Looking for things to do in Limassol? This beautiful coastal city in Cyprus is renowned for its sparkling beaches, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
Home to a large number of international residents, Limassol is a truly international city where you can find something to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking to spend your days lounging on the beach, exploring historical sites, or enjoying the city’s nightlife, there’s something for you in this vibrant city.
To help you plan your trip, here are 15 Best and Fun Things to Do in Limassol that will make your visit memorable.
Things to Do in Limassol
1. Ancient Kourion
No visit to Limassol would be complete without a trip to Ancient Kourion, one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. Kourion was an important city in the ancient world, and it’s thought to have been founded by the Mycenaeans in the 12th Century. The city flourished during the Roman period, and you can see evidence of this in the ruins that remain today.
Highlights of the site include the theatre, 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; The Byzantine basilica, which dates back to the 5th or 6th century AD; and the baths, which are some of the best-preserved Roman baths in Cyprus.
If you want to learn more about the history of Kourion, I suggest heading to Kourion Museum. This museum, located in the village of Episkopi, houses a number of artifacts found at the site, including mosaics, statues, and pottery.
I definitely recommend adding this site to your list of top tourist attractions in Limassol if you’re interested in history or archaeology. It’s a fascinating site with a lot to see, and it’s also one of the best places in Cyprus to learn about the island’s ancient history.
Read More: 15 Best Things to Do in Cyprus
2. Limassol Beaches
Of course, top of any list of things to do in Limassol has to be to enjoy the wonderful beaches. And there are plenty of beaches to choose from in and around Limassol. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax, a place to catch some waves, or a beach with plenty of activities on offer, you’ll find it here.
One of the most popular beaches in Limassol is Lady’s Mile Beach, which stretches for over five kilometers. This is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing. There are also several restaurants and cafes lining the beach.
Another top pick is Dassoudi Beach, which is located just a short drive from the city center. This beach is a great choice if you’re traveling with kids, as there’s a playground and plenty of sun loungers. The water here is also calm and shallow, making it perfect for swimming.
If you’re looking for a beach with more of a party atmosphere, head to Governor’s Beach. This is one of the liveliest beaches in Limassol, with a number of bars and nightclubs located nearby. The sand here is also some of the finest in Limassol.
Finally, I recommend visiting Curium Beach. This is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island and is especially popular with couples and families. 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.
These are just some of the top beaches in Limassol. With so many to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun.
Read More: 14 Best Beaches in Cyprus
3. Archaeological Museum of the Lemesos
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. The museum houses a large and significant collection of artifacts, many of which date back from the Neolithic Age up to the Roman period.
The exhibits are housed in three rooms. In the first room, you’ll find artifacts that were excavated from the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion and Amathus. These include clay pots, jewelry, coins, and statues. The second room is dedicated to the period of the Greco-Roman era and includes a number of interesting figurines, as well as a bronze bull. The third room contains some of the important findings from the local area, including a number of interesting statues, such as the goddess Artemis and the Egyptian god Bes.
The Archaeological Museum of the Lemesos is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Cyprus. If you’re interested in archaeology, then I highly recommend adding this museum to your list of Limassol attractions.
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4. Limassol Old Town
I continue my list of top tourist attractions in Limassol with a visit to the Old Town. This is where you’ll find the Limassol Castle, which was built by the Franks in the 14th Century on an earlier Byzantine fortification site. The castle houses the Cyprus Medieval Museum, which is definitely worth visiting for anyone interested in Cyprus’s rich history.
The castle is located in the center of the old town, which is full of narrow streets and traditional Cypriot houses. Be sure to visit the Limassol Municipal Market, where you can buy fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and bread. The market is also a great place to try traditional Cypriot dishes such as afelia (pork stewed in red wine), trahana soup, sheftalia (minced meat sausages), and loukoumades (fried dough balls served with honey and cinnamon)
After working up an appetite, head to one of the old town’s many restaurants for lunch. I recommend trying the Meze, which is a selection of small dishes that are perfect for sharing. Some of the most popular meze dishes include dolma (stuffed vine leaves), baba ghanoush, spanakopita, and koupes (fried dough balls stuffed with minced meat).
And if you’re looking for things to do in Limassol in the evening, the old town is a great place to start. There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, as well as several live music venues. Be sure to check out the Limassol Municipal Garden, which is a great place to relax with a drink after a long day of sightseeing.
5. Ancient Amathus
A visit to the archaeological site of Amathus is a must for anyone interested in the history of Cyprus. Though little remains of the city today, the ruins that are still standing are impressive. According to mythology, this is where Theseus abandoned Ariadne after she helped him kill the Minotaur.
