We have successfully returned from Cyprus, and all our pre-departure questions have been answered. Now we can share our insights with you. Today's first topic will be about driving and car rental in Cyprus and Northern Cyprus.
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First, if you're going to Cyprus or Northern Cyprus, you need to understand that the steering wheel is on the right side, and you drive on the left.
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We flew via Istanbul and landed in Northern Cyprus, at Ercan Airport, a new airport only 2 years old.
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Car rental will be cheaper in cities than at the airport, but the cheaper the car you find, the worse condition it will be in. For example, we rented a car for 35 EUR per day, and the automatic gearbox only had 3rd gear, but they said it's still drivable...
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If you're not yet used to driving on the other side and don't want to risk driving yourself on the first day, a Latvian guy can help you. He will take you anywhere in his own car. If you want his contact details, feel free to send a private message.
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But I recommend not being afraid for too long. All rental cars have red license plates, while locals have white ones. This is so you can be careful around the red plates and not get angry at tourists.
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In Northern Cyprus, in my experience, drivers are the most cultured in the world. You are always given way, let out from a less significant road, or given priority in a narrow spot. The driving culture here is truly remarkably polite.
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I haven't seen so many fancy cars, especially Mercedes, even in any European city.
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Fuel in Northern Cyprus costs around 1.00 Eur per liter, but in Cyprus, it's similar to the rest of Europe.
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You can park cars on the street and not worry about getting a fine because parking on the street is free everywhere there.
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But if you do choose paid parking, the most we paid was 2 EUR for the whole day!
