Where to drive in Cyprus

Ancient monasteries, white sand beaches, snow-topped mountains and sweet coastal villages – Cyprus has it all. Make the most of your trip by hiring a car. With public transport on the island limited to buses it’s the easiest way to travel and means you have the freedom to go where you like when you like. 

 

Most visitors fly into either the main international airport in Larnaca or to Paphos, both on the southern coast of the island and both served by major car hire companies. Collect your car outside arrivals for a seamless start to your holiday.

 

While many people head straight to a lounger on one of Cyprus’ famous beach resorts in Ayia Napa, Limassol, Larnaca or Paphos, the island is small enough to cover in under a day so you might want to draw up a road trip itinerary.

 

You’ll definitely want to visit Larnaca, a buzzy port city with palm-fringed promenade, golden sands and famous dive spots such as the Zenobia Wreck – voted one of the top ten wreck dives in the world. Cultural Paphos is another must-see for its ancient tombs, fortresses and villas, tranquil harbour and renowned golf courses.

 

Cyprus is well-connected by a modern motorway network. Just hop onto the A6 from Paphos to get to Cyprus’ divided capital Nicosia – a journey of just under two hours. Greek Cypriot on the southern side of the Green Line and Greek Turkish on the north, visit one of the city’s many museums to learn more about its long history, which dates from the Bronze Age. The capital continues to evolve, with microbreweries opening near historic churches and tiny neighbourhood coffee shops in the shade of ancient monuments.

 

Cyprus’s second city, Limassol, is just over an hour’s drive from Nicosia. Here you’ll find lively nightlife, Roman ruins and the charming 19th century buildings of the Old Town – not to mention famous beach resorts such as the Amathus and Four Seasons. 

 

Ayia Napa, on the southeast coast of the island, has long been known as a party destination thanks to its superclubs but it’s also home to several important historical monuments and numerous outstanding seafood restaurants. Nearby Protaras, meanwhile, is a great choice for families and couples with huge beaches, clear waters and cooling pine forest trails in the Cape Greco National Park. 

 

 

Cyprus is also a popular winter destination thanks to the Troodos mountain range which stand 2,000m above sea level and stretch across a third of the island. Ancient Mount Olympus is the highest peak and home to Cyprus’ only skiing centre, open from the beginning of January to the end of March.

Ready to book your Cyprus break? Let us check the best deals for your car hire, getting you on the road as soon as you arrive.