Driving & Road Safety
If you're planning to drive in Cyprus, you're in good company - most residents, including expats, rely on a car for daily life. Whether you're doing school runs, exploring the island, or commuting to work, the roads here are easy to navigate once you get used to a few local quirks.
Here’s everything you need to know about staying safe, legal, and confident behind the wheel in Cyprus.
🛣 Driving Basics: What to Expect
Cyprus drives on the left (great news for Brits!)
Road signs are in Greek and English
Speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour
You’ll find a mix of modern highways, narrow village roads, and the occasional bumpy shortcut
In urban areas, traffic can get busy during school drop-offs and rush hour, but congestion is nowhere near big-city levels.
🚗 Road Rules & Speed Limits
Most road rules are standard and familiar, but enforcement can be inconsistent - so it’s important to drive cautiously and stay alert.
Speed Limits (unless otherwise posted):
Motorways: 100 km/h
Main roads: 65–80 km/h
Urban areas: 50 km/h
Near schools: 30 km/h
Speed cameras are common, and Cyprus has introduced a growing number of fixed and mobile speed traps, especially around Limassol.
👮 Traffic Safety Stats
The number of road fatalities in Cyprus is decreasing year-on-year, thanks to better enforcement and awareness campaigns. In 2023, the country recorded just 33 road deaths—the lowest number ever recorded.
That said, accidents still happen, often due to:
Speeding
Distracted driving (especially mobile use)
Not wearing seatbelts or helmets
🧒 Driving With Children
If you’re driving with kids, here’s what you need to know:
Car seats are mandatory for all children under 150 cm in height
Children under 12 must sit in the back seat
Rear-facing car seats should never be placed in a seat with an active front airbag
💡 Tip: It’s a good idea to bring your own car seat from home - local options can be hit-and-miss in terms of availability and quality.
🛵 Cyclists, Scooters & Motorbikes
In cities like Limassol, you’ll see more people using electric scooters and bikes, but road sharing is still a work in progress.
Cyclists must follow the same rules as cars
Helmets are required but not always enforced
Dedicated bike lanes are limited and often shared with pedestrians
If your child is cycling or scooting regularly, it's worth sticking to parks and coastal paths rather than navigating city traffic.
❗ Common Road Hazards
Sudden U-turns and unannounced lane changes are common
Some village roads are very narrow and have sharp corners
Expect aggressive overtaking on the highway
Flashing headlights often mean “I’m coming through,” not “go ahead”
Defensive driving is key - take your time, stay patient, and don’t assume everyone will follow the rules.
Final Thoughts…
Driving in Cyprus is generally relaxed and straightforward, especially once you get used to the local rhythm. Roads are safe by European standards, and with a bit of caution and confidence, you’ll be cruising around like a local in no time.
Need tips on buying a car? Check out our guide or get in touch - we’re always happy to share real-life insights to make your transition smoother.
