1. Driving on the Left

Important: In Cyprus, people drive on the left-hand side of the road, similar to the UK. Make sure to adjust to this if you’re used to driving on the right.

2. Car Hire

Pick-up Locations: Most car hire companies have desks at major airports (Larnaca and Paphos) and in popular cities like Limassol and Nicosia.

Tip: Book your car in advance, especially during the summer months (June to August), when demand is high.

3. GPS and Maps

Navigation: While many roads are well-marked, it’s a good idea to have a GPS or a navigation app (like Google Maps) for more specific directions.

Tip: Be aware that some of the mountain roads or rural areas may not be as well mapped, so it’s useful to double-check local directions with your accommodation or locals.

4. Road Signs and Speed Limits

Speed Limits: Cyprus has strict speed limits:

50 km/h (31 mph) in cities and towns.

80 km/h (50 mph) on rural roads.

100 km/h (62 mph) on highways.

Road Signs: Traffic signs are in both Greek and English, so it’s easy for English speakers to follow.

Tip: Watch out for speed cameras. They are often on highways, and fines can be steep.

5. Parking

Paid Parking: In busy areas like Limassol, Paphos, or Nicosia, you’ll find paid parking zones. Pay attention to the parking signs and machines.

Tip: Always check for parking signs that may indicate restrictions or specific times for paid parking. Some areas may also have free parking outside of town centers.

6. Roundabouts and Intersections

Roundabouts: Roundabouts are common in Cyprus, and drivers already inside the roundabout have the right of way.

Tip: Yield to the right when entering a roundabout and be aware that locals may drive aggressively, so always stay alert.

7. Rural and Mountain Roads

Narrow Roads: In rural or mountainous areas (like around Troodos or Pissouri), roads can be narrow, winding, and not always well-paved. Be cautious of sharp turns and steep inclines.

8. Police and Checkpoints

Police Presence: Cyprus has a strong police presence, especially in urban areas. Checkpoints may be set up, particularly near border areas or on major roads.

Tip: Always carry your driving license, passport, and car rental papers when driving, as police may request these documents.

9. Fuel and Petrol Stations

Fuel Stations: Petrol stations are plentiful in urban and tourist areas but can be sparse in remote areas, so fill up when you can. Fuel is sold as unleaded petrol (gasoline) and diesel.

Tip: Fuel prices are typically higher in tourist areas, so plan ahead if you're traveling through more rural areas to avoid overpaying.

10. Tolls

Toll Roads: Cyprus does not have many toll roads, but there are few sections on major highways that may have tolls.

Tip: Check for toll signs before you enter highways and make sure you have enough cash or a payment card available.

11. Cross-Border Driving

If you're planning to visit the Turkish-controlled area in northern Cyprus, check with your car rental company about cross-border policies. Some rental agencies may prohibit driving rented vehicles across the Green Line without prior arrangements.

Cyprus is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean

and the largest of the Greek Islands.

Cyprus was settled by Greeks in the Mycenean period. That's 1000 years before the classical age of Athens. It spoke a similar dialect of Greek as Arkadia. It was part of the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine empires king before Arabic or Turkish conquest.The island has a long history, with many rulers, conquerors and invaders.

From 1924-1960, Cyprus was governed by United Kingdom as a crown colony. They were granted independence in 1960 and formed it’s own government and country of Cyprus.

In 1974 a Greek military coup, which aimed to unite the island with the mainland of Greece, led to a Turkish invasion and the division of the island between Turkish Northern Cyprus and the Greek Cypriot, Republic of Cyprus. Nicosia the capitol city was divided down the middle! This is the last divided capital city in the world, since the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.