A Day Trip to Limassol

Limassol is the second most populous city in Cyprus and, at about 67 kilometres by road from Pafos, a good destination for a day trip. Start your visit in the Old Town section. At its centre is the castle, which houses the Medieval Museum of Cyprus and is a monument in its own right. The current edifice, built by the Ottomans in the 1590s, incorporates parts of earlier structures; take a tour and see layers of history, from the early Christian era to the Byzantine period and on to the periods of Frankish and Venetian rule. Richard the Lionheart married Benengaria of Navarre there in 1191. Climb to the rooftop and take in the panoramic view. The square surrounding the castle is lined with tavernas and includes the Carob Mill, a factory from 1900 that now houses a museum on the important export crop. Walk through the streets of the Old Town and discover the Central Market, the Grand Mosque, and numerous shops and cafes. Next head to the Old Port and see a blend of historic structures with decidedly modern additions. Stroll by the yacht-filled marina, peek into high-end shops, watch the fishing boats unload, or enjoy a meal in one of the sleek new restaurants lining the sea. Continue northeast on the seaside promenade, watching the ships come into the harbour, until you reach the Municipal Gardens. There, you can rest in the shade or visit the park’s zoo. It all makes for an enjoyable day on the town.