Parking is one of the most common issues faced by both locals and foreigners in Cyprus. Over the past couple of years, the number of foreign workers on the island has significantly increased, and nearly every second person owns a car. As a result, the number of vehicles on Cypriot roads has skyrocketed, while the number of parking spaces hasn’t kept up.
While this may not feel too problematic during the winter, parking during the summer season becomes a real challenge, especially on weekends. Finding a free parking spot in city centers is almost impossible, and even paid parking can be fully occupied. This leads many drivers to park illegally, often resulting in hefty fines.
Types of Parking in Cyprus
As in most European countries, Cyprus offers both free and paid parking options.
Free Parking
Free parking can still be found, especially on the outskirts of cities or in smaller villages. If there’s no parking meter, signage, or attendant, you can safely park there. Most cafés and restaurants have their own parking spaces which are free for customers.
Paid Parking
There are two types of paid parking in Cyprus:
1. Municipal Parking
Easily identified by parking meters labeled with “PAY HERE”. You’ll need to insert coins according to the displayed rates. Always read the instructions on the nearby sign — it shows the fee, time limits, and operational hours.
There are two types of municipal meters:
Receipt-based: Dispense a ticket showing payment and time limit.
Timer-based: Start a countdown visible on a digital display.
Tip: Make sure to return before your paid time ends or extend it in time. Fines for overstaying range from €8 to €25.
2. Private Parking Lots
These are even easier to spot — often managed by a friendly local Cypriot under an umbrella, sipping coffee while listening to the radio. You'll usually see white painted boxes and a “PARKING” sign. Fees range from €2.50 to €4, depending on the location. Payment is made directly to the parking attendant.
Digital Parking System
Since late 2022, many municipalities have introduced smart parking systems via mobile apps. For example, Limassol uses the Novoville platform.
To use it:
Download the Novoville app from novoville.com
Register and scan the QR code posted near parking zones
Make your online payment for the selected parking duration
Look for digital parking signs in the area to see if this system applies.
Where You Cannot Park in Cyprus
Illegal parking can result in fines up to €100. While local drivers often seem to ignore rules, it’s not worth taking the risk.
Avoid parking:
Along curbs with single or double yellow lines (short stops are allowed on single lines for drop-offs only)
Against the direction of traffic
Within:
10 meters of intersections
15 meters of pedestrian crossings
Near traffic lights
Bus stops
On sidewalks
Disabled parking spots
Anywhere your car obstructs visibility or traffic flow
How to Pay a Parking Fine
If you find a fine under your windshield wiper, you have two weeks to pay it. You can:
Visit a local police station
Pay at your municipal office
Or use the convenient online payment system at JCCSmart
To pay online:
Register at jccsmart.com
Go to CYPRUS POLICE → Payment of Tickets
Enter your ticket number and amount
Enter your card details and confirm
⏰ Don’t delay! Late payments may result in additional charges or even a court summons. Fines might also cause issues at immigration when entering or leaving the island.
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