Cyprus Limassol, the attractions of which are of interest to tourists from all over the world, is considered the second largest resort city of the island. Beach holidays here can be combined with a tour of natural, cultural and architectural monuments.
Top 15 attractions in Limassol
What to see in Limassol, if the vacation lasts a few days, and besides excursions still want to enjoy a great beach holiday? We present you the 15 best attractions of Limassol with photos and descriptions for a short vacation.
The Church of St. John the Baptist. Lazarus
In Limassol in Cyprus, we recommend you to visit and see the Church of St. John the Baptist. Lazarus. You can get to the church from Limassol by bus or local cab. If this is your first time in Cyprus, be sure to plan this trip, because the church is rightly considered the most beautiful on the island. According to tradition, the first temple was built by Lazarus himself, a disciple and best friend of Christ. The current structure dates back to the 9th century. Today the holy relics of the saint are kept here, and the temple is considered the main Christian shrine of Cyprus.
The relics of Lazarus were discovered in the 1970s, when the temple was undergoing renovation work. The workers stumbled upon incomprehensible stone tombs that were located above the altar. In such a tomb were the relics of the saint.
Those who wish may tour the church, drink water from the holy spring, touch the relics of Lazarus with a request, and look at the stone sarcophagi on display in the church basement.
Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque
The mosque is the fourth most important Muslim temple in the world. Surprisingly, the mosque was built in honor of a woman (which in the Muslim world can be called an exception) named Umm Haram, who according to various sources was the stepmother, sister or relative of the Prophet Muhammad. This famous Muslim woman came to Cyprus during the conquest of the island by her husband’s wars and died after breaking her neck in a fall from a mule. She was buried at the site of her death, as required by Muslim law.
When Cyprus was conquered by the Ottomans, a mausoleum was erected on the tomb of Umm Haram, and later the construction of a temple began there. The grave was notable for the tombstone, one version being that it was a fragment of a mieteorite. It had healing power. Thousands of pilgrims sought it to get rid of illnesses and diseases. Today, Umm Hamam’s remains are kept in the mosque. The temple also houses the relics of great sheikhs and Muslim rulers.
Salt Lakes of Larnaca
The salt lakes of Larnaca are the most amazing natural attraction of Cyprus. They are filled with water only in winter, and in summer they are replaced by a glistening salt desert. The photos of the attraction show how the lakes change in summer and winter, and each of these seasons makes the bodies of water extraordinarily beautiful.
Scientists have not yet reached a consensus on how high salt levels persist in the lakes. Some believe that under the ground there are deposits of sea salt, which replenish the reservoirs, and others are confident that the explanation lies in the connection of the lakes with the sea is not lost.
The local population has its own legend about these lakes and it is associated with Lazarus. According to legend, after his return from the afterlife, Lazarus moved to Cyprus. Passing by a beautiful vineyard on a hot summer day, he asked the owner for a bunch of berries. But the woman turned him down, saying that all she had in her basket was salt. Lazarus, enraged, cursed the place, turning it into a salt desert for all eternity.
Flamingo
Ten kilometers west of the center of Limassol there is an amazing lake with thick salt water, where flamingos come for the winter. It is these graceful birds attract thousands of tourists during the winter months. Interestingly, the natural coloring of these birds is gray or dirty white and completely unattractive. But on a salt lake, the birds take on a bright pink color. This color is due to other inhabitants of the lake – artemia crustaceans.
It is this food that makes flamingos so beautiful. However, it can be quite difficult to see the birds. The thing is that they are so shy that they do not come close to the shore, preferring to stay in the middle of the body of water. But tourists can admire flamingos with binoculars. And if you happen to visit the island during the summer months, you can see these beautiful birds at the local zoo.
The Sanctuary of Apollo of Hilat
The Temple of Apollo of Hilat is the place of worship of the ancient Greek gods on the island. It is one of the oldest landmarks of Cyprus, the date of its construction dates back to the 1st century. The main altar of the sanctuary was surrounded by a double stone fence, and only the chief priest had the right to approach it. If anyone dared to enter the sanctuary, he was simply thrown off the cliff, because it was believed that mere mortals have no place here.
