Welcome to Cyprus, the jewel of the Mediterranean! If you’ve just landed at Larnaca International Airport (LCA) and your destination is the stunning coastal resort of Protaras, you’re in for a treat. This guide, brought to you by Larnaca Car Hire, your trusted partner for car hire Larnaca and rent a car Cyprus, will walk you through everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable drive. From navigating the roads to finding the best car rental Cyprus experience, we’ve got you covered.
At Larnaca Car Hire, part of the reputable LCH Group, we pride ourselves on a British standard of quality and service, deeply rooted in our family’s heritage in the UK car industry. We’re not a faceless aggregator; we’re a local, family-run business dedicated to personal service, ensuring your journey from the moment you land to your arrival in Protaras is seamless and stress-free. Let’s get you on the road!
Why Choose Car Hire Larnaca for Your Protaras Journey?
While taxis are available, opting for car hire Larnaca Airport offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility. Protaras is approximately 65-70 km from Larnaca, and the drive typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and your specific Protaras destination. Having your own vehicle means:
- Freedom to Explore: Discover hidden coves, traditional villages, and scenic viewpoints at your own pace.
- Convenience: No waiting for transfers or adhering to bus schedules. Pick up your luggage, collect your keys from Larnaca Car Hire, and you’re off!
- Cost-Effectiveness: Especially for families or groups, a car rental Larnaca often works out cheaper than multiple taxi fares or restrictive tours.
- Comfort: Enjoy air-conditioned comfort, perfect for Cyprus’s warm climate, especially if you opt for an automatic car hire Larnaca.
Our fleet, from economic models perfect for cheap car hire Larnaca to luxury car hire Larnaca options and even 7 seater hire Cyprus for larger groups, is meticulously maintained at our sister company, Larnaca Car Service Centre. This ensures every vehicle you rent meets the highest safety and reliability standards – a British commitment to quality you can trust.
The Route from Larnaca Airport to Protaras: Step-by-Step
The drive from Larnaca International Airport (LCA) to Protaras is straightforward, predominantly on modern highways. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Exiting Larnaca International Airport
- After collecting your luggage and clearing customs, follow signs for ‘Exit’ and then ‘Motorway’ or ‘A3’.
- Our friendly team at Larnaca Car Hire will be waiting for you, making your Larnaca airport car hire pickup swift and hassle-free. We’ll guide you directly to your clean, well-maintained vehicle.
2. Joining the A3 Motorway
- From the airport exit, you’ll join a small road (B4) leading to the main A3 motorway. Follow signs towards ‘Ayia Napa’ or ‘Paralimni’.
- The A3 is a well-maintained dual carriageway. The speed limit is generally 100 km/h (approx. 62 mph), dropping to 65 km/h in certain areas.
3. The Scenic Drive East
- You’ll stay on the A3 for the majority of your journey. This road takes you eastward, past a few smaller towns and scenic agricultural landscapes.
- Keep an eye out for clear road signage indicating ‘Ayia Napa’ and ‘Paralimni’. Protaras is located just beyond Ayia Napa, forming part of the Paralimni municipality.
4. Approaching Ayia Napa and Protaras
- As you approach Ayia Napa, the motorway will offer several exits. You will continue straight, following signs for Paralimni/Protaras.
- The A3 effectively becomes a bypass around Ayia Napa. You’ll then see signs specifically for ‘Protaras’ or ‘Paralimni’.
5. Arriving in Protaras
- Once you take the exit for Protaras, you’ll be on a smaller, well-marked road that leads directly into the heart of the resort.
- From here, follow local signs to your hotel or accommodation. Navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze are highly recommended and work perfectly across Cyprus.
Essential Tips for Driving in Cyprus
Driving in Cyprus is generally easy, especially with our reliable car hire Cyprus vehicles. Here are a few pointers from the local experts at Larnaca Car Hire:
- Drive on the Left: Just like in the UK, traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road. This makes driving intuitive for our British customers and easy to adapt to for others.
- Seatbelts: Mandatory for all passengers.
- Mobile Phones: Use of handheld mobile phones while driving is illegal.
- Speed Limits: Generally 100 km/h on motorways, 80 km/h outside urban areas, and 50 km/h in built-up areas. Always watch for signage.
- Parking: Plenty of parking is available in Protaras, often free or paid at nominal rates.
- Fuel: Unleaded 95 and 98 octane are widely available. Many petrol stations have attendants during the day, with self-service options (cash or card) after hours.
Our commitment to transparent pricing means no hidden fees, offering you truly cheap car hire Larnaca without compromising on quality. And for those looking for car hire Cyprus no deposit options, we offer flexible terms to suit your needs.
Beyond Protaras: Exploring with Your Rental Car
Having a hire car Cyprus from Larnaca Car Hire opens up a world of exploration. From Protaras, you can easily visit:
- Cape Greco National Forest Park: Stunning sea caves, natural bridges, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling.
- Ayia Napa: Just a short drive away, offering vibrant nightlife, Nissi Beach, and the historic Ayia Napa Monastery.
- Paralimni: The administrative centre, with traditional churches and local shops.
- Larnaca Town: Explore Finikoudes Beach, Larnaca Salt Lake (with flamingos in winter), and Saint Lazarus Church. Thinking of staying longer? Perhaps you’re even considering buying a car for a more permanent stay? Visit our sister site, Larnaca Car Sales, for premium pre-owned vehicles.
- Further Afield: With options like one way car rental Cyprus, you could even plan a trip to Paphos or the Troodos Mountains.
FAQs about Car Hire Larnaca and Driving to Protaras
How much does car hire in Larnaca typically cost?
The cost for car hire Larnaca varies significantly based on vehicle type, rental duration (e.g., monthly car rental Larnaca or daily), season, and booking in advance. At Larnaca Car Hire, we offer competitive rates starting from as little as €20-€30 per day for economy models during off-peak seasons, with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. Always check our website for the latest car hire deals Larnaca.
Is it difficult to find parking in Protaras?
Generally, no. Protaras offers ample parking, especially near beaches, hotels, and main attractions. During peak summer months (July-August), popular spots might fill up quickly, but you’ll usually find paid or free alternatives within a short walk. Your rent a car Larnaca will make navigating Protaras a breeze.
Do I need an international driving permit for car rental in Cyprus?
If your driving licence is from an EU country, the UK, or several other nations, your national licence is usually sufficient for car rental Cyprus. However, if your licence is not in English or a commonly understood language, an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your national licence is recommended or may be required. Always confirm with Larnaca Car Hire or local authorities if unsure.
Can I get an automatic car hire in Larnaca?
Absolutely! Larnaca Car Hire offers a wide selection of vehicles, including many automatic models. We understand the preference for automatic car hire Larnaca for ease of driving, especially for those accustomed to automatic transmissions or driving on the right side of the road. We recommend booking your automatic vehicle in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Your Journey Starts with Larnaca Car Hire
Driving from Larnaca Airport to Protaras is the perfect start to your Cypriot adventure, and with Larnaca Car Hire, you’re choosing local expertise, British standards of service, and a truly personal touch. We are THE go-to, most trusted local car hire company in Larnaca, offering everything from SUV hire Larnaca to the most economical options.
Ready to explore the beautiful east coast of Cyprus? Visit larnacacarhire.com today to browse our extensive fleet, get a quote, and book your ideal vehicle for your journey to Protaras and beyond. Or, feel free to call/WhatsApp us for personalised assistance. We look forward to welcoming you to Cyprus!