Last updated: April 2026
Why Rent a Car in Paphos?
Paphos's harbour area and the UNESCO-listed archaeological park are walkable, with the central Kato Paphos tourist area concentrated within a few blocks. The case for a rental from Paphos is reaching the rest of western Cyprus: the Akamas Peninsula's wild beaches and gorges, the Troodos mountain villages (90 minutes east), the Aphrodite cultural sites at Kouklia, and the wine villages of the Krasochoria region.
🏆 Top Drive from Paphos
Akamas Peninsula — Blue Lagoon and Avakas Gorge — this is the drive that makes renting a car in Paphos truly worthwhile.
Compare Car Rental Providers in Paphos
Paphos airport serves western Cyprus and has a slightly smaller rental market than Larnaca. Local Cypriot agencies, available through platforms like Localrent, typically offer the island's best rates.
| Provider | Coverage | Best For | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Localrent.com | 50+ countries, strongest in Europe, Turk... | Budget-conscious travelers who want the lowest pri... | Check Prices |
| Economybookings.com | 160+ countries, 50,000+ pickup locations... | Travelers who want to compare the widest range of ... | Check Prices |
| QEEQ | ~200 countries, strongest in Europe, Nor... | Tech-savvy travelers who want a modern booking exp... | Check Prices |
Driving Tips for Paphos
Cyprus drives on the left — opposite to most European visitors' expectations. Motorway limits are 100 km/h, with 80 km/h on the rural roads heading north to Latsi and the Akamas Peninsula. Fuel costs about €1.55/L. Petrol stations are sparse west of Polis, so fill up before exploring the wilder coastal areas.
Local tip: Paphos's central tourist area has paid parking at the harbour and near the archaeological park. Free parking is available at the larger lots away from the tourist core.
Best Time to Visit & Drive in Paphos, Cyprus
Paphos rental prices peak during the European summer holidays from late June through early September, with August being the most expensive month. The optimal driving windows for the Akamas Peninsula, the Troodos mountain villages, and the Aphrodite cultural route are April through June and September through October. The cheapest months are November through February when daily rates can drop below €15. Easter (Orthodox dates) sees a significant local spike. The Paphos Aphrodite Festival in early September fills central hotels but doesn't dramatically affect rentals. Cypriot winter weather is generally mild but the Troodos mountains can have snow from December through March — request winter tyres if heading inland. Avoid the temptation to drive into the Cyprus border zone toward the Turkish-occupied north — most rental insurance is voided if you cross the Green Line. The drive to Latchi and the Akamas is best in April–May when wildflowers bloom.
Car Hire at Paphos Airport (PFO)
Paphos International Airport (PFO) is smaller than Larnaca but serves direct flights from the UK and northern Europe. Rental desks line the arrivals hall, with about 8 brands competing. Local operators like Petsas and Astra dominate this airport and typically offer the best Paphos-specific rates with deeper local road knowledge than international brands.