Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Cyprus / Cyprus (South) / Limassol
 |  | Destination Guide : Limassol |
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| | | Idyllic location |  | Why go on holiday to Limassol?
Limassol (renamed Lemesos) is Cyprus's second-largest city and the country's most popular tourist destination. Sandwiched between the mountains and the sparkling Mediterranean, it's not difficult to see why.
How much does it cost?
A seven-night half board package in a good hotel costs around £600 (high season). Self-catering packages are available from £380 per week. Direct flights from the UK cost from £150. All prices may vary subject to availability.
When should I go?
July and August are peak season, but Limassol enjoys pleasant weather from May until October. The loveliest weather is in April to May and September to October when temperatures average 70-80F (22-30C).
In June, July and August it can reach more than 90F (35C) while in December and January temperatures drop to 50F (10C). The annual Carnival is held in February when masked revellers invade the streets with music, parades and dancing.
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| | | Step back into the past |  | What should I do when I'm there?
Most tourists head for the main attraction - the well-restored castle where Richard the Lionheart got married in 1191. Within the castle you'll find the Medieval Museum which is worth a visit.
A short distance from Limassol lies the Kourion archaeological site. The outstanding attraction is an ancient Greco-Roman theatre where you can take in a play or concert. Nearby is the medieval fortress of Kolossi Castle.
Where can I chill out?
It's worth making time for the newly-restored hammam. Around £6 will buy you a steam and sauna or a massage. All sessions are mixed, male and female. While you're in the old town visit the artisans' shops, mosque and Medieval Museum.
What should I see outside the town?
A trip into the Troodos mountains is ideal if you want to experience secluded monasteries, pine forests and small winemaking villages. A great place to walk in the summer. In the winter, this area is a popular skiing venue.
Kykkos Monastery is open to visitors and has a museum containing a number of priceless icons. The winegrowing area of Omodos is interesting while the Socrates Traditional House is a popular spot - a 500-year-old house with a huge cellar and distillery.
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| | | Warm welcome for families | | Where's good for nightlife?
Limassol boasts some lovely restaurants with very reasonable prices. Phylacton Arcade is a nice spot to sit and have a drink, but if you want to party till dawn and beyond, head 60km up the coast to Ayia Napa, the clubbers' paradise.
What's the food like?
The island's mixed cultural heritage is highlighted by Cypriot cuisine. Dishes show the strong Middle Eastern influences of Turkey as well as elements from more traditional Greek cooking.
Try a meat or fish meze, a feast made up of about 20 different appetiser-sized dishes, or halloumi, the local cheese that is typically served grilled. Cypriot wine is excellent and Turkish coffee extremely strong.
What should I buy?
Shopaholics will find plenty to occupy them in the brace of new stores in modern Limassol. Bottles of ouzo, the local spirit, and regional wines make welcome gifts.
Most villages specialise in some type of craft, whether it be pottery, silverware, basket-weaving or the famous lace from Lefkara. These products can also be found at the Handicraft Centre in Lefkosia.
What is there for children to do?
Children are well catered-for in most resort hotels, with children's pools, games rooms and watersports programmes. Family is important to Cypriots and children are welcome in cafes and restaurants at all hours.
Tourist office
Cyprus Tourist Office, 17 Hanover Street, London, W1S 1YP. Tel. 020 7569 8800.
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| | Available rental properties in Limassol |
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