Driving in Cyprus

Cyprus, the Mediterranean's third-largest island, blends Greek and Turkish cultures with ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and divided capital making it one of Europe's most intriguing destinations. This island offers excellent driving through diverse landscapes.

The island remains divided between the Republic of Cyprus (Greek Cypriot) in the south and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the north, with the UN buffer zone through Nicosia creating the world's last divided capital. Crossing between zones is possible at several checkpoints.

Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features extraordinary Roman mosaics at the House of Dionysus, the Tombs of the Kings carved into rock, and the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite at Petra tou Romiou beach.

The Troodos Mountains provide cool retreats with Byzantine painted churches (UNESCO-listed), mountain villages, and winter skiing at Mount Olympus. The Akamas Peninsula offers rugged hiking to remote beaches.

Limassol serves as the wine region center with DOC villages producing excellent Commandaria dessert wine. Ayia Napa and Protaras provide beach resort experiences on the eastern coast.

Cypriot cuisine features halloumi cheese, meze (small dishes), souvlaki, and kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb). The island claims to have invented halloumi, and it appears on nearly every menu.

Driving in Cyprus is on the left (British colonial legacy). Roads are excellent throughout the Republic of Cyprus. An International Driving Permit is recommended. Crossing to Northern Cyprus requires showing passports at checkpoints; rental car insurance may not be valid in the north.