If youre feeling active, you can rent a bike or go for a run. The atmosphere is really pleasant here, especially in the evenings when the promenade is lit up with fairy lights. The city itself has an attractive old center of narrow streets tangled around a medieval castle. But the highlight for me was definitely the temple itself. Choirokoitia was first settled around 7000 BC and remained inhabited until 4000 BC. 3. C) Paralimni Beach: (Pissouri), All visitors are encouraged to download our app, for free before or upon arrival in Cyprus. The ski season in Cyprus typically lasts between January and April. It is an area bustling with cafes, bars and restaurants that are popular with both the locals and visitors. After dosing up on castle history, check out the city's modern vibe at the innovative Lanitis Art Foundation (also on the main square), housed in an old Carob Mill and home to a rotating schedule of exhibitions. The oldest reference we have of the monastery is of a 14th century deed. Its fermented with methods that pre-date the Romans and contains either of the two indigenous grape species, Mavro and Xynisteri. Today, it is one of the island's most magical places to visit at sunset. Its a fascinating site with a lot to see, and its also one of the best places in Cyprus to learn about the islands ancient history. Although the actual beach is shingle rather than sand, this is a top picnicking haunt and a must-stop for anyone tootling along the coastline between Limassol and Paphos. Much of the peninsula is part of the Akrotiri British Sovereign Base, although driving along its length there's not much sign that you've passed from Cypriot to British territory. According to mythology, this is where the god Theseus left the pregnant Ariadne after his battle with the Minotaur. Limassol's historical centre is located around its medieval Limassol Castle and the Old Port. One of Cyprus' top tourist attractions and most spectacular archaeological sites, the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion (sometimes spelt Curium) rates highly on most visitors' things to do itineraries. Omodos is a lovely example, 900 metres above sea level with winding cobblestone streets and enveloped in a landscape of orchards with plum, pear, apple, apricot and peach trees. Support. There are many charming taverns, coffee shops, as well as entertainment facilities, several chapels, and an imposing and historical Gothic church. Theres 6,000 years of human history at this UNESCO-protected archaeology park just west of Limassol. I would definitely recommend a visit if youre interested in birdwatching or just want to enjoy a peaceful place. If you want to learn more about the castle and its history, I recommend taking one of the available guided tours. Equipped with four ski lifts, the ski centre also offers a restaurant and cafes in a pleasant and relaxing environment. Kourion has been settled since the Neolithic age, though the grand monuments on show all date from its Greco-Roman period. Venture into the surrounding district to discover a land laced with history, where olive oil and wine are made the traditional way, and where you can tread through medieval ruins and ancient cities. 11. A hop-skip-and-jump east from the square is bulky Limassol Cathedral, with a wonderfully Baroque facade, while down a squiggle of an alleyway is the small Grand Mosque, surrounded by palm trees. PISSOURI BEACH - BAY Pissouri beach - bay, 30 km west of Limassol (midway between Limassol and Paphos). This was written during the 18th century by the Russian wanderer Barsky during his travels of the whole island, noting down and describing all the Churches and Monasteries he encountered. Read More: 15 Best Things to Do in Cyprus. and the Roman Sanctuary during the 1st century A.D. As you wander around the village, take time to visit theChurch of Panagia Chrysolofitissa,which dates from the 18th and is a good example of the type of traditional Cypriot church found in mountain villages. This is the ultimate high-hills resort, which first found favor during the British colonial period and has played host to numerous famous heat-escapees including King Farouk of Egypt. The village is on a cliff top and has plenty of pretty cafs and boutiques to visit when you've packed the sand castle action up for the day. Aphrodite's Rock is on the main coastal highway, 43 kilometers west of Limassol. Hip restaurants and cafs cluster around the restored old town center, while on the seafront, the old port area neighbors a snazzy, contemporary marina that has become another popular eating out hub. The basement contains cells which were used as a prison until 1950. Choirokoitia is one of the most important Neolithic settlements in the world. The busy streets flanking this seaside route have a unique appeal of its own; its packed with restaurants, cafes, English style pubs, vibrant nightclubs, and a wide range of shops selling almost everything including souvenirs and traditional sweets and delicacies. The PlayLounge