Cyprus is an island nation located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, situated in West Asia. Known for it beautiful beaches, natural beauty, rich medieval and Ottoman architecture, and archaeological sites. It is even the third largest and third most populous island in the Mediterranean, after Sicily and Sardinia. The island is actually split into two countries; The Republic of Cyprus (the south side), and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
The Republic of Cyprus is a member of the European Union since 2004, and is recognized internationally as a sovereign state, with a mix of Greek and Turkish cultural influences, despite the majority population being Greek Cypriot. And Northern Cyprus is a de facto state that declared independence in 1983, and recognised only by Türkiye. The area is administered by Turkish Cypriots, with strong political, economic, and military ties to Türkiye.
Both nations share the same capital, Nicosia, but is divided by the UN-patrolled Green Line. Known for landmarks like Selimiye Mosque (formerly St. Sophia Cathedral), Ledra Street (a historic and modern shopping street that crosses both sides of the city), and the Old City that's still still surrounded by Venetian walls (from the 16th century) in a star-shaped layout. The city is the symbol of the ongoing division of Cyprus. And though simple border crossings (with a passport) exist between the two sides, and their relations have improved over the years, the island remains politically divided ever since 1974, following a Turkish military intervention triggered by a Greek-led coup.
UTC+2 daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October.
Earthquakes, forest fires, and violent storms.
Fines for traffic and other violations differ in both countries. For the Republic of Cyprus:
Gaining 12 points leads to licence suspension for 6 months, with points staying on record for 2 – 3 years. Drivers have around 15 - 30 days to pay for fines. After 15 days, fine increases by 50%, and after 30 – 45 days, case may go to court and affect future travel or rentals. Rental agencies often receive camera fines and may charge you later, sometimes with additional admin fees.
And for Northern Cyprus;
Eating or drinking while driving is also prohibited in Northern Cyprus, but there is no specific amount a fine would be for it. Fines must be paid within 15 days, or they double. After 30 days, court action is taken.
The official languages of Cyprus are Greek and Turkish, but for Northern Cyprus, it's just Turkish.
Driving is on the left-hand side for both countries, as well as UK driving licences being accepted without needing an International Driving Permit (up to 30 days), unless drivers have a paper licence. Visits longer than 30 days would require an IDP too. The minimum driving age for both is 18, but the renting age is 21, with some rental companies requiring drivers to be older, held their licence for 1 - 3 years, and/or drivers under 25 to pay a 'young driver fee'.
Rentals in the south include basic third-party insurance, which you can add CDW or super CDW to reduce your excess (Deposits usually range from €300 to €1,000), and most would prohibit taking their vehicles into the North (If allowed, you’d need to purchase additional third-party insurance; often available at the border for about €20). On the other hand, renting in the north is straightforward and often cheaper, with delivery services to hotels or border points. But crossing into the South is generally not permitted for rental vehicles. If you drive your own car or a rented car across the border, you must purchase separate insurance at the checkpoint. This is mandatory and processed via a simple form; passports may not always be stamped. Avoid crossing rental cars unless explicitly allowed and insured.
The south has well-maintained roads and good signage in Greek and English. As for the north, main roads are generally in good condition, but rural and mountain roads can be narrow, uneven, or steep—especially in scenic areas like the Karpaz Peninsula. Therefore, caution and defensive driving is advised.
Gasoline (95 octane and 97 octane) and Euro Diesel are common. Fuel prices are typically cheaper in Northern Cyprus than in the south, and in Cyprus, some stations have automatic pumps, but cash is often needed in more rural areas.
The legal limit is 0.05% (0.00% for professional drivers, and drivers under 25).
When driving, all passengers including driver must be wearing seatbelts.
When travelling, children under 12 years old or under 150cm in height must use an appropriate child restraint system, which includes car seats and booster seats.