Clifftop Greco-Roman city with a restored theatre, mosaics and sea views.
Kourion is the best-preserved ancient city site in the Limassol district, on a cliff above the sea at Episkopi, about 19 km west of Limassol and 20 to 25 minutes by car. The highlight is the restored Greco-Roman theatre facing the sea, followed by the House of Eustolios with its mosaic floors, the Early Christian basilica, and nearby the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates. A travel guide lists opening hours of 8:00 to 17:00 in winter and 8:00 to 19:30 in summer for ancient Kourion, and 9:00 to 17:00 from October to April for the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, but these are undated, so current hours and the entrance fee should be confirmed with the Department of Antiquities before travelling. Allow 2 to 3 hours for Kourion alone, and add the Sanctuary of Apollo and a swim at Kourion Beach for a full day. Shade is limited and the cliff is exposed to wind, so a hat and water are needed. The site is best in the early morning or late afternoon from April to October.
| Distance | About 19 km west of Limassol |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 20-25 minutes by car |
| Getting there | Rental car or taxi; check local bus options on cyprusbybus.com |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Kourion Archaeological Site, Episkopi, Limassol District |
How to get there
- Mode
- Rental car
- Cost
- EUR 30-50 (about USD 35-58) per day plus fuel, indicative
- Frequency
- Any time
- Mode
- Taxi
- Cost
- EUR 25-40 (about USD 29-46) one way, confirm fare in advance
- Frequency
- On request
Location
Kourion Archaeological Site, Episkopi, Limassol District
34.6642, 32.8871 View on map
Highlights
- Restored Greco-Roman theatre above the sea
- House of Eustolios mosaics
- Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates nearby
- Kourion Beach for a swim afterwards
Tips for visiting
- Go early or late in summer; the site has little shade.
- Confirm current hours and entry fee before travelling.
- Combine with Kolossi Castle, 10 minutes away.
- Wear shoes with grip; the stone is uneven.
When to visit
April to June and September to October, early morning or late afternoon.
Accessibility
Uneven stone paths and steps; the lower theatre viewpoints are easier than the upper levels.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Kourion from Limassol?
About 19 km west, around 20 to 25 minutes by car.
How long should I allow?
2 to 3 hours for the main site, more with the Sanctuary of Apollo and the beach.