Limassol, Cyprus

Limassol is the largest port facility on the island of Cyprus, situated in the western part of town. The new Cruise Terminal, located 3 km from the city center, offers a variety of amenities and serves as a gateway to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of the region.

Note: It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.

Location & Transportation

Limassol’s new cruise terminal is the largest port facility on the island, located in the western part of town—just 3 km from the old, bustling harbor near Limassol Castle. I love how accessible it is: you can hop on Bus 30 or catch one of the usually free shuttles that run between the port and the old town. If you prefer a taxi ride, it takes around 10 minutes to reach downtown.

The modern terminal building spans 3,500 sq.m and features duty-free shops, banks, a tourist information counter, and a lounge/cafeteria, along with separate halls for departures and arrivals. A luxurious marina is also under development here. For more official details, check out the Port Authority.

Sightseeing

Limassol is a vibrant coastal town that beautifully blends history, culture, and modern leisure. Here are some highlights I recommend:

Stroll along the wide seafront promenade and admire the views of the Mediterranean.
Visit the old harbor near Limassol Castle and soak in the town’s medieval charm.
Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and golden sands of Ladies Mile Beach, a favorite spot for swimming, water sports, and windsurfing.
Take in the backdrop of the Troodos Mountains, whose fertile foothills have long been famous for vineyards and wine production.
Wander the narrow, bustling shopping streets peppered with local markets that celebrate Cyprus’s rich trading history in wine and sugar cane.

Tours & Excursions

Limassol is an excellent base for exploring Cyprus, and there’s plenty to choose from:

Visit historical sites such as the Curium amphitheater and the sanctuary of Apollo, or tour the impressive Crusader Castle at Kolossi.
Discover the House of Dionysus at Paphos for a glimpse into ancient Cypriot heritage.
If you’re up for a day trip, consider exploring Nicosia—the ancient, walled city that has recently become much more accessible to visitors.
Self-drive excursions are very popular here, whether by car, quad bike, moped, bicycle, or even dune buggy. Just remember that driving is on the left.
Buses are available outside the port terminal if you prefer not to drive, and daytime shared service taxis connect Limassol with other major towns.

Shopping

Limassol offers a charming mix of traditional and modern shopping experiences:

Pick up exquisite Lefkara lace, renowned for its intricate design and a true symbol of Cypriot craftsmanship.
Explore the Saripolou area in the old district near the town hall, where the Central Market—housed in a graceful, arcaded building from the British era—showcases handmade reed baskets, olive oil, loukoumia (Cyprus delight), and other delightful local products.
Wander through local boutiques and souvenir shops scattered around the town to find unique mementos of your visit.

Dining

Food in Limassol is a delicious journey into Cypriot culture:

Savor fresh seafood and traditional Cypriot meze in quaint tavernas dotted around the city center.
Enjoy local specialties that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, paired perfectly with regional wines.
Stop at one of the comfortable cafes in the old district for a taste of local pastries and strong, aromatic Cypriot coffee.

Culture & Local Events

Local Events

Limassol is known for its festive spirit and lively celebrations throughout the year:

The annual Wine Festival in September treats visitors to free wine samples from local wineries over ten exciting days.
The pre-Lenten Carnival features masquerade parties, grand parades, and vibrant balls.
Summer brings the Limassol Festival, while the ancient Drama Festival at Kourion offers a taste of Cyprus’s rich theatrical heritage.
As you explore, you’ll notice that local markets and street events reflect a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Here are a few more local insights:

Language: Greek, Turkish, and English are commonly spoken. You’ll also hear Russian, as about 40% of the population in Limassol speak it.
Currency: The local currency is the Euro.
Opening Hours: Most shops operate Monday through Saturday, with some variations on weekends and holidays. For exact details, check local Public Holidays.

Safety & Awareness

Taxis in Limassol can be hit or miss; they’re known to be sometimes unreliable and expensive, so I’ve often found it best to hire a car or arrange for a guided tour.
Remember, driving here is on the left—if you’re not used to it, take extra care.
As with any busy tourist destination, keep a close eye on your belongings and confirm transport fares before you set off.

Limassol, Cyprus Guide