At The Camel Car Hire, we believe that driving in Cyprus is not just a means of transportation but an opportunity to explore the island’s hidden gems. Whether your sense of adventure takes you to the lively streets of Kato Paphos or the wild beauty of the Akamas Peninsula, understanding local driving nuances will make your trip in our comfortable cars truly enjoyable.
Driving in Cyprus: Left or Right? How It Works
Cyprus’ road system sometimes surprises newcomers, but a little preparation will help you adapt quickly:
- Vehicles drive on the left side, a legacy of the island’s past as a British colony. Overtaking is done on the right.
- The steering wheel is on the right, which might feel unfamiliar when getting into a rental car.
- Indicators and wipers may be on the opposite side from what you’re used to, so take a moment to adjust.
Our tip: Before setting off, practice driving in a quiet parking area near your pickup location. Our The Camel Car Hire staff will help you get comfortable with your car.
Driving in Cyprus Rules: Key Points
The island’s traffic regulations are designed for safety. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Speed Limits
- Urban areas (e.g., near the harbor): 50 km/h
- Main roads: 80 km/h
- Highways (e.g., A6 to Limassol): 100 km/h (minimum 65 km/h)
- Roundabouts
Roundabout traffic is regulated by yellow tactile lines, which vibrate under your wheels as a reminder to give way to vehicles already inside the roundabout.
- Lane Usage
Is driving in Cyprus easy on three-lane highways? Quite. Just remember:
- Left lane – for relaxed driving
- Middle lane – for overtaking
- Right lane – only if the other two are congested
- Mandatory Equipment
Every vehicle must have a reflective vest and two warning triangles. Not having them can lead to a fine of around €20 during a roadside check.
Driving in Cyprus for Foreigners: What You Need to Know
Rules are important, but let’s be honest—local drivers sometimes add their own “interpretations.” Here’s what to expect:
- At roundabouts, such as when entering Paphos from Limassol, local drivers often switch lanes without warning. Choose your lane in advance and watch traffic from the right to avoid sudden maneuvers.
- Some Cypriots see overtaking as a challenge and may speed up suddenly to prevent you from passing.
- On narrow streets, locals sometimes honk without an obvious reason. Stay calm and keep driving.
- Many Cypriots park in pedestrian zones, ignoring the rules. We don’t recommend copying this habit—use official parking spots to avoid fines.
Driving in Cyprus Tips
While local driving habits may seem unpredictable, a few smart tricks will help you enjoy the journey:
- Start with short routes to get used to the roads before heading to more remote areas.
- Choose the right time—for example, avoid morning traffic in Paphos’ narrow streets for a more relaxed drive.
- Master roundabouts—before entering, pick the correct lane:
- Left lane for the first exit
- Right lane for further exits
- Always give way to cars already inside the roundabout
It looks like all the key points have been covered. At the Camel Car Hire, we hope that with our recommendations, driving in Cyprus will be not just convenient but truly enjoyable. Wishing you smooth roads, stress-free drives, and friendly encounters on the way.
