Paphos or Limassol, the Greek name of Lemesos (Limassol Lemesos, in Greek Λεμεσός) is a city on the southern coast of Cyprus, is the capital of the eponymous district Limassol is the second largest urban area in Cyprus after Nicosia.
Limassol was built between two ancient cities of Amathus to the East and Kourion in the North-West coast, and during Byzantine rule was known as Neapolis (new town). Most likely the Limassol was built after were destroyed Amathus. However, it is known that the city of Paphos has been inhabited since very ancient times, found in the area of the graves date back to 2000 BC and others date back to the 8 and 4 centuries BC.
At present, Limassol is a fairly well developed city, where concentrated cultural, economic and financial life of the country, besides the proximity to the Troodos mountains and the fact that the city and surrounded by the monuments from ancient history, a valuable architectural objects, museums and churches, beaches and parks, contributed to the conquest of the Limassol status as the largest and one of the best resorts of Cyprus.
For these reasons, a visit to Paphos can be a great solution for those who like to combine a beach holiday with walks and sightseeing.
The climate of Limassol has a subtropical - Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild winters.
The Beaches Of Limassol
Today the city spreads along the Mediterranean coast and suburbs of Limassol, which is considered one of the best places for a beach holiday in Cyprus, go for many kilometers over the territory of the centre of Limassol.
Almost all the beaches of Limassol, is that except for a couple parts of the coast, have awarded the "Blue flag" - a sign of purity and quality of the beach and sea water.
On the beaches there is a full range of services for a comfortable stay: sun beds and parasols, showers and toilets, tower rescue and wooden decks, locker rooms and boxes. Near most of the beaches allocated places for water sports and entertainment. There are playgrounds and a beach café.
Within the city of Limassol is two beaches:
- Akti Olympion (Olympion Akti Beach), located near the port and the old town. The beach is a single 2-km long beach is considered one of the most affordable and convenient beaches in Limassol.
Along the beach runs the promenade with places to stay, cafés, kiosks with snacks and drinks and Bicycle track;
beach Limassol Marina (Limassol Marina Beach) - the most pretentious and expensive beach of Limassol.
The beach is located on the West side of the Marina (harbour) of Limassol, near the villas Peninsula (Limassol Marina Peninsula Villas).
Marina beach is a small artificial beach. On the beach is fine sand light Golden color. Sunset in the sea is sandy and shallow, depth is gradual. On both sides of the beach is fenced off by stone breakwaters.
Eastern beaches of Limassol
The most gorgeous beaches of Limassol are located outside of the city, to the East coast and included such municipalities as, Agios Athanasios, Germasogeia, Agios Tychonas and Pyrgos Paphos.
This part of the coast is characterized by long beaches, where one beach flows seamlessly into another, where directly near the beach are luxury hotels and decent apartment - a full apartment. The typical beaches with sand colors ranging from Golden to dark gray.
Completing the chain of the Eastern beaches Limassol beaches of Kalymnos and the Gubernatorial (Governor's Beach Kalymnos Beach), located on the border of the districts of Limassol and Larnaca.
First of all, this part of the coastline is attractive because it is one of the natural attractions of the southern coast of Cyprus, there are white rock formations. The contrast of dark sand and white rocks are a great sight and one of the favorite places in the district of Limassol for photo shoots.
The Western beaches of Limassol
On the West side of the coast outside the city of Limassol, lies the 5-kilometer beach, ladies ' Mile (Lady's Mile Beach).
The beach is wide. In the Central part of the beach sand is dark gray in color, in the South becomes Golden-brown, and in the North, closer to the New port of Limassol, on the beach mainly pebbles.
The Central and southern part of the beach distinguished by the presence of beach café bars on the coast and well-developed beach infrastructure. The only thing near this beach there are no accommodation facilities, as well as, access to the beach is most convenient by car.
In this part of the coast, with the city of Limassol, a remarkable beach of Kourion, and individual attention, the beach of Pissouri (Pissouri Bay Beach), the closing of the Western chain of beaches of Limassol and located in the eponymous village of Pissouri, on the border with the North-Eastern part of the district of Paphos.
Pissouri beach is one of the most unique and popular beaches not only in the district of Limassol, but also just Kira. The beach is very popular among European tourists, but among our countrymen, unknown until now.