Of course, the altar could not have survived to this day in its original form, but its remains are impressive in their singularity. Modern tourists can see the podium, to which the stone stairs lead. On a stone podium lambs and other animals were sacrificed in Apollo’s honor. During archaeological excavations, a huge variety of clay figurines were found here, which were brought as gifts by the locals.
Limassol Castle and Medieval Museum
The fortress is called the main attraction of the city. It was erected in the XIV century. On the site of the old building was the chapel where Berengaria of Navarre and the English King Richard the Lionheart were once married. The fortress was repeatedly destroyed during earthquakes and enemy raids. However, the structure has always been restored.
Until the mid-twentieth century, the fortification was used as a prison. Then a museum of the Middle Ages was opened here with collections of coins, weapons, armor, and bronzes. On the ground floor and in the main hall you can see tombstones with figures of dead knights, noblemen and ministers of religion.
Ancient Colossi Castle
The castle is located 10 km from Limassol. The fortification was built in the XIII century. Of the entire architectural complex has survived only the tower. In Colossi lived the Knights Hospitallers. A tour guide is not available for excursions. Before entering you can get a booklet in Russian and learn the history of Colossi on your own.
Limassol Marina and Molos Promenade
Limassol Marina is a fashionable district of the city. It combines luxury apartments, luxury stores and restaurants. The area has its own beach and harbor.
The promenade park stretches along the sea for 1 km. The walking area is considered the most beautiful place of Molos. The waterfront is loved by fans of healthy lifestyles. In the early morning and after sunset you can see people jogging in the park.
Old Port
The old port is located between the Limassol Marina area and the Molos promenade. Today it is one of the most popular tourist spots in the city.
It offers travelers pleasure boats, numerous eateries and bars.
Sculpture Park
The park opened on the city’s waterfront at the beginning of the new millennium. Local avant-garde artists created a large number of sculptures, the meaning of which is not always clear to viewers. In total, there are about two dozen creations of concrete, metal and wood in the park.
The ancient settlement of Omodos
Omodos is located northwest of Limassol. The settlement arose thanks to Queen Helen. She visited the local monastery and presented it with Christian relics. Considering the place sacred, people began to build houses around the monastery. The people of Omodos were engaged in embroidery, lacemaking and wine-making. The modern inhabitants of the village continue the traditions of their ancestors.
The Cathedral of Agia Napa
Agia Napa was built in the early twentieth century in the Old Town. There used to be a Byzantine church on the site of the cathedral. It is only possible to approach the altar during the service.
The cathedral contains sacred relics:
- icon of the Virgin Mary;
- the girdle of Our Lady;
- hand-embroidered icon of the Savior.
Petra tou Romiou, or the Rock of Aphrodite
According to legend, the goddess of beauty Aphrodite first came ashore near the rock of Petra tou Romiou. Another legend says that on this spot the Byzantine hero Digenis Akritas threw stones at Arab pirates, preventing them from coming ashore.
Limassol Old Town
To see what the city was like in the past, you have to go to the old part of it. This area is separated from the new Limassol by Archbishop Makarios III Avenue and Gladstonos Street.
In the old part of the city tourists are attracted by souvenir shops, churches and restaurants where you can try the national cuisine.
St. Nicholas Cat Monastery
Cats were brought to the island in the ninth century by order of Queen Helena. The animals were supposed to catch the snakes that plagued the people of Cyprus. Within a few years they had completely exterminated the reptiles. Today the descendants of the island’s saviors live in the monastery of St. Nicholas. Animals are kept by the state. Tourists are allowed to bring cat food to the monastery.
Famous Beaches of Limassol
Holidays by the sea is popular with foreigners and locals. Entrance to most of the beaches of Limassol is free.
Akti Olimpion
It is considered the main city beach. There is everything for a comfortable holiday: sun loungers, umbrellas, cafes. There are also stores on the territory.
