Car Rental in Cyprus for Greek Travelers

Planning a journey across the beautiful landscapes of Cyprus? Whether you're heading to the famed beaches or exploring its rich cultural heritage, renting a car can enrich your travel experience.
If you're traveling from Greece, you might wonder:

Can I drive in Cyprus with my Greek license?
What insurance options are available for Greek travelers?
How do I find the best rental deals in Cyprus?
Can I pick up a car in one city and drop it off in another?
What are the most important Cypriot traffic rules to know?

This guide addresses these questions and more, ensuring your road trip in Cyprus is seamless and enjoyable. A quick-reference summary table is also provided at the end to recap the essentials.

Can Greek Citizens Drive in Italy with a Rental Car?

Yes, Greek travelers can rent and drive cars in Italy with the proper passport, driving licence and a valid credit card in the main driver’s name. Age limits and young/old driver surcharges may apply depending on the rental company.

Form of ID:
Foreign renters (Greek citizens) must present a valid passport at the rental counter.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License. The main and any additional drivers must hold a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements, typically for at least 1 year; some offers may require 1–2 years of holding a licence.
Accepted cards:
Payment at pick‑up generally requires Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Visa and MasterCard are accepted on all offers; some offers also accept Diners Club, JCB, Discover and AMEX. Debit cards are not accepted.
Age requirements:
Most offers allow driving from 19–99 years old; some have narrower ranges such as 19–75, 21–70/80/99, 23–80, 24–60, 25–70/80, or 30–80 depending on vehicle category and supplier. Young driver surcharges may apply, for example: 19–25 years: about US$ 11.71/day; 19–20 years: about US$ 22.26/day; 21–24/25/26 years: about US$ 7.03–12.89/day; similar fees may apply to older drivers (e.g., 70+ or 76–80).

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Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for Greek travelers visiting Cyprus.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
55
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide network across multiple countries
- Flexible rental options
- Customer loyalty program
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
GREEN MOTION
global
8.5
Locations:
17
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Focus on sustainable car rentals
- Wide range of hybrid and electric vehicles
- Easy online booking process
- 24/7 customer support
Best for
Eco-conscious travelers and budget-friendly options
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
37
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide range of vehicle categories
- Competitive pricing
- 24/7 customer service
- Convenient locations worldwide
Best for
Travelers seeking quality and affordability
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
24
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Strong presence in major airports
- Loyalty program with benefits
- 24/7 customer support
- User-friendly online booking
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and reliability
FLIZZR
global
8.5
Locations:
17
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Flexible rental options
- Easy online booking
- 24/7 customer support
- Wide network of locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
10
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide range of vehicles
- Flexible rental policies
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
33
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs

AERCAR
local
8.5
Locations:
11
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Flexible rental terms
- Competitive pricing
- Local knowledge and support
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
GET YOUR CAR
local
8.5
Locations:
12
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
- Competitive pricing
- Local knowledge and support
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
Autounion
local
8.5
Locations:
17
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
- Competitive pricing
- Special deals for long-term rentals
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals

Recommendations for Greek Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in Cyprus
Need reliable nationwide coverage
Want 24/7 customer support
Business or important travel

Choose Local Brands If:

Want to save money
Staying in major cities only
Want unique vehicle experiences
Comfortable with app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your travel more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in USA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most Polish drivers prefer automatic for USA road trips
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Polish insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-island
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Paphos, Ayia Napa

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Cyprus?

Cyprus presents a blend of historical sites, beautiful beaches, and charming villages, making it a fantastic destination for various travel styles. Explore the island efficiently with one-way car rentals or drive through scenic routes to discover its unique offerings.

What Insurance Do I Need?

Travelers from Greece to Cyprus need to ensure they have adequate car rental insurance. Cyprus requires basic coverage by law, but additional insurance options are recommended for a worry-free trip.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car due to collision or theft.
€14-23/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Provides coverage against theft of the rental vehicle.
€5-7/day
Essential
Third Party Liability Insurance
Covers damages or injuries to others and their property.
Usually included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
€4-9/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Cyprus. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$87,495.74

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$87,495.74

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money When Renting a Car in Cyprus

Travelers from Greece planning a trip to Cyprus can follow these tips to ensure they get the best value for their car rental. Planning ahead and being informed can result in significant savings.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Your Rental Early
To secure the best pricing and vehicle availability, book your car at least 2-3 weeks in advance.
Save up to 35%
Compare Multiple Rental Services
Use comparison platforms like RentalCars or AutoEurope to find the most affordable options and offers.
Save up to 20%
Opt for Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Choose rentals with a full-to-full fuel policy to avoid additional charges for fuel. Fill up at local stations for better rates.
Save €15-30 per rental
Avoid Unnecessary Extras
Skip add-ons like GPS or child seats if you can bring your own or use your phone for navigation.
Save €10-50 per rental

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Cyprus.