The beach is mostly small pebbles, sometimes mixed with sand, color, from gray to Golden.
Read more about all the beaches of Limassol...
Hotels in Limassol by the beach...
The Waterfront Of Limassol
The waterfront of Limassol represent the long strips along most of the coast of the city and district.
In the centre of the city include the Promenade of Molos (Limassol Molos) - the Central promenade of Limassol and one of the most vibrant places in the city; - a multifunctional seaside Park, considered one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean basin.
Currently, Molos is a wide promenade framed on both sides with delicate palm trees, where part of the boardwalk is made in the form of small pools.
From the city to the boardwalk and adjacent Park area - the Park of sculptures. Read more about promenade Molos...
The boardwalk along the main beach of Limassol (Akti Olympion), where there are several cafes and beach bars, also equipped places for rest in the shade of the spreading crowns of coniferous trees.
The coastal Hiking trails in the Eastern part of Limassol district, which runs along the sea the greater part of the municipalities: Agios Athanasios, Germasogeia, Agios Tychonas and Pyrgos Paphos.
In the Western part of the coast district of Limassol can be distinguished promenade (walking the narrow road) along the beach of Pissouri.
On the waterfront: places to stay, urn, a couple of cafes, tree-lined street and a small chapel. Read more about the quays and coastal Hiking trails in Limassol...
Port of Limassol
Port of Limassol are presented in four separate zones:
- the old port;
- the Limassol Marina;
- cruise and industrial port;
Marina San Rafael.
The first three listed port located within the city, including the old harbour and Limassol Marina, located in the centre of the city, next to each other and together form one of the most visited and popular places in the city for walks and recreation among locals and visitors alike.
Limassol Old Port is a small port that is part of the historic centre, once the main port of Limassol, the original Foundation of which was laid during the British occupation of the island in the late 19th century.
Currently on the territory of the old port cafés and restaurants are concentrated near the small Marina where moored fishing boats and tourist vessels.
Limassol Marina is not only a modern Marina, but also modern and elite area of Limassol.
On the territory of the Limassol Marina is situated villas and modern residential apartment complexes, there is the homonymous beach, yacht-club, Spa-center, fitness-club, and places of General entertainment - Central square with a fountain, recreational areas, restaurants, cafes and shops.
Limassol New Port - main port in Cyprus. It is located in the South-Western end of Limassol, at a distance of about 5 kilometres from the Limassol Marina.
The port is the largest and most bustling Harbor on the island, able to accept large cruise and commercial vessels.
Currently, a New port is used as cruise and cargo ports.
Marina San Rafael (St. Raphael Marina) is a small Marina located between the beach areas of Paphos district. Close to Marina, cafes and restaurants.
Marina San Rafael is the official port of entry to Cyprus. For a total of 237 berths (beds), accommodating yachts up to 30 metres and draft up to 4 meters. Marinas for yachts are equipped with all amenities. Read more about the port of Limassol...
Sights of Limassol
Of particular importance among the places of Limassol, where the great bulk of the attractions is the Old city of Limassol (Old Town), is centred around the medieval castle of Limassol and the Old port.
The old town is narrow streets, lined with historic buildings with cafes and restaurants, small shops and souvenir shops as well as churches and squares.
Central, the busiest and one of the most attractive streets of the old town is Agiou Andreou street (Agiou Andreou), along which the historic buildings, shrines and the abundance of cafes, bars, restaurants and shops.
The main attractions of the Old town of Limassol are:
- The castle square, where is located the castle of Limassol is the medieval Fort built on the site of an early Christian Basilica and Byzantine castle, the walls of which is the Cyprus Medieval Museum, collection of artifacts which tells about the historical development of Cyprus, its economic, social and artistic evolution, as well as the everyday life of the people of the island from the 3rd to the 18th century BC;
Cathedral of Limassol, known as the Cathedral of Ayia NAPA - the monumental building that combines in its architecture the Greek lines with elements of traditional Byzantine architecture, graceful stands in the centre of the old city and is one of the main shrines of Limassol;
mosque Kebir-Dzhami - is one of the most important churches of the centre of Limassol, built in the 16th century on the foundations of the older Christian churches. The interior of the temple consists of several rooms separated by arches;
- the public library of Limassol, located in one of the most beautiful historic buildings in the city and is one of the largest libraries in Cyprus;
the Cathedral of Panagia Pantanassa "Catholics" has impressive size and modern appearance. The temple was built in 2012 and has the status of a Cathedral and is dedicated to Saint Nicholas;
- the old water tower, is an example of the engineering heritage of Cyprus;
- Holy Trinity Church, built in 1919, designed in the shape of a cross with two tall towers-the bell tower, stone carving and surmounted by a large dome. The Church interior has bright colors and wooden décor.
