Thinking about driving in Ayia Napa? Great choice!
Renting a car allows you to explore hidden beaches, quaint villages, and breathtaking coastal views at your own pace.
But before you channel your inner rally driver, here’s the quick answer:
Yes, you can drive in Ayia Napa with a valid license, but remember—Cyprus drives on the left!
Follow the speed limits, buckle up, and watch out for those sneaky roundabouts.
In this guide, you’ll get the full breakdown:
- Road rules to keep you out of trouble
- Car rental essentials so you don’t get scammed
- Driving tips to help you avoid accidents (and arguments with locals)
Let’s dive in—safely, of course!
Road Rules in Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa follows Cyprus’ national traffic laws, which means:
- Drive on the left (yes, like the UK).
- Speed limits are 50 km/h in town, 80 km/h outside towns, and 100 km/h on highways.
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
- No drinking and driving—the legal limit is 0.05% BAC (lower than most countries).
- Roundabouts go clockwise, so give way to traffic from the right.
- Mobile phone use while driving is strictly prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
If you’re used to driving on the right side, take it slow at first. And if in doubt, follow the locals—just maybe not the ones speeding on their scooters.
Renting a Car in Ayia Napa
Renting a car in Ayia Napa is easy, but here’s what you need to know:
- You need a valid driving license (EU, UK, and most international licenses work).
- Drivers must be at least 21 (some rental companies require 25+ for specific vehicles).
- A credit card is usually required for the deposit.
- Insurance is essential—opt for full coverage if you don’t want surprises.
- Automatic cars are available but may cost more, so book early.
Pro tip: Scrutinize the car before driving off.
Take photos of any scratches and dents, because some rental agencies love “discovering” them when you return the car.
Driving Safely in Ayia Napa
Cyprus has a solid road network, but driving here comes with its quirks. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Watch out for tourists on quad bikes—many have no idea what they’re doing.
- Avoid speeding at night—some roads are poorly lit, and goats have zero road sense.
- Gas stations aren’t 24/7—fill up before heading to remote areas.
- Use Google Maps but trust road signs too—some routes are outdated on GPS.
- Be patient in summer traffic—Ayia Napa gets crowded, and parking can be challenging.
What is it like driving in Cyprus?
Driving in Cyprus is generally a pleasant experience, especially if you enjoy scenic coastal roads, mountain drives, and well-maintained highways.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind before getting behind the wheel:
Quick Overview of Driving in Cyprus
- They drive on the left side (like in the UK).
- Road conditions are good, with well-paved highways and main roads.
- Roundabouts go clockwise, and you must give way to the right.
- Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h on highways.
- Locals can drive aggressively, so stay alert, especially in cities.
- Tourists on quad bikes often drive unpredictably—give them space.
- Parking can be tricky in popular areas like Paphos and Ayia Napa.
- Gas stations aren’t always open late, so plan.
- Drinking and driving is a no-go—the legal BAC limit is 0.05%.
The Good:
✅ Great roads – Highways are smooth, and countryside roads offer stunning views.
✅ Less traffic than in many European cities (except during peak tourist season).
✅ Cheap fuel compared to most of Western Europe.
✅ Easy to navigate with Google Maps or road signs in English & Greek.
The Challenging:
⚠️ Left-side driving can be confusing if you’re used to the right.
⚠️ Impatient local drivers may tailgate or ignore speed limits.
⚠️ Rural roads can be narrow, winding, and sometimes poorly lit at night.
⚠️ Tourists in rental cars & quads may not be the most skilled drivers.
Final Verdict:
Driving in Cyprus is safe and enjoyable, as long as you know local driving habits.
If you’re comfortable with left-side driving and roundabouts, you’ll love the freedom of exploring the island by car! 🚗💨
How Safe is Driving in Cyprus?
Driving in Cyprus is generally safe, especially compared to other Mediterranean countries.
Roads are well-maintained, traffic rules are clear, and English road signs make navigation easy for tourists.
However, there are a few things to be aware of:
Why Driving in Cyprus is Safe
✅ Good road conditions – Highways and main roads are well-paved and maintained.
✅ Low crime risk – Carjackings or thefts are extremely rare.
✅ Traffic laws are strict – Speeding, seatbelt, and drunk driving laws are enforced.
✅ Road signs in English – No need to decipher foreign characters while driving.
Potential Risks to Watch Out For
⚠️ Left-side driving – Adjusting may take time if you’re used to right-side driving.
⚠️ Impatient local drivers – Tailgating and risky overtaking are familiar.
⚠️ Tourists on the road – Many first-time quad bike or scooter drivers can be unpredictable.
⚠️ Rural roads can be tricky – Some are narrow, winding, and have sharp turns.
⚠️ Night driving hazards – Some areas have poor lighting, and mountain roads can be challenging in the dark.
Bottom Line:
Cyprus is a safe place to drive if you follow the rules, stay alert, and adjust to local driving habits.
Be mindful of impatient drivers, reckless tourists, and those tricky roundabouts! 🚗
| Driving Side | Left |
|---|---|
| Speed Limits | 50 km/h (urban), 80 km/h (rural), 100 km/h (highway) |
| Minimum Age for Car Rental | 21 (sometimes 25 for higher-end cars) |
| License Requirement | EU, UK, and most international licenses accepted |
| Roundabout Rule | Give way to the right |
| Drunk Driving Limit | 0.05% BAC |
| Seatbelt Law | Mandatory for all passengers |
| Phone Usage | Only with a hands-free system |
| Gas Stations | Not always open 24/7, plan ahead |
Conclusion
Driving in Ayia Napa is a fantastic way to explore beyond the main tourist spots, but it requires some adjustment—especially if you’re used to driving on the right.
Stick to the rules, rent from a reputable agency, and keep your wits about you on the road.
Master the roundabouts, avoid quad-bike chaos, and soon, you’ll be cruising along the coast like a pro. Safe travels!