was designed with both the parents and children in mind. The castle was used as a base for the Crusaders in their wars against the Muslims and was also an important sugar production center. Awful weather. During the Roman period, Amathus was an important port city, which made its money by exporting the island's copper and timber, but the city's age of glory began to crumble during the 4th century after it fell victim to a series of devastating earthquakes. The Rooftop Cocktail Bar is located at Limassol AGORA terrace and overlooks the old city centre offering exquisite views and colourful sunsets. This is the cosmopolitan hub of Cyprus, effortlessly blending modern beach-focused tourism and caf culture with its ancient past. It is a fine example of military architecture and served as the Grand Command center of Jerusalem's Order of St. John until being taken over by the Order of the Knights Templar in the 14th century. French accent will make you visit even more French than French cuisine! Archaeological excavations here have discovered that each house in the settlement had a flattened earth floor, raised platforms at the edges for sleeping, a fireplace, and a central pole to support the roof. http . The beach is situated next to the ancient ruins of Kourion, so you can combine a day at the beach with a spot of sightseeing. And there are plenty of beaches to choose from in and around Limassol. Just behind Limassol Municipal Gardens is the city's archaeological museum which houses an interesting collection of antiquities found in the Limassol area that date from the Neolithic Age up to the Roman period. Visit the area's spas or amble around its beautiful beaches. In the Troodos area there are 2 hotels close to the ski resort and many more in the wider area of the region. Tickets: $35-$45 per concert; $15-$30 per rodeo; and $15-$30 for most other events. The interior is decorated with beautiful frescoes, and there is also an interesting old wooden confessional box. Fasouri Watermania is one of the largest water parks in Cyprus and has something for everyone. BLOG HOME THINGS TO DO LOCAL EXPERIENCE NIGHTLIFE Limassol City Center 1/1 LIMASSOL CITY CENTER Limassol's historical centre is located around its medieval Limassol Castle and the Old Port. So we know that Limassols waterfront is a modern tourist beach with plenty of conveniences, but you may be in need of a more serene day by the Mediterranean. The splendid amphitheatre was built in the 2nd century B.C. The current building dates to 1831. This Blue Flag bay is the easy option if you fancy a few hours next to the Mediterranean and comes with the facilities youll need, from sun loungers and sunshades to waterfront cafes. Just out of town are the cooling waters of the Kaledonian Falls, while those in the mood for more than a meander can pull their hiking boots on and hit the downhill trail to the village of Foini or, for something more exerting, the uphill hike to the village of Pouziaris. It has been completely reconstructed, having been destroyed by an earthquake in the 4th century. The old harbor transformed into a fishing harbor and the area around it has also been completely transformed into an amazingly beautiful tourist center. Play. Timios Prodromos: The Monastery of Timios Prodromos (St. John the Baptist) lies in the Troodos forest area of Mesa Potamos. In 1590 the Ottomans rebuilt the castle as it stands today. Limassol Marina 4.5 /5 (37 reviews) Explore the waterfront in Limassol with a trip to Limassol Marina. Some of the main features are its monuments, unique architecture, traditional workshops, the old market and the traditional shops. Beside the main castle building is the ruins of a medieval factory where the knights processed sugar cane. The staffs are also super friendly and helpful. One of the most popular beaches in Limassol isLadys Mile Beach, which stretches for over five kilometers. Things to do near Lemesos Sporting Center on Tripadvisor: See 2,954 reviews and 16,639 candid photos of things to do near Lemesos Sporting Center in Limassol City, Cyprus. The Limassol Marina will provide for the mooring of yachts at sea and on shore. Investigating this phenomenon, the shepherds found an icon of the Virgin Mary and built the church here to honor her. The first inhabitants here were probably Mycenaean, although there is no definite evidence to prove this. LADY'S MILE Founded by Napolitan pizza master, Maxim Velmakin and London restaurant guru, Misha Zelman, the intention is to offer the best possible culinary experience. Things to Do in Limassol City, Cyprus: See Tripadvisor's 49,057 reviews & photos of 364 Limassol City attractions. Meze Taverna Restaurant 1,434 reviews Closed Now Mediterranean, European - Menu Services. Last updated: March 25th, 2022 Limassol, Cyprus (or Lemesos as it's called locally) curves around a sandy bay on the south coast of the island, the spine of the hazy Troodos Mountains in the distance. If youre looking for a beach with more of a party atmosphere, head