In addition to these, in the old town of Limassol and other remarkable churches, historical and architectural buildings, such as theatres, squares and streets. Read more about old town of Limassol...
Plant KEO
KEO - Cyprus company for the manufacture of beverages, based in Cyprus in 1927 and represents one of the largest industrial employers on the island with more than 90 brands in its portfolio. The company's shares are traded on the Cyprus stock exchange.
Reflecting its name, the company started as a company producing wine in the Limassol district. In 1951 the company launched beer production by importing expertise from Czechoslovakia. Since then the product range has expanded to include a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic products.
Area attractions Limassol
The archaeological site Amathous, which is a historical and archaeological complex under the open sky, consists of two separate sections - the upper (the Acropolis of Amathus) and lower, which are based on Agora - the remains of the market square. Read more about the ruins of Amathus...
The Monastery Of St. George the Alaman - the nunnery, the second largest women's monastery in Cyprus, after the monastery of the Mother of God of the Golden Pomegranate (Panagia Hrisoroyatissa). Here the nuns are preparing for service in other monasteries of Cyprus.
The monastery is built in Byzantine style. Around the courtyard are the rooms of the nuns. The monastery is the source, according to local - with healing Holy water.
Limassol Salt Lake - significant wetland in Europe and the largest inland pond on the island of Cyprus.
Currently, the lake is one of the natural attractions of Cyprus.
In the winter months and off-season, the lake attracts migratory birds, including flocks of pink flamingos and herons. Whereas in the summer months, a large part of the lake dries up, leaving an extensive flat area of sand and salt. Read more about the Salt lake of Limassol...
Cat's monastery or monastery of St. Nicholas, considered the oldest and one of the first monasteries founded in Cyprus.
The first monastery may have been founded in 327 and was built in 365 year. Since the main occupation of the islanders was fishing, and sailing, the monastery was consecrated in honor of St. Nicholas - the patron Saint of sailors and fishermen.
Historically, the monastery belongs to the 14th century. In the 16th century was abandoned. Only in 1980-ies he was again "occupied" by Orthodox monks. Part of his premises rebuilt, part restored, using the stones of an ancient monastery.
Currently it is a functioning monastery on the territory of which is home to several dozen cats. Read more about Cat monastery.
Kolossi castle (Kolossi Castle) - the remains of a medieval castle, located in the eponymous village of Kolossi in the Limassol district, the South-Western part of Cyprus.
The original castle dates from the year 1210, was built by the knights of St. John was the residence of the Supreme military command of the island.
The surviving castle was built in 1454 by the Hospitallers under the command of Louis de Maniac, from which the castle got its name and whose coat of arms can be seen today on one of the walls of the castle.
To the present day in integrity is preserved, only the main three-storey square tower of the castle, which reaches a height of almost 22 metres. Read more about Kolossi castle...
The village of Erimi (Ερήμη), which contains the Cyprus wine Museum and Church of St. Rafael (Άγιος Ραφαήλ). The village is located between Episkopi (a Curio) and Kolossi.
Archaeological Park Kourion, currently representing the Museum under the open sky, located within the British overseas territory of Akrotiri and is part of the UNESCO world heritage site.
The Archaeological site is a rather large territory, on which there are: archaeological sites, paths and tracks for movement, gazebo for relaxing, tourist information centre, car Park and ticket office. Read more about archaeological Park Kourion...
The sanctuary of Apollo of Hilata (Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates) - archaeological site - the ruins of the temple of Apollo Hillsboro.
