The speed limit is 50 km/h on residential streets, 90 km/h out of town and 130 km/h on . If you are driving at night, dont expect these roads to be well-lit, or even lit at all. Because of the IDPs validity, you are required to get the countrys local license in the event that you want to stay permanently in Greece. While rental companies dont always check if renting tourists have an international license, it will most likely be a conundrum if you are suddenly caught by the local authorities or if you are in a traffic accident. You are not alone, most foreigners cant get this logic either! When in doubt, dont drive! Beware of potholes, be brave on winding mountain roads, and be thankful for the surprisingly good highway network. Those entering a roundabout have right of way. Before you start hitting the roads of Greece, it is of utmost importance to be knowledgeable about the important driving regulations observed in the country. With a rented car in Greece, you can visit its popular tourist destinations and indulge in the natural beauty and rich historic background. It makes sense to me as I learnt to drive here, but I can totally feel you! Roads: There are many ways in which Greek roads may surprise you. Here are several types of residence permit that depend on the situation of the applicant. Greeks drive on the right hand side of the road. Every year, before the pandemic, millions of people try to visit Greece. In this regard, one can prepare in advance by getting useful information about the country you are about to visit. The _ga cookie, installed by Google Analytics, calculates visitor, session and campaign data and also keeps track of site usage for the site's analytics report. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. This place is perfect for those who love botanical gardens, or to simply have a moment to appreciate nature. However, a one-year IDP is practical if you only plan to visit a foreign country for a vacation and will not go abroad for the next three years. Needing an international drivers license or permit does depend on a few things. Car rental in Greece for an economy vehicle usually costs $250 per week. Due to the fact that many European countries can be accessed by land, the aforementioned statement is especially true for Europeans. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. You should get up early to visit and climb the Acropolis. A small car or a four-seater car is usually suggested for those who travel in small groups. "name": "What documents do I need to drive in Greece? When driving in a car in Greece, the maximum speed limit that you should follow on ordinary roads is between 90- 110 km/hr. These typically are where you are going and how long you are staying there. Thanks, Murali. Migrations and invasions during the 20th century are some contributing factors that influenced ethnic diversity in Greece. Traffic in Greece is on the right-hand side of the road. Greece sorted out a way to preface biometric, biometric residence permits for both non-EU and EU nationals residing in its premises. You must have a minimum of third party insurance cover to drive in Greece. As a place that is composed of many landmarks, the best way to cover everything is by renting a car and visiting all areas that can be accessed by the vehicle. The Islands of Dodecanese are known for the interesting activities that it can offer to its visitors. Stick shift cars are the norm in Greece. You will notice some providers that you will be familiar with, such as Shell or BP, and some others that you have never seen before, like Aegean. Get your 3-year valid IDP now & save up to 60% off, Learn about driving conditions in your country of choice, Find information about worlds car rental companies. The same applies to foreigners. "@type": "Answer", In practice, these are rarely enforced. The area is famous for the cyclopean wall which boasts the remarkable limestone wall that is built by Cyclopean masonry. At the same time, if you are in the first car waiting for the traffic light to turn green, dont assume that its fine to go immediately. Driving licenses issued by all EU / EEA Member states are valid in Greece. Depending on where you are from, you might have to get an International Drivers License before your trip." In unmarked exits and junctions, right of way belongs to traffic approaching from the right and on the main road. If you notice anything, make sure the rental company makes a note of this. Resume onto Olimpia Odos/A8/E94 and A7 to EO Tripolis Spartis/EO39 in Tripoli. Heres a list of things you can do while in the area. Greece Tourism Greece Hotels Greece Bed and Breakfast Greece Vacation Rentals Greece Packages Flights to Greece Greece Restaurants Greece Attractions Greece Travel Forum Higher octane fuel - usually at 98 or 99 RON - is available at most gas stations in cities. For this reason, the area is considered to be the epitome of Greek islands. For all drivers bringing their car from the UK to Greece, you will have to have a car sticker that now says UK, replacing the GB one thats been used for years. An online driving test in English in Greece can be accessed from the internet for English speakers, which is ideal before taking the actual exam. Thus, it is highly important to remain vigilant and exercise caution when driving. Traffic enforcers do not have the authority to collect fines from drunk drivers. This will enable you to access neighboring countries by land, thus making your travel more worth it and exciting. There are free guided tours in the old town of Athens. Good to know about driving in Greece. However, in some areas you may see the complete opposite. You want to make sure that you obtain the best deal possible without compromising your driving experience. Top 20 Greek Curse Words How to swear in