A charming blend of Ottoman-era clutter and faded British colonial grandeur, Limassol is the beating heart of southern Cyprus. This cosmopolitan port city has many places of interest such as Orthodox churches, mosques, archaeological sites and more. What’s more, the surrounding countryside is an enticing medley of pine forests, mountains, waterfalls and rivers. So, whether you want to visit a museum, poke around the Turkish Quarter or take a 4x4 safari through nature, Limassol is a great base from which to strike out.
Top six Things to Do in Limassol
1. A day trip to the Troodos Mountains
Wrapping themselves in an arc around Limassol, the pine-studded Troodos Mountains are Cyprus’s green lung. The citrus fruits, olives and wines produced in the picture-postcard mountain villages are prized all over the country. It’s the source of the Pedieos, the island’s longest river, and where you’ll find Mt Olympus, the highest mountain in Cyprus. The area is very popular with hikers because of the tree cover in summer. The Troodos are made for exploring in a 4x4 safari.
2. Join a winery tour
Wine has been a central element of Cypriot culture for more than 4,000 years and the island is home to more than 50 wineries. So, a wine tour is a must during your holiday in Cyprus. One of the most famous wineries is Tsiakkas in the Pelendri region. Learn everything about wine production on a guided visit and round it off with a tasting afterwards as you admire the beautiful views of the vineyards and surrounding hills.
3. Visit Kykkos Monastery
Famed for its gilded icons and mosaics, the Kykkos Monastery is one of the most popular attractions in Cyprus. It’s location ain’t bad either – it nestles among the pine-clad Troodos Mountains at more than 1,300 metres above sea level. And the road – a scenic, winding drive – only adds to the experience. The surroundings and views are also beautiful. And on nearby Mt Throni is the mausoleum of Archbishop Makarios, the first president of Cyprus.
4. Explore the centre of Limassol
Tightly packed into a historic core around the port and the Turkish Quarter, the best bits of Limassol are easy to explore. Ayia Napa Cathedral is a must-visit for its lavish interior. While a short stroll away is the Great Mosque, which despite its name is rather dinky and understated decoration-wise. You can learn all about the history of Cyprus in the city's archaeological museum. The medieval Ottoman castle is also worth a visit – you can take some great snaps from the roof – while a bit out of town, the Kolossi Castle is a fine example of Crusader architecture.
5. Visit the Kourion excavations
Twenty minutes' drive from Limassol are the excavations of ancient Kourion. Remains dating back to the Roman and Byzantine periods have been found at this archaeological site. During an excursion, you can admire several houses, a sixth-century church, Roman baths and the forum. But the showpiece of the excavations is the Greco-Roman theatre. Dating back to the second century BC, it’s been completely restored and is now used again for drama and music performances.
6. Taste the gastronomy of Cyprus
In Limassol, urban regeneration has led to a culinary rebirth. When an old carob mill was restored into a complex of cool cafés, wine bars, bistros and even microbreweries, it became a magnet for gourmands. Tucked into the old town behind the castle, the Carob Mill Complex is a great spot for savouring local specialities and mingling with locals. Halloumi cheese, the stuffed vine leaves, koupepia sheftalia and loukaniko sausages are among the must-tastes. And there’s no better way to enjoy them than washed down with wine from the Troodos