Extra Fees
Be aware of potential additional charges when renting a car in Cyprus.
- Extra charges for young or senior drivers
- Fees for additional equipment like GPS
- Optional insurance coverage
- Airport pickup surcharges
- Extra fees for multiple drivers
Driving Side and Regulations
Cyprus drives on the left-hand side of the road, which may be unfamiliar to Greek drivers.
- Familiarize yourself with left-hand driving rules
- Understand local traffic signs and symbols
- Be cautious at roundabouts and intersections
- Minimum driving age is usually 21
Fuel Policies
Different fuel return policies may apply, impacting your rental costs.
- Full-to-full policy is often the best value
- Check fuel prices near your drop-off point
- Always confirm fuel type before refueling
- Keep receipts as proof of refueling
Vehicle Condition
Inspect the car thoroughly before leaving the rental location.
- Take photos of any existing damages
- Ensure all lights and indicators are functioning
- Check the tires and windshield condition
- Document the interior cleanliness and condition
Rental Agreement
Review the contract carefully to avoid misunderstandings.
- Understand mileage limitations
- Check for cross-border driving restrictions
- Review cancellation and modification policies
Pickup and Return Times
Timing can affect your rental experience and costs.
- Plan your rental pickup during business hours
- Allow extra time for airport pickups
- Return the vehicle promptly to avoid late fees

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Traffic Rules Differences Between Greece and Cyprus

Traffic regulations in Greece and Cyprus share similarities but also have notable differences, especially in driving orientation, speed limits, and road sign conventions.

Driving Side
CY
Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
GR
Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Speed Limits
CY
Speed limits are usually 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on main roads, and 100 km/h on highways.
GR
Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on main roads, and 130 km/h on highways.
Road Signs
CY
Signs are in English and Greek.
GR
Signs are primarily in Greek.
Child Seats
CY
Mandatory for children under 5 years old.
GR
Mandatory for children under 12 years old.
Mobile Phone Use
CY
Hands-free devices are mandatory.
GR
Hands-free devices are mandatory.
Seatbelts
CY
Mandatory for all occupants.
GR
Mandatory for all occupants.
Parking Rules
CY
Parking is regulated with time and fee restrictions in busy areas.
GR
Parking is regulated with time and fee restrictions in busy areas.
Remember
- • Always carry your driving license, insurance documents, and car rental agreement.
- • Adhere to local traffic laws to avoid fines.
- • Be aware of local speed limit variations and road signs.
- • In Cyprus, be especially cautious transitioning to left-side driving.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Greece renting a car in Cyprus

How far in advance should I book a rental car in Cyprus?

It’s highly recommended to book at least 1-2 months in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (June–September) and Easter. Early booking ensures better vehicle selection (especially automatics) and lower prices.

How can I find the best and most transparent car rental prices in Cyprus?

Use a professional car rental comparison platform such as QEEQ. It aggregates offers from major international brands and reputable local suppliers, clearly displaying all inclusions and extra fees so you can easily find the best value.

What type of car is best to rent in Cyprus?

If you’re staying mainly in coastal cities, a small economy car is sufficient and easy to park. For exploring mountainous regions like Troodos or Akamas Peninsula, a compact SUV with higher ground clearance is recommended.

Should I rent an automatic or manual car in Cyprus?

Automatic is strongly recommended! Cyprus drives on the left, with right-hand drive cars. For Greek drivers used to left-hand drive, automatics reduce the stress of adapting to new road conditions.

Is it better to pick up the rental car at the airport or in the city?

Airport pickup (Larnaca LCA or Paphos PFO) is most convenient and often the most cost-effective when you factor in time and transport costs. City locations may sometimes be a bit cheaper, but usually not worth the hassle.

Does Cyprus support one-way rentals? What does it cost?

Yes. Most companies allow you to pick up and drop off at different cities or airports. There’s usually a one-way fee of €25–50, clearly displayed during booking.

Do I need to rent a GPS device in Cyprus?

