Attractions of Limassol in Cyprus: what to see in the city

Limassol (Lemesos) is a beautiful and popular tourist city on the southern coast of Cyprus, a major economic and cultural center of the island. It combines beach holidays with interesting excursions, walks along the promenade and photographs against the backdrop of ancient ruins. Limassol is chosen for a versatile vacation. Here you can find annual music festivals, carnivals, wine festivals and theater performances. In addition, Limassol has its own medieval castle, an archaeological museum and an art gallery. The city is located between the ancient settlements of Kourion and Amathus, which today attract connoisseurs of the archaeological heritage of Cyprus. If you are planning a holiday in Limassol, check out its top attractions. It will be very exciting!

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Monuments of ancient architecture in Limassol

Limassol Castle

One of the most outstanding monuments of Ottoman architecture in Cyprus. The history of the castle dates back to the 14th century. According to researchers, even earlier on the site of the castle there was an ancient basilica (4th-7th century) and a Byzantine fortress (10th-11th century). There is a version that it was in the chapel of the Medieval Castle of Limassol in 1191 that the wedding of Richard the Lionheart with Princess Berengaria took place. Navarre. You can learn about this and other historical facts during a fascinating excursion. The observation deck offers a beautiful view of the city.

Today, the walls of the Limassol Castle house the Cyprus Museum of the Middle Ages. It exhibits household items, weapons, jewelry, bronze items and other artifacts, which can be used to trace the development of the culture of Cyprus from the 3rd to the 18th century.

• Museum visiting hours: daily from 8:00 to 17:00, on Sundays from 10:00 to 13:00.
• Ticket price: 4.50 euros.
• Location: near the Old Port, along Richard and Berengaria Street. Public transport stop harbor.

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Archaeological Park of Kourion

Near Limassol, you can walk among the ancient ruins of the ancient city of Kourion located on top of a stone cliff. This is one of the most visited historical places in Cyprus, which is especially impressive with a theater built in the 2nd century BC. The ancient city today is an open-air archaeological park. Here you can see well-preserved parts of buildings and temples, arches, columns and mosaics. Not far from the park is another amazing place of the ancient Greek era - the sanctuary of Apollo Gilat.

• Location: 15 kilometers west of Limassol.
• How to get there: by car on the highway A6, from the exit to the highway B6 at the sign for Kourion.
• Park opening hours: daily, from 8:15 to 19:45 - in the warm months, until 17:15 - in winter.
• Admission fee: 4.5 euros.

A trip to Kourion can be combined with a visit to the Sanctuary of Apollo and Kolossi Castle.

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Temple of Apollo

A unique object in terms of the ancient architecture of Cyprus is the sanctuary of Apollo Gilat, god of the forest and protector of Kourion. The structures of the ancient temple complex on this site were erected in different eras, starting from the 3rd century BC. In 365, many buildings were damaged by a strong earthquake, but were partially restored. The ruins that exist today date back to the 1st century AD. In addition to the Temple of Apollo, on the territory of the sanctuary you can see the ruins of an ancient treasury, a gallery, a circular monument, baths and a central courtyard.

• Location: 2.5 kilometers west of the Archaeological Park of Kourion.
• How to get there: on highway B 6 past the Nymphea sign of Kourion.
• Opening hours: daily, from 8:30 to 19:30 in the warm months, until 17:00 in winter.
• Admission fee: 4.5 euros.

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Amathus

The ancient settlement of Amathus was founded in the 10th century BC. The city was once an important trading port. According to researchers, Amathus became the first developed city in Cyprus. Aphrodite and her beloved Adonis were revered here, in whose honor a temple was erected on the top of the hill. With the advent of Christianity, Amathus lost its significance, was plundered by the Arabs and forgotten for centuries. The first excavations of the ancient city began in the 19th century. Since then, the ancient artifacts of Amathus have significantly replenished the collections of archaeological museums in Cyprus and Europe.

To date, a market square, an acropolis, baths, a water supply system, as well as the ruins of basilicas from different periods have been found on the territory of the ancient city.

• Location: Agios village Tychonas, 12 kilometers from the center of Limassol.
• How to get there: on the highway B 1 to the east of Limassol.
• Opening hours: daily, from 8:00 to 17:00 (until 19:30 in the summer months).
• Admission fee: 2.5 euros.

