Things To Do
in Limassol
Limassol is a sun-soaked coastal city in southern Cyprus that blends ancient history with a modern, cosmopolitan vibe. Its old town centers around Limassol Castle and winding, pedestrian-friendly lanes, while the long Molos promenade along the seafront is lined with cafes and parks. The city serves as a gateway to the island’s wine region and the Troodos foothills, offering a mix of archaeological sites, vibrant nightlife, and waterfront leisure.
Expect warm hospitality, superb seafood, and a year-round calendar of festivals and events.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day wandering the winding alleys of the medieval Old Town, where Venetian architecture meets contemporary art galleries. Stop by Limassol Castle and its Medieval Museum to marvel at illuminated manuscripts and artifacts that trace the island’s history. Enjoy a creamy kypriako coffee at a quaint outdoor café before watching the daily bustle of locals setting up market stalls.
Meander through bustling souks lined with stalls of handmade ceramics, textiles and unique souvenirs reflecting Cyprus’ rich heritage. Pause for a leisurely lunch of fresh halloumi salads paired with local olives at a shaded courtyard taverna. Afterward, discover hidden art spaces showcasing contemporary Cypriot painters and sculptors.
As dusk falls, stroll along the Limassol Marina promenade illuminated by twinkling lights, feeling the gentle sea breeze. Savor a seafood feast at a waterfront bistro, indulging in grilled octopus and succulent prawns. Cap off the night with live traditional music at a cozy wine bar tucked away in an ancient building.
Drive east to the ancient city of Amathus, one of Cyprus’ earliest kingdoms, and explore the well-preserved ruins of temples, agora and tombs overlooking the sea. Imagine ancient ceremonies at the Aphrodite sanctuary while standing amid weathered marble columns. Capture panoramic views from the cliff-top site before descending to the sandy shores below.
Spread out your towel on the golden sands of Ladies Beach, soaking up Cypriot sunshine and dipping into gentle azure waters. Treat yourself to refreshing loukoumades ice balls at a beachside shack while listening to the rhythmic lull of waves. Try paddleboarding for a serene exploration of the coastline from a unique vantage point.
Head back to Limassol for dinner at a beach club restaurant with bohemian décor and lantern-lit terraces. Delight in meze platters brimming with tzatziki, dolmades and stuffed vine leaves, complemented by a chilled glass of local rosé. End the evening with a starlit walk along the shore, feet sinking in warm sand under a velvet sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🍺Domestic beer | $3-5 |
| 🚕Taxi (1 mile / 1.6 km) | $3-6 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent year-round climate and beaches
- Rich history with accessible archaeological sites
- Vibrant food and wine scene
- Walkable Old Town and scenic waterfront
- Easy day trips to Troodos foothills and wineries
- Summer heat can be intense and crowded
- Public transport can be limited outside central areas
- Prices in tourist areas can be higher in peak season
- Some streets and neighborhoods require driving to access
- "Γεια σας" - Hello (formal)
- "Γεια σου" - Hi (informal)
- "Ευχαριστώ" - Thank you
- "Παρακαλώ" - Please / You're welcome
- "Μιλάτε αγγλικά;" - Do you speak English?
- "Πόσο κοστίζει;" - How much does it cost?
- "Νερό, παρακαλώ" - Water, please
Places to Visit in Limassol
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval fortress setting with whitewashed walls, arched doorways, and dramatic light in the early morning.
Stretch of palm-lined walkways along the coast, ideal for sunrise and sunset photography with the sea and sculptures.
Contemporary harbor architecture and luxury yachts provide modern photo opportunities against the water and skyline.
Cobblestone lanes and colorful doors offer charming, character-filled compositions.
Riveting cliffside views of the Mediterranean with ancient ruins and expansive sea horizons.
Food in Limassol
Limassol Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditionally grilled or fried cheese served as part of meze or with fresh bread and tomatoes.
Must-Try!
A large spread of small dishes—from dips and salads to grilled meats and seafood—that showcases the variety of Cypriot flavors.
Skewered, grilled meat (often pork or chicken) served with pita, vegetables, and sauces.
Pork marinated in red wine and coriander, then slow-cooked for a rich, aromatic dish.
Lamb slow-cooked with herbs and vegetables in parchment or wrapped foil for tender, flavorful meat.
A sweet pastry layered with nuts and honey or syrup, a staple dessert in Cypriot cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market hall offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, breads, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Quaint lanes with casual stalls and small eateries offering grilled welcome bites, pastries, and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings, handshakes, and eye contact are standard; modest dress is appreciated in churches and traditional settings.
Meze is communal; waiters may bring courses sequentially; show appreciation with a smile and thank the staff.
If invited to a home, bringing small gifts like sweets or flowers is customary; remove shoes if asked in private homes.
Safety
Tipping in Limassol
Ensure a smooth experience
A 5–10% tip is common if service is not included; cash tips are appreciated, but many places also accept cards with gratuity optional.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, cafes, and shops; cash is useful for small vendors and local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures (around 20–25°C) with blooming landscapes; great for outdoor dining and city walks.
Hot and dry, often 30–35°C or higher; sea breezes help near the coast; best times are early morning and late afternoon; sun protection is essential.
Warm days and cooler evenings; excellent for winery visits, hiking, and cultural events.
Mild and occasional rain; temperatures typically range 10–18°C; fewer crowds but comfortable sightseeing.
Limassol at Night
Hiking in Limassol
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several well-marked hikes within an hour’s drive from Limassol, offering pine forests, waterfalls, and viewpoints overlooking the island.
Airports
How to reach Limassol by plane.
Primary international gateway for Limassol, about 60–75 minutes by car depending on traffic; frequent international connections.
Alternative gateway on the western side of the island, typically 60–90 minutes by car; convenient for west-coast travelers and some charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families and professionals native to the island, often bilingual in Greek and English.
Temporary residents from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, drawn by the climate, work opportunities, and lifestyle.
A significant portion of the population participates in seasonal tourism and wine-related industries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Cyprus, with local clubs and active fan culture.
Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding along Limassol’s coast.
Widely played in sports clubs and along coastal routes; cycling is popular along the Molos and surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Limassol.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in tavernas—opt for mezze with feta, grilled vegetables, halloumi, olives, and salads; many places can tailor dishes for vegetarians; ask for no meat stock in soups or sauces.