Are There Trains in Cyprus? (Read This to Find Out)

Are there trains in Cyprus or any form of underground transport?

The short answer is no, at least for now. But don’t worry—there are plenty of other ways to get around, even if you don’t have a car.

Here’s what you should know.

Did Cyprus Ever Have a Railway?

Yes, Cyprus used to have a railway system!

The Cyprus Government Railways (CGR) started operating in 1905 when the island was under British rule.

This linear, narrow-gauge railway connected key districts like Famagusta and Nicosia, serving both passengers and freight, especially copper.

Did you know? The railway stretched 122 km and included 39 stations, with the entire trip taking around three hours.

However, by 1951, the train had stopped running due to a lack of funds.

If you like, you can still visit the Cyprus Railways Museum in Evrychou, where you’ll get a glimpse into the railway history.

The best part? It’s free to enter!

So, why doesn’t Cyprus have any trains now?

Geographic Challenges – Cyprus is a small island with mountainous terrain, making the construction and maintenance of a railway system both challenging and costly.
Economic Factors – The island’s small size and low population also make a railway system less economically viable compared to other transportation options.
Transportation Needs – With buses and cars handling most of the transportation needs in Cyprus, there hasn’t been much push to bring back trains.
Political Issues – The 1974 Turkish invasion disrupted the railway infrastructure and rebuilding it across the divided territory would be a complex task..

That said, there has been some discussion in 2022 about the possibility of using EU funding to build a new railway in Cyprus.

I guess we’ll have to wait and see.

Even without trains, getting around Cyprus is pretty simple thanks to a well-developed road network.

Here are a few common options:

Cyprus has an extensive bus network that connects various parts of the island. Plus, it’s also quite budget-friendly.

To get around Paphos district, just hop on one of OSYPA buses.

Taxis are widely available in Cyprus and can be a convenient alternative for shorter trips or if you’re traveling with a group.

You can hail them on the street, book them by phone, or arrange them through apps.

Renting a car makes it easy to reach remote and less accessible places, like Latchi Harbour and the Troodos Mountains.

Rental agencies usually have a range of vehicles to suit different budgets.

For a bit of freedom and fun, consider renting a scooter or bicycle.

Many tourist areas offer rental services, allowing you to explore local attractions at your own pace.

Another option is to join a guided tour, which often includes pick-ups as part of the package.

This is a great way to see multiple places without the hassle of navigating or handling transportation logistics.