Renting a car in Ayia Napa is the best way to explore the southeastern coast of Cyprus freely. This resort attracts thousands of tourists with its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and natural attractions. However, without your own transportation, many locations remain difficult to access. A car allows you to travel without restrictions, choose your own route, and get the most out of your vacation.
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Why is car rental profitable?
Ayia Napa is a resort where the distances between neighborhoods, beaches, and attractions are quite significant. Public transportation operates on a schedule, but routes are limited and don’t cover all popular locations, especially in the evening. Renting a car solves this problem: you can travel independently to neighboring Protaras, Cape Greco, Paralimni, or further inland, without having to rely on buses and taxis.
Moreover, taxi prices in Ayia Napa increase significantly during high season, and a few trips can cost more than a week’s rental. For families, groups of friends, and tourists who enjoy active vacations, owning a car becomes not a luxury but a necessity.
Basic requirements for tenants
To rent a car you need:
- passport or ID card;
- a driver’s license issued at least one year ago;
- credit or debit card for deposit.
The minimum driver age is 21. Some companies allow rentals from 18 years old, but charge an additional “young driver” fee. There is usually no upper age limit, but drivers over 70 may be required to purchase extended insurance.
Rental and Return Policy
Before picking up the car, carefully inspect the body and interior, noting all scratches and damage in the contract. It’s a good idea to take photos to avoid any disputes upon return.
The car is usually delivered with a full tank and must be returned in the same condition. Failure to do so may result in the company retaining the cost of the missing fuel.
A return delay of more than one hour is often charged as an extra day of rental.
Rental cost
Car rental prices in Ayia Napa vary depending on the season, vehicle category, and rental duration.
- During the low season (November – March) rental prices start from 25–30 euros per day.
- During the high season (June – September), prices for the same models can reach 60–90 euros per day.
For those visiting Cyprus for a month or more, long-term rentals are advantageous. Companies offer special rates that include maintenance, oil changes, and roadside assistance. This is convenient for both freelancers and families spending the winter in Cyprus.
Long-term rentals offer better value: companies offer discounts of up to 25% for bookings of a week or more. The price typically includes basic insurance, unlimited mileage, and taxes. Additional services (child seats, navigation, and a second driver ) are charged separately.
Insurance and deposit
Before renting, you must pay a deposit of between €300 and €1,000. The amount depends on the vehicle class and insurance terms.
The most common types of insurance are:
- Full Coverage is the maximum coverage that protects against damage, theft, and broken glass.
- CDW ( Collision Damage Waiver ) – covers damage to a rented car in the event of an accident.
- Basic Insurance – minimum coverage that includes third-party liability.
It is recommended to choose comprehensive insurance, especially for tourists who are not familiar with local roads and regulations.
Popular car classes
Ayia Napa offers a wide range of cars, from small hatchbacks to premium SUVs.
- Convertibles: Popular with holidaymakers in the summer when coastal road trips become part of the holiday.
- Crossovers and SUVs: Suitable for active tourists planning trips to observation decks and nature trails.
- Middle class and sedans: a comfortable option for long trips and travel around the island.
- Economy class: compact models, ideal for short trips and parking in the city centre.
Most cars are equipped with air conditioning, navigation, and an automatic transmission, which is especially convenient for drivers not accustomed to driving on the left.
Features of road traffic
Driving in Cyprus is on the left. Drivers accustomed to driving on the right require some adaptation, especially at intersections and roundabouts.
The main speed limits are:
- on highways – up to 100 km/h;
- outside the city – up to 80 km/h;
- in the city – up to 50 km/h.
Roads in Ayia Napa and the surrounding area are in good condition, with signs in English and clear, easy-to-understand markings. Traffic is light in the resort areas, but during the summer months, traffic jams are possible at the beach access points and in the parking lots along the promenade.
Parking
Ayia Napa has plenty of parking, both paid and free, in the city center and near popular beaches ( Nissi beach, Makronissos beach, Cape Greco has paid parking, with an hourly rate of around 1–2 euros. Free spaces are often available on the outskirts and near hotels.
Fines for illegal parking average 50–100 euros, so it’s important to pay close attention to road signs.
Popular routes from Ayia Napa
A car opens up the opportunity to explore not only the resort itself, but also the surrounding area.
- Cape Greco is a national park with picturesque cliffs, sea caves, and observation decks. The distance is approximately 10 km.
- Protaras is a family-friendly resort with beaches. Tree Bay and Konnos Bay, the road takes 15 minutes.
- Paralimni is a cozy Cypriot town with traditional architecture, shops and cafes.
- Larnaca Airport and Finikoudes Promenade are approximately 45 minutes’ drive away.
Thanks to the well-developed road network and proximity to highways, travel around the island is quick and convenient.
Travel Tips
- It’s best to book a car in advance, especially in July and August. Prices on site are usually significantly higher, and the selection is limited.
- Check that insurance and taxes are included in the final price.
- Do not transfer the vehicle to third parties not specified in the contract.
- Avoid drunk driving—the fines and consequences are extremely serious.
- Follow the signs carefully: many beaches are located on dead-end roads where it is difficult to turn around.
Renting a car in Ayia Napa offers a combination of comfort, freedom, and savings. Having your own vehicle allows you to explore the resort from a new perspective: secluded beaches, mountain trails, traditional villages, and viewpoints unreachable by tour buses.
Choosing the right model, carefully reading the terms of the contract, and following traffic regulations guarantee a safe and secure trip. For active tourists, car rental is more than just a service; it’s an essential part of a complete vacation in Cyprus.