Greek, Changing lanes on a main road or three lane highway without using the indicators, Going the opposite direction on a one-way street, Speeding up, rather than slowing down, when the traffic light turns orange, Beeping at the car in front as soon as the light turns green, Ignoring the STOP signs, or any other road signs, Parking on the pavement, a zebra crossing, an intersection, or close to a bus stop. If you are from a country that follows a left-hand traffic like Australia and plans to use a car in the country, you will most likely struggle. If caught you will face a large fine. Information signs in Greece are designed to give general details about the road you are using as a driver and what to expect from the road ahead. Stopping in the middle of the street, even on a main road, without any warning. Some companies in Athens can actually get one of their employees to drive you out of the city center, so ask if this is an option. The list below are the important road sign categories that you should know before driving in Greece: When driving in Greece, knowing which side of the road is the correct should be considered by tourists. Child seats are mandatory for children up to age 4. Alongside the main highways, Greece has an extensive network of national roads. Favourite country to visit: Spain. Answer 1 of 14: Do we drive on left (similar to UK) or right (similar to US)? Pay in the local currency to avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion fees. My first time driving in Greece was a baptism of fire. The Left Lane is for Passing. As of November 2021, Australia, Canada, United Kingdom and United States residents no longer need an International Driving Permit to drive in Greece." Many of the road signs in Greece are in both Greek and English. This will not only make your adventure more comfortable, but it will also save you from the hassle of following a tight schedule. If you speak English as your native language, you can access through the internet a driving test in English in Greece. Significant documents. Greece is situated in South-Eastern Europe and as mentioned above, it is surrounded by three seas that make the country archipelagic. Greece Tourism Greece Hotels Greece Bed and Breakfast Greece Holiday Rentals Greece Packages Flights to Greece Greece Restaurants Greece Attractions Greece Travel Forum RELATED READING What does subscription mean on Cazoo? Some things that might be allowed in other places, such as using your cell phone and even honking your horn, are discouraged and even illegal while driving in some places around Greece. There are large differences in the costs of car insurances in Greece. Why are buildings in the Cyclades painted blue and white? Check right and left before you put your foot on the accelerator, as the driver on the other side might have just crossed a red light. A foreign driving licence does not entitle the holder to drive in Greece until the age of 18yrs old. This was when it was cheaper to fly to an island and rent a car for a day, rather than bring our own car on the ferry from Piraeus. Here are some of the important things you need to remember when driving in the marvelous Greek land. Visiting Cyclades offers not only fun activities, but also beautiful attractions to see as a tourist. "text": "Most visitors find that driving on the Greek highways is a breeze. "name": "Are Greek road signs in English? The less touristic/cosmopolitan, the worst. . So, when a law enforcer who doesnt speak your language asks you to present your regular drivers license, the IDP can easily translate it for them. They are also expected to pass a theoretical and a practical driving test in Greece. Packing a picnic and dipping your toes in multiple sun-kissed waters along the way is the ultimate road trip. Like driving anywhere new, just take a bit of extra time and be alert and driving in Greece and using the roundabouts will be a breeze. "@type": "Answer", The IDP is not a replacement for your regular license. Greece. Only do so when freeways are present. Drive Smart St Vincent and the Grenadines. It might feel scary at first, but you willhopefully get used to it. Failure to do so will see you fined 350 euros. Driving licenses issued by all EU / EEA Member states are valid in Greece. Cars can be towed away or, rather bizarrely, have their licence plates removed. The warnings for Turkey are hilarious but also very very scary! }. Greece is without a doubt a beautiful country and like other places that are known for their attractive scenery, it is best to explore it on an open road. The driver and all passengers must wear seatbelts at all times whilst the car is moving. Athens is the capital of the country which is known to be occupied by a third of the countrys population. Drinking and driving in Greece is also not permitted. Greece. If you are a tourist with a UK driving license in Greece, in addition to your native license, you are also required to obtain an International Drivers Permit for you to be allowed to drive in the country. In relation to this, motorists have right of way on roundabouts over cyclists. Traffic circles and roundabouts are standard in many European countries, but they may be new to many U.S. drivers. 