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In Cyprus, when parking a rented car, you must do so in the direction of travel. Failing to adhere to this rule could result in an 85€ fine. Parking fees are typically paid through parking meters, but there are also many free parking areas available. The Ministry of Transport in Cyprus states that parking is not allowed where there are double yellow lines. A single yellow line permits loading, unloading, and passenger drop-off, but parking is not allowed at any time.
Tourists can find parking at Ercan Airport in Nicosia, which offers free parking for the first 30 minutes and is conveniently located opposite the terminal building. In contrast, parking at Horos-Statmefsis costs about 3.5 euros for an hour. Free parking is available in Paphos near the Archaeological Park and the harbor of Kato Paphos.
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle, including those in the rear seats. Children up to 10 years old must be in car seats, and those under 5 years old must ride in the back seat.
Before driving off from a parking lot, familiarize yourself with all the vehicle's controls. If you're renting a car, request some time from the rental company to get accustomed to the vehicle in the parking lot.
Traffic congestion is rare in Cyprus, and the traffic rules are standard. Road signs are clear and often accompanied by markings on the asphalt, which are well-maintained even in smaller villages. Rental cars are identifiable by their red license plates. The main cities are connected by a network of roads, including A class highways with 2-3 lanes in each direction and slower, narrower B class roads.
The speed limit on highways is 100 km/h, with a minimum speed of 65 km/h. In urban areas, the limit is 50 km/h. Eating or drinking while driving is prohibited, and children up to 150 cm tall must use a restraint system. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.21 ppm.
When approaching a roundabout, take the leftmost lane if you intend to take the first exit to the left. If you're taking the second exit, stay to the right before entering the roundabout.
Standard gas stations operate from 6 am to 6 pm. Stations with automatic cash registers allow for 24-hour refueling. During the day, attendants will assist with refueling after you tell them the amount and type of fuel you need. At night, you'll need to use the automatic cash registers to refuel on your own.
When in Paphos, make sure to explore the Tombs of the Kings. Despite their name, these tombs are not the final resting places of ancient kings but rather the burial sites of local nobility. Treasure hunters had looted the area long before archaeologists discovered it, leaving only the exterior walls of the tombs intact.
Hire a car and venture into the Akamas National Park, one of the last untouched natural areas. It's home to endemic species such as cyclamens, turtles, and Cypriot owls, making it a hub for eco-tourism. Visitors flock here to capture stunning photographs, hike the Aphrodite trail, marvel at the Avakas Gorge, swim in the Blue Lagoon's crystal-clear waters, and rejuvenate in the Baths of Aphrodite.
Next, drive to Limassol and visit the Keo Winery. Enjoy a tour that delves into the winery's history and wine-making process, with a tasting included in the ticket price. Keo Winery's Commandaria wine, famous since 1213, is a must-try.
In Nicosia, immerse yourself in ancient architecture at the historic Famagusta Gate. Originally built by the Venetians as a defense against Ottoman invasions, it has been restored and transformed into a vibrant arts center, hosting exhibitions, concerts, and theatrical performances.
The Church of St. Lazarus in Larnaca is a revered Christian site, attracting thousands of pilgrims annually. Visitors seek to touch the sarcophagus of St. Lazarus, housed within the church's grand walls.
Many travelers are drawn to the beautiful Salt Lake and its flamingos in Larnaca. The best time to visit is during the summer. The lake area, spanning roughly two square kilometers, is a favorite spot for observing the majestic flamingos, which maintain their distance from humans. To get a closer look, some visitors bring binoculars.
Just 10 kilometers from Limassol center lies Kolossi Castle, a formidable structure worth visiting with a rental car. It's also the birthplace of the renowned Cypriot wine "Commandaria."
Don't miss the chance to visit the Ayia Napa Monastery in Ayia Napa. This atmospheric temple is a favorite among tourists, who recommend exploring its gallery and cave temple. The entrance is adorned with a notable fig tree, popular for selfies, and there's an ancient Turkish gazebo designed for relaxation.
In Cyprus, car rental companies may require a deposit ranging from zero to several thousand euros. To rent a car without a deposit, tourists must purchase full insurance from the rental company. Renowned international rental firms like Avis, Hertz, and Sixt have offices in Cyprus and other European countries.
Typically, the rental price includes basic insurance, which comes with a deductible that matches the deposit amount. This deductible is the portion of any insurance claim that you're responsible for. In the event of significant damage or theft, the insurance company covers costs exceeding this amount, but you won't get your deposit back.
For minor damages, you'll be partially reimbursed, depending on the deductible set by the Cypriot rental company. This deductible is the maximum you'll pay to the rental company if an insured event occurs.
If car damage exceeds the deductible, you're liable to pay the full deductible amount. With basic insurance, your financial risk is limited to the deductible in any insured event. Although opting for full insurance may cost about 20% more, it allows for a stress-free vacation without worrying about every scratch on the car.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming a common sight in cities worldwide, and Cyprus is no exception, with 157 electric vehicles registered on the island. Charging an electric car for 100 km travel costs between 2-3 euros, which is significantly less expensive than refueling a gasoline-powered vehicle. A Nissan Leaf electric vehicle may take 7-8 hours to charge fully. While conventional EVs have a range of 150-200 km on a full charge, the latest models can go as far as 400 km.
There are currently 18 electric vehicle charging stations across Cyprus, each capable of charging two cars simultaneously. The Nicosia region hosts seven of these stations, while Limassol has five. Larnaca and Paralimni each have two stations, and there is one station each in Platres and Polis Chrysochous. To use these stations, you must purchase a card from the Electric Company of Cyprus.
The cost of renting an electric car in Cyprus varies with the car class and season, ranging from 30 to 80 euros per day. Reputable rental companies like Hertz and Avis offer electric cars for rent on the island.
