Paphos International Airport (PFO) sits on Cyprus’s western coast, perfectly positioned for exploring one of the Mediterranean’s most historically rich corners. Ancient ruins, Byzantine monasteries, stunning beaches, and mountain villages are all within reach — if you have your own transport. Public buses cover the basics, but they won’t get you to those remote beaches or hilltop tavernas visitors rave about.
We’ve arranged car hire at Paphos Airport for thousands of travellers, and the formula is simple: compare all the major rental companies, show you exactly what you’re paying, no hidden fees at the counter. Book beforehand, land, collect keys, drive. That’s how it should work.
Why Rent a Car at Paphos Airport
Cyprus is a compact island — you can drive from one end to the other in under three hours. But compact doesn’t mean everything is within walking distance. Paphos itself has archaeological sites scattered across several kilometres, and the best beaches and villages require wheels. The A6 motorway connects Paphos directly to Limassol and the rest of the southern coast, making road trips straightforward.
Cyprus drives on the left — same as the UK — which eases the transition for many visitors. Road quality is generally good on main routes, though rural lanes can be narrow and winding. Having your own vehicle means you can explore at your pace, stop where the view catches your eye, and discover places the tour buses skip.
What the Airport Offers
Paphos Airport is modern and manageable — one terminal, straightforward signage. After collecting your luggage, the car rental desks are easily found in the Arrivals area. Most major providers operate here: Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, Sixt, plus local Cypriot companies. The airport sits about 15 minutes from Paphos town centre and connects directly to the A6 motorway heading east.
Top Destinations from Paphos Airport
Once you’ve picked up your keys, these are the destinations most visitors prioritise:
Paphos Town & Harbour (10 km, 15-20 minutes)
Closest to the airport and packed with history. The UNESCO-listed Archaeological Park houses Roman mosaics that rank among the finest in the eastern Mediterranean. The harbour area offers waterside restaurants, the medieval castle, and boat trips. Parking can be challenging in summer — use the large car park near the Tombs of the Kings Road and walk in, or find street parking along the coastal road early in the day.
Tombs of the Kings (2 km from harbour, 5 minutes from centre)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s genuinely worth the visit. These underground tombs date back to the 4th century BC, carved from solid rock. The name is slightly misleading — no kings were buried here, but Paphitic aristocrats and officials. The site sprawls across a coastal headland with sea views. It’s on the road to Coral Bay, making it easy to combine both in a single trip. Admission is around €4.50.
Coral Bay (15 km, 15-20 minutes)
The most popular beach near Paphos, with a sweeping sandy bay backed by restaurants and bars. The water is calm and shallow — ideal for families. Arrive before 10am in peak season or the car park fills completely. The coastal drive takes you past the Tombs of the Kings on the way, so it’s an easy detour. Coral Bay is also the jumping-off point for the Akamas Peninsula if you want to venture further into relatively untouched terrain.
Aphrodite’s Rock — Petra tou Romiou (25 km, 25-30 minutes)
According to legend, this is where Aphrodite rose from the sea foam. Whether you buy the mythology or not, the setting is spectacular — a sea stack rising from turquoise water against white cliffs. There’s a pebble beach for swimming (though stones underfoot make water shoes advisable). The adjacent restaurant claims to serve the best seafood on the island. Parking is free but fills by midday in summer. Go early or late for the best experience.
Limassol (65 km, 45-50 minutes via A6)
Cyprus’s second city offers a contrast to Paphos — bigger, louder, more cosmopolitan. The old town centres around Limassol Castle (where Richard the Lionheart allegedly married Berengaria of Navarre). The marina promenade is lined with restaurants, and the city’s nightlife scene stretches along the coastal road. The drive from Paphos takes you past vineyards and orchards — the foothills of the Troodos mountains that produce some of Cyprus’s best wines.
Troodos Mountains (70-90 km, 90 minutes)
If you want to escape the coast, the Troodos offer forested roads, Byzantine churches with world-famous frescoes, and stone villages where time seems to pause. Kykkos Monastery is the most visited, with gold-leaf icons and a museum of religious artifacts. The village of Kakopetria, with its preserved old quarter, makes an atmospheric lunch stop. Mountain roads are well-surfaced but winding — take your time. In winter, these same roads lead to Mount Olympus (the ski resort, not the Greek one).
Nicosia — The Divided Capital (150 km, 90 minutes)
The world’s last divided capital straddles the Green Line between Greek Cypriot south and Turkish Cypriot north. You can cross on foot at Ledra Street — bring your passport. The old city walls built by the Venetians enclose museums, markets, and restaurants. Parking near the city centre requires patience; use the municipal car parks outside the walls and walk in.
Driving in Cyprus: Practical Tips
Cyprus drives on the left. For UK visitors, that’s straightforward. For everyone else, take a moment to adjust before merging onto the motorway. The basics:
Speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on open roads, 100 km/h on motorways. Speed cameras are common, and fines arrive via rental companies who add administrative fees.
Road quality: Main roads and motorways are excellent. Rural roads vary — some are newly surfaced, others crumbling around the edges. Watch for potholes after winter rains. Lane markings can be faded on secondary routes.
Local driving style: Cypriot drivers have a reputation for assertiveness. Lane discipline isn’t always observed. Horns are communication. Don’t take it personally, and don’t imitate — rental cars have distinctive red plates and are easily spotted by locals and police alike.
Mountain roads: The route into Troodos involves elevation gain and hairpin bends. Drive cautiously, especially on weekends when locals head for picnic spots. If you’re not comfortable driving mountain roads, consider a day tour instead.
Parking
Paphos town and Coral Bay have metered parking in peak season. Beaches fill by late morning. Municipal car parks charge reasonable rates — often €2-3 per day. Don’t park on yellow lines; clamping happens and it’s expensive.
Crossing to Northern Cyprus
You can drive to the north, but your insurance from the Republic of Cyprus won’t cover you. You’ll need to purchase additional insurance at the border crossing. Many rental companies prohibit taking their vehicles north — check your contract before attempting it. Easiest option: park near a checkpoint and walk across for a day trip.
Picking Up Your Rental at Paphos Airport
The car rental desks are in the Arrivals hall after baggage claim. Have these ready before approaching the counter:
- Driving licence: UK/EU licences are accepted. Others may need an International Driving Permit with an official stamp. Check requirements before travel.
- Passport: Required for documentation purposes.
- Credit card: Must be in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.
- Booking voucher: Your reservation confirmation with the rental details.
Vehicle inspection: Before driving off, check the car thoroughly. Photograph any existing scratches, dents, chips on paintwork. Note them on the contract. Cyprus roads throw up dust and stone chips — documenting everything protects you from disputed charges later.
Fuel policy: Most rentals operate full-to-full. Return the car with the same fuel level or pay premium rates for the company to refuel. Gas stations near the airport charge more — fill up in Paphos town before returning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit for Cyprus?
UK and EU driving licences are accepted without additional documentation. If your licence was issued outside these areas, you’ll need an International Driving Permit. Some rental companies require the IDP regardless — check your booking terms.
Can I drive into Northern Cyprus with a rental car?
Only if your rental agreement specifically permits it, and you purchase additional insurance at the border crossing. Many companies forbid taking vehicles to the north entirely. If you’re planning to explore both sides, verify this before booking.
What’s the driving like in Paphos town?
The centre gets congested in summer. Parking is limited. The one-way system can catch you out if you’re not watching signs. Best approach: park at the Tombs of the Kings area or near the harbour car parks, then walk. The archaeological park is easily reached on foot from either.
Are automatics available in Cyprus?
Yes, but manual transmission is the default and automatics command premium prices. If you can’t drive manual, book an automatic well in advance — they’re limited in the rental fleet.
Is it worth driving to Troodos from Paphos?
Absolutely, if you enjoy mountain scenery and quiet villages. The drive takes about 90 minutes each way, so it’s a full day commitment. You can combine it with winery visits — commandaria wine from the region is among the world’s oldest named wines. Start early and plan to be back before dark on mountain roads.