22 November 2021 To be safe, allow about 25 percent extra to cover these costs. Even though this is the rule, you may see that some visitors are not aware of this and dont stop. Greek drivers are impatient and such a practice (driving close to speed limits and on the right part of the lane) is advisable . ", Should I be driving in Greece on the left or right, Check Here For The Best Car Rental Prices On Skyscanner, not all water is safe to drink from the tap, The Traditional Windmill Of Antimachia, Kos: Everything you need to know for your Visit, 7 Amazing Off the Beaten Track Kos Experiences. You should keep in mind the freeways are not present on any of the Greek islands. If you are from places like the UK or Malta that drive on the left hand side, you get used to driving on the right pretty quickly. A small car is also advisable in rural areas. As mentioned above, the total land area of Greece is 131,957 km2, and it is famous for its mountainous terrain. You will be happy to know that getting a rental car as a tourist is a pretty stress free process throughout Greece. Athens and Thessaloniki in particular can get quite crazy in terms of traffic, especially on days when public transportation is on strike. Find this out before returning your car to avoid extra charges. In. } Avoid anything that might distract your focus, such as loud music volumes or sound from your mobile phone. If you are planning to apply as a driver in Greece, you may need to apply for the Greek drivers license. Allow them to check your vehicle when they ask for permission and open your back compartment for checking as well. However, if you usually drive on the left hand side, don't worry too much. When it comes to whether other drivers in Greece drive like crazy, you will probably get different answers, depending on who you ask. European countries, more or less share the same road rules. Take Epar.Od. If you decide to drive in the bigger cities, be aware that parking might be regulated in certain areas, or you may even have to pay a small fee. To obtain the Greek drivers license, you should take the driving test that is composed of a theoretical and practical exam. It is made up of a series of idyllic islands that are covered in white evocative buildings. This is also a good way to stay away from accidents, especially when driving in urban areas where roads are tighter and more dangerous. We cant stress this enough. The country approximately receives thirty million people from around the globe annually. Like most countries in Europe, you have the right of way when you are driving on the right-hand side of Greek roads. In addition, people who are below 18 years old are restricted from driving. Many of the roads are well-maintained and the drivers are pretty well disciplined, which makes driving in Greece a pleasant experience. Speed limits and restrictions when driving in Greece. If you are planning to drive on dirt roads, make sure you rent an appropriate vehicle, like a 4WD. The cost of renting a car generally depends on the island, time of year, type of car and number of days you want it for. Other languages that are prominent in the country include Turkish, Albanian and Macedonian. You'll receive a ticket with instructions on where to pay it usually at a bank, online or at a police station. Buckle up in your car seat and prepare to be astonished by the magic that is Greece. As a person in a foreign country, you need to respect their rules and prevent yourself from getting caught and suffer the consequences enforced by the local authorities. If your licenec plates are taken you are only allowed to drive your car home or you'll face a huge fine. At mobile traps you'll be pulled over and given a ticket, from fixed cameras you'll get sent a ticket in the post or via your car hire company. Do not imitate their driving practice!! Rules for Driving in Crete and Greece - Unofficial Tips. "@type": "FAQPage", One notable online car rental service is Auto Europe. Renting a vehicle in the country is easy as rental outlets are usually prominent in areas with substantial towns or resorts. Listed below are some of them for you to read. However, if you hold a license from the US or anywhere else, you will need one. In Greece, you drive on the right and overtake on the left. Driving on the islands is fine, once you get used to the narrow streets and street parking. The legal electoral age in the country is 18 years old. Last but not least jay walking is supposed to be illegal. Take the Pireas Iraklio ferry to Iraklio. As you turn on your blinker and slow down, look in your mirror for cars or motorcycles that close the distance at high speed. Many attractions can also be visited across the mainland via car. We are always surprised when they do. You need to be aware that many drivers continue through lights long after they've changed to red so remain watchful when setting off on green. Parking is something you should consider carefully when driving in Greece, as it varies a lot throughout the country. While we hope you wont need to use any emergency numbers while driving in Greece, its always best to have them available. Arvanitokerasias - Kollinon, EO Tripolis Spartis/EO39, A7 and Olimpia Odos/A8/E94 to Pireas Iraklio in Pireas. If you want to start exploring straight away, pick your rental up from the airport. Greece. The benefit of the high tolls is that you might find no traffic at all on the highways, especially if you are driving off-season or on weekdays. Off the Autobahn the default speed limit is 50 km/h (31 mph) in cities and 100 km/h (62 mph) in rural areas. In an attempt to reduce congestion, Athens has a system where car access is restricted in certain areas, known as daktylios. Pedestrians and cyclists are provided the right of way when crossing cycle tracks or pavements in Greece. For people with the UK drivers license, you are permitted to drive around the country without any additional requirements. LTD.12 EU TONG SEN STREET #08-169THE CENTRAL SINGAPORE 059819. Bear in mind that you need to drive defensively and with much caution when you are in this country. During summer, you can expect to experience warm days that are still cooled by seasonal winds. It looks like paradise. You can totally use your UK driving licence in Greece if you are visiting. In the case of European citizens, you can still use your own driving licence, as long as you are on the minimum driving age of 18 and the licence is valid. Unsubscribe at any time. Children under 10 may not travel in the front seat. Here are some useful words, phrases and their corresponding Greek spelling that you can use when exploring Greece: Sometimes it is inevitable to pass checkpoints when driving in a car. Experience glorious Greece and see the spectacular view of Mount Olympus and historical places in Athens. Before you hit the road on your ultimate Greek vacation, it's important to understand the subtle differences between driving laws in Greece and in other countries, including the United States. Be considerate and speak slowly when they are not fluent in English. