In the following pages, we will provide you with information on driving on the roads of Cyprus.
Although some of the items are specific to Cyprus, much of the driving advice will apply wherever you are in the world.
It’s aimed at:
- Short‑term visitors,
- Tourists renting cars,
- New residents who need to understand local rules and systems,
- Owners of vehicles in Cyprus.
I hope it’s a helpful orientation guide for anyone unfamiliar with Cypriot driving rules and procedures.
The standard of driving in Cyprus is generally poor.
Some people may use stronger adjectives and sometimes not without cause. (See the common driving errors section)
In Cyprus, traffic drives on the left side of the road.
- Most traffic signs will be recognizable as they conform to EU standards.
- Speed limit signs are in Kilometers Per Hour (km/h)
- Information signs are in Greek and English, with some in Turkish.
- All occupants of vehicles must wear seatbelts.
- Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited. (Hands-free is permitted by law, but not advisable as it impairs concentration).
- Crash helmets are required to be worn for all mopeds and motorcycles.
- Motorcycles must have daytime running lights illuminated.
- Highways have a maximum speed limit of 100 km/h and a minimum speed limit of 65 km/h.
- The drink driving limit is a lot lower than in the UK.
- Traffic laws in general are similar to those in the UK. The traffic law section has a list of main offences.
Whatever the season
Always carry a pair of sunglasses. It is likely you will travel towards the sun at some stage, as the coast runs east / west.
During the summer
it is a good idea to carry some bottled water. Dehydration is a dangerous condition and adversely affects a driver to the detriment of road safety.