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Kolossi Castle

The castle of the 13th century, which is quite well preserved to this day. The powerful walls of the square structure are a vivid example of the defensive architecture of the Middle Ages. The appearance of the castle that we can observe today has been preserved since 1454. Over the centuries, the castle-fortress changed its purpose several times. Tourists are allowed in all corners of the fortress. Here you can wander along the ancient stone stairs, go down to the cellars and climb to the observation deck. An indescribable atmosphere of past centuries reigns in the castle, which is definitely worth experiencing.

• Location: Kolossi village, 11 kilometers from the center of Limassol.
• How to get there: on highway B6 west of Limassol.
• Opening hours: daily, from 8:00 to 17:00 (until 19:30 in the summer months).
• Admission fee: 2.5 euros.

A trip to Kolossi can be combined with a visit to the Archaeological Park of Kourion.

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Temples and monasteries of Limassol

Monastery of Saint George Alamanu

The well-groomed territory of the old monastery is suitable for walking among historical buildings surrounded by beautiful nature. Founded in the 12th century and still operating today, the convent of St. George Alamanu is surrounded by picturesque olive and fruit groves, and there is a holy spring on the territory. This atmospheric place is definitely worth your time.

• Location: Pendakomo village, 25 kilometers from Limassol.
• How to get there: on the highway A1 to the east from Limassol to the sign for Agios Georgios Alamanou.
• Opening hours: daily, from 8:00 to 17:00 (until 18:30 in the summer months).
• Admission fee: free.

Not far from the monastery there is one of the most beautiful natural places in Cyprus - the white cliffs of the Governor's Beach. A favorite location for photo shoots for newlyweds and tourists.

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Cathedral of Agia Napa

In the center of the old city of Limassol, there is a majestic cathedral of the late 19th - early 20th centuries, built on the ruins of an old temple. The facade of the snow-white cathedral successfully combines Byzantine and Greek architectural styles. Today, the cathedral remains one of the main monuments of the religious architecture of Limassol, with rich interior decoration and a beautiful altar.

How to get there: to the stop Old Harbor by bus number 30.

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Monastery of St. Nicholas (Feline)

A wonderful legend about cats that saved Cyprus from the invasion of snakes is closely connected with the emergence of the monastery. According to legend, this is the oldest monastery on the island, founded in 327. A beautiful historical site on the Aktotiri peninsula, next to the famous Salt Lake. On the territory of the old monastery there are several nuns who take care of the territory and the many tailed inhabitants. When planning your trip to the monastery, don't forget to grab a treat in the form of cat food.

Location: 18 kilometers from the old port of Limassol. The only way to get to the monastery is by car or taxi.

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Museums of Limassol

Museum of Historic and Classic Cars

The Car Museum in the vicinity of Limassol was opened in 2014, and since then it has remained the only museum of its kind on the island. On an area of 3500 meters, many cars are exhibited, on which it is possible to trace the development and improvement of models. The exposition has unique exhibits that belonged to movie stars and the first persons of Cyprus. Many of the cars are offered for rent for private trips or celebrations.

• Ticket price: for adults - 15 euros, for children from 12 years old - 9 euros.
• Opening hours: daily, from 9:00 to 17:00.
• Location: Ypsonas village, 7 kilometers from the center of Limassol.
• How to get there: by bus number 7 or number 21 from the shopping center My Mall or by car.
  
  

Archaeological Museum of Limassol

One of the most interesting museums in Limassol is located in the city center, where you can see amazing collections of finds from ancient Cyprus. The expositions are similar to the Archaeological Museum of Nicosia, where most of the historical exhibits are presented. The Limassol Museum has an extensive collection of ancient amphorae, earthenware, household items from antiquity, ceramics, jewelry, sculptures and coins.

• Visit: free.
• Opening hours: daily, except weekends, from 8:00 to 16:00.
• How to get there: by bus No. 11, 12, 25, 25A , 30A or No. 80 to the Limassol stop Municipality Garden .
  
  

Carob Mill Museum

In the center of old Limassol there is an interesting production complex, which tells about the wide use and processing technology in Cyprus of the fruits of the famous carob tree. For many centuries this product occupied an important place in the development of the Mediterranean economy and was called the "black gold of Cyprus". Juice was extracted from its fruits, medicinal syrup was made and used as animal feed. You can learn about all the technologies and the history of the use of carob fruits during an interesting excursion. In addition to the mill itself, there is a restaurant and exhibition halls.

• Location: on the territory of the Old Town, next to the Limassol Castle.
• Working days: daily.
• Visit: free.
  
