🛫 How to Get There
Getting to and around Cyprus
✈️ Flying to Cyprus
Main Airports
Larnaca International Airport (LCA) - Cyprus's main international gateway, 5km from Larnaca city center. Handles majority of international flights. Modern facilities, duty-free shopping.
Paphos International Airport (PFO) - Located in southwest Cyprus, 15km from Paphos city. Popular for tourists heading to western resort areas. Smaller but efficient.
Both airports operated by Hermes Airports with good connections to Europe and Middle East.
💡 Insider Tip
Flight times: London 4.5h, Athens 2h, Dubai 4h. Book direct flights May-October (peak season). Winter sees fewer options but better prices.
🚌 From Airport to City Center
Larnaca Airport to Larnaca City
Bus: Public buses run between airport and city center. Journey time: 20 minutes. Ticket: €2-3. Frequent service during day.
Taxi: Fixed-price taxis available. Journey time: 15 minutes. Cost: €15-20 to Larnaca city center.
Paphos Airport to Paphos City
Bus: Public bus service to Paphos harbor. Journey time: 30 minutes. Ticket: €3. Regular departures.
Taxi: Airport taxis available 24/7. Journey time: 20 minutes. Cost: €25-35 to Paphos city center.
⛴️ Other Ways In
No ferries to Cyprus from mainland Europe—island too far (80km from Turkey, 380km from Egypt). Flying is only practical option for most travelers.
Northern Cyprus (occupied territory) has separate airports. Avoid flying through Ercan Airport—not recognized internationally. Use Larnaca or Paphos only.
Some cruise ships dock in Limassol. Port located in city center. Easy access to attractions. Day trips possible from cruise terminal.
Cyprus is geographically isolated—no land borders accessible to tourists. Plan your arrival by air only.
🛂 Visa & Entry Requirements
Cyprus is NOT yet in the Schengen Area (joining 2026). US, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and EU passport holders can enter visa-free for tourism up to 90 days.
Important: Cyprus 90 days are SEPARATE from Schengen 90 days—they don't count together. Once Cyprus joins Schengen (expected 2026), rules will change.
Check visa requirements for Cyprus →🚗 Getting Around Cyprus
Intercity Buses
Intercity Buses connects major cities: Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, Ayia Napa. Affordable, reliable. Book tickets at intercity-buses.com
Sample routes: Nicosia↔Limassol (€5-7), Larnaca↔Paphos (€15 via Limassol). Free phone: 8000 77 89.
Car Rental (Recommended)
Cyprus best explored by car. Drive on LEFT side (British legacy). Roads good condition. Mountain villages, beaches, archaeological sites require car.
Rental available at both airports. Major companies: Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Avis. Book online for better rates.
🚗 Driving Tip
Cyprus drives on LEFT. Speed limits: 50 km/h (cities), 80 km/h (rural), 100 km/h (highways). International driving permit recommended but not required for most countries.
🚌 Local Transportation
Local buses operate in major cities (Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos). Infrequent service compared to European cities. Not ideal for tourists without car.
Taxis
- Metered taxis: Available in cities. Starting fare €3.80-4.80, then €0.95/km (day) or €1.10/km (night)
- Ride apps: Bolt operates in major cities. Often cheaper than traditional taxis.
Public transport limited outside cities. Rental car strongly recommended for flexibility.
🚙 Renting a Car
Essential for exploring Cyprus beyond cities. Beaches, Troodos Mountains, wine villages, archaeological sites all require car access.
Things to Know
- Drive on the LEFT side of the road (British system)
- Roads well-maintained, English signage common
- Mountain roads narrow and winding—drive carefully
- Speed cameras common—fines expensive
- Parking free in most areas outside city centers
- Fuel stations plentiful—petrol €1.30-1.50/liter
🌡️ Summer Driving
Cyprus hot in summer (35-40°C July-August). Rent car with air conditioning. Bring water. Avoid midday driving in extreme heat.
🚗 Compare Rental Cars in Cyprus
Compare prices and book your rental car:
💰 Money-Saving Tips
- Book flights early: Best prices 2-3 months advance for summer season
- Use intercity buses: Much cheaper than taxis for city-to-city travel
- Rent car off-airport: City rental locations often €10-20/day cheaper
- Avoid August: Peak prices. Visit May-June or September for lower costs
- Fill tank before airport return: Rental company fuel charges expensive