Larnaca Airport Car Rental in Cyprus – How to rent a car at Larnaca Airport
Originally known as Khittim, Larnaca, in south-eastern Cyprus, is an ancient port that has embraced the modern to create an eclectic mix of old and new. Along with the nearby Blue Flag beaches, World Heritage sites and the Great Salt Lake, Larnaca has proven to be an irresistible draw for British tourists who regularly top the visitor list. Between 2007 and 2008, the number of tourists traveling to the country increased by 4.4 percent and looks set to grow this year despite the credit crunch as this beatific island continues to offer good value for money.
Of the two main airports in Cyprus, Larnaca International Airport is by far the most popular, with approximately 5.5 million passengers passing through its gates last year. Transfer from Larnaca Airport is possible by bus, taxi or private transfers, although it is advisable to arrange Larnaca Airport car hire if you really want to take advantage of all that this fascinating island has to offer. The good news is that, unlike most other European destinations, Cypriots drive on the left and road signs are presented in both English and Greek, so negotiating the new terrain should prove relatively simple. Since Cyprus is not known for having the best public transportation system, getting around easily is only possible with private vehicles.
Therefore, car rental is a must for those who really want to explore. However, the country makes up for the inadequacy of public transport by having a fantastic road network with four-lane expressways connecting to major cities and well-maintained routes to smaller towns and cities. All roads are free and reaching popular cities like Agia Napa, Protaras or Limassol by car takes only 45-60 minutes. Alternatively, a trip to the magical west coast town of Paphos with its coral reef and archaeological treasures is 1.5 hours. There are 8 car hire companies with offices located at Larnaca Airport Arrivals. Car rental companies at Larnaca Airport are Astra, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Petsas, Sixt and Thrifty.
To drive in Cyprus, the age limit is 18, but most rental companies set a higher age restriction. Very few hire anyone under 21 (or over 72 in some cases) and many add a minimum age surcharge for those under 25. Please be very careful to check exactly what is included in the quoted price when you receive it. This is particularly true for insurance. Many companies will provide basic third party insurance in the quote, but the excess is likely to be high. It’s practical to purchase additional coverage not only to reduce this excess, but also for personal accident insurance, additional damage waiver (for items like tires and windshields), and theft protection waiver.
When driving in Cyprus, there are certain rules that must be followed to ensure safe and uninterrupted passage. As in the UK, seat belts are compulsory for everyone, while children under the age of 5 must be restrained in an appropriate child safety seat in the rear of the car. Older than 5 years and it is feasible for children to sit in the front seat, as long as a child seat belt has been fitted. Mobile phones should not be used while driving, although hands-free units are permitted and horns should not be sounded between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. It is prohibited at any time, however, to do so near a hospital. A very important rule to keep in mind is that smoking is prohibited in a vehicle while carrying a passenger under 16 years of age.