Limassol

Limassol is the second largest city on the island and is a bustling cosmopolitan, metropolis. Some of the island's most prestigious properties can be found here.

It has a commercial centre with one of the busiest Mediterranean ports serving both commercial vessels and cruise ships. It is also the centre of the island's wine industry and just a short drive away is the Troodos Mountains. Unlike the other resorts on the island it does not succumb over the winter months but thrives as a tourist destination and caters for cultural, astronomical and entertainment venues. In fact the town's calendar is filled with vibrant events, street celebrations, carnivals and the famous wine festival.

Regeneration along the seafront, including cycling routes and walkways has added a new flair of charm to Limassol. The old town also currently under restoration promises an exciting revival of quaint bohemian cafes.

Limassol has evolved into a gastronomic centre, where gourmet restaurants in five-star beachside hotels rub shoulders with quaint tavernas. The choice of quality cuisine whether it's Arabic, British, Chinese or a fantastic regional delicacy, are all of exceptional standard. The coffee scene is bustling at all hours. You'll find cafes tucked away in the old quarters, in the alleys, on main roads or lining the seafront open till the early hours.

Shopping expeditions to the old centre of Limassol are the best way to view a wide choice of more traditional products and souvenirs. Shopping in Limassol is a fascinating experience, reflecting the diversity and contrast of the island itself. Visitors can find products that are produced in the humblest workshop and find everything from folk art to locally made food produce like cheeses, meats, dried fruits and local wines and spirits or a unique rustic souvenir. For those that appreciate a more modern and fashion-driven shopping experience, Limassol features bustling high streets that boasts of all the big names in International fashion design as well as top furniture and house ware stores.

Sites

• Kolossi Castle - A short distance from the town is the imposing medieval Castle with its arrow apertures and narrow spiral staircases. It was constructed by the Knights of St John of Jerusalem in the 13th century and was the home of Richard the Lionheart and Verengaria of Navarre whom he crowned Queen of England.
• Agios Georgios Alamanou and Governors Beach - A chain of smooth white rock formation create a number of small and picturesque coves. Located about 15km from the town centre and marks the beginning of the Limassol coastline.
• Pissouri Bay - The beach is picturesque and the trees directly behind the beach offer shade. Water sports are also available.
• Lady's Mile - The longest sandy beach in Limassol. Its grey sand but clean water makes make it a favourite with the locals.
• Curium Beach - Just 20 minutes west of Limassol. A stunning setting of coves and smooth white pebbles with Ancient Curium perched on the cliff top.

Golf

• Secret Valley Golf Course - The Par 71 course is a 30 minute drive from Limassol, set amid stunning scenery.

Museums

• District Archaeological Museum - An insight to civilisation on the island from the 9th millennium to the end of antiquity.
• Folk Art Museum - A museum that houses more than 500 original artefacts from the 19th and 20th century.
• Mediaeval Museum - Located within the Limassol castle near the Old Port. A collection of Lusignan armour and treasures that date back to 620 AD.
• Cyprus Wine Museum - Join one of the short tours conducted in the beautiful restored stone house and see the collection of artefacts. Purchase a bottle or two from the selection of wineries available on the premises.

Arts

• Art Studio 55 - The focus is on modern art with an emphasis on promoting Cypriot art and showcasing works by international artists.
• Gallery Morfi
• One of the best established galleries on the island and exhibiting leading and up and coming artists from Cyprus and Greece.
• Limassol Municipal Art Gallery - Displays of paintings in oils, water-colours and acrylics.

Family Fun

• Fasouri Watermania Waterpark - In 2007 the World Travel Award honoured the Fasouri Waterpark as one of three top Waterpark Attractions in Europe.