Exploring Paphos, Cyprus by car offers unmatched freedom to discover the region’s iconic sites, hidden gems and breathtaking scenery at your own pace. Whether you’re planning short scenic trips or longer road adventures, having your own vehicle lets you uncover everything from archaeological treasures to mountain hideaways while enjoying the beautiful Mediterranean landscapes.

Top Destinations to Visit from Paphos

Driving around Paphos opens the door to a host of remarkable places:

Aphrodite’s Rock

This legendary birthplace of the goddess of love rises dramatically from the sea and is especially magical at sunset.

Paphos Archaeological Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park features remarkably preserved Roman mosaics and ruins, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient life.

Tombs of the Kings

Carved into rock and dating back some 5,000 years, this expansive necropolis showcases Doric columns and frescoed chambers that make for a memorable visit.

Scenic Road Trips from Paphos

Coastal Highway to Limassol

Head east along the glittering Mediterranean coastline for picturesque views, hidden coves and charming seaside villages. Setting aside half a day lets you enjoy the drive and take advantage of multiple photo stops.

Troodos Mountains Expedition

For cooler temperatures and forested beauty, drive inland to explore traditional villages like Omodos and Kakopetria, surrounded by scenic trails and historic sites.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Highlights

A rental car also makes it easy to reach lesser-known but equally rewarding spots:

Avakas Gorge — A dramatic limestone ravine ideal for nature lovers and hikers.

Kouklia Village — Experience traditional Cypriot life in this historic settlement once known as Palaepaphos.

Latchi Harbour & Blue Lagoon — A charming fishing port with fresh seafood tavernas and boat access to the stunning Blue Lagoon.

Essential Road Rules for Driving in Paphos

Driving in Cyprus follows some key regulations worth knowing before you hit the road:

Drive on the left and overtake on the right.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.

Children under 5 may not sit in the front; ages 5–10 require appropriate child restraints.

Mobile phones may only be used hands-free.

Legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (lower for newer drivers).

Typical speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h on motorways.

Always carry your driving licence, passport and rental agreement while driving.

Licensing Requirements

To rent and drive in Cyprus, you must hold a valid full driving licence:

EU licences are valid until expiry.

Visitors from many countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and Japan, can drive on their domestic licences for up to 90 days.

Other visitors require an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their home licence.

Practical Driving Tips Around Paphos

Roundabouts: Use the left lane for first exits and right lane for others.

Rush hour: Traffic around Paphos Mall and the harbour is heaviest at 8–9 am.

Narrow streets: Drive slowly and follow the local traffic flow, especially in Old Town.

Parking: Free parking is available at Kings Avenue Mall and some beach areas, though peak season fills quickly.

Fuel and Parking Essentials

Fuel stations are plentiful across the region and many operate 24/7 with card payment options, making refuelling easy even outside staffed hours. Unleaded petrol is commonly available.

Most cities use the SmartParking app for metered parking zones, eliminating the need for coins or paper tickets.

Why Hire a Car in Paphos?

With no tolls on roads or highways, driving in and around Paphos is straightforward and cost-effective. Whether you’re visiting beaches, ancient sites, mountain villages or coastal harbours, a car unlocks flexibility that public transport simply can’t match.

More details on https://www.paphos-car-rental.com/paphos-driving-guide.html