Road Trips in Cyprus

The Greek part of the island offers an abundance of tourist attractions. One of the most beautiful seaside resorts is surely Larnaca which can boast a charming palm-lined promenade and a beautiful beach featuring fine sand. It is one of the jewels of the southern coast.

A never-ending coastline, multiple trekking options, and a few ancient monuments are the characteristic features of South Cyprus. The greatest attractions here are Limassol, along with the nearby Amathous and Curium, and the popular Kolossi Castle, one of the most interesting examples of medieval fortresses on Cyprus. The castle dates back to the 13th century and it was even used as a vineyard in the course of its history.

Another holiday highlight that just can't be missed in this part of the country is Paphos. Once the capital of the island, today a place full of colourful restaurants and historical buildings. While in Paphos, it's worth heading towards such places as St Paul Pillar, Kato Paphos, and the House of Dionysus featuring colourful mosaics.

From Paphos, you will easily get to the breathtaking Akamas Peninsula where you'll have the opportunity to admire dense forests and views on a number of small sandy coves. Two most notable tourist highlights of the peninsula include the Blue Lagoon and the Baths of Aphrodite, which are the starting point for most of the trekking trips.

At a stone's throw from the highest Cypriot peak, Mount Olympus, a small town of Agros, which is part of the picturesque Troodos Mountains, is also worth paying a visit. Agros offers multiple interesting solutions for travelers who seek active ways of spending their holidays. In the near vicinity of the town, you will find a few walking possibilities as well as several cycling trip options. 

If you are interested in religious architecture, it's worth directing your steps towards Lagoudera, a tiny village located at the foot of the scenic Madari Peak. Here, you'll find a 12th-century monastery whose interior is rich in colorful frescos. You can additionally visit the nearby Panagia Asinou church also dating back to the 12th century. The small church can boast beautiful wall paintings from the Byzantine era. Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis is yet another religious gem that can be found in the vicinity of Kakopetria. The scenic location of the church among the green hills and olive groves will surely surprise even the most avid globetrotters. 

Among the biggest tourist attractions on the whole island, you'll also find the country's capital, namely Nicosia. It will become a small paradise for lovers of museums and art galleries. The turbulent history is visible at every corner, and the fans of culinary sensations should visit one of the traditional restaurants where they will try the famous Cypriot wine.

Suggested Road Trips in Cyprus

• Limassol to Pafos: This scenic drive takes you along the coast, passing by some of Cyprus' most famous beaches and quaint villages. Stop at the Kolossi Castle and the Omodos village, famous for its wine and monasteries.

• Troodos Mountains: This route takes you through the heart of the Troodos Mountains, passing by charming mountain villages, vineyards, and forests. Visit the Kykkos Monastery, the largest and wealthiest on the island, and the Troodos Square, a picturesque mountain village.

• Nicosia to Agia Napa: This drive takes you from the capital city of Nicosia to the popular resort town of Agia Napa. Along the way, you can visit the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque and the ancient city of Salamis, known for its Roman ruins. Enjoy stunning coastal views and stop at the crystal-clear waters of Konnos Bay.

The easiest way to find your dream hire car for exploration of the island is renting a vehicle at the airport right after your arrival on the island. You'll find a wide range of car rental companies offering a diversified choice of vehicles that will be adjusted to the needs of even the most demanding motorists.

Tourists who'd like to rent a car in one of the major cities also won't experience any problems. The biggest offer is available in such places as Paphos, Protaras, Larnaca, or Nicosia. 

When deciding to rent a vehicle, it's worth considering a choice of appropriate insurance that will allow us for a comfortable and safe ride. 

As far as the required documents are concerned, you need to carry an ID or a passport, driver's licence, registration document, vehicle technical inspection certificate, liability insurance, and a green card if you want to cross the border with Turkey.

Not everyone remembers that Cyprus follows left-hand traffic. But don't worry, all of the roads are marked in compliance with international standards which makes it considerably easier to get used to the new road environment. 

While driving along Cypriot roads, it's best to stay cautious. Cypriot motorists are known for their reckless driving and not paying attention to the less experienced traffic participants. They often drive in a very aggressive way. At other times, you can also come across motorists who are too conservative in keeping the speed limit and it's best to just summon up some patience.

Most of the roads on the island are characterised by good infrastructure; however, mountain roads are often narrow and in a considerably worse state in comparison to the main transportation hubs. Good news is that all Cypriot roads are free-of-charge so you can enjoy them to the fullest!

While driving around Cyprus, you don't have to remember about the automotive lighting which is obligatory only after dark. Interestingly, there is also a law forbidding using the horn between 9 pm and 6 am on the island.

Even though the weather on Cyprus is favourable when it comes to drinking sweet and refreshing drinks, it's best to think twice before hopping in a car after such alcoholic beverages. Drinking and driving on Cyprus is heavily penalised and the allowed amount of alcohol is 20 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. Don't be surprised if you are stopped by police officers to check whether you aren't drinking and driving - it is a routine procedure on Cyprus.

On Cyprus, there exist the following speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 100 km/h on expressways, and 80 km/h in rural areas. You should always follow these speed limits unless the traffic signs show otherwise.

Obligatory equipment includes two warning triangles. It is also advisable to have a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher, but these elements aren't required by law. 

