Limassol, Cyprus
Welcome to Limassol, the vibrant coastal heart of Cyprus, where ancient history meets modern seaside energy. This bustling port is a favorite stop for major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises exploring the Eastern Mediterranean.
Cruise visitors are drawn to Limassol for its unique blend of archaeological wonders, picturesque mountain villages, and a lively waterfront promenade. It serves as the perfect gateway to discovering the rich culture, legendary hospitality, and sun-drenched landscapes of this legendary island.
A top attraction is the magnificent Kourion Archaeological Site, perched on a cliff with stunning sea views and featuring a well-preserved Greco-Roman theatre. It's located about a 20-minute drive from the port.
Nearby, you'll find the imposing Kolossi Castle, a former Crusader stronghold that offers a glimpse into the island's medieval past.
For a taste of traditional Cypriot life, many cruise passengers take a shore excursion to the charming village of Omodos, nestled in the wine-producing region of the Troodos Mountains, approximately a one-hour drive from Limassol.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is a popular day trip about an hour's drive west of Limassol. It's famous for the stunning Roman mosaics at the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park and the legendary Aphrodite's Rock.
The majestic Troodos Mountains offer a refreshing escape from the coastal heat, with beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and quaint villages like Omodos. The foothills can be reached in under an hour.
To the east lies Larnaca, approximately 50 minutes away by car, known for its palm-tree-lined seafront, the beautiful Church of Saint Lazarus, and the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque on the salt lake.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
The Limassol cruise terminal is located at the 'New Port', which is approximately 4 kilometers (about 2.5 miles) west of the Limassol Old Town and the bustling marina area.
It is not considered within walking distance to the main attractions, so transportation is necessary. Cruise lines often provide shuttle buses to the city center for a fee, and taxis are readily available at the terminal.
The passenger terminal itself has basic amenities, including a small duty-free shop, restrooms, and tourist information. Cruise ships dock directly at the pier, so no tendering is required.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
The official currency in Cyprus is the Euro (EUR). US dollars are not typically accepted in shops or restaurants, so it's essential to have Euros for smaller purchases.
Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. ATMs are plentiful throughout Limassol, including near the port and in the city center, making it easy to withdraw cash. Currency exchange offices are also available for those who need to convert foreign currency.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
Limassol is considered a very safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate. Visitors can feel comfortable exploring the city center and main tourist areas independently during the day.
As in any popular tourist destination, it's wise to take standard precautions. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded places like markets or bus stations to avoid petty theft or pickpocketing. At night, it's best to stick to well-lit and populated areas. Overall, a guided shore excursion is not necessary for safety reasons, but can be convenient for reaching outlying sites.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
Limassol enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with long, hot, and dry summers, which aligns with the peak cruise season from May to October. During this period, you can expect average daily temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with very little rainfall.
It's essential to pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the strong sun. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer more moderate and pleasant temperatures for sightseeing. Winters are mild and see more rainfall but are generally comfortable.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal and are a popular option for getting into the city center or to nearby attractions; always confirm the fare before starting your journey. There are no major ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft operating widely in Cyprus.
The local public bus network, operated by EMEL, is an affordable way to get around Limassol, though it may be less convenient for reaching archaeological sites far from the city. For destinations like Kourion Archaeological Site or the Troodos Mountains, booking a private tour or a cruise line's shore excursion is often the most efficient option. Renting a car is also possible for those comfortable with driving on the left-hand side of the road.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
The main shopping hub in Limassol is Anexartisias Street, a bustling pedestrianized road in the old town filled with international brands and local shops. For a more upscale experience, the Limassol Marina offers a variety of designer boutiques and souvenir stores in a beautiful waterfront setting.
Look for authentic Cypriot souvenirs such as handmade Lefkaritika lace, silver filigree jewelry, local olive oil, and carob products. Commandaria, a sweet dessert wine with an ancient history, is another popular purchase. While prices in most shops are fixed, you might be able to negotiate slightly at smaller souvenir stalls or local markets.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
Pissouri Bay Divers guarantees safety, fun, and the best diving in Cyprus, training every visitor to the highest possible standard. You will be treated like a friend and receive superior care from a team with a passion for the marine environment and conservation. Their mission is to provide second-to-none customer service while sharing their commitment to protecting marine life. This is your chance for a top-tier diving experience with a passionate and caring team.