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Then this is the guide for you! If you need any more tips on Greek driving, ask us a question right below, or get in touch on the Real Greek Experiences FB pageandFB group. legaleaglegreen . Although it may seem easier to be charged in dollars instead of euros, this option will cost you more in the long run. When driving in Greece, check the left or right sides of the road before overtaking. Another requirement by most rental companies in Greece is that you should at least have a hold of your license for 12 months before renting a car. Drinking and Driving Driving in Greece is on the right, the same as in the United States and most of Europe. Be prepared for driving on cliff sides, steep inclines, sharp turns, narrow roads, and many, many dirt roads. Driving in the urban areas in Greece can be a challenge for visitors, and we would generally advise against it. Considering that you want to make the most out of driving in a beautiful country, it would be more practical to opt for a diesel car when exploring Greece. "@type": "Question", Road users who are entering roundabouts have right of way. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Anyone with a valid drivers license can apply for an IDP. For simple ways to relax when driving in Europe and Greece, I recommend taking a quick look at this ultimate drivers guide. Answer 1 of 14: Do we drive on left (similar to UK) or right (similar to US)? Speed limits within cities: 50 km/h (31 mph) Speed limits outside cities: 110 km/h (68 mph) Highway speed limits: 120 km/h (75 mph) Once again, a local perspective is that rules exist to be broken. A local drivers license is not enough to allow you to drive in Greece. While most road signs in Greece conform with the signs of the International and European standards, specific local signs are still present on the mainland and its islands. Making a trip to the nearby Peloponnese peninsula offers visits to many beautiful attractions. Always remember that a bigger car will difficult to navigate around the narrow island roads more on this below. Answer 1 of 14: Do we drive on left (similar to UK) or right (similar to US)? Check right and left before you put your foot on the accelerator, as the driver on the other side might have just crossed a red light. Changing lanes and overtaking at a bus top is also forbidden in Greece. It is safe to say that to make the most out of your future travels, it is imperative to plan ahead. When you rent a vehicle in Greece, the quoted price will usually NOT include the VAT tax of 18 percent and the 3 percent to 6 percent airport rental tax. In smaller towns and villages, there are usually designated parking areas, often outside the village. Written bya local and an expat, it offers both of our perspectives on traffic laws, parking rules, car horns and Greek drivers! Vehicles coming from the right have the right of way unless otherwise posted. More sharing options. Check they are working as expected. If you hold a drivers license from the UK or EU, you do not need an international drivers permit (IDP). You can also tour the charming small village via a boat ride. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. The said language is known to be a combination of two historic forms, which are Demotic and Katharevousa. If you have never driven on this side of the road before, allow for some time to get used to it. Greece. If you plan to go overseas at least twice a year for the next three years, a three-year IDP works best for you. An IDP with a longer validity is also suggested for those who frequently travel abroad for business trips. Flemingk to Rafina - Tinos in Rafina. Also, this implies that vehicles entering a roundabout are permitted to go first while drivers who are now inside the circle must yield. Like in most countries, Greek traffic lights have three colours red, yellow (orange) and green. Driving defensively is also a good idea. You must always give way to the right when you approach a junction. The place is a popular spot for doing fishing activities and watersports. So, how do you even rent a car when you are in this beautiful country? Driving in Greece after Brexit will follow the same driving license rules until the 31st of December 2020. Due to their poor drainage system, road surfaces tend to get wet after rains and are easily eroded. Japan also drives on the left. In these places the signs and traffic lights are only for ousiders. With 18 years at least, you may drive your own car. Fines can be paid at post offices. Failure to do so will encourage local law enforcement to subject you to a fine, especially when you are seen to not possess the appropriate driving license in Greece. Some islands, like the off-the-beaten-track Donoussa, dont even have a gas station! I think so, however in Spain they stop at the zebra crossings if Im right? When a driver flashes his right turn signal, it means its not safe to pass, and there's oncoming traffic. Diesel cars are quite difficult to find in Greece, as petrol cars are quite popular. The 2000 Greek islands are also a beauty to see, as their variations can attract almost all people with different tastes and interests. Driving in Greece sign off: Watching taxis dart past you on busy roads may instantly make you think driving in Greece is a bad idea. Pay for the rental in euros. Finally, Greek drivers in built-up areas do not always respect traffic signs and often demonstrate poor clutch control when in stationary traffic. