Erasmus Experience in Limassol, Cyprus by Christos

Why did you choose to go to Limassol, Cyprus?

Limassol, the second largest city of Cyprus, has a 20Km seafront strip on the Mediterranean. Limassol has been ranked by TripAdvisor as the 3rd up-and-coming destination in the world, in its Top 10 Traveler’s Choice Destinations on the Rise. It is considered to be a "cultural city" since the most important cultural festivals (Carnaval and Wine Festival) take place. Futhermore, Limassol is the host of the 2nd public university, the University of Applied Technology which resides in the historic centre of the city.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme (www.erasmus-entrepreeneurs.eu) is an EU programme which offers university graduates the opportunity to be mentored by experienced entrepreneurs all over Europe in the field of interest of the future-to-be entrepreneur. The length of the mentorship programme can last between 1-6 months and during this time the new entrepreneur receives a monthly fee to support his/her living expenses. The amount granted is 780 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Limassol?

Limassol offers students a great variety of things to do. Because of the University of Applied Technology, the historic centre of the city is populated by student residences as well as food and entertainment outlets that can be afforded by a student's budget.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Limassol to other students?

Limassol can offer university students a quality experience. The University is known for its high standards, the student lifestyle can be affordable and Limassol offers the best Cyprus can offer.

What is the food like?

There is an abundance of food choices in the city of Limassol. The food places in and around the main University campus offer affordable and yet quality food for all tastes.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Limassol?

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, accommodation was considered expensive. Since then, a lot more student residences have been built and offered on very reasonable prices. There are many sites and social media groups where student accommodation is being offered.

How much does it cost to live in Limassol?

Student accommodation varies from 400-700 euros/month for a studio on short stay lease (less than a year contract) depending on location.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Limassol?

There are a lot of bars and bar/restaurants in the historic centre, around the University district. Saripolou Square, nearby the main University Campus, offers a great selection of clubs and bars.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Limassol?

Try out "Tris Kai Eksinta" ( on Saripolou Square offering Greek food. "Elektrika Eidi" (https://www.facebook.com/elektrikaeidi/) is also an all-day coffee shop offering snacks and beverages. If you like traditional pub food, then "The Nags Head" (https://nagscy.com/) is a must !

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The medieval Limassol Castle is situated near the old harbour in the heart of the historical centre of the city of Limassol. In addition, just outside Limassol, the ancient Kourion Theatre, built towards the end of the 2nd century B.C., still hosts theatrical plays and music concerts during the summer. Finally, in the eastern side of Limassol, you can find the ruins of old Limassol, known as Amathus.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Limassol in the future?

English is a well spoken language in Cyprus. Furthermore, the city is a mosaic of cultures and people are very accustomed to foreigners, and therefore very friendly to them. Trying to speak some broken Greek can take you far as Cypriots truly appreciate the effort and feel obligated to offer assistance.