During the Roman period, Amathus was an important city and one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean. Its prosperity is evident in the ruins of the massive agora, temples, and public baths that have been uncovered. However, much of the city was destroyed by earthquakes and invasion. And what remains today is a shadow of its former self. The ruins you see today date back to the Roman and Byzantine eras.
Guided tours of Amathus are available, and I recommend taking one. Even if you don’t take a tour, it’s still worth spending an hour or so exploring the site. These ruins are located 11 kilometers east of Limassol. To get here, you can either take a bus or drive. I recommend taking the bus as it’s cheaper and easier than driving.
Read More: 14 Best Things to Do in Larnaca
6. Sanctuary of Apollo
The Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates is one of the top archaeological sites in Limassol and one of the most important ancient sanctuaries in Cyprus. Dedicated to the god Apollo, who was worshipped here as the god of woodland and protector of Ancient Kourion, the sanctuary dates back to the Archaic period. The temple you can see today was built in the 8th century BC, though it has been restored several times since then.
The sanctuary was an important center of pilgrimage, and Apollo Hylates was one of the most important gods in the Cypriot pantheon. Animals were sacrificed here, and the temple was decorated with their horns. The site includes a number of interesting features, such as an early Christian church, Roman baths, and a Roman villa. But the highlight for me was definitely the temple itself.
The Sanctuary of Apollo is located just outside the city of Limassol, about 20 minutes drive from the city center. It’s easy to get to by car or public transport, and there is a small admission fee.
I definitely recommend adding the Sanctuary of Apollo to your list of top tourist attractions in Limassol. It’s a fascinating site with a lot to see, and it’s also one of the best places in Cyprus to learn about the island’s ancient history.
7. Oleastro Olive Park & Museum
Cyprus is an island with a long and proud history of olive cultivation. So it’s no surprise that one of the best places to visit in Limassol is an olive grove and museum entirely devoted to this humble fruit.
The Oleastro Olive Park & Museum is a delightful little spot located in the village of Anogyra, about 40 kilometers northwest of Limassol. Oleastro is one of the island’s top olive oil producers, and this park is a great way to learn about the process of olive production, from tree to bottle.
The museum tells the story of olive production on the island, with exhibits on the different types of olives grown here, the harvesting process, and the pressing of olives to extract their oil. You can also see traditional olive-pressing equipment on display and learn about the different ways olives are used in Cypriot cuisine. 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.
The Oleastro Olive Park & Museum makes for a pleasant and educational afternoon, especially if you’re interested in learning about the production of one of Cyprus’ most important agricultural products.
8. Kykkos Monastery
Kykkos Monastery is one of Cyprus’ most important religious sites and one of the island’s top tourist attractions. The monastery was founded in the 11th Century by Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The monastery is set in a stunning location high in the Troodos Mountains and is only accessible by foot or four-wheel-drive vehicle. The hike up to the monastery is well worth the effort, as the views over the surrounding countryside are simply stunning.
Highlights of a visit to Kykkos Monastery include the exquisite icon of the Virgin Mary (said to have been painted by the Apostle Luke), the beautiful frescoes, and the wonderful views. The monastery also has an interesting Byzantine museum with a collection of religious artifacts owned by the monastery.
A visit to Kykkos Monastery is a truly unforgettable experience and one that should not be missed when visiting Limassol. Allow at least half a day to explore the site and take in the stunning views.
9. Molos
Next on my list of top attractions in Limassol is the Molos promenade, which stretches for almost one kilometer along the seafront. The promenade is a great place to relax, take a leisurely stroll, and enjoy the views out to sea.
There are plenty of things to see and do along the way. For example, you can visit the old Limassol port area, now transformed into a marina with restaurants and cafes. Or you can stop at the Limassol Municipal Gardens, a beautiful green space with flowers, trees, and lawns.
If you’re feeling active, you can rent a bike or go for a run. And if you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love the playgrounds and open spaces along the promenade. Plus, there’s a zoo at the end of the promenade, which is always popular with families.
The Molos promenade is a great place to come for a relaxing walk, people-watch, or simply enjoy the fresh sea air. It’s also one of the best places in Limassol to watch the sunset. And no matter what you do, make sure you take some time to relax at one of the many cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating. The atmosphere is really pleasant here, especially in the evenings when the promenade is lit up with fairy lights.
10. Kolossi Castle
Just 10 kilometers west of Limassol is Kolossi Castle, a fine example of a crusader fortification. The castle was built by the Knights of Saint John in the 13th Century, though it was later rebuilt in the 15th Century by the Knights Templar.
The castle was used as a base for the Crusaders in their wars against the Muslims and was also an important sugar production center. Today, the castle is in a ruined state but is still worth visiting. You can explore the atmospheric interior, which includes a chapel, dungeon, and living quarters. The highlight for me was climbing to the top of one of the towers for some outstanding views over the surrounding landscape.