toGovernors Beach. Cyprus is an island with a long and proud history of olive cultivation. And if youre looking for things to do in Limassol in the evening, the old town is a great place to start. On the hill above are the remnants of the Acropolis and the Temple of Aphrodite, with the entrance marked by a large stone jar, while at the bottom of the hill is a ruined Byzantine basilica. A drink with the name of Commandaria was brewed in southern Cyprus during the crusades in the 1100s, which makes it one of the oldest continually-produced alcoholic beverages in the world. The narrow streets are rimmed with well-preserved, sturdy stone houses; many sporting creaky overhanging balconies. Gates open at 3 pm, with fireworks starting around 10:15 pm. Its fun, its tasty and its an absolute guilt-free pleasure, with pops starting at just 80 calories. 10:00 - 20:00 This Medieval fort is one of the most important on the island. Work by archaeologists here has yielded numerous finds, including decorated pottery and artifacts that prove that this Neolithic culture was highly sophisticated. When you book a hotel or tour that we link to, we may earn a commission. Search over 2.9 million properties and 550 airlines worldwide. There are plenty of things to see and do along the way. Wachau Valley from Vienna: A Day Trip Itinerary, 27 Best Tourist Attractions & Things To Do In Vienna, 24 Best Tourist Attractions & Things To Do In Graz. In thefirst room, youll find artifacts that were excavated from the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion and Amathus. Delve into the Attractions of Limassol Old Town Limassol Old Town Go for Brunch 6. In Anza-Borrego, visitors enjoyed the 2.6-mile out-and-back Pictograph . Kite surfing is also popular when the winds are strong. A visit to Kykkos Monastery is a truly unforgettable experience and one that should not be missed when visiting Limassol. The way modern blends with the old in this city, is absolutely magical. During the Roman period, Amathus was an important city and one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean. The Archaeological Museum of the Lemesos is one of the best places to visit in Limassol for anyone interested in the history and culture of Cyprus. In Omodos and Koilani alone there are 10 such wineries. Located on the southern coast, Limassol stretches around westward to the Paphos district, bordering with the district of Larnaca on the east and with Nicosia on the north. At Tylichto you will find classic traditional Greek & Cypriot grills. It was built under command of the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I after a local hermit ascetic received a vision of an icon of the Virgin Mary painted by St. Luke arriving in Cyprus from Constantinople (today's Istanbul) and convinced a local governor to go to the Byzantine capital to collect it. The beach arcs deeply inland ensuring light waves and waters that dont reach above knee high until youre a long way out. The Sanctuary of Apollo is only three kilometers west of Ancient Kourion (20 kilometers west of central Limassol) and is best visited as part of a Kourion trip. Dont miss the opportunity to try some of the delicious local honey for sale in many shops. 9. And after exploring the museum, you can take a walk through the park to see the olive trees and learn about the different types grown here. Just 10 kilometers west of Limassol is Kolossi Castle, a fine example of a crusader fortification. Go to a Festival 12. Parking is free, though ridesharing, carpooling, and public transportation is recommended. Between the city and the sea, Molos is more than a promenade; its an eye-catching seaside park that stretches from the Old Port to the zoo. Look for the mosaic of Achilles disguised as a woman and the famous four-panel mosaic depicting a partridge and the god Ktisis. Bee Burger hits the spot for all burger lovers. Popular places to visit Limassol Castle 4.5 /5 (35 reviews) This ancient castle now houses a compelling museum of artifacts dating back as far as the 4th century. POINTS OF INTERESTS; MONUMENTS & MUSEUMS; Limassol City Tourism; . As you know, olives and olive oil are a staple of Cypriot and Mediterranean cuisine so theres no better intro to local food culture than this olive press and museum. The Rooftop Bar: Traditional Japanese cuisine inspired of excellent quality. West of Limassol and great for uncertain swimmers is Avdimou Beach, a broad curve of sand and shingle far too large to ever be overcrowded. Make the most of your time while here by using this list of the top attractions and things to do in Limassol. On Sundays Limassols locals will come to Molos for a family stroll, and if you like you can rent a bike for a few hours to pedal your way along this sophisticated strip of the citys waterfront. There are three museums in Anogyra that will acquaint you with carob cultivation and the painstaking steps needed to make pastelli by hand. Cafes and restaurants of every kind and taste are able to satisfy all moods. The