Join a small team of foodies on a drive into the scenic Troodos mountains to discover Cyprus through its food and wine. You will visit 4-5 traditional workshops to taste local delicacies like halloumi, wine, and olive oil, stopping at a winery and the picturesque village of Omodos. Meet local artisans and enjoy an authentic meze lunch at a village tavern. This small-group experience for no more than seven guests includes all transport, tastings, and lunch with drinks.
Designed specifically for cruise passengers, this shore excursion guarantees a timely return to your ship after exploring Cyprus's most famed landmarks. In a single trip, you will visit Kolossi Castle, the Kourion Acropolis archaeological site, Omodos Village, and a local winery. An expert licensed English-speaking guide provides insights throughout your journey. This tour is exclusively for cruise ship passengers and is perfectly tailored to fit your port schedule.
Relax and top up your tan on this catamaran cruise from Limassol, available for participants 16 years and older. Cruise along the west coast to the sounds of soft music, stopping for a swim at Cape Gata and later at the unspoiled beaches of Ladies Mile. Enjoy unlimited local drinks from the fully stocked onboard bar and a buffet lunch with seasonal fresh fruits. This full-day trip includes multiple swim stops and ends with a transfer back to your centrally located Limassol hotel.
Experience land sailing, a unique activity found nowhere else in Cyprus that requires no special skills. This exhilarating adventure is suitable for almost everyone, making it a perfect and accessible outing. For families, special side seats are also available for children as young as four years old.
Journey deep inside the wild Akamas Peninsula, Cyprus’s last undeveloped coastal frontier, on this full-day adventure. Perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers, the itinerary takes in the must-see landscapes of this spectacular region with several sections of off-road driving. Your specially trained driver will navigate the bumps and dust slowly and steadily, allowing for many rest stops throughout the day. Please note that time is given for an optional lunch, which is not included in the tour price.
Ideal for travelers short on time, this half-day tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Cyprus's history with a guaranteed return to your ship. Start with a guided visit to the stunning Kourion archaeological site to see its Greco-Roman theater and ancient mosaics. Continue with a photo stop at the medieval Kolossi Castle before finishing at the legendary birthplace of the Goddess Aphrodite. This 3-4 hour excursion perfectly blends ancient wonders with local charm.
Step into a reality-defying experience at Paradox Museum Limassol, featuring the world’s largest collection of optical illusion exhibits. With over 50 paradox-based displays, you can capture unbelievable photos and learn the fascinating science behind the illusions. Spend about 60 minutes exploring the interactive maze of exhibits where friendly staff are on hand to help. Before leaving, visit the Paradox Boutique for unique games, souvenirs, and accessories.
Embark on a fun catamaran cruise from the old port of Limassol to admire the city's beautiful coastline from the Mediterranean Sea. Relax to soft music as you cruise, making a one-and-a-half-hour stop for swimming at Cape Gata. The trip continues to the unspoiled beaches of Ladies Mile for a further two-hour stop, where you will enjoy more swimming and a buffet lunch served on board. Your day at sea concludes with a hotel drop-off at approximately 4:30 pm.
Discover Limassol through the eyes of a local on a private, unscripted, and completely personalized walking tour. Your guide is a passionate resident, not a professional with a memorized script, who shares authentic tips and hidden gems. The walk is adapted to your personal interests, whether you enjoy food, art, history, or simply exploring local neighborhoods. By the end of the tour, you’ll feel at home in the city with insights to keep exploring on your own.
Visit Fasouri Watermania, the biggest waterpark in Cyprus in both size and number of attractions. Spanning 105,000 square meters of parkland, it features 30 different slides for all ages, three restaurants, and over 2,000 sun beds. This destination has won multiple Trip Advisor Traveller's Choice Awards and was named the 3rd best waterpark in Europe in 2015. With a staff of over 100 people, you are ensured excellent service during your visit.
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Sailings visiting Limassol during the the peak season of winter are significantly more expensive than the low months of summer and fall. On average Limassol is somewhat expensive as a port of call. See the diagram below for the monthly average cost per day.
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