If you want to learn more about the castle and its history, I recommend taking one of the available guided tours. The tours last around 45 minutes, and I think they’re a great way to get the most out of your visit. After exploring the castle, I suggest taking a short walk around the pretty little village of Kolossi. The streets are lined with traditional Cypriot houses, and there are several small shops and cafes.
Overall, this is a great place to visit if you’re interested in medieval history. It’s one of the top tourist attractions in Limassol and a great place to learn more about the Crusades.
11. Limassol’s Castle
As the name suggests, Limassol’s castle is located in the heart of the old city and has been guarding the harbor for centuries. The castle is a Venetian fortification that was built in the 14th Century and has been extensively restored.
Inside the castle, you’ll find the Cyprus Medieval Museum, which is definitely worth a visit. The museum’s collection includes a wealth of artifacts from the Medieval and Ottoman periods, as well as a number of interactive exhibits. Highlights include weapons, coins, and pottery.
I recommend taking a guided tour of the castle. The tours, which are conducted in English, are very informative and give you a good overview of the castle’s history. The highlight of the tour is definitely the panoramic views of Limassol from the top of the castle walls.
The castle is located in the old city center, just a short walk from the main shopping street and the seafront. You can easily combine it with other attractions in Limassol’s old city, such as the Limassol Archaeological Museum.
12. Akrotiri Salt Lake
One of the best places to visit in Limassol if you’re a birdwatcher is the Akrotiri Salt Lake, located just a few kilometers southwest of the city center. The lake is actually a Ramsar-designated wetland and an important breeding ground for many species of waterfowl, including the flamingos that have made it such a popular tourist attraction.
The best time to visit the lake is between November and March, when the bird population is at its peak. The best time of day to see the birds is early morning or late afternoon. There are different viewing platforms around the lake, and it’s also possible to take a boat trip. And if you’re not a birdwatcher, you can still enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lake and its surroundings.
I spent a couple of hours at the Akrotiri Salt Lake, and it was one of the highlights of my time in Limassol. I was able to spot several different species of birds, and I even saw a few flamingos. I would definitely recommend a visit if you’re interested in birdwatching or just want to enjoy a peaceful place.
13. Choirokoitia
Choirokoitia is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed archaeological site that’s home to some of the oldest human settlements in the world. Choirokoitia was first settled around 7000 BC and remained inhabited until 4000 BC. The settlement is thought to have had around 300 people and was likely a farming community. It’s believed that the people who lived here were some of the first in the world to domesticate animals and cultivate crops.
What remains today is the foundation of circular houses built from stone and the remains of some of the burial chambers. You can explore the remains of the ancient settlement and learn about the people who once lived here. Guided tours of the site are available, which is a great way to learn more about the history and significance of Choirokoitia.
Choirokoitia is located just a short drive from Limassol and is well worth a visit if you’re interested in learning more about the history of Cyprus and the origins of human settlements.
14. Fasouri Watermania Water Park
If you’re traveling with kids (or are a big kid at heart), you’ll definitely want to add Fasouri Watermania Water Park to your list of top tourist attractions in Limassol.
Fasouri Watermania is one of the largest water parks in Cyprus and has something for everyone. There are over 20 slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. If you’re traveling with very young children, there’s also a special kids’ area with mini slides and other activities specifically designed for them.
One of the best things about Fasouri Watermania is that it’s possible to spend an entire day here and not get bored. There are plenty of places to eat and drink, plus a sun terrace where you can relax in between rides. Another great thing about this park is that it’s well-run and very clean. The staffs are also super friendly and helpful.
If you’re visiting Limassol in the summer, Fasouri Watermania is the perfect place to cool off and have some fun. Just be sure to buy your tickets in advance as it can get very busy, especially at weekends.
15. Lofou Village
One of the best day trips from Limassol is to head up into the Troodos Mountains to the pretty village of Lofou. The village is located 25 kilometers northwest of Limassol and is known for its traditional stone houses, many of which have been beautifully restored.
As you wander around the village, take time to visit the Church of Panagia Chrysolofitissa, which dates from the 18th and is a good example of the type of traditional Cypriot church found in mountain villages. The interior is decorated with beautiful frescoes, and there is also an interesting old wooden confessional box.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the delicious local honey for sale in many shops. The Troodos Mountains are home to a large number of beekeepers, and the honey here is some of the best you’ll find on the island. In addition, this village is also great to enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the atmospheric tavernas.
So if you’re looking for things to do in Limassol that get you out into the countryside, then a visit to Lofou is a great option. The village is small enough to explore on foot in a couple of hours, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a taste of traditional Cypriot village life.
In summary
There you have it, 15 top tourist attractions in Limassol that should definitely be on your list! And as you can see, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to relax on the beach. I hope you enjoy your time in this beautiful city.