second roomis dedicated to the period of the Greco-Roman era and includes a number of interesting figurines, as well as a bronze bull. Just be sure to buy your tickets in advance as it can get very busy, especially at weekends. Fun'n'Games brings all the sights, sounds and nonstop fun to the city center of Limassol. You can also walk (30 min) but it is not an interesting itinerary. The long, sandy eight-kilometer stretch of Lady's Mile Beach (13 kilometers southwest of Limassol) is on the eastern shore of the Akrotiri Peninsula and is one of the most popular local beaches, with the interesting landscape of the salt lake running behind the shore. A couple of kilometres west of the ancient city of Kourion is this temple complex that was once the most significant religious site on the entire island. Above the north entrance is a marble section dating from the medieval period and depicting four coats of arms. Holiday crunches. 141. The village islocated 25 kilometers northwest of Limassoland is known for its traditional stone houses, many of which have been beautifully restored. You'll need your own transport to head to the churches, so this is an excellent option for a self-drive tour. A visit to the archaeological site of Amathus is a must for anyone interested in the history of Cyprus. Limassol's lively old town district is the most interesting part of the city to explore. In 1210 A.D. Hughes I, the sovereign of the de Lusignans dynasty, granted this rich property to the friars of the Order of Saint John. Limassol is perfectly placed to explore the tourist attractions and beaches of the Akrotiri Peninsula, as well as enjoy sightseeing road trips to the gorgeous mountain villages that tumble down the lower slopes of the Mandaria region and snuggle within the Troodos Massif (Troodos Mountains). KOURION BEACH Kourion Beach is in Episkopi, approximately 17 km from Limassol. Visitors can also see the Priest's House where there are remnants of a mosaic. Whether youre interested in history, culture, or just want to relax on the beach. Admission is $21.99-$33.99; hours vary. Enjoy signature cocktails, classic drinks, and platters to share while listening to lounge world ethnic rhythms. The lake is actuallya Ramsar-designated wetlandand an important breeding ground for many species of waterfowl, including the flamingos that have made it such a popular tourist attraction. Of course, top of any list of things to do in Limassol has to be to enjoy the wonderful beaches. The area has awakened from a long sleep and with its fresh look is all set to welcome again all those visitors as in the good old days. This was mainly due to its vast olive, cereal, sugar-cane and locust-tree plantations not to mention its vineyards. and since its restoration, is used for theatre and music performances. The first area contains significant remains of house foundations including a larger house up to nine meters in diameter. Thank you for your support! Agia Napa Cathedral. A country . Kourion is one of the most stunning archaeological sites on the island. Additionally, the project includes the development of residential, commercial units as well as buildings for cultural uses. The main square is rimmed by cafs and restaurants always bustling with Limassol's bright young things. Popsom redefined the gelato experience with its all-natural handcrafted gelato and sorbet sticks. The hike up to the monastery is well worth the effort, as the views over the surrounding countryside are simply stunning. Welcome to the Salad Jungle at Limassol AGORA! Area 3 has several house foundations again, including house F, which contained 26 burials. The sanctuary was an important center of pilgrimage, and Apollo Hylates was one of the most important gods in the Cypriot pantheon. Served in a unique brioche bread, we recommend you get inspired to not only try the classic burger options but also those inspired by local and world cuisine. This is one of the liveliest beaches in Limassol, with a number of bars and nightclubs located nearby. Today the city spreads along the Mediterranean coast and has extended much farther than the castle and port, with its suburbs stretching along the coast to Amathus. Churches & Cathedrals. Its a tourist resort in Cyprus where you can appreciate the simple pleasures of Mediterranean life: There are clean sandy beaches, the climate is eased by the Troodos Mountains to the north and you can visit friendly tavernas to indulge in a delicious meze and fabulous local wine. A dry climate combined with a unique geology is responsible for some excellent wines, made mostly from the local grape varieties Xynisteri and Mavro and also from some imported ones, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Mataro, Grenache and Syrah. Later in Kourions history the city embraced Christianity, so you can check out the Episcopal precinct, seat of Kourions bishop, as well as two basilicas from the 400s and 500s. The highlight for me was climbing to the top of one of the towers for some outstanding views over the surrounding landscape. 