When taking a road trip in Cyprus, it's important to be aware of the following:

• Road conditions: The roads in Cyprus can be narrow and winding, especially in rural areas. Be aware of sharp turns and steep inclines.

• Speed limits: Pay attention to speed limits, as speed cameras are common in Cyprus.

• Drive on the left side: In Cyprus, you drive on the left side of the road. This can take some getting used to, especially for visitors from countries where driving is done on the right side.

• Road signage: Some road signs may be in Greek, so it's helpful to familiarize yourself with the most important signs before your trip.

• Renting a car: If you plan to rent a car, make sure you have a valid driver's license and that you are familiar with the rental company's policies and requirements.

• Fuel availability: Fuel stations can be scarce in rural areas, so make sure you fill up your tank when you have the chance.

• Parking: Be aware of parking regulations in cities and tourist areas, as parking can be limited and enforcement is strict.

• Road safety: Always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic laws, and drive defensively. The roads in Cyprus can be busy, especially in the tourist season.

The best time of year to take a road trip in Cyprus depends on what you're looking for. However, the following are some general guidelines:

• Spring (March to May): This is a great time for a road trip, as the weather is warm and the wildflowers are in bloom. The crowds are still relatively low, making it a good time to enjoy the scenic routes without too much traffic.

• Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, so you can expect more traffic on the roads, especially in popular tourist areas. However, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for beach trips and outdoor activities.

• Fall (September to November): This is another good time for a road trip, as the weather is mild and the crowds have diminished. It's a great time to enjoy the mountains and scenic routes without the heat of summer.

• Winter (December to February): This is the low season in Cyprus, so you can expect fewer tourists and less traffic on the roads. However, the weather can be quite cool and wet, so it's not ideal for outdoor activities.

Ultimately, the best time for a road trip in Cyprus will depend on your personal preferences and the type of trip you're looking for.

The cost of a day, week, or month-long road trip in Cyprus can vary depending on a variety of factors such as the time of year, type of accommodation, activities and dining choices, and mode of transportation.

If you are looking to rent a car for your road trip, the cost will also vary depending on the type of car, rental duration, and insurance coverage. Generally, the cost of renting a car in Cyprus ranges from 25-40 EUR per day for a small economy car, and up to 70 EUR per day for a luxury vehicle. Longer rental periods may come with discounts, and it's always best to shop around to find the best deals.

As for the cost of accommodation, you can expect to pay anywhere from 30-150 EUR per night depending on the type of lodging you choose. There are various options available, from budget hostels and guesthouses to high-end resorts and villas. If you are traveling during peak season, you may find that prices are generally higher.

Food and drink costs will also depend on your preferences and choices. Cyprus offers a range of dining options, from street food vendors to high-end restaurants. Generally, a meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost around 15-25 EUR per person, while a fast food meal may cost around 7-10 EUR per person. Groceries and other essentials are generally priced similarly to other European countries.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in Cyprus can vary depending on the choices you make. By being mindful of your budget and doing some research beforehand, you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that may be helpful for a road trip in Cyprus:

• Lonely Planet Cyprus - Lonely Planet is a trusted travel guidebook series that offers in-depth information on destinations around the world. Their Cyprus guidebook provides comprehensive information on things to do, places to see, and where to eat and stay in the country.

• Rough Guide Cyprus - Another popular guidebook series, the Rough Guide to Cyprus offers practical information and insider tips on everything from cultural attractions to outdoor activities.

• Michelin Cyprus Map - Michelin is well-known for their high-quality maps, and their Cyprus map is no exception. This map provides detailed information on roads, highways, and scenic routes throughout the island.

• Cyprus Road Map - The Cyprus Road Map is a detailed map of the country's road network, including major highways and minor roads. This map also includes useful information on points of interest, as well as accommodations and dining options.

• Marco Polo Cyprus Guide - The Marco Polo Cyprus Guide is a handy pocket-sized guidebook that includes information on top attractions, insider tips, and detailed maps of the island.

These guidebooks and maps should provide plenty of useful information to help plan and navigate a road trip in Cyprus.

If you're planning a road trip in Cyprus, here are some good reads to consider before you go:

• "Bitter Lemons" by Lawrence Durrell - This classic memoir by British author Lawrence Durrell is set in the 1950s when Cyprus was a British colony. Durrell recounts his experiences living on the island and provides insight into Cypriot culture and history.

• "Cyprus: A Modern History" by William Mallinson - This comprehensive history of Cyprus covers the period from the Ottoman Empire to the present day. It provides a detailed understanding of the island's political, economic, and cultural development over time.

• "The Othello Syndrome" by Marianna Michael - This crime novel is set in Cyprus and tells the story of a British police officer who investigates the murder of a young Cypriot woman. The book provides a glimpse into contemporary Cypriot society and explores themes of identity, politics, and cultural tensions.

• "The Island" by Victoria Hislop - This bestselling novel tells the story of a family living on the island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony off the coast of Crete. While not specifically set in Cyprus, the book provides insight into the culture and history of the region.

• "The Greek Cypriot Nationalist Right in the Era of British Colonialism: Emergence, Mobilisation and Transformations of Right-Wing Party Politics" by Yiannos Katsourides - This academic book provides a detailed analysis of the political history of Cyprus during the British colonial period. It provides insights into the rise of right-wing politics on the island and sheds light on the country's modern political landscape.

These books should give you a good understanding of Cypriot history, culture, and society, which will enhance your road trip experience.