Not necessary. Smartphone navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze work very well. You can use a local SIM or your Greek EU roaming plan. Rental company GPS units are costly and less practical.

How do I reserve a child safety seat for my rental car?

During booking, select your required child seat type (infant, toddler, booster) in the ‘add-ons’ section. Book early to ensure availability; fees are usually charged per day with a maximum cap.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with my Greek license in Cyprus?

No. Greek and Cypriot licenses are mutually recognized within the EU. Your valid Greek (card format) license is fully accepted by all rental companies in Cyprus.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Cyprus?

Usually 21 years old with at least one year of driving experience. Some companies require 25+ for premium categories.

Are there any young or senior driver surcharges?

Yes. Drivers aged 21–24 typically incur a young driver surcharge. Some companies also charge extra or require additional insurance for drivers over 70 or 75.

What documents do I need to present when picking up my rental car?

You must show your passport or national ID, a valid Greek driver’s license, and a credit card (in the main driver’s name) for payment and deposit. Debit cards or third-party cards are not accepted.

How do I add an additional driver to my rental contract?

The extra driver must be present at pickup with their passport and license. An additional daily fee (usually €3–7) applies.

Is using euros for rental and payments in Cyprus as easy as in Greece?

Yes. Cyprus uses the euro, and all Greek euro bank cards and credit cards work seamlessly.

What does Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) included in my rental mean?

CDW limits your liability for damage to a set excess amount (e.g., €800). It’s not full insurance; you’re responsible for the excess if there’s an accident.

What is ‘excess’ and should I buy extra insurance to cover it?

Excess is the maximum amount you pay out-of-pocket for damage. It’s usually €600–1500. Buying full coverage or zero-excess insurance is strongly advised so you don’t pay anything unless excluded by terms.

Where is it best to buy extra insurance for a rental car in Cyprus?

Best value is via your booking platform (like QEEQ), which offers comprehensive coverage at lower rates than rental counters, with equal or broader protection.

What is typically NOT covered by standard or full insurance?

Tires, wheels, glass, roof, undercarriage, loss of keys, and damage from off-road driving, alcohol, or drugs are usually excluded.

What is the best fuel policy to choose when renting a car?

Always select ‘Full to Full’—pick up and return with a full tank. Avoid ‘Full to Empty,’ as prepaid fuel is overpriced.

How much is the security deposit, and when is it released?

Deposits typically range from €300–1200, blocked on your credit card. If you buy zero-excess insurance, it may be much lower or zero. The hold is released 1–2 weeks after return.

What hidden costs should I watch out for?

Look out for airport surcharges, out-of-hours fees, young/senior driver fees, extra driver charges, and possible environmental taxes. Good platforms like QEEQ list all fees transparently.

Can I drive my rental car into Northern Cyprus? Are there extra fees?

Most southern Cyprus rental companies prohibit this. If allowed, you’ll pay a costly cross-border fee and must buy separate Northern Cyprus insurance, as southern coverage is void in the north.

How do I find my rental company’s counter at the airport?

Major brands (Hertz, Sixt) have desks inside arrival halls at Larnaca and Paphos airports. Others provide free shuttle buses to nearby offices. Your booking voucher will specify the location.

How long does the pickup process take at the airport?

In high season, expect 30–60 minutes for queuing and paperwork. Allow extra time, and inform the company if your flight is delayed.

What should I check when inspecting my rental car?

Take detailed photos/videos of the car’s exterior, interior, and any existing damage. Confirm all damage is marked on the contract diagram. Check tires, spare, and tools.

What information should I verify before signing the contract?

Check personal details, rental dates, model, total price, insurance coverage, and excess amounts. Decline unwanted upsells unless you genuinely need them.

What should I do before driving off in my rental car?

Familiarize yourself with controls, seat position, mirrors, and the location of the handbrake and gear lever. Remember, Cyprus cars are right-hand drive; take it slow at first.

What if the rental company offers a different car than I booked?

You should receive a free upgrade if your model is unavailable. If given a downgrade, ask for a refund of the price difference or refuse the car.

How hard is it for a Greek driver to adapt to left-side driving in Cyprus?

It’s Cyprus’s biggest driving challenge but most adapt after a few hours. Tips: rent an automatic, consciously repeat ‘keep left,’ and take extra care at roundabouts and intersections.

How do driving habits in Cyprus differ from Greece?

Cypriot and Greek driving styles are similar—Mediterranean and assertive. Cypriots tend to be a bit more orderly, especially in rural areas. Roundabout use is more systematic in Cyprus.

