Road Travel Cyprus: 2025 Driving Guide & Itinerary

The steering wheel vibrated gently in my hands as I navigated the narrow, winding road up into the Troodos Mountains. Through my open window, the scent of pine and wild thyme filled the car, a stark contrast to the salty sea air I’d left behind just an hour earlier. In that moment, I realized this was, ultimately, the magic of road travel in Cyprus: specifically, the ability to journey from ancient ruins to sun-kissed beaches and, finally, to cool, forested mountains all in a single day. Meanwhile, with every turn, a new landscape unfolded before me; consequently, a new story gradually revealed itself, weaving together another piece of the island’s rich tapestry.

Most guides to Cyprus will tell you about Ayia Napa’s nightlife or Paphos’s archaeological sites (and they should), but as a road traveler, you need more. You need to know which coastal road has the most dramatic views, how to navigate the mountain passes safely, and where to find those hidden tavernas that don’t appear on tourist maps.

That’s precisely why this guide is built from my own two-week road trip circumnavigating this Mediterranean gem. I’ll give you not just the destinations, but the journey, the practical, firsthand knowledge that transforms a simple vacation into an unforgettable adventure on four wheels.

Why Cyprus is a Perfect Road Travel Destination

Before we dive into the itineraries and how-tos, let’s talk about why Cyprus stands out for a driving holiday.

• Compact yet Diverse: Despite its compact size, Cyprus is small enough to drive across in under three hours; however, it astonishingly packs an incredible variety of landscapes, ranging from golden beaches and rugged coastlines all the way to forested mountains and vineyard-covered plains, making it a surprisingly diverse destination for any traveler.

• Excellent Road Infrastructure: Main highways are modern and well-signposted (in both Greek and English), making navigation surprisingly easy for international visitors.

• Right-Hand Drive Comfort: As a British territory until 1960, Cyprus drives on the left, making it particularly comfortable for drivers from the UK, Ireland, Australia, and Japan.

• Endless Discoveries: However, the true beauty of Cyprus lies specifically off the beaten path, whether in the tiny mountain villages, the secluded coves, or the family-run wineries that, ultimately, only a car can reliably access.

How to Plan Your Cyprus Road Trip: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Best Time for Road Travel in Cyprus

Having visited in both spring and autumn, I can attest that timing dramatically impacts your experience.

Spring (March-May): Best for nature lovers

• Weather: Mild temperatures (18-25°C) perfect for hiking and exploring

• Landscape: Wildflowers blanket the countryside, creating spectacular photo opportunities

• Advantage: Comfortable for both beach time and mountain exploration

Summer (June-August): Best for beach-focused trips

• Considerations: Extremely hot inland (often 35°C+), making mountain exploration less comfortable

• Strategy: Focus on coastal routes and early morning/late evening driving

Autumn (September-November): My personal favorite

• Conditions: Sea remains warm for swimming, mountain temperatures become pleasant

• Bonus: Grape harvest season means wine region visits are particularly rewarding

Winter (December-February): Best for mountain enthusiasts

• Unique Opportunity: Yes, it snows in Cyprus! You can actually ski in the Troodos Mountains in morning and swim in the Mediterranean the same afternoon.

Step 2: Renting a Car in Cyprus – What You Really Need to Know

Based on my experience at Larnaca Airport, here’s the reality of car rental:

Required Documents:

• Valid driver’s license (EU licenses accepted, others may need International Driving Permit)

• Passport

• Credit card for security deposit

Insurance Essentials:

• Always take the full coverage insurance. The €1,500 excess on basic insurance isn’t worth the risk on narrow mountain roads.

• Photograph everything before you leave the rental lot—every scratch, dent, and interior feature.

Choosing Your Vehicle:

• Compact car: Perfect for coastal routes and cities

• Small SUV: Recommended if you plan extensive mountain travel

• Manual vs Automatic: Automatics cost approximately 30% more but are worth it for stressful mountain driving if you’re not comfortable with manual transmission

Step 3: Realistic Road Travel Cyprus Budget

Here’s what my two-week road trip actually cost:

Money-Saving Tip: Fill your tank in larger cities rather than tourist areas or remote villages where fuel costs significantly more.

The Ultimate 7-Day Cyprus Road Trip Itinerary

Days 1-2: Larnaca to Limassol – Coastline & Culture

Larnaca Arrival (Day 1): Shortly after you pick up your rental car at the airport, my initial advice would be to spend your first day simply recovering from your travels. Then, to gently ease into Cypriot culture, I’d suggest you begin with a leisurely stroll along the Finikoudes Promenade. Following this, you can continue your gradual exploration by visiting the historic Old Town. Afterward, you can visit the serene Hala Sultan Tekke mosque, and finally, cap off the day by viewing the historic, submerged ruins at the Kamares Aqueduct.

Where I Stayed: Amorgos Art Hotel – A boutique hotel with character and secure parking.

Larnaca to Limassol Drive (Day 2):
Distance: 70km via A1 highway or 85km via coastal road
My Recommendation: To begin your journey, I first and foremost highly recommend you take the scenic coastal route through Governor’s Beach. Upon arriving there, you’ll find the dramatic white cliffs against the dark sand consistently make for stunning photos; in fact, this spot is a favorite among photographers for its striking visual contrast. Then, as you continue your journey, be sure to stop at Lefkara Village along the way, which is famously known for its intricate lace and beautiful silverwork. What makes this stop particularly special is that it adds a wonderful cultural dimension to your coastal drive.

Limassol Highlights:

• Explore the Old Town and Limassol Castle

• Visit the Kolossi Medieval Castle

• Evening stroll through Molos Promenade

Days 3-5: Troodos Mountains – Villages & Views

Driving into the Mountains (Day 3):
The B8 road from Limassol to Troodos is well-maintained but winding. Take your time and enjoy the changing landscape.

My Top Mountain Stops:

1. Omodos Village: The cobblestone square and ancient monastery are worth the detour

2. Kykkos Monastery: The most famous and wealthiest monastery in Cyprus

3. Mount Olympus: The highest point in Cyprus at 1,952 meters

Where I Stayed: Casale Panayiotis – A restored mountain village turned luxury hotel with incredible views.

Mountain Driving Tip: Crucially, remember to use lower gears on descents to save your brakes. Furthermore, and just as importantly, always honk your horn on blind corners, since this is not just a suggestion but rather a standard local driving norm in Cyprus.

Days 6-7: Paphos & Akamas Peninsula – Myth & Wilderness

Troodos to Paphos (Day 6):
Distance: 85km via B7 and A6
The descent from the mountains to the coast offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Paphos Must-Sees:

• Paphos Archaeological Park with its magnificent Roman mosaics

• Tombs of the Kings – an impressive necropolis dating to the 4th century BC

• Paphos Harbor Castle at sunset

Akamas Peninsula Day Trip (Day 7):
This was the highlight of my trip. The Akamas remains largely undeveloped, with rough roads leading to pristine beaches.

My Akamas Route:

• Start at the Baths of Aphrodite

• Drive to Blue Lagoon (consider a boat trip from Latchi if roads seem too rough)

• Hike the Aphrodite Trail for spectacular coastal views

Essential Travel Tips from My Experience

Navigation & Driving Laws

1. Google Maps Works Perfectly: I had full signal throughout my trip, even in remote areas.

2. Speed Limits are Strictly Enforced:

   • Motorways: 100 km/h

   • Open roads: 80 km/h

   • Built-up areas: 50 km/h

3. Zero Tolerance for Drink Driving: The limit is essentially zero—don’t risk it.

4. Roundabout Rule: You must give way to traffic approaching from your right.

Finding Authentic Experiences

• Village Tavernas: Look for places filled with locals, not tourists. My best meal was at Stou Kir Yianni in Kalopanayiotis village.

• Wine Routes: Cyprus has several designated wine routes. The Vasa-Koilani route in the Limassol district was particularly rewarding.

• Hidden Beaches: Use your car to explore beyond the main resorts. Konnos Bay near Ayia Napa and Lara Beach on Akamas are worth the effort.

Safety & Practicalities

• Emergency Number: 112

• Parking: Free in most villages, but requires payment in cities and popular beach areas

• Gas Stations: Many close on Sundays in rural areas—plan accordingly

• Water: Always carry bottled water, especially during summer months

Important Road Travel Cyprus Links

Official Resources:

• Cyprus Tourism: https://www.visitcyprus.com

• Cyprus Public Works Department: https://www.pwd.gov.cy

Car Rental:

• Petrides Rent a Car: https://www.petridesrentacar.com (reputable local company)

• Sixt Cyprus: https://www.sixt.com

Navigation & Maps:

• Google Maps Cyprus

• Cyprus Road Network Map

Cyprus Road Travel FAQ

Q1: Is it safe to drive in Northern Cyprus?
A: Most rental car companies prohibit taking vehicles across the border to Northern Cyprus. If you do cross, your insurance will be void. I recommend exploring Northern Cyprus with a separate tour or rental.

Q2: What should I do in case of a breakdown?
A: First and foremost, contact your rental company immediately, as most provide 24/7 assistance for these exact situations. Therefore, to be prepared, you should keep their emergency number saved in your phone ahead of any potential issues.

Q3: Are Cyprus’ mountain roads dangerous?
A: Not dangerous, but they require attention. They’re well-paved but narrow and winding. Drive slowly, use your horn on blind corners, and pull over to let faster local drivers pass.

Q4: What’s the best scenic drive in Cyprus?
A: The Kyrenia to Karpaz route (in Northern Cyprus) offers stunning coastal views, while the Limassol to Troodos route through wine country is breathtaking.

Q5: How much should I budget for fuel?
A: I spent approximately €230 for 1,200 km of driving. Fuel is priced per liter (approximately €1.40-€1.60 for unleaded during my visit).

Conclusion: Why Road Travel is the Only Way to Truly Experience Cyprus

As I returned my rental car at Larnaca Airport, the dashboard displayed 1,247 kilometers, each one telling a different story of Cyprus. From sharing meze with villagers in the Troodos to discovering hidden coves on the Akamas Peninsula, this island revealed its true character only when explored on four wheels.

Cyprus delivers what every road traveler seeks: the freedom to create your own adventure, the thrill of unexpected discoveries, and the comfort of knowing that ancient history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality are never more than an hour’s drive away.

So pack your bags, grab your keys, and trust the open road. Your Cypriot adventure, a journey through time, landscape, and culture, awaits around the next bend.