Car Rental in Ayia Napa

Where to drive

• Drive to Cape Greco National Forest Park (≈15-20 minutes, 10 km) for breathtaking sea caves, natural bridges, and hiking trails.
• Visit the historic town of Famagusta in Northern Cyprus (≈1 hour, 50 km), exploring its ancient city walls and Othello Castle (passport required).
• Explore the picturesque village of Protaras and Fig Tree Bay (≈10-15 minutes, 8 km) for a change of scenery and beautiful sandy beaches.
• Take a day trip to Larnaca (≈45 minutes, 40 km) to see the salt lake with flamingos (seasonal), Larnaca Castle, and Finikoudes promenade.
• Journey inland to the Troodos Mountains (≈1.5-2 hours, 100 km) for cooler air, traditional villages, and stunning monasteries like Kykkos.
• Discover the ancient Kourion archaeological site near Limassol (≈1.5 hours, 100 km), offering spectacular Roman ruins and a panoramic sea view.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Cyprus, you typically need a valid driving license held for at least 3 years, your passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your license is not in English or a Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended or may be required by some rental companies. The minimum age for renting is generally 21, with surcharges often applying for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Ayia Napa vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 20 EUR per day in winter, while SUVs and premium models can range from 40 EUR to 100 EUR or more daily. Expect prices to double or even triple during the peak summer months compared to the off-season.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Cyprus, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h outside urban areas, and 100 km/h on motorways. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is approximately 0.05% BAC. Headlights must be used from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise, and during poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children up to 10 years old or 135 cm in height.

Parking

In Ayia Napa, parking in the town center can be a mix of paid and free spots. Many hotels offer free parking for guests. Paid parking zones usually operate via parking meters or pay-and-display tickets. Always check local signage carefully. Outside the main tourist areas, street parking is often free, but be mindful of any restrictions.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Cyprus, including in and around Ayia Napa. They typically offer unleaded petrol (95 and 98 octane) and diesel. Most stations accept cash and major credit/debit cards. Some smaller, rural stations might be cash-only or have limited hours. Fuel prices are comparable to other European countries, subject to global market fluctuations.

Which car to choose

For most travelers, an economy or compact car is ideal for navigating Ayia Napa's streets and exploring nearby attractions, offering good fuel efficiency and easier parking. If you plan to venture into the Troodos Mountains or explore more rugged coastal paths, a small SUV with higher clearance could be beneficial. Automatic transmission cars are readily available and recommended for those not accustomed to driving on the left.

Frequently asked questions