Car Hire
🚗Hiring a Car in North Cyprus: Everything You Need to Know
🌞 Visiting North Cyprus offers a unique travel experience – unspoiled beaches, charming villages, historic castles, and stunning mountain scenery. While taxis and local buses exist, the best way to explore the island’s hidden gems is by hiring a car. Here’s your complete guide to renting a car in North Cyprus.
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🚗Why Hire a Car in North Cyprus?
• Freedom to Explore.
• Visit remote beaches, mountain monasteries, and traditional villages at your own pace.
• Affordable Costs – Car hire in North Cyprus is generally cheaper than in the south.
• Scenic Drives – The coastal and mountain roads are breathtaking and perfect for leisurely drives.
• Limited Public Transport – Public buses are infrequent and don’t always reach popular tourist spots.
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📋Driving Rules in North Cyprus
• Drive on the Left: Just like in the UK.
• Valid Driving Licence: Visitors can use their home licence for up to 90 days.
• Seatbelts: Mandatory for all passengers.
• Speed Limits:
o 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns
o 65 km/h (40 mph) on open roads
o 100 km/h (62 mph) on dual carriageways
• No Mobile Phones: Unless you have a hands-free device.
• Alcohol Limit: 0.05% – stricter than many European countries.
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👩⚕️Car Hire Requirements
• Minimum Age: Usually 25 years old (some companies allow 21+ with surcharge).
• Documents Needed: Passport and valid driving licence.
• Deposit: Often required by credit card.
• Insurance: Basic insurance is included, but full cover is highly recommended.
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⚠️Can You Take a North Cyprus Hire Car to the South?
This is one of the most common questions. In most cases, hire cars from North Cyprus cannot be driven into the Republic of Cyprus (South Cyprus) because insurance is not valid there. If you plan to cross the border:
• You must purchase additional insurance at the crossing point (approx. €25-€50).
• Always check with your rental company first – some strictly forbid crossing.
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📌Popular Car Hire Locations
• Ercan International Airport – Many visitors arrange a rental car for pickup on arrival.
• Girne – The main tourist hub with plenty of rental options.
• Famagusta & Lefkoşa – Also have local agencies available.
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📝Tips for Hiring a Car in North Cyprus
• Book in Advance: Prices are lower, and you’ll have more choice.
• Choose Air Conditioning: Summers can be very hot.
• Check for Hidden Fees: Ask about fuel policies, mileage limits, and insurance.
• Inspect the Car: Take photos before driving away to avoid disputes.
• Consider Automatic Cars: Mountain roads can be steep and winding.
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📋Terms and Conditions of renting a car in Northern Cyprus:
o Prices do not normally include collision damage waiver (CDW)
o Additional drivers are not normally included
o Minimum booking is usually 3 days for pickup and drop off at apartments
o Minimum booking is usually 7 days for pickup and drop off at the
o Car hire is billed in 24 hour periods
o If you arrive at night, book your car from 10 am the following morning
o Cars are generally picked up and dropped off at around 10 am
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🌸Driving in North Cyprus
Similar to driving in the UK in as much as speed limits are approximately the same on conversion - 100KPH on the motorway; 50KPH in town; 65KPH limit on the approach to junctions; and the use of speed cameras is countrywide. Speeding fines are heavy. Drunken driving is not tolerated and anyone failing a breath test may well spend the night in the local police station. Seat belts are compulsory for drivers and front-seat passengers.
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✨Final Thoughts
Hiring a car in North Cyprus is the best way to truly experience the island. From the golden sands of the Karpaz Peninsula to the mountain trails of Kyrenia, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to discover at your own pace. Just remember to drive carefully, follow local rules, and enjoy the journey.