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Read below some of the popular things that you could do while in Crete. This should be placed in the back seat rather than the front seat. Half of the country is known to speak English as they learn the language at an early age. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. The drink driving limit is 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood (0.05%). "text": "Yes, tourists can drive in Greece. That's really all the time you'll need. . You can pay the tolls by either card or cash we recommend having some cash just in case. Driving is a joy, not a chore. How to Order Food in Greece A Locals Guide, Food in Greece Everything you should know about Greek Food, Greek drinks to try during your vacation in Greece, How to plan an island-hopping trip in the Cyclades, Where was Mamma Mia Filmed? If you are a tourist exploring the country in a car, youll most likely encounter these signs that you might be unfamiliar with. Speed limits in Greece are as follows: 50 km/h in towns; 90 to 110 km/h on main roads; 130 km/h on major highways; Be aware that speed limits for motorcycles are 40km/h, 70km/h and 90km/h respectively. "name": "Can I drive in Greece after Brexit? Getting a parking spot in the centre of Chania in August is next to impossible. Unless the Parliament is dissolved earlier, elections in Greece are typically held every four years. Before you set off on a road trip, youll need to fill up with fuel. This article includes driving laws, road rules and facts that will help you survive if you are planning to drive in Greece. Executive power is vested to the President of the Government and the Republic. Better safe than sorry! Driving in Greece is a unique experience and a fantastic way to explore. Be mindful of the countrys parking rates so that youll not get surprised with your parking fees. Thanks, Murali. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. By default, vehicles coming from therightalways have priority in Greece, unless there is a traffic light or an octagonal Stop sign. On roads with a shoulder lane or multi-lane highways, a tourist who drives obediently in accordance to traffic rules at 110 km/h should not be surprised to see cars that overspeed. Riders of motorcycles up to 125cc must be aged 18 or over, while moped (not exceeding 50cc) riders must be aged 16 or over. Some companies ask you to return the car with a full fuel tank, others dont. The Mediterranean climate of Greece is mainly characterized by mild temperatures, plenty of sunshine and little rainfall. This way you will be able to stop wherever you want, and experience small villages and places that you wouldnt be able to reach on a bus or a train. You should use hazard warning lights like the locals to show intention of parking. Answer 1 of 14: Do we drive on left (similar to UK) or right (similar to US)? Make sure you reserve the appropriate child restraint at the time of booking, as otherwise you may not be able to find one. Hotels found in Santorini, Greece are a favorite spot to visit by tourists, as the region is recognized worldwide for its stunning sunsets and dramatic views. Furthermore, never drive on the roads of Greece if you are sick or sleepy. All two lane highways actually are comprised of three lanes, one in each direction, then a space in the middle where cars travel at higher speeds in both directions. A slower speed is also advisable if you want to savor the beautiful sites that you can pass on while driving. If you found our article with driving tips for Greece helpful, you will probably like these other ones: Hi! When it comes to driving in Greece roundabouts, determining who has the right of way is much trickier. Written signs are in English and Arabic. These can be different throughout Europe. The streets are tranquil and driving isn't as forceful as it used to be. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Greece is considered a paradise by everyone, from travelers to holidaymakers. The country is definitely one of the most popular European destinations that people dream of touring. You have probably heard how fast cars drive on the Germany Autobahn. Quads are popular, but take your time to get used to them. Follow Leof. In Greece you'll drive on the right with overtaking on the left. Pedestrian traffic lights only have red and green, and in a couple of places in central Athens they even have a countdown timer. Many areas of Greece, including islands like the Cyclades, have no traffic lights at all. Should I be driving in Greece on the left or right. Having said that, investigating this novel island of the Aegean is simply worth the difficult drive. Both these figures are much less than you'll find in a standard drink so if you're driving, stick to soft drinks. However, when navigating sharp mountain turns, you will want to keep to the righthand side of the road and be sure to signal by honking before you make the curve. This permit will also determine who has the right to work in Greece. The EU Blue Badge scheme gives all disabled drivers free parking in Greece but check local rules first, just in case! In Greece, beeping is illegal in most cases. Depending on the company, the company might keep a certain amount from your card, and return it when you bring the car back. Although there are strict speed limits in Greece, many tend to ignore them.
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