  

Cyprus Wine Museum

The only Wine Museum in Cyprus is located in the vicinity of Limassol. An amazing place with a special atmosphere is located in a historic building that was a hotel for wine merchants more than a hundred years ago. Those brought their products from the villages for sale in large cities. The small village was the center of winemaking for the entire island, as evidenced by the museum's expositions today. Here you can get acquainted with the history of wine from the prehistoric era to the Middle Ages, see a unique collection of jugs and bowls, and, of course, visit the tasting room.

• Opening hours: daily, from 9:00 to 17:00.
• Admission fee: 7 euros (audiovisual guided tour + tasting of 2 wines and snacks).
• Location: Erimi village, 14 kilometers from the center of Limassol.

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Olive Park and Oleastro Museum

Another museum with the history of production, only this time of the famous Cypriot olive oil. The Olive Park is located in the traditional outback, surrounded by Cypriot nature. The unique park-museum tells about the development of the olive industry from its very beginnings. The local mill still produces olive oil according to the highest eco-standards. In addition to the museum, the park has a restaurant, a painting corner, a small zoo and a playground.

• Location: 3 kilometers from the village of Anogyra, 41 kilometers from Limassol.
• Opening hours: daily, from 10:00 to 18:00.
• Admission fee: for adults - 3 euros, for children from 2 years old - 2 euros. There are group tours.
  
  

Where to walk in Limassol

Old port and harbor

The old port of Limassol is the starting point for leisurely walks overlooking the sea and moored boats. It is easy to identify - on the embankment with a small pier, an old anchor is installed as a symbol of the port, and behind it is the Limassol Castle, old cafes, coastal restaurants and souvenir shops. After sunset, the port is illuminated with illumination, which creates a special atmosphere of the place. Therefore, an evening promenade along the Old Port of Limassol is a must! A few steps away opens a modern marina Limassol Marina.

How to get there: public transport stop Old harbor.

Dimitris Vetsikas

Quay Monos

To the north of the Limassol Castle, the lively Monos promenade opens - one of the main promenade places in the city. The embankment was reconstructed quite recently, and today it is of new interest for recreation and entertainment. Green spaces, bright lawns with fountains and decorative pools, flower beds, bike paths, sculptural decoration and modern lighting in the evening. The embankment is 3 kilometers long and about 50 meters wide.

In the eastern part of Monos, a platform in the form of an amphitheater is equipped. This is a famous location for festivals and holidays. Along the promenade there are several cafe-bars to relax and refresh. On special sites you can go rollerblading and skateboarding. All equipment is available for rent. There are children's play areas with slides and swings.

How to get there: there are bus stops at the western and eastern edges of the embankment Old Harbor and Christodoulou Chatzipavlou.

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Limassol Zoo

Walking along the Monos promenade, you will get to Limassol Municipal Park, where a small zoo is open. Here you can see several species of animals, reptiles and birds from different continents. The most natural habitat has been created for the inhabitants of the zoo. Visitors are allowed to watch the feeding of animals. Great place to walk with kids.

• Opening hours: from 09:00 - 17:00, in the summer months - until 19:00.
• Admission fee: for adults - 5 euros, for children from 5 to 15 years old - 2 euros, for children under 5 years old - free of charge.

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Interesting places

Fasouri Water Park Watermania

Limassol is home to Fasouri, the largest water park in Cyprus. Watermania is the best place for fun and family fun. On the vast territory of the park, you can count more than 30 slides of different slopes and lengths. And along the park gardens, a lazy river stretches for 400 meters for rafting on mattresses. Fasouri Watermania has a large storm pool, hanging trails over the water and many other exciting attractions. For the youngest guests, a separate entertainment area has been created with shallow pools, fountains, slides and safe slopes.

In the water park, of course, there is where to eat - there are several cafes, fast foods and one large restaurant. The territory is equipped with all the necessary infrastructure and massage services are provided.

• Location: 15 minutes by car from the center of Limassol, in the vicinity of Fasouri.
• Ticket price: for adults and children from 11 years old - 30 euros, for children from 3 to 11 years old - 17 euros, for children under 3 years old - free of charge.
  
  

Winery KEO

Translated from Greek, the abbreviation of the name sounds like the Cyprus Wine Company. This is the largest wine and spirits factory on the island, whose products are supplied to many countries of the world. It is here that Commandaria is produced - a famous variety of dessert wine, which is prepared according to 800-year-old recipes. The factory conducts free tours of workshops and cellars, during which you can see and learn a lot about brewing and winemaking. At the end of the tour, all visitors are offered a tasting and the opportunity to purchase their favorite products directly from the manufacturer.

• Where Location: Franklin Roosevelt St, Limassol.
• How to get there: From the center of Limassol by bus number 19 or number 30.

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