Governor’s Beach
Located 20 km from the city. Its main local attraction is the white openwork gazebo, which has become a venue for ceremonies, more often weddings. There are no stores on or near the beach. Going on vacation, it is worth stocking up on food and drinks.
Dasudi City Beach
Next to Dasudi is a eucalyptus park. Plants provide shade and purify the air. All the necessary facilities are provided for vacationers. Umbrellas and sun loungers must be rented.
Ladies Mile
The beach is long and is divided into several parts. Shallow water areas are visited by holidaymakers with children. Some bathing areas do not have beach service. Parking spaces are available at the Ladies’ Mile.
Avdimu Beach
Avdima can be found if, after leaving the city, you go in a westerly direction. It is not crowded, and the water does not rise above the knee, even if you go far from the shore. For this reason, beginner swimmers and families with small children come to Avdima more often.
Courion Beach
The beach is located in a protected area under the state. In the vicinity of Kurion, vehicular traffic is restricted and capital construction is prohibited. The beach is popular with fans of water extreme.
What else to see and go to on your own in Limassol, Cyprus
To diversify your holiday will help visit unusual places in Limassol and its surroundings. It could be the olive groves “Oleastro” or the museums of automobiles, wine and archaeology.
Fasouri Watermania Water Park
The water park was opened in the late 1990’s. Fasuri Watermania underwent several renovations. After the next reconstruction of the water park is always added a new attraction. Fasouri Watermania offers visitors pools and slides of different levels of difficulty.
Sparti Platres Adventure Park
The rope park is located in the village of Platres. You can get to this settlement by both public and private transport. In Sparti Platres there are 15 tracks. Most of them are intended for children from 3 to 14 years old.
Fans of extreme sports can do rope-jumping.
City Zoo and Municipal Park
The municipal park is located on the beach, opposite the city beach. This place is used for public events – festivals, carnivals, national holidays. Part of the park occupies the zoo. Several dozen animals and birds can be seen here. Some of them are in the Red Book. The zoo inhabitants are kept in conditions close to natural.
Oleastro Olive Park
“Oleastro has been called the leader in olive oil production on the island. The park covers a large area. There is a museum and olive groves. “Oleastro” is open to the public all week, except holidays. The price of the tour includes an oil tasting.
Wine Museum
The wine museum is located in the village of Erimi. This institution was founded by a married couple. For many years, Francis and Anastasia Guy have been collecting wine-related artifacts. During the tour, travelers are told about the production of alcohol on the island. The tour of the museum ends with a wine tasting. Visitors can buy their favorite drinks.
Keo Winery
Factory tours are free of charge. The company was founded more than 70 years ago. The factory produces not only wines, but also cognacs, liqueurs, beer and soft drinks. The tour is followed by a tasting. You can buy the drink you like.
Carob Museum
The Karob Museum displays the equipment used to process carob fruit at the beginning of the last century. Attendance at this facility is free of charge. The museum has no attendants. It is recommended that you hire a guide to see the Karob.
Archaeological Museum
The museum exhibition is located in three halls. The first 2 rooms store jewelry, utensils and household items made of different materials. The most valuable exhibits are in the third hall. These are marbles, sculptures of gods and tombstones.
Museum of Folk Art
There are several hundred items in the collection of the small museum:
- crockery;
- furniture;
- carpets;
- clothing.
All items are made by local craftsmen. The museum is open Monday through Wednesday and on Friday.
Museum of historic and classic cars
The institution is located in the western part of the city. There are more than 70 cars in the exposition. All of them were donated to the museum by the local car racer Mavropoulos. Among the exhibits are models that belonged to celebrities (for example, the car of British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher).
Classic car can be rented, which includes the services of a driver.
Shelter for donkeys
The shelter is for animals abandoned by their owners. The organization exists through donations. Anyone can make a contribution. The shelter accepts both money and food for the animals. Local residents often take abandoned donkeys home.
