Paralimni is a cozy town in eastern Cyprus, located near the popular resorts of Ayia Napa and Protaras. It is considered the administrative center of the Famagusta district and combines the tranquil atmosphere of a traditional Cypriot town with proximity to the sea. Despite its compact size, getting around here without a car is difficult: the public transportation network is limited, and many interesting places are located outside the center. This makes car rental in Paralimni an ideal option for both vacationers and residents.
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Benefits of Renting a Car in Paralimni
The city is surrounded by dozens of beaches, nature trails, and attractions, all of which are most easily reached by car. Public transportation is infrequent, and taxis are expensive for daily trips. A car allows for easy travel between the resorts of the east coast—from Protaras to Ayia Napa —and allows for visits to Cape Greco, the villages of Liopetri and Deryneia, as well as further inland.
Having your own transportation allows for flexibility: you can plan your day without being tied to a schedule, visit secluded beaches, and return whenever you want. For families with children or groups of friends, renting a car is not just a convenience, but a necessity.
Requirements for tenants and necessary documents
To rent a car in Paralimni you will need:
- bank card for making a deposit;
- passport or ID card;
- a driver’s license valid for at least one year.
The minimum driver age is 21, but some companies allow rentals from 18 years of age with a higher insurance rate. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional “young driver” fee. An International Driving Permit is recommended for tourists from countries where the license is not written in Latin characters.
Choosing a car
Paralimni offers a wide range of vehicle categories, allowing you to find the perfect vehicle for any purpose.
- Economy class – low fuel consumption and easy parking, ideal for short trips.
- Middle class and sedans – comfort for intercity routes and trips with the whole family.
- SUVs and crossovers offer increased cross-country ability and convenience for trips to natural areas and Cape Greco.
- Minivans are a practical solution for groups of 5–7 people.
- Convertibles and premium class cars are the choice for those who value style and comfort on vacation.
Most cars are equipped with air conditioning and an automatic transmission, making driving easy and comfortable even for inexperienced drivers.
Receiving and returning a vehicle
Car rental companies operating in Paralimni offer car rentals at their offices in the city center, in Protaras, or with hotel delivery. Upon pickup, the vehicle’s technical condition must be checked, fuel level must be checked, and all scratches and defects must be recorded in the inspection report.
Before picking up a car, the client pays a deposit of between €300 and €1,000, depending on the model and rental terms. The deposit is blocked on the card and returned once the car is returned in good condition.
Types of insurance:
- minimum coverage for damage to third parties ( Basic Insurance );
- partial coverage of a rental car in the event of an accident ( CDW ( Collision Damage Waiver) Damage Waiver ) );
- full coverage, including damage, theft, glass and tires ( Full Coverage ).
For tourists planning to travel extensively around the island, it is recommended to purchase comprehensive insurance to avoid unexpected expenses.
Returns are typically made with the same fuel level as when picked up. Delayed return of the vehicle may incur an additional rental day charge.
Prices and rental conditions
The cost of renting a car in Paralimni depends on the season, car category and rental period.
- In low season (November – March) – from 25 to 35 euros per day.
- In high season (June – September) – from 50 to 80 euros depending on the model.
- For rentals of a week or more, companies offer discounts of up to 20–30%.
The base rate typically includes liability insurance, unlimited mileage, and road tax. Additional options, such as GPS, child seats, extended insurance, and adding a second driver, are priced separately.
Regional road conditions and parking
Driving in Cyprus is on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right. Roads in Paralimni and the surrounding area are in excellent condition, with signs in English. Traffic is moderate in coastal areas, but during the summer months, traffic jams can occur at approaches to beaches and parking lots. Standard speed limits apply: within city limits, up to 50 km/h; on rural roads, up to 80 km/h; and on motorways, up to 100 km/h.
Paralimni and the surrounding resorts offer ample parking. Paid parking is available in the city center and near popular beaches—approximately 1–2 euros per hour. Free parking is available near supermarkets, hotels, and residential areas.
Fines for parking violations start at €50, so it’s important to follow signs and markings on the pavement. Parking is free at night in most areas.
Popular routes from Paralimni
Paralimni is a great starting point for trips along the east coast.
- Cape Greco is a natural park with sea caves, observation decks and hiking trails.
- Ayia Napa is a famous resort with Nissi beaches. beach, Makronissos beach and the Thalassa Museum, 15 minutes ‘ drive.
- Protaras is a cozy family resort with Fig Bay Tree Bay and sandy beaches.
- Liopetri village is a traditional Cypriot village with tavernas by the sea.
- The Monastery of St. George is one of the oldest shrines in the region, located near the city center.
A car makes these routes easy and comfortable, eliminating the need to rely on public transportation. In Paralimni, you can rent a car for periods starting from one month. Long-term rates are advantageous for those spending the winter in Cyprus or working remotely. Companies offer special terms, including maintenance, roadside assistance, and the possibility of a replacement car in the event of a breakdown.
Renting a car in Paralimni is a practical and economical solution for those looking to get the most out of their vacation. Owning a car provides freedom of movement, comfort, and the opportunity to explore Cyprus independently—from secluded beaches to mountain villages.
A modern fleet, transparent terms, and high-quality roads make rentals safe and convenient. For travelers, Paralimni makes an excellent base, and a car is the key to exploring the eastern coast of Cyprus.