Once it was one of the main religious centres of ancient Cyprus, where Apollo was worshipped as the God of the forests. Perhaps the worship of Apollo on this spot began in the 8th century BC and lasted until the 4th century ad.
Over the howl of the history of the place has undergone many expansions and changes in different periods of history. The monument that we see today are restorations of the 1st century ad.
The village of Pissouri (Pissouri) is a small village, part of the district of Limassol.
Distinguish top village of Pissouri, situated on a hill (the hill) and the settlement of Pissouri area Pissouri Bay with a wonderful beach and clean sea waters. Read more about village of Pissouri...
The village of Omodos - traditional Cypriot village in the Troodos mountains (altitude about 900 meters above sea level), approximately 40 km from the historic centre of Limassol.
Currently, Omodos is a tourist village that has preserved its ancient beauty and flavor, anciently famous for wine production and fruit orchards, narrow streets, picturesque views, tavernas, and ancient stone buildings with carved wooden balconies, special place among which occupies the monastery of the Holy cross. Read more about Omodos village and the monastery...
Parks Of Limassol
Municipal Park of Limassol - the city Park green space, with walking paths, Seating areas, a fountain, a Playground, an outdoor amphitheatre and monuments, is situated opposite the main promenade and is the largest and most visited Park in this part of the city.
Limassol Municipal Zoo is a zoo located in the territory of the above-mentioned municipal Park and open for guests since 2012. In addition to the animals at Limassol zoo are places for relaxation, a café, a Playground and a petting zoo with mini goats and sheep.
Water Park Fasouri Watermania (Fassouri watermania Waterpark) opened in 1999 and since then constantly updated and expanded, and currently is the largest water Park in Cyprus.
The Park is decorated in a tropical style - with exotic plants, Polynesian buildings with roofs of palm branches, wooden walkways and canopies.
The water Park offers a children's area with slides and playgrounds for younger and older children, extreme slides, wave pool and a river with a rapid current, as well as several catering outlets. The most famous attraction - a 50-meter hill "Kamikaze". The website of the Park.
Cyprus Land theme Park located in the municipality of Germasogeia, East along the coast from the centre of Limassol.
In the Park you can get acquainted with the history, culture and traditions of the island of Cyprus. In the Park there are workshops of traditional Cypriot crafts, to manufacture tools and household items, lace, mosaic, pottery, glass, olive oil and honey.
The centre of the Park is the exhibition dedicated to the history of Cyprus. Also in the Park you can practice archery, watch a short jousting battles, café or take part in professional workshops. The Park's website. Read more about the municipality of Germasogeia...
Museums Of Limassol
Cyprus Mediaeval Museum referred to above in this article, located on three floors of Limassol castle and tells about the development of Cyprus from the 3rd to the 18th century ad. Read more about Limassol castle and medieval Museum...
Museum of the carob tree (Carob Mill museum), which houses equipment from the 1900s years, once used to process fruits of the carob trees. The Museum is located close to Limassol castle. Read more about the carob Museum in Limassol...
Folk art Museum (Municipal Museum of Folk Art), housed in a historical building at the address: Ag. Andreou, 253 and opened its doors on 20 June 1985.
The Museum includes one of the most important collections of Cypriot folk art and crafts, including garments and embroidery, carved wood and old farm equipment, tools and utensils, jewelry, decorative objects and furniture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 07:45 to 14:45 hours.
Archaeological Museum of Limassol district (Limassol Archaeological Museum / Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Λεμεσού), is located near Central Park, founded in 1948 and originally placed in the section of the Limassol castle.
Work on the construction of a new building of the Museum began in 1972. The new structure consists of two long rooms connected by two transverse spaces.
The Museum preserves Antiques, covering the development of civilization on the island and the main turns in the history of Cyprus.
Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 to 16:00 hours, Saturday and Sunday - days off. Cost of ticket: € 2,50.
Vintage car Museum (Cyprus Motor Museum) opened its doors in February 2014.
Now in the Museum you can see classic, historic and collectible cars. The exhibits of the Museum covers a century of motoring, veteran of the collection is a Ford "T" in 1912.
The Museum also has a small cinema where visitors can watch a movie "Motoring through the prism of time".
In the premises of the Museum, in addition to the permanent exhibition of vehicles, often organized various activities such as art exhibitions, fashion shows and photography.