Are road signs in Cyprus in Greek or English?

All road signs in Cyprus are bilingual in Greek and English, making navigation easy for Greek visitors.

What are the main speed limits in Cyprus?

Unless posted otherwise: Motorways 100 km/h (min 65 km/h), rural roads 80 km/h, urban areas 50 km/h. Speed cameras are common and fines are strict.

What are the rules for roundabouts in Cyprus?

Give way to vehicles already in the roundabout (look right). Enter clockwise. Use the outer lane for early exits and inner lanes for later exits, merging to the outer lane before leaving.

What parking rules should I know in Cyprus?

Yellow lines mean no parking. White-lined spaces are usually free; blue-lined require payment at nearby machines. Illegal parking incurs heavy fines.

Are drink-driving laws stricter than in Greece?

Yes. Cyprus has a lower alcohol limit (0.22 mg/l breath or 0.5 g/l blood). New drivers and professionals have even stricter limits. It’s best to avoid alcohol completely when driving.

Is it legal to use your phone while driving in Cyprus?

Absolutely prohibited. Handheld phone use while driving is illegal and punished with heavy fines and points. Only hands-free devices are permitted.

What is the condition of roads in Cyprus? Is mountain driving safe?

Main highways and city roads are excellent. Mountain roads (Troodos) are winding but well surfaced. In winter, high-altitude areas may require snow tires or 4WD—check weather updates.

Why do many rental cars in Cyprus have red number plates?

Red plates indicate a rental vehicle. This helps locals recognize you’re a visitor and may lead to more patience and consideration on the road.

What should I do if I have a car accident in Cyprus?

Stay calm. Ensure safety, call emergency services (112) if needed, photograph the scene, don’t move the car unless blocking traffic, notify the rental company, exchange info with other drivers, and await instructions.

What if my rental car breaks down or won’t start?

Call the 24-hour roadside assistance number provided by your rental company. They’ll dispatch help for repairs or towing.

Can I take my rental car into Northern Cyprus (the Turkish-occupied area)?

It’s strongly discouraged and usually forbidden. Almost all southern Cyprus rental insurance becomes void across the Green Line, making you fully liable for any incident.

What’s the safest way to visit Northern Cyprus?

Park your southern Cyprus rental near the Nicosia border checkpoint, cross on foot, and rent a car or use taxis on the north side.

How should I handle traffic or parking fines received in Cyprus?

Pay fines promptly at local authorities or online. Ignoring fines results in your rental company charging your credit card plus a hefty admin fee.

What if I lose or lock the car keys inside the rental?

Call the rental company’s emergency number immediately. Lost keys are expensive to replace (often several hundred euros) and not usually covered by standard insurance.

Can I extend my rental period while in Cyprus?

Yes, but you must notify the rental company 24–48 hours in advance. They’ll recalculate the price based on current rates and availability.

What is the standard procedure for returning a rental car?

Return the car to the designated location, where staff will inspect the vehicle, mileage, and fuel. Allow 15–20 minutes. For airport returns, arrive at least 3 hours before your flight.

Where should I refuel before returning the car?

Fill the tank within 5–10 km of the return point and keep the receipt as proof. Staff may request to see it to confirm you refueled properly.

What happens if I return the car late?

Most companies have a 30–59 minute grace period. Beyond that, you’ll likely be charged for an extra day. Always notify the company if you expect to be late.

When will my deposit be released after returning the car?

The release depends on your bank, but most companies process the release immediately after return. It may take 5–15 business days to appear on your account.

Why was there a new charge from the rental company weeks after I returned the car?

This is likely due to a delayed traffic or parking fine plus an admin fee. Contact the company for a copy of the fine. To avoid disputes, always document the car’s condition at pickup and return.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Cyprus for Greek Travelers

Planning a journey across the beautiful landscapes of Cyprus? Whether you're heading to the famed beaches or exploring its rich cultural heritage, renting a car can enrich your travel experience.If you're traveling from Greece, you might wonder:

Can Greek Citizens Drive in Italy with a Rental Car?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Greek Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Cyprus?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money When Renting a Car in Cyprus

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Traffic Rules Differences Between Greece and Cyprus

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Planning a journey across the beautiful landscapes of Cyprus? Whether you're heading to the famed beaches or exploring its rich cultural heritage, renting a car can enrich your travel experience.
If you're traveling from Greece, you might wonder: