More about Limassol
Why go to Limassol?
This bustling city is known for its proximity to jaw-dropping ancient historical sites
Take care to watch your wallet and personal belongings in busy, tourist-filled areas
As Limassol is surrounded by world-class archaeological treasures, history buffs would do well to take day trips outside of town
Limassol Cruise Port Facilities?
The passenger terminal houses currency exchange facilities, public telephones, a poorly stocked duty-free shop and a tourist information booth.
Good to Know?
Limassol and Cyprus generally are relatively safe places, but keep an eye on personal belongings (as you would in any busy tourist spot). Be careful crossing the main road that runs along the seafront in Limassol's Amathus area; people tend to drive too fast there and not pay attention. Finally, apply plenty of sunblock; the sun is extremely strong, and it's easy to get burned. Remember, Cypriots drive on the left, so be careful when crossing the street.
Getting Around?
Cyprus has three types of buses: inter-urban, rural and urban. Urban buses are fine if you want to make short hops around town. But when you only have a day and want to explore, the most realistic way to sightsee is either to join a tour or to drive yourself -- because buses are slow and not always reliable. Plus, some of the major sights are in the middle of the countryside. Self-driving options are enormously popular, from cars and quad bikes to mopeds, bicycles and dune buggies. Driving is on the left, so Brits feel very much at home.
Limassol features plenty of taxis. Urban taxis have meters and can be hailed on the street. Rural taxis have to be booked in advance (ask a taverna owner or shopkeeper to call one for you) and don't use meters, so agree on the fare before departing.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Cyprus uses the euro. For current currency conversion figures, visit www.oanda.com or www.xe.com. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the resorts, although some tavernas in the more remote areas might only take cash. Traveler's checks can be cashed in all the major banks. Banks are usually open from 8:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, with some located in tourist areas (the main Amathus strip, all along the seafront, beyond the main town and the area around the medieval castle in the center) opening in the afternoons, as well.
Language?
Greek is the official language, with local variations in the dialect. Almost all Cypriots in the tourist areas speak excellent English, and road signs are in both languages. Place names appear in the Anglicized version of the town's original Greek name, so Limassol is Lemesos, Paphos is Pafos, and Nicosia is Lefkosia.
Where You're Docked?
Cruise ships dock at the Limassol New Port, a combined cargo and passenger facility, located five kilometers (three miles) west of Limassol center. Some cruise lines provide shuttles to the old town center; otherwise, taxis line up at the port when a ship is in. The walk is not especially attractive, particularly in the heat of summer; save your energy for the town itself. Inconveniently, car-hire services are not available at the port, and if you prebook a rental car, you will be charged extra for its delivery to meet your ship.
