Limassol is the most cosmopolitan town in Cyprus and is home to many different people from all different walks of life. Foreign residents make up about 25% of the population, so you will hear many different languages when you explore this eclectic resort.
There is something for everyone in Limassol. It’s very easy to spend the whole day just exploring the sea front area by foot. The promenade is home to the sculpture park, an assortment of cafes, Limassol castle, the old harbour, and the new marina.
This waterside city also has the most beautiful and unique skyline on the island. Mini skyscrapers stand tall next to the sea, and the majestic Troodos Mountains sit quietly behind observing the city from a far.
Ladies Mile Beach
There are some gorgeous beaches in Limassol, all with very different backdrops, sea temperament and sand colours.
Ladies Mile is the longest beach in Cyprus. It is over 3 miles long, and stretches down the Akrotiri Pininsular from Limassol New Port to the British RAF Base. When you stand on Ladies Mile Beach, you will always have the Mediterranean Sea on one side of you, and the salt lake on the other. The salt lake is a dusty expanse of land in summer, home to land surfing and quad bikes. In winter it is a wet marshland home to majestic flamingos and other visiting birds.
When visiting Ladies Mile, you will be amazed by the calmness of the sea, and the uniqueness of the beach. When you start your journey from the New Port, the beach starts with rocks and pebbles. Then turns into a black sand. Changing colour through to golden hues, and eventually finishes in a white shingle beach.
Beach bars are dotted along Ladies Mile. All the bars are pretty similar in price. Some offer water sports and inflatables for kids, others have a more adult vibe.
Have a drive and see which one suits you best. Alternatively, if you like a bit of peace and quiet, pick a deserted spot, lie out your towel and enjoy the soft melody of the sea lapping against the sand!
Kourion Beach
Kourion Beach is the most dramatic and unpredictable beach in Limassol. The backdrop is a sheer cliff face, with archaeological ruins hidden in its depth. The sea has high crashing waves. There is a continuous rhythmic boom as the water hits the rocks.
This windswept beach is a great place to go when the heat gets too much. The constant breeze is so welcoming in July and August. Although, sometimes hard to find a metre of beach to claim for the day. As the area is filled with tourists and locals, all looking for a reprieve from the humidity and the warmth of the sun.
The beach itself is mostly rocks and pebbles, with small spaces of dark yellow sand. If you want to be one of the lucky ones, and get a section of sand you have to head down there early, as they go fast!
There are a few different restaurants at Kourion Beach. All quite similar, offering cold beverages, ice creams, salads and fresh fish. Definitely have lunch down there and order the fish, it’s amazing!!
Shopping
The beautiful city of Limassol isn’t just about the beach. You can find some of the best shopping on the island there too! If you are looking for luxury shopping, then Makarios Avenue and Limassol Marina are the best places to flex your plastic. If you want more high street fashion, then My Mall or Anexartisias Street is a must! If prefer local crafts and vintage pieces, St Andrews Street and the Old Town is a great place to wander.
Historical Sites
Most people visit Limassol for the archaeological ruins and heritage sites. The town was built in between the two ancient cities of Amathounta and Kourion, and its history dates back over 4000 years. Archaeological work is still continued to this day, and when you visit you are free to walk around the historic sites. You can walk through doorways that have stood for over 2000 years. You can stand at the entrance to the ancient temples, and listen to the wind whistle gently through the columns. The whole are is just magical!
