened through shared adventures. Set sail on the “Full-Day Family Catamaran Cruise from Limassol with Lunch,” where the sea whispers tales of unity and the horizon beckons with promises of shared joy. Back on land, the laughter resonates through the spiralling slides and splashing pools of “Fasouri Watermania,” Cyprus’s largest water park, a paradise where fun knows no age and every moment is a snapshot of shared happiness.
Booking Your Adventure
Embark on a seamless adventure in Limassol by booking your tours and activities through Viator.com. With a click, Limassol’s historic trails, serene waters, and rustic charm are ready to narrate tales of a land where the past and present dance in a timeless rhythm. Your adventure, a blend of discovery and enchantment, awaits.
Best Beaches in Limasssol
Limassol graces the southern coast of Cyprus, promising sun-kissed shores and clear, cerulean waters that beckon beach lovers worldwide. With a coastline stretching for miles, this city elegantly combines the beauty of nature with a hint of cosmopolitan flair, offering both bustling seaside spots and more secluded sandy stretches.
Imagine sunbathing on the soft sands of Lady’s Mile Beach, a family favourite owing to its gentle, shallow waters. Just a stone’s throw away from the city’s heart, this beach also offers many dining and entertainment options for when the sun begins to set.
Or perhaps you’d prefer the unique beauty of Governor’s Beach, with its striking dark sands juxtaposed against pristine white cliffs. It’s not just a beach; it’s a canvas painted by nature.
For those who enjoy blending history with relaxation, Kourion Beach awaits. Located right below the historical site of ancient Kourion, this beach allows visitors to dip in the waters of history.
Dasoudi Beach is a testament to Limassol’s commitment to conservation, with its eucalyptus groves and salt lakes. It’s a haven for both beach lovers and bird watchers.
Lastly, the vibrant atmosphere of Akti Olympion Beach offers a lively setting with its beach bars and water sports activities. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone at this beach.
In essence, Limassol’s beaches are not just stretches of sand; they are experiences. Every grain of sand, every ripple in the water, and every sunset on the horizon tells a story. And in Limassol, you’ll surely find a beach that narrates a tale you’ll want to be a part of. Dive in!
Dasoudi (Small Forest) Beach
Shopping in Limassol
In the captivating city of Limassol, shopping is not just a necessity – it’s a delightful adventure! A stroll through the city’s vibrant shopping districts will lead you to an enticing array of local boutiques, high-end designer stores, traditional markets, and quirky speciality shops. Whether you’re hunting for the latest fashion trends, unique artisan crafts, or gourmet local products, Limassol’s shopping scene will surely cater to your every whim and fancy.
Designer Boutiques and Luxury Brands
In the heart of Limassol, you’ll find the chic district of Anexartisias Street, home to many high-end boutiques and international luxury brands. Discover the epitome of male fashion at Kouross, a luxury men’s clothing store which has been leading the fashion industry since 1991, offering a wide range of suits and fashion accessories. For a taste of ultra-modern fashion, First Boutique is the island’s leading luxury shopping destination with exquisite seasonal must-haves. If you fancy international brands, Cara Boutique and Tiffany Boutique are well-established retailers providing collections from the world’s most prestigious brands, including being the official retailer of Chanel in Cyprus.
For a more extensive shopping spree, My Mall Limassol Limassol hosting over three floors of retail paradise, you’ll find prestigious brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Lacoste, Calvin Klein, Under Armour, Vans and many more. Beyond shopping, it’s a hub for dining and entertainment, making it a one-stop destination for a delightful family outing.
Artisanal and Specialty Shops
For a unique shopping experience, delve into the maze of artisanal and speciality shops scattered throughout Limassol’s Old Town. Make your first stop at Oenoforos Wine Shop, a haven for wine enthusiasts offering a variety of exquisite wines. Next, stroll to AQUA Shop and embrace the Mediterranean vibes with family-friendly products, including clothes, souvenirs, beach bags, flip-flops, and towels. Lastly, step into the world of elegant jewellery at Tonia Jewellers and browse their sophisticated designs.
Each of these artisanal and speciality shops offers a unique glimpse into the creative and luxurious spirit of Limassol, ensuring a delightful and memorable shopping adventure.
Local Markets and Quaint Shops
Dive into the culinary heart of Limassol through its bustling local markets and charming shops. Every weekend, the Flea Market at Asomatos Village comes alive, offering a picturesque scene of regional trade and traditional finds. Venture to La Maison du Vin, a gourmet sanctuary offering exquisite cheeses, fine wines, and other treasures. The lively Limassol Agora at Saripolou Square is ideal for dining, shopping, recreation and entertainment. Lastly, visit Gourmet Cyprus Shop for a lavish array of truffles, foie gras, and caviar, transporting your taste buds on a global journey. Each visit unveils a new layer of Limassol’s rich commercial tapestry, beckoning with the promise of delightful discoveries.
As you wander through Limassol’s bustling shopping districts, remember to savour the experience. Take time to chat with the friendly store owners, taste the local delicacies, and discover this city’s unique treasures. Happy shopping!
Where to eat
Restaurants in Limassol
The gastronomic scene in Limassol is as diverse as it is delicious. From hearty traditional dishes to innovative gastronomic creations, a wealth of culinary experiences is waiting for you.
Traditional Tavernas
Indulge in the essence of Cypriot culture by dining at the heartwarming traditional taverns scattered across Limassol. Start your gastronomic expedition at Giagkini Tavern, nestled in the city centre near Saripolou Square, where you can revel in grilled meze and seasonal dishes amidst a charming courtyard perfect for a lively night out with friends. For a cosy retreat, head to Meze Taverna invites you to a family-run setting, offering an array of traditional Cypriot and Greek food, including meat and fish meze, a reflection of the owners’ rich culinary heritage spanning over 30 years.
A trip to Limassol would only be complete with a visit to Karatello Tavern Restaurant, dubbed one of the best traditional taverns in the city by avid travellers. Lastly, step into the timeless charm of Kissos Tavern, a staple in Limassol’s dining scene since 1982. Located in Agios Tychonas, the tavern is renowned for fresh fish, meze, and traditional Cypriot flavours, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Each of these taverns offers a unique slice of Limassol’s vibrant culinary tradition, enveloped in warm hospitality and the rustic charm of Cypriot culture.
Seafood Delights
Seafood lovers are bound to relish the marine bounty Limassol has to offer. Begin your seafood sojourn at the Sailor’s Rest Lounge Bar Restaurant, nestled by the serene St Raphael Marina, known for its fresh seafood dishes served alongside breathtaking views. For a change of scene, go to Limanaki Fish Restaurant, a beloved beach establishment, part of Amathus Hotel, known for its romantic setting and exceptional seafood offerings since 1979.
A visit to Fat Fish Restaurant perched on the ground floor of Limassol’s Nautical Club, promises a delightful blend of Seafood, Mediterranean, and Greek cuisine in a friendly atmosphere, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to cater to every palate. Lastly, for a casual yet captivating dining experience by the sea, Chris Blue Beach at Curium Beach Episkopi offers a range of seafood dishes in a relaxed Mediterranean setting.
Each of these eateries embodies the essence of Limassol’s culinary landscape, offering not just tantalising seafood, but a dining experience steeped in the local ambience and picturesque settings.
Modern Cypriot Cuisine
Embark on a culinary adventure through Limassol’s modern Cypriot cuisine, which bridges the timeless traditions of Cyprus with contemporary culinary techniques. Begin your gastronomic journey at Epsilon Resto Bar, an award-winning fusion restaurant nestled in the Limassol Marina, known for its modern ambience and innovative cuisine that captivates both the eyes and the palate.
Venture to Pier One Restaurant, nestled in Limassol’s revitalized old port area, where a modern, industrial ambience welcomes you. Though not exclusively dedicated to Cypriot cuisine, Pier One boasts a diverse menu of modern dishes, each infused with a hint of local flair, offering a contemporary dining experience that bridges the global with the local. For a playful, vibrant dining experience, don’t miss Dionysus Mansion, a lively restaurant where modern culinary techniques meet an electrifying atmosphere.
Whether you’re yearning for a gourmet experience or a casual modern Cypriot meal, Limassol’s contemporary dining scene will surely provide a unique gastronomic journey, bridging the gap between the island’s rich culinary traditions and modern-day food innovations.
Wine and Dine
The culinary journey in Limassol would only be complete with tasting local wine. Sip and savour a variety of Cypriot vintages at Vino Cultura, an upscale wine bar offering an extensive selection of local and international wines. Combine your wine tasting with gourmet dishes at Le Bordeaux Bistro and Wine Bar, a cozy establishment where you can explore an extensive wine list offering 60 wines by the glass and over 1,000 different labels by the bottle.
Rated as one of the best places to dine in Limassol, DO Wine & Dine presents a modern ambiance with a ground floor and a downstairs floor available for booking, inclusive of a cellar. Their wine list is remarkable with more than 300 labels, and the food menu offers delicious dishes of Modern Mediterranean cuisine
In Limassol, every meal is more than just a meal; it’s a sensory journey into the heart of Cypriot culture. So, come, eat, drink, and celebrate the joy of being in one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating cities.
Nightlife
Bars & Clubs in Limassol
With its shimmering Mediterranean coastline and dynamic cultural scene, Limassol transforms into an electrifying hub as the sun sets. The nightlife in Limassol is a heady blend of pulsating energy, rhythm, and flavour, promising unforgettable memories for every kind of night owl. From the laid-back beach bars where you can listen to the waves with a cocktail in hand to the lively clubs that have you dancing till dawn, Limassol’s nightlife is as varied as it is vibrant. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing, groove to the beats of international DJs, or savour a glass of fine Cypriot wine, Limassol has you covered.
Bars: Where Conversations Flow as Smoothly as the Drinks
Embark on a journey through Limassol’s vibrant nightlife, starting where the golden sun dips into the Mediterranean at Bar Du Soleil. Located in the bustling Old Port, this lively spot defies the setting sun’s radiant atmosphere. Here, an array of aromatic coffees, distinctive beers, and inventive cocktails promise to kick-start your evening with flavour!
A few steps away, you’ll be whisked into the world of Italian elegance at Ventuno Aperitivo. This stylish all-day bar masters the art of aperitivo, offering an enticing buffet of savoury delights to accompany your sips. It’s more than a bar; it’s a slice of Italy right in Limassol, adding a dash of dolce vita to your Cypriot escapade.
Journey more deeply into the heart of the old town and stumble upon the hidden gem Library Bar. A sanctuary of modern design, this spot is famed for its spellbinding cocktails and sumptuous fare. The inviting, intimate ambience is a tranquil backdrop for heartfelt conversations or a peaceful solo retreat into the night.
Ready for a touch of luxury? Glide to Columbia Beach Bar with its elegant charm, exquisite cocktail menu, and intoxicating views over the azure Mediterranean. Here, sophistication and relaxation merge, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Step back in time with a visit to Sousami Bar, where the allure lies in its delightful contrast to Limassol’s customary glamour. Nestled in the heart of the old town, this cosy bar stands out with its retro decor and expertly crafted cocktails. As night falls, the venue comes alive with effervescent tunes and a spirited crowd, offering a laid-back yet chic retreat without breaking the bank.
As stars adorn the night sky, find your finale at Mason Bar, a beacon of contemporary cool with its industrial-inspired aesthetics and an extensive array of spirits and imaginative cocktails. Here, the relaxed atmosphere is complemented by an eclectic music soundtrack, providing the ideal backdrop to relax and immerse yourself in the pulsating heart of Limassol’s nightlife. It’s not just a night; it’s a collection of moments that will linger in your memory as you wend your way home through the city’s enchanting streets.
Clubs: Dance the Night Away
Experience the throbbing heartbeat of Limassol’s vibrant nightlife, a dynamic symphony of sounds that animate the island’s soul. The city, bathed in the glow of the starlit Mediterranean sky, boasts an array of nightclubs, each offering a unique blend of euphony and rhythm to seduce your senses.
In the urban core of Limassol, Guaba Beach Bar stands as a modern sanctuary of sound, with its festive atmosphere and renowned DJs drawing crowds from all corners. This beachside haven is more than a bar; it’s an experience that keeps the spirit of summer alive, no matter the season. Not far behind in fame, Breeze Summer Club delivers a distinct summertime rhythm, its open-air setting offering a sensory feast where music intertwines with the salty kisses of the sea breeze.
Venture further into Limassol’s vibrant night scene with Club Eleven, a spot that thrives on its dynamic atmosphere and relentless energy. Pulsating beats and a ceaseless dance floor define this club as a cornerstone of Limassol’s nightlife. In contrast, Metropole Retro Club indulges those with a taste for nostalgia. Its retro ambience and classic hits create a timeless escape, making every night a memorable flashback.
As the Mediterranean sky transitions from dusk to deep night, let the Greek melodies at Notes Live carry you away. Nestled in the city’s heart, this venue is a harmonious blend of traditional tunes and contemporary beats, its live performances adding a unique layer to Limassol’s diverse musical landscape.
Each club in Limassol is a universe unto itself, pulsating with melodies, bursting with energy, and brimming with life. Your night out transcends mere entertainment; it’s your golden ticket into the heart of Limassol, a rhythmic odyssey that encapsulates the sheer jubilance of Cyprus in every pulsating beat!
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