A hire car is the easiest way to see Cyprus properly. Public transport covers the main towns, but the mountain villages, quiet beaches and archaeological sites are far simpler to reach with your own wheels. The island is compact and the road network is good, so even a first-time visitor can get around with confidence after a short adjustment.
Driving on the left
The single most important thing to know is that Cyprus drives on the left, a legacy of its British history. If you are used to driving on the right, take it slowly for the first hour, especially at roundabouts and junctions. The driver sits on the right of the car, and it helps to have a passenger keep an eye on your positioning at first. Distances and speed limits are in kilometres.
Documents and requirements
You generally need a full, valid driving licence held for a minimum period, and most rental companies set a minimum age and charge a young-driver fee below a certain age. Visitors from many countries can drive on their national licence; an International Driving Permit is useful if your licence is not in the Latin alphabet. Bring the physical licence, the card the booking was made on, and your passport. Always read the insurance terms, particularly the excess and what the collision waiver does and does not cover.
On the road
Motorways link the main coastal cities and are well maintained. Seat belts are compulsory for all occupants, using a handheld phone while driving is prohibited, and drink-driving limits are enforced. Fuel stations are plentiful in towns, many with automatic pay-at-pump machines out of hours, but fill up before heading into remote mountain areas. Rental cars usually carry distinctive plates, so drive courteously and expect occasional narrow village lanes.
Practical tips
Book ahead in summer when demand is high. Photograph any existing scratches before you drive off and check the fuel policy, ideally full-to-full. A car makes day trips to the Troodos wine villages, Cape Greco and the Akamas peninsula genuinely easy. Park only where permitted in town centres, and keep small change for metered street parking.
For official rules of the road, licence recognition and vehicle requirements in Cyprus, check the government portal: Republic of Cyprus — gov.cy.