15 Best Things to Do in Limassol (Cyprus) Written by Jan Meeuwesen Updated on April 20, 2023 Our travel recommendations are based on our personal experiences and research, written by locals and travel experts with deep familiarity with the destination. Its one of the top tourist attractions in Limassol and a great place to learn more about the Crusades. Away from the tourist areas, the Limassol countryside has a diverse wealth of its own with traditional villages, vineyards and wineries, monasteries, remote forests. From here, a short path leads to the small House of the Gladiators, so called because of the mosaics of a gladiator combat still in-situ on the floor. Its a very imposing and impressive building. The most easily visible feature is the Agora where a large number of pillars have been reconstructed, and the vestiges of some early walls can be seen. Because of this, birdlife flocks to the lake, especially in the migration seasons when all sorts of species stop here on their way to or from Africa. Limassol is Europes southernmost town. The settlement is thought to havehad around 300 peopleand was likely a farming community. Plus, theres a zoo at the end of the promenade, which is always popular with families. A few kilometres west of Limassol and on public transport routes is this fortress that certainly merits the detour. You can also see traditional olive-pressing equipment on display and learn about the different ways olives are used in Cypriot cuisine. It will begin with olives, progressing to dips like humus, moving onto grilled vegetables, calamari and halloumi, before culminating with roasted meat or fish, depending on your choice. If you happen to be in Limassol in the winter months then you can come to the lakeshore to catch the spectacle of several thousand greater flamingos wintering here. The museums collection includes a wealth of artifacts from the Medieval and Ottoman periods, as well as a number of interactive exhibits. Friday & Saturday 11:00 - 22:00 02 Limassol Marina The Limassol Marina will provide for the mooring of yachts at sea and on shore. Next on my list of top attractions in Limassol is the Molos promenade, which stretches for almost one kilometer along the seafront. Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels with Expedia Rewards. All Inclusive Hotels in Limassol City . Its also one of the best places in Limassol to watch the sunset. Limassol Marina - Discover for yourself why both visitors and locals enjoy the vibe of this place. It was a great city kingdom and today new treasures are still being discovered there. If youre traveling with very young children, theres also a special kids area with mini slides and other activities specifically designed for them. Both Kykkos Monastery and the Byzantine Museum are 20 kilometers west of the village of Pedoulas in the Troodos Massif. Explore the historical centre of Lemesos by walking through the old streets and discover its long history. The Early Christian Basilica also dates back to the 5th century and was most likely the Cathedral of Kourion which includes a baptistery on the north face. The small theater (with seating for 3,500 spectators) was built in the 2nd century and then extended by the Romans. As the name suggests, Limassols castle is located in the heart of the old city and has been guarding the harbor for centuries. Fasouri has a Polynesian Theme and packs slides, pools, eateries and side-attractions into its 100,000 square-metres. Excavations have revealed other structures that once stood on the site, including a bath complex, pilgrim hall, and holy precinct. Villas with extravagant mosaic floors and an early Christian Basilica are among the treasures that are found here. The views over the jagged coastal cliffs and out to the Mediterranean Sea are superb from here. Wrong. Be sure to check out theLimassol Municipal Garden, which is a great place to relax with a drink after a long day of sightseeing. To help you plan your trip, here are15 Best and Fun Things to Do in Limassolthat will make your visit memorable. Come and try! From here, you can see the remnants of the defensive walls, and it is possible to get a clearer impression of the site as a whole, which is otherwise quite confusing. Outside, within the pleasant garden, is a sundial, which was once owned by Lord Kitchener. However, much of the city was destroyed by earthquakes and invasion. The temple you can see today wasbuilt in the 8th century BC, though it has been restored several times since then. Highlights of the site include thetheatre, which dates back to the 2nd century BC and could once seat up to 3,500 people;The House of Eustolios, a beautiful Roman villa with stunning mosaics; TheByzantine basilica, which dates back to the 5th or 6th century AD; andthe baths,which are some of the best-preserved Roman baths in Cyprus. Overview Limassol is the second largest city of Cyprus with a population of approximately 180,000. All-inclusive resorts, an active