In this article, we would like to take you on an Interesting sightseeing tour to Limassol, Cyprus. A two-day trip that shows you some of the most significant places to visit in this fascinating city.
Day 1.
Kolossi Castle (10 am to 11 am).
This Gothic structure from the Middle Ages. It was initially built in 1210 but rebuilt in 1454, which is the building you will see today. The structure stands 69 Ft tall and has three levels. On the ground floor, there are storerooms, the second floor has a kitchen, and the upper section has a living space.
There is an excellent panoramic view from the roof and plenty of multilingual information signs. If you have time to spare, there are a cafe. It will take you eight minutes by car to your next destination.
Kourion (11.30 am to 1.30 pm).
Kourion is a complex of ancient Roman and Byzantine ruins. There is a variety of building such as baths, markets, houses and monuments. The highspot is the 3,500 seat theater. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and the site at Kourion dates back to 1300 BC.
Kourion was part of an uprising against the Persians in 400 BC and was occupied by Alexander the Great. Do not miss the mosaic floors or the house of Gladiators on your visit. There is a visitor center at the site. Your journey to the next stop will take six minutes by car.
The Sanctuary of Apollo (2 pm to 4 pm).
During ancient times this was the most important holy place in Cyprus. This partly restored temple was abandoned in 4th century AD. The remaining ruins date back to the 1st Century AD. This was just the latest of several renovations and rebuilds. What you see now is the ruins after a major earthquake hit the area in 364-5 AD.
Walking through the ruined rooms is an emotional experience that takes you back to centuries ago. You have been out for a few hours now and will be getting tired, so take your time (you have two hours at this site). In fact, this is a beautiful place to have a picnic and sit down before you head off to the next destination. You have a 23-minute journey to Kouklia.
Aphrodite’s Rock, Kouklia (4.30 pm to 5.30 pm).
There is a legend that tells the story that Aphrodite, the goddess of love, rose from the sea at Aphrodite’s Rock in the Mediterranean.
They also say that if you swim around the rock three times that you will receive the gift of eternal youth and fertility for life. This may or may not be true, but one thing you will be guaranteed is sunburn unless you apply sunscreen.
Do not forget your camera as this is one of the most photogenic spots in the country. It is a great place to catch the sunset, so if you decide to stay on until later it may be worthwhile.
Either way, this location is the end of our first day’s tour, and you have a 30-minute drive back to Limassol.
Evening.
Back at your hotel, you have a chance to wash up and enjoy a short rest before you can (optionally) head out for your evening in Limassol. For your evening, we have put together one or two suggestions for better places to dine and party.
Meze Taverna Restaurant.
This is a small family restaurant that offers traditional Greek and Cypriot food. They offer both fish and meat Meze using recipes handed down from generation to generation. It is a marvelous place to enjoy Cypriot hospitality. The food is absolutely fantastic and with just ten tables it has an intimate atmosphere.
After your meal, some people may well want to retire to their hotel and enjoy a couple of drinks in the hotel bar before retiring, but for those younger and more energetic readers, we have added one last place to visit.
Saripolou Square.
In recent years Saripolou Square has become the central place for nightlife in Limassol. There are dozens of bars and clubs, and you will be sure to find one that suits your style.
Day 2.
On day 2, we take an excursion out of central Limassol to Larnaca to visit two destinations.
Larnaca Salt Lake, Larnaca (10.30 am to 12.30 pm).
After your night out last night, today’s tour starts 30 minutes later. We start the day with a visit to the salt lake at Larnaca. Depending on the time of year, you may see large numbers of pink Flamingo who use this place as a migration point.
This is also the site of the holiest shrines of Ottoman Islam. The mosque, which is surrounded by flamingos and exotic palm trees. The lake is home to over 80 species of birds. During the dry months, the lake is a dusty expanse of crusty salt. Now there is a 9-minute drive to the next destination.
Church of Saint Lazarus, Larnaca (1pm to 1.30 pm).
The Church of Saint Lazarus is a survivor. It has been the victim of destruction, fires, and looting for over 1,000 years. Orthodox Christians believe that the church hosts the remains of Lazarus of Bethany. The same Lazarus that Jesus raised from the dead.
This church with three domes and three internal isles is something well worth visiting. Tourists generally remark that this is by far the best church on the island to visit. We now head back on a 56-minute drive back to Limassol.
Limassol Castle (2.30 pm to 4.30 pm).
Surrounded by upbeat restaurants and cafes, Limassol castle towers above the commercial activities as it did in Byzantine times. With connections to the English King Richard the Lionheart while on the crusades.
The castle was built over the site of a much earlier Christian Basilica. The existing structure was erected in 1590. Since then, it has been burned and looted several times, by the Genoese, Egyptians, and Venetians. Today it houses museums and other interesting activities. The view from the roof is stunning. Just a short 5-minute drive to Limassol Marina.
Limassol Marina (5 pm to 5.30 pm).
This is our final destination on our two-day Interesting sightseeing tour to Limassol, Cyprus.
Limassol Marina is a prestigious and exclusive development situated on the waterfront. The area comprises of both residential and commercial premises. You will find it an exciting place to walk and possibly enjoy one of the many cafes or bars.
If you are heading off to another city, this may be a great place to get a meal before you head off.
We hope that you have enjoyed our virtual tour itinerary and that you will get the opportunity to visit the places we suggest.
Also read the article: Fascinating Travel To Nicosia, Cyprus
