Cyprus Car Hire – Driving Tips for Cyprus

Driving in Cyprus is very similar to all other European countries, the biggest difference being you drive on the left side. As such you overtake on the right except when the car in front is turning to the right, and at intersections give way to your right. You may notice a more relaxed attitude to regulations from some drivers, but that doesn’t mean it is not worth being in the know on the important rules of the road. cyprus car hire

Cyprus has three main highways that all merge together and which will take you to all big cities. The A1 is the longest route running from Nicosia, the capital, to Paphos. Make sure to slow down before turning off any of these major highways. Some highway exits are rather short while others end in 90 degree turns. cyprus car hire

The speed limits are mostly clearly marked and generally resembles the speed limits in most other European countries. The speed limits are marked in km/h (kilometre pr hour).

On the highways the speed limit varies from what you’d usually experience in most countries. On highways the limit is 100 km/h and every day you will see the traffic police parked along the highway trying to catch speeders. However, it is worth noting that the police don’t stop cars unless they are running at more than 20% over the limit.

The legislation in this area is pretty strict, so it’s definitely worth taking a note of – for more reasons than one. The legal limit for drunk driving in Cyprus is 0.05%, which is significantly lower than in the United Kingdom and lower than in the majority of the other European countries. Driving under influence or while impaired is fined significantly stronger than speeding.

It is a legal requirement to use seatbelt when you are driving or when you are a passenger in a car. You will definitely see a lot of people – and even kids jumping around in the car – without seatbelts. But if you are caught by the police, you will be looking at a fine. cyprus car hire

• Speed limits and distances are posted in kilometres.
• Speed limits are 50 km/h in built up areas, 65 km/h on country roads, 80 km/h on national roads and 65 -100 km/h on highways.
• Don’t use your horn unnecessarily or at night between 10 pm and 6 am.
• The maximum legal level of alcohol in the blood is 0.05%, police are allowed to impose random breath tests on drivers.
• On the spot fines are in force, these are not paid on the roadside but at your local municipal office.