Discovering Cyprus by car

Driving conditions and car hiring

Discovering Cyprus by car

One of the most modern road networks in Europe combined with English road signs makes driving a good alternative to the still-limited bus services in Cyprus.

Driving your own car

Cyprus has a very good road infrastructure and more road construction is still in progress or planned. However, the standard of driving is still quite poor. Many road signs, traffic lights and speed limits are ignored. Unfortunately, many foreigners adapt to this style of driving.

The speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in built up areas and a maximum of 80 km/h (50 mph) or 100 km/h (62 mph) on motorways. In some areas around schools the speed is limited to 30 km/h. Using seatbelts is compulsory and the using mobile phones while driving is prohibited. Furthermore, Cyprus is one of the four EU nations, in which you drive on the left.

The minimum age to drive is 18 years. Visitors are allowed to drive with a valid international or their national driving licence. You can bring your own car to Cyprus for a period of up to three months which can be extended later.

Petrol stations are common and quite modern. Usually they have attendants that fill your tank and a small shop besides. If they are closed, there is the possibility to pay at automated pumps with cash or a credit card.

Renting a car

There are many car hire companies in Cyprus. They have different price rates, so it is recommended that you check prices and services online. To rent a car drivers must be over the age of 25 and have possessed a drivers licence for at least three years.

Normally, the company will hand the vehicle over to you with an empty fuel tank. This can cause confusion at the end of your rental since you have to return it with an empty tank.

International companies like Europcar , Sixt  or Avis  have their offices at airports or in bigger cities.

Further reading

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