Renting a car in Nicosia is the ideal solution for those who value comfort, mobility, and independence. The capital of Cyprus combines a modern lifestyle, administrative centers, and historic districts where public transportation isn’t always convenient. A car allows you to freely navigate the city and explore the surrounding areas—the Troodos Mountains, the coast, or the sights of Larnaca and Limassol.
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Benefits of Renting a Car
Nicosia is the only major city in Cyprus that is landlocked. Therefore, the transportation system is geared toward private cars. Renting a car eliminates reliance on bus routes, which operate infrequently and don’t always cover the desired areas.
Renting a car is also advantageous for business trips: offices, government agencies, and business centers are located in various parts of the city, making taxis more expensive if used frequently. Furthermore, rental prices in Nicosia are often lower than in tourist areas where demand is higher.
Required documents and requirements
To rent a car you will need:
- a driver’s license issued at least one year prior to the rental date;
- passport or ID card;
- a bank or credit card in the name of the tenant.
Foreign drivers are recommended to have an International Driving Permit. The minimum age for car rental is 21, but some companies only allow rentals from 25 years old. Young drivers may be required to pay additional insurance or a higher deposit.
Rental price and conditions
The average price for car rental in Nicosia varies from 30 to 50 euros per day depending on the season, car class and rental duration.
During high season (July–September), prices can rise to €70–90 per day, especially for mid-range and premium cars. Discounts of up to 20–30% are available for long-term rentals of a week or more.
The basic tariff usually includes:
- limited or unlimited mileage;
- compulsory civil liability insurance;
- tax and basic service charge.
Additional charges apply for: child seats, GPS navigation, second driver, extended insurance, or delivery of the car to another location.
Car classes
All categories of cars are available in Nicosia, from compact cars to SUVs and minivans.
- Economy class is ideal for short trips and getting around the city centre, where roads are narrow and parking is limited.
- Middle and business class are the choice for long trips, business trips and travel between cities.
- SUVs and crossovers are suitable for mountain roads and out-of-town routes.
- Minivans are convenient for family trips and groups of up to seven people.
All cars are equipped with air conditioning, which is especially important in summer, when the air temperature often exceeds +35 °C.
Features of road traffic
In Cyprus, traffic drives on the left side of the road, so foreigners must be careful at first, especially when turning and exiting roundabouts.
Nicosia’s road network is well developed: the main streets are wide and well-marked, but in the old centre (within the Venetian Walls) the roads are narrow and parking spaces are limited.
Road markings and signs comply with European standards, and all signs are also available in English. The speed limit in the city is 50 km/h, and on highways, it’s up to 100 km/h.
Parking
Parking in Nicosia is divided into paid and free. In the city center, almost all parking is paid, costing around 1-2 euros per hour. Payment is made via machines or mobile apps. In residential areas and on the outskirts, there are free parking zones.
Violating parking rules can result in a fine or towing of your vehicle, so it is important to read road signs carefully.
Insurance and security deposit
Each company requires a deposit of between €300 and €1,000, depending on the vehicle category and insurance terms.
Insurance types:
- Basic (basic) – covers damage to third parties, but does not protect against damage to the rented car.
- CDW ( Collision Damage Waiver ) – partially covers damage in case of an accident, except for serious violations.
- Full Insurance – maximum protection, including damage and theft.
It is recommended to take out comprehensive insurance, especially if you are planning trips outside the city or to mountainous areas.
Tips for picking up and returning a car
- Inspect the body and interior of the car upon receipt, and record all scratches and defects in the report.
- Take photos or videos of the car before leaving.
- Please keep your fuel receipts in case you need to return your car with a full tank.
- Return your car on time—even an hour’s delay can count as an extra rental day.
- When booking online, please check whether taxes and insurance are included in the final price.
Travelling from Nicosia by car
Thanks to the capital’s central location, you can reach any point on the island in a short time:
- Limassol – about 1 hour via the A1 motorway;
- Larnaca and the airport – 45 minutes;
- Troodos – about 1 hour 30 minutes;
- Ayia Napa – 1 hour 20 minutes.
The intercity roads are in good condition, traffic is moderate, and the picturesque views make the trip part of the holiday.
Renting a car in Nicosia isn’t just a convenience; it’s a tool for a fulfilling travel experience. A car offers flexibility, time savings, and comfortable travel in a city where it can be difficult to travel without a personal vehicle. Following traffic rules, carefully choosing insurance, and checking rental terms will help avoid unpleasant situations.
For tourists, renting a car offers the opportunity to see a different side of Cyprus—not just its beaches, but also mountain villages, monasteries, and nature parks. For locals, it’s a practical way to get around everyday tasks without having to buy their own car.
