Enjoy a Relaxing Limassol Vacation
Located on the island of Cyprus, Limassol has everything from mountains to seashores.
The second largest city on the stunning island of Cyprus, Limassol beckons guests to come and enjoy its varied terrain, exciting activities, interesting history, and pristine beaches.
Located on the southern coast of the island, Limassol stretches for about ten miles. The beautiful and rugged Troodos Mountains here stand in stark contrast to the town's warm, welcoming beaches.
The city, the center of the island's winemaking industry, has a reputation for being fun and fancy-free, with plenty of activities available for all ages as well as an exciting nightlife for adult visitors.
Having Fun in Limassol
One of the first things you'll want to do in this pretty Cyprus city is visit one of the many wineries here, fed by the grapes grown in the fertile lands at the foothills of the Troodos Mountains.
It is said that wine has been produced in Cyprus for more than 4,000 years and that Limassol has always been the center for the admiration and love of Dionysus, the god of wine.
Wine lovers may tour the vineyards, observe the wine-making process, and end their winery experience with a taste of the wonderful Greek wines produced here. If you're lucky enough to arrive in September, you can be a part of the annual wine festival.
If you're a history lover, you'll find plenty of historical sites to suit your interests. Check out Limassol Castle, site of the Cyprus Medieval Museum. It is here in this 14th century Byzantine castle that Richard the Lionheart wed Berengaria of Navarre in 1191 and crowned her Queen of England.
Also take time to visit Kolossi Castle, built in the 13th century and later rebuilt to its current state in the 15th century. DaVinci Code fans will love this castle, which served first as the Grand Commandery of the Knights Templar and later as the headquarters of the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem.
The local folk art museum is home to lovely tapestries, paintings, national costumes, and embroidery, all done by local Cypriot artists.
The Limassol District Archaeological Museum houses ancient artifacts from the Neolithic Age through to the Roman Era. The Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates is also an interesting archaeological site.
If you prefer to just relax and soak up the sun, you may choose from a number of beaches situated along the coast. Beaches range from very crowded with changing stations, restrooms, and cafes, to quiet, nearly-deserted small sandy areas where visitors experience plenty of privacy.
Shopping and Dining
Eating can be a delightful experience in Limassol, as you visit the many "tavernas" here, offering the best in local dishes, as well as a number of additional restaurants that feature international cuisine of many varieties.
Shopping is also a pleasure. Check out the quaint shops on St. Andrew's Street or the trendy, prestigious boutiques on Makarios Avenue. Expert tailors and cobblers here in Cyprus's second largest city can make you a suit or a pair of shoes in a matter of days!
Best Time to Visit
Limassol boasts a temperate climate, typical of many Mediterranean islands. Winters are cool and wet while summers are hot and dry.
Summer runs from mid-May to mid-October and while the days are warm, the sea breezes keep the temperature comfortable. Winter is fairly short - from December through February - and is characterized by rain and some snow in the Troodos Mountains, where skiing is possible.
Orchids begin blooming by mid-January and the city of Limassol is abloom with all varieties of colorful flowers by the end of February, making this a great spring destination as well.