Opening hours: - winter: daily from 10:00 to 17:00; summer: Monday - Friday from 09:00 to 17:00 hours, Saturday and Sunday 10:00 to 18:00 hours.
Entrance tickets: adults - 11 Euros; children up to 12 years - 5€; teenagers (over 12 years) - 7 Euro; seniors over 65 years - € 9; family tickets: €26 Family 1 (2 adults and 1 child/teenager), €29 Family 2 (2 adults and 2 children/teenagers).
The Cyprus wine Museum (Cyprus Wine Museum), situated in the village of Erimi.
Unusual tours in Limassol, outside of the city
The Mall May Mall Limassol (MY MALL Limassol)
In Limassol a lot of supermarkets, small shopping malls, stores and gift shops. However, a special love among the visitors of the city won a shopping center MY MALL Limassol, located at Franklin Roosevelt 285, Limassol, Cyprus.
You can get on buses №№ 20, 21 and 30. The fare is € 1.50, a day pass is 5 Euros.
Transportation in Limassol
Transportation in Limassol and outside the city (near Limassol) are well developed, although represented only by buses.
The bus routes are constructed in such a way that a bus drive past all the main attractions of Limassol, also available in Pissouri village and Omodos.
With other cities of Cyprus Limassol associate of intercity buses that travel to major cities on a daily basis. So you can easily get to Paphos, Larnaca, Nicosia. The website of buses in Cyprus.
No problem to use a taxi. If you intend to travel to Cyprus, you will have the sense to rent a car. To choose and order a car in advance, at the appointed time, your car will be waiting for you at the specified location. To see and pick up the car here...
Holidays and festivals
Large Limassol carnival festival is held in late winter - early spring and lasts for ten days. During the carnival many hotels in Paphos have their costume balls and parties.
In the first quarter of September in the municipal garden of Limassol (municipal Park) is a Grand Festival Cyprus wine every evening from 8:00 to 23:00 hours. During the festival, guests will have the opportunity to taste Cypriot, which are offered free of charge. Some nights different local Cypriot groups and groups from abroad give concerts and performances.
Other festivals: the flower festival in Limassol (may), festival of the Flood - the day of the flood (June), Shakespearean nights and Festival of ancient Greek drama.
In addition, the city of Limassol introduced the first beer festival in July 2003. During this three-day dance festival by the sea held in the heart of the city, visitors can enjoy a variety of Cypriot and imported Beers including KEO, Heineken, Amstel and Beck's.
Where to stay in Limassol (Limassol hotels)
The choice of housing in Limassol is very large and diverse, here you can find accommodation for every taste and budget, from budget to luxury 5 star hotels, boutique hotels, apartments and villas, located near the beaches and the historic centre of Limassol, and more remotely from those.
All accommodation in Limassol, from budget to luxury, you can view and book here
How to get to Limassol
In the city of Paphos airport. Closest to Limassol airports are international airports at Paphos and Larnaca.
Paphos airport is located 63 km from the historical centre of Limassol.
Larnaca airport is at a distance of 67 kilometers from the historical centre of Limassol.
These airports regularly send and receive flights from cities in Europe, including direct flights linking Cyprus with Russia. Cheap tickets to Larnaca and Paphos...
From the airports of Larnaca and Paphos to Limassol and from Limassol to airports of Larnaca and Paphos can be reached:
Taxi/Shuttle Service
To get from the airports in Paphos and other cities and resorts of Cyprus, more convenient and faster than a taxi. Book a taxi/Shuttle service is possible in advance, even from home. At any time of the day, at the airport, you will meet your driver with a sign, which will be written your name and surname. For taxi is enough to tell us your flight details!
Car rental
If you are planning to travel to Cyprus, then the ideal option would be to rent a car. To choose and order a car in advance, at the appointed time, your car will be waiting for you outside the airport. The rental price starts from 20 Euros per day.
Public transport
Of public transport buses that run from both airports, but less so and from Larnaca and Paphos to Limassol centre.
Buses run daily,
- the bus schedule (Shuttle-bus) from the airports of Larnaca and Paphos to Limassol can be clarified here;
- the schedule and the bus from Larnaca and Paphos to Limassol can be clarified here.
