Your Definitive Driving Guide to Navigating Cyprus

Essential Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Journey

Cyprus is a beautiful island with a rich blend of history, culture, and scenic landscapes, best explored by car. Whether you’re winding through the mountain roads of the Troodos range, cruising along the stunning coastline, or visiting historic towns and villages, driving gives you the freedom to discover everything at your own pace. To help you make the most of your road trip, we've put together this comprehensive guide to driving in Cyprus. Packed with practical tips and useful advice, it will ensure that your journey is safe, efficient, and enjoyable.

1. Driving on the Left Side of the Road

The first and most important thing to know when driving in Cyprus is that the island follows the UK system of driving on the left side of the road. This can be a significant adjustment if you're coming from a country where driving is on the right. Here are a few tips to help you adapt:
  • Always remember to keep left, especially when turning at intersections or roundabouts.
  • Pay extra attention when exiting car parks or side streets, as the instinct to drive on the right may kick in.
  • Take it slow at first to get comfortable with the different road layout and driving patterns.
If you're not confident about driving on the left, consider renting an automatic car. This removes the added complexity of using a manual gearbox and can make the transition much smoother.

2. Speed Limits and Road Signs

Cyprus has strict speed limits, and they are rigorously enforced, so it's important to follow them closely. Here are the general speed limits:
  • 50 km/h in urban areas (cities, towns, and villages).
  • 80 km/h on rural roads outside city limits.
  • 100 km/h on highways, with a minimum speed of 65 km/h.
You'll find speed cameras on many roads, especially on highways, and the fines for speeding can be steep. To avoid penalties, keep an eye on the signs and stick to the speed limits.
All road signs in Cyprus are displayed in both Greek and English, so you should have no trouble understanding directions, warnings, or speed limit changes.

3. Roundabouts and Junctions: Knowing the Right of Way

Cyprus has a large number of roundabouts, especially in cities and at highway exits, and understanding how to navigate them is key to driving smoothly and safely. At roundabouts, the traffic already on the roundabout has the right of way, and you must yield before entering. Remember these basic rules:
  • Yield to traffic coming from your right when entering a roundabout.
  • Once you're in the roundabout, maintain your lane and indicate clearly when you're about to exit.
In addition to roundabouts, intersections and side streets also operate on a priority basis. Watch for stop and yield signs, and always be cautious when approaching junctions.

4. Parking Rules and Regulations

Finding parking in Cypriot cities can be challenging, especially in busy areas like Limassol, Nicosia, and Paphos. However, there are clear parking regulations that help keep things organized:
  • Blue Zones: Many city areas have blue zones, where parking is permitted for a limited time, usually two to three hours. Be sure to purchase a parking ticket from a nearby kiosk or meter and display it on your dashboard.
  • White Lines: These indicate that parking is allowed without restrictions, while yellow lines mean no parking is permitted.
  • Paid Parking: In cities, you'll often find paid parking lots or garages, which are usually more convenient and secure. Expect to pay a small hourly or daily fee.
Parking violations can result in fines or, in some cases, the vehicle being towed, so it’s always a good idea to park in clearly designated areas.

5. Fuel Stations and Fuel Types

Finding parking in Cypriot cities can be challenging, especially in busy areas like Limassol, Nicosia, and Paphos. However, there are clear parking regulations that help keep things organized:
Fuel stations are usually open from 6 AM to 8 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, with some remaining open 24/7. Self-service pumps are common after hours, and they typically accept credit or debit cards. Make sure to check whether your rental car requires petrol (benzene) or diesel, as both fuel types are available at most stations.

6. Drinking and Driving: Strict Zero-Tolerance Policy

Cyprus has a zero-tolerance policy regarding drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.5 grams per liter, which is lower than in many other countries, so even one or two drinks could put you over the limit. Police frequently conduct random breathalyzer checks, and penalties for violating this law are severe, including hefty fines and possible license suspension.
To stay safe and avoid any legal trouble, it’s best to avoid alcohol entirely if you plan on driving. If you're out for a night and plan to drink, make alternative travel arrangements like using a taxi or ride-share service.

7. Road Conditions and Driving Hazards

The road infrastructure in Cyprus is generally good, with well-maintained highways connecting major cities like Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca. However, some rural roads and village streets can be narrow and winding, so it's essential to drive with caution, particularly in mountainous areas or older parts of town.
Other potential driving hazards to be aware of:
  • Pedestrians and Cyclists: In city centers and residential areas, pedestrians and cyclists are common, and they may cross the road unexpectedly. Always be alert, particularly near schools, markets, and bus stops.
  • Wildlife and Livestock: In rural areas, especially in the mountains, you might encounter livestock or wildlife crossing the road. Drive slowly in these areas and be prepared to stop if necessary.
  • Weather Conditions: During the summer months, the weather is typically sunny and dry, which makes for ideal driving conditions. However, in winter, rain can cause roads to become slippery, especially in the mountains, so be cautious and drive slower when conditions change.

8. Emergency Contacts and Roadside Assistance

If you encounter any issues while driving in Cyprus, it’s good to know the key emergency contacts. The general emergency number is 112, which will connect you to police, ambulance services, or fire departments. For non-emergencies, the Cyprus police can be reached at 199.
Additionally, if you're renting a car, be sure to ask about the company’s roadside assistance policy. Most rental companies, like Kyprexxo Car Hire, offer 24/7 roadside support, so you can feel safe knowing help is just a phone call away if you experience any mechanical issues or breakdowns.

9. Planning Your Routes: Know the Best Roads

Cyprus is filled with amazing sights, but to get the most out of your journey, plan your routes ahead of time. Some of the most scenic drives include:
  • The coastal road from Larnaca to Ayia Napa, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • A trip through the Troodos Mountains, which takes you through charming villages, vineyards, and forests.
  • The Paphos to Limassol route, which is a perfect blend of coastal beauty and easy highway driving.
A GPS system or smartphone app like Google Maps can be invaluable for navigating around Cyprus. It’s also a good idea to carry a physical map, especially when venturing into more remote areas where signal coverage might be limited.

Final Thoughts

Driving in Cyprus is one of the best ways to experience the island’s diverse landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant towns. By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared to navigate the roads safely and efficiently.
At Kyprexxo Car Hire, we're here to make your driving experience as smooth as possible. Our fleet of reliable vehicles, flexible rental packages, and 24/7 support services ensure that you’ll have everything you need for a memorable journey across Cyprus. Whether you’re here for a few days or a longer stay, we’re committed to making your time on the road enjoyable and stress-free.
So, buckle up, drive safely, and enjoy your adventure through Cyprus!