Posted by 🚗 Tips, Rules & Experiences
Greece is a beautiful country for driving. Whether on the islands, along the coast, or through the mountains of the mainland – having your own vehicle allows you to experience the country more intensely and reach places that are difficult to access by bus or ferry.
However, it’s worth noting that traffic laws in Greece differ in some respects from those in Germany, and the driving style is – let’s say – often more spirited. Here you’ll find everything you need to know: from speed limits and tolls to alcohol limits and tips for rental cars and parking.
🚙 Driving in Greece – The Most Important Information
Drive on the right, like in Germany
Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants
Using a mobile phone while driving is only permitted with a hands-free system
Daytime running lights are not mandatory
Blood alcohol limit: 0.5 (0.2 for novice drivers)
Tolls apply on highways and bridges
On islands and in villages, roads are often narrow and there are few signs
🛣️ Roads & Infrastructure
Roads in Greece vary considerably:
Highways and expressways on the mainland are well-developed, but on many islands, the roads are narrow, winding, and sometimes unpaved.
Highways:
The main highways are called “Ethniki Odos” (Ethnic Roads). They connect Athens with Thessaloniki, Patras, and Igoumenitsa.
Toll booths are frequent – payment is made in cash or by card directly at the booth.
Country Roads:
Expect potholes on these roads. In mountainous regions, the roads are narrow, and goats or sheep on the road are not uncommon.
Island roