Getting Around Cyprus: A Complete Transport Guide

No trains in Cyprus

Cyprus has no railway or metro system at all. The last railway closed in 1951. That means your real choices are buses, rental cars, taxis and ride-hailing apps. For most visitors, renting a car is the simplest way to explore the island.

Buses

Public buses are cheap and cover all major towns and resorts. Each district runs its own network: OSEA in Larnaca, EMEL in Limassol, OSYPA in Paphos, and OSEL in Nicosia. A single urban ticket costs around 1.50 euro, a day pass about 5 euro, and night buses a bit more.

• Intercity buses connect Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos and Ayia Napa for roughly 4 to 7 euro.
• Buy tickets from the driver in cash, or use the Motion app in some districts.
• Services thin out in the evening and on Sundays, so check timetables.

Car rental

A car gives you the most freedom, especially for the Troodos Mountains, Akamas Peninsula and remote beaches. Remember:

• Cypriots drive on the left, a legacy of British rule.
• Rental cars carry red number plates.
• Expect 25 to 45 euro per day in low season; more in July and August.
• An EU or international licence is accepted; minimum age is usually 21 to 25.

Motorways (A roads) link the main cities and are toll-free. Speeds are in km/h.

Taxis and ride apps

Urban taxis are metered. For app-based rides, Bolt operates in Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos, and is usually cheaper than flagging a cab. Uber is not active in Cyprus. Shared (service) taxis run fixed routes between cities at budget prices.

Crossing to the north

You can cross to Northern Cyprus on foot or by car at checkpoints such as Ledra Street in Nicosia. Note that rental insurance from the south often does not cover the north, so check before driving across.

Practical tips

• Distances are short: Larnaca to Paphos is under two hours by car.
• Fuel stations may close on Sundays in villages; fill up in towns.
• Download offline maps before heading into Troodos, where signal can drop.

Stay connected in Cyprus

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online for maps, translation and bookings across the island with no roaming fees. Activate it before you land and arrive ready to navigate.