Theater Museum
The exhibit covers several eras of the formation of the art of theater in Cyprus. Previously, the collection of the museum belonged to the amateur actor Nikos S. Nikolaides. Throughout his life, he collected photographs, posters, costumes, and other items related to theater activities on the island. In 1987, Nicolaides turned over his archive to the state.
The most beautiful places for photo shoots in Limassol
Lovers of beautiful photo shoots are suitable:
- Limassol Eggs. The attraction is located in Sculpture Park. Giant stone eggs lie on a dark pink platform.
- The village of Anogira. Beautiful photos can be taken against the backdrop of old houses or carob trees. The fruits of these plants are used to make sweet syrup for confectionery.
- White Rocks. There are no organized tours at this place. You have to get here on your own. The photo shoot should preferably be done in the early morning or after sunset. In the daytime, the rocks are blindingly white, which makes the quality of the pictures worse.
- The village of Pedulas. The small village is located in the Maratassa Valley. Here you can make spectacular photos against the backdrop of mountains and stone buildings. Experienced travelers advise to come to Pedulas in April and May.
Where to eat and what to try in Limassol?
The abundance of restaurants in Limassol will not leave any tourist hungry. Here you can find both expensive, high-end institutions, and small restaurants, where the food is tasty and not expensive. Local cuisine is characterized by a variety of dishes and snacks. Here you can find both vegetarian and classic cuisine of Cyprus and other countries of the world. Fast food lovers will also find the usual pizzerias and fast food outlets here.
When you first arrive in Limassol, be sure to check out the Ocean Basket restaurant, which is famous for its seafood dishes. If you come alone, you can order an octopus salad or kebab, but for small groups the restaurant has a special offer – a large plate of seafood. You will be served several types of delicacies on a platter served with lettuce leaves and lemon. The seafood platter is designed for 2-3 people.
The main criterion for the quality of food in Cyprus is not the advertising of the restaurant, but its attendance. If you see a restaurant or cafe with many locals, feel free to go there for lunch. This rule especially applies to taverns with local food. Here you can taste the traditional Cypriot dishes that will not leave indifferent even the most demanding gourmets. At the local tavern, be sure to try the kebab or souvlaki, served with fries and the national village salad.
What to bring from Limassol?
Cyprus is a customs-free zone, and therefore all goods here are about 10-12% cheaper than in other European countries. And if you are lucky enough to get on a seasonal sale, you can buy the things you like for next to nothing.
Shopping in Limassol in Cyprus takes place on the main shopping streets of the city. One of the popular shopping areas for tourists of all kinds is Anexartesias Avenue. There are more than 150 stores that sell everything from small souvenirs to clothes from famous brands. This street is a paradise for fashionistas and businessmen. This is where most boutiques in Russia buy their goods.
If you are a fan of porcelain, which is especially famous in Cyprus, you have to go to Makarios Avenue. There are numerous shops, souvenir stores, cafes and restaurants along the 3 km. Shopping on this street can take all day, but you can find extraordinary rare things, which is considered a real fortune to buy here. In small shops you can haggle, mastering this art, you can easily discount the price of goods by 20-30%.
For lovers of leather and jewelry in Limassol there is a separate street where jewelry stores, leather goods and souvenir stores are concentrated. Here you can buy just stunning jewelry, bags, belts and gloves. When buying be careful, because you can run into a fake.
Beware of buying gold jewelry from street vendors, they often sell low-quality goods.
Video overview of the sights of Limassol
Limassol is located in a picturesque corner of the southern coast of Cyprus. The city has a long history, and therefore the sights are found almost everywhere. Especially attractive to tourists are archaeological sites such as the ruins of the Acropolis, the remains of ancient temples and palaces.
Limassol sights on the map
Any sights, stores and restaurants you can visit on your own. However, on long trips is better to buy specialized tours, in which the guides will not only show the interesting places, but also to tell the amazing legends of this island. Make your own route by studying the sights of Limassol on the map. Guides are available in every hotel.
