24 hours in Limassol
The town of Limassol and its suburbs have a lot of hidden gems to explore, but if you’ve only got one day, we’re going to give you our suggestions for how to spend a day in the island’s wine capital.
09:00 Morning Coffee by the Sea
A cup of coffee is how most Cypriots start their day. If you want to adopt the local style, opt for a Cypriot coffee or an ice-cold frappe. And since you’re by the sea, it would be a sin not to enjoy your morning coffee with a view of blue waters. Head to the main seaside avenue, Vasileos Georgiou, and sit at one of the cafes overlooking the Mediterranean.
10:00 Visit Museums
After your caffeine kick, it’s time to explore some of the town’s museums. With a huge variety to choose from, we recommend visiting the Pattichion Municipal Museum which walks you through the city’s history and culture from the 18th century onwards. The Public Library is also worth visiting, either for its large 60,000-strong collection or for its stunning architecture.
The stunning building of the Limassol Public Library
12:00 Explore the Street Art
You’ll find lots of beautiful corners while you walk around the Old Town. Amid the traditional and neoclassical buildings you’ll spot splashes of colours on the walls, proof that Limassol’s street art scene has really picked up. Stunning pieces of art decorate the Old Town, and the Street Life Festival takes place every year to celebrate this art form and life in the street. To find these works, head to Athinon Street and the Saripolou area.
A shot from Street Life Festival / Artist: Paparazzi
13:00 Lunchtime
Near Saripolou – a hub of bars, cafes and taverns – are some mayiria: traditional eateries serving up home-cooked Cypriot meals. Choose to have lunch at one of these places in Saripolou or head to the nearby Municipal Market and try some local delicacies. And don’t rush your meal! Sit and taste the flavours, enjoy the environment and relax like the locals.
15:00 Medieval Castle Neighbourhood
Digest your meal while going for a walk around Limassol’s Medieval Castle, situated right by the old harbour. The castle is an ancient fort drenched in local history with a lot to discover, including the Medieval Museum of Cyprus. A visit inside is well worth it, but if you don’t have the time, simply walk around and admire the building that’s a landmark for Limassol. The alleys around it are very picturesque with lots of Cypriot taverns, souvenir shops and coffee shops where you might spot old men playing tavli (backgammon). If you’re up for it, let them teach you how to play!
Beautiful old street in Limassol © Getty Images
16:30 Head Out of the Centre
While your exploration mood is still on a high, why not venture a bit out of the centre to see more of the Limassol region? If it’s summertime, you’ll want to cool off; head to Lady’s Mile or Governor’s Beach for a dip in the sea. Both spots have taverns nearby for any amenities you might need. Special to Governor’s Beach are its distinctive white rocks, which are worth seeing. If you’re not a fan of swimming, another must-see spot is the Kourion archaeological site, one of Cyprus’ most important ancient kingdoms. The site offers stunning panoramic views and an amphitheatre where various concerts and theatre performances take place, mainly during the summer.
Governor’s Beach / Photo by Alex Mita
19:00 Sunset Stroll at Molos Promenade
Returning to the centre, catch the sunset on an evening seaside stroll along Molos Promenade. Crossing through the busiest part of town, Molos is surrounded by palm trees, sculptures, benches to rest on, ramps for skateboarding, playgrounds and cafés/bars to sit at. This is a popular spot for families and doggos, so feel free to take your furry friend with you.
Molos Promenade on the coast of Limassol, Cyprus © Getty Images
21:00 Dinner at Heroes Square
After a day of exploring and roaming around, you’ll be looking forward to filling your belly with some more traditional Cypriot food. Head to Heroes Square, which is surrounded by numerous taverns that you can choose from. If you’re not sure what to choose, ask your waiter to tell you the best dishes on the menu. Accompany your dinner with a bottle of local wine – the region is renowned for its production of wine, with dozens of Limassol-bound vine-growing villages.
23:00 Evening Drinks
Finish your evening with a drink – or two – and completely unwind in the heart of Limassol. There are numerous bars to choose from near Heroes Square, and the old part of town in general is filled with quirky cocktail bars, gin gardens and other nightlife gems to be explored. Simply walk down the streets, follow the music and engage with the locals, who’ll point you towards the hippest event of the evening.
A refreshing cocktail to end your day
