Limassol

Limassol, the second largest city in Cyprus and second only to Nicosia in terms of commercial activity, is situated between the two ancient cities of Amathus and Kourion on the south coast of the island. Limassol extends for a distance of 10 miles along the coast and has some super beaches (Ladies Mile beach is a must for any visitor to Limassol), with excellent facilities. Dasoudi beach is run by the Cyprus Tourist Organisation (CTO) and has a restaurant, beach beds and umbrellas, showers and water sports but smaller beaches run the length of the coastline and most have shallow safe water, ideal for families.

Scuba diving facilities are available for the enthusiast and the warm clear water is ideal for the beginner and experienced diver alike.

Being situated at the foot of the Troodos mountains, the fertile soil around Limassol offers the ideal conditions for growing grapes, making Cypriot wine among the best in the world. The September wine festival is well worth a visit and the weather then is perfect for a beach holiday and sightseeing too, but a tour of a local wine producer can usually be arranged at other times.

Limassol is a diverse city with excellent shopping from traditional Cypriot goods to the ultra modern, with made to measure suits and shoes being available within a few days. Enjoy the contrast of shopping in the old town then afterwards in Makarios Avenue to see the prestigious boutiques and showrooms.

After a busy day shopping or relaxing on the beach, enjoy one of the many varied restaurants available within a short stroll. You will find local specialities alongside cuisines from all over the world, both formal and informal and for every price range.

Places to Visit

Limassol is well located for the numerous places of interest in the area.

No visit would be complete without spending some time at Kourion, 19 kilometers west of Limassol, an important ancient city kingdom and one of the most interesting and spectacular archaeological sites on the island. Excavations are ongoing with new finds still coming to light. The magnificent Graeco-Roman Theatre was originally built in the 2nd century BC and has been fully restored and is used for musical and theatrical performances.

Kolossi Castle is a fine example of military architecture. It was originally constructed in the 13th century and was subsequently rebuilt as it is now. It was one of the most important forts of Medieval Cyprus.

Amathus is 11 kilometers east of Limassol and is one of the ancient city Kingdoms of Cyprus where according to legend, Theseus left the pregnant Ariadne to be taken care of, after his battle with the Minotaur. Excavations continue at the Acropolis and Agora area of the ancient site. Many tombs have been found and one of them can be visited in front of the Amathus Beach Hotel.

Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, God of the Woodland, was the protector of the city of Kourion. Situated 3 kilometers west of Kourion. Archaeological evidence shows that the cult of Apollo was celebrated here from the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD. Part of the temple has been restored.

There are a number of museums and art galleries in the area including the Limassol District Archaeological Museum, Limassol Castle - Cyprus Medieval Museum, The Folk Art Museum, the Kourion Museum and the Limassol Municipal Art Gallery, yet another must see on the list of any visitor to lovely Limassol.