nightlife scene and Byzantine monuments are just a few of the city's attractions. Our unique venue, for your unique event. I recommend taking the bus as its cheaper and easier than driving. Limassol's historical centre is located around its medieval Limassol Castle and the Old Port. Tacos Amor is inspired by Mexican cuisine. Today, that very same icon sits in pride of place within the monastery despite most of the original monastery structure having been destroyed by fire. You enter the castle across a tiny drawbridge, which brings you into a large chamber with a decently-preserved fresco depicting Jesus' crucifixion on the main entrance wall. Here are 15 outdoor community-led events happening in the city this July: Femmes + Themmes Bike Chicago: Social Ride. You can do wakeboarding too because of the flat summer sea at sunrise. Next on my list of top attractions in Limassol is the Molos promenade, whichstretches for almost one kilometer along the seafront. Limassol Agora has things to do for a whole family. Get the latest headlines: http://newsmax.com. This beach is a great choice if youre traveling with kids, as theres a playground and plenty of sun loungers. Troditissa Monastery: Located on the southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains, the Trooditissa Monastery is one of the very few monasteries in Cyprus where the date of formation is unknown. This group . By Roberts69. Because flexibility matters. This is where Richard the Lionheart of England married Berengaria, and later, the Ottomans used it as a military base. This is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing. Ancient Kourion is 18 kilometers west of central Limassol. Today though, the triumphant pillars of the lonely main sanctuary building are the only well-preserved portion of what must have been a rather impressive religious compound. Today the Limassol Castle has a display of coins, weapons and pottery from different stages in the towns history. There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, as well as several live music venues. Oleastro is one of the islands top olive oil producers, and this park is a great way to learn about the process of olive production, from tree to bottle. Surrounded by orchards and fields sprouting wild fennel, this snoozy place is the perfect opportunity to stroll aimlessly and soak up traditional Cypriot life. Right at the tip of the peninsula is the Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas of the Cats, founded in CE 325, although the current buildings date from the 13th century. Buses from Limassol leave three times daily for Platres, which is 39 kilometers north of town. Get ready to face-off in a fun-fuelled experience like no other. Lying in the heart of a rich and fertile valley to the mouth of the river Kouris, the castle was often mentioned by sightseers of the Middle Ages. The dark grey sands of the beach reach out for more than two kilometres and in parts Akti Olympion is 40 metres wide, so theres usually space to stretch out. When you book a hotel or tour that we link to, we may earn a commission. The tours last around 45 minutes, and I think theyre a great way to get the most out of your visit. Oleastro is the largest olive oil producer on the island, pressing oil only from the koroneiki cultivar, and here guides and displays will talk you through its production, from soil to the bottle. Or you can stop at the Limassol Municipal Gardens, a beautiful green space with flowers, trees, and lawns. Using fresh ingredients, Tylichto promises to satisfy the most demanding of customers. In the winter you can find bargain prices for these hotels. The village is small enough to explore on foot in a couple of hours, and its the perfect place to enjoy a taste of traditional Cypriot village life. The way modern blends with the old in this city, is absolutely magical. Its easy to get to by car or public transport, and there is a small admission fee. With so many to choose from, youre sure to find the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. Even if you dont take a tour, its still worth spending an hour or so exploring the site. Kourions most complete remnants at are from this period, and theres much to see. Among the most striking exhibits are a pair of ornate animal-shaped wine vessels and a free-standing sculpture of the Roman god Bes. . Improve this listing Staying here places you in easy striking distance to some of Cyprus best historical remnants, and the lush, green mountains of the Troodos region. Nowhere else in Cyprus is such a great presence of wineries as in these wine growing villages of Lemesos (Limassol) district, known locally as Krasochoria, the Wine Villages. Gastronomy!! The town makes a great base for exploring the Troodos Mountains, so it has plenty of accommodation options if you want to stay the night rather than day trip from the coast. There are 4 ski clubs in Cyprus: Nicosia, Famagusta, Limassol and Troodos ski club.
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