LIMASSOL, CYPRUS

Limassol offers ancient history, a wide variety of cuisine, Blue Flag beaches and some of the most beautiful coastline in the world. With a story that dates back to antiquity, the castle in the historic center is where Richard the Lionheart married, and it’s from here that the entire town radiates. The surrounding area is a heady mix of restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shops. Cruise to Cyprus to find plenty of historical and cultural sites, including museums, churches and old shuttered houses that give you a view into the past. When you’re ready to dust the sand off from the beach, head to the glamorous marina to discover how Limassol is much more than sun and sea.

THINGS TO DO IN LIMASSOL

COLOSSAL KOLOSSI
Located about 11 kilometers from the city center, Kolossi Castle was built in 1210 by the Order of St. John of Jerusalem and acted as a stronghold for the city. During the Middle Ages, it stored reserves of sugarcane. While it is now partially in ruins, it stills bears its former owner’s coat of arms and its three floors offer a one-of-a-kind look into the past with much to explore.

ANTIQUITY TODAY
Considered the most impressive archaeological remains on Cyprus, much of what you discover at UNESCO-protected Kourion dates back to the Romans. This includes the Theater, the Forum, he Nymphaeum, the Public Baths, the House of the Gladiators and much more. The restored Greek Roman Theater is still in use today and offers unique acoustics as well as views of the city. While there are no guided tours of the ruins, there are plenty of information boards to read along the way.

POTTERING AROUND TOWN
The Limassol Archaeology Museum is connected to Limassol Castle, and it traces the history and development of Cyprus from its prehistory roots through to Roman times. Much of what is on display was unearthed close by, including a number of items from Kourion. Part of the museum is dedicated solely to ancient Amathus, and for those who love to see pottery from throughout the ages, this is the place for you to visit during your vacation.

LOCAL CUISINE
Local, as well as, international influences are found in Limassol cuisine, including a strong Asian influence. Local seafood, such as clams and mussels, play a big part in traditional eateries. For something light, start with a Greek salad with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, basil and olives. With restaurants lining the waterfront as well as tucked away among the streets of the historic center, you’ll find something to suit your palette.

SHOPPING
Head to Agiou Andreou Street for local items and Makarios Avenue for designer duds during your Cyprus cruise. Limassol has plenty to offer the inveterate shopper. Leather goods, olive oil, traditional lacework and glassworks are all of high quality and many are created using traditional methods.

Sitting on the stunning Cypriot coastline, Limassol makes for a fascinating Mediterranean Cruises destination. The city is celebrated for its medieval castle, waterfront sculpture park, and vast array of museums. Beyond Limassol lies the fascinating town of Paphos and a host of natural and archaeological wonders including Millomeri Waterfalls and Apollo’s Sanctuary.

Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including:

Paphos
Apollo’s Temple
Millomeri Waterfalls

The historic town of Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a coastal city in the southwest of Cyprus. This Cruise excursion takes you to see magnificent 3rd-century mosaics at the preserved ruins of the House of Dionysus . Next, visit Saint Neophytos Monastery to see a 12th-century ‘Egkleistra’ carved out of a mountain by the hermit Neofytos. Here, Byzantine frescoes and marvellous murals decorate the cave. Travelling back to Limassol, cast your gaze upon Aphrodite’s Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love. This mythological coastal landmark makes for an unforgettable photograph!

Experience an authentic slice of Cyprus on a Cruise excursion to the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, a sacred site dating back to 8th-century B.C. This ancient destination honours Apollon Hylates, God of the Woodland, and showcases a partially restored temple, a beautiful garden, and other intriguing ruins. Later, explore Kolossi Castle, a former Crusader stronghold. Then, stop in the picturesque village of Omodos, for a taste of locally produced wine.

Take an exciting Cruise excursion to discover the hidden side of Cyprus. Travelling by Jeep you’ll see the fertile southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains, passing through vineyards and plantations. Stop in the village of Agros to learn more about artisan products including marmalade, candied fruit, and aromatic rosewater. Later, be enchanted by the Millomeri Waterfalls — a picturesque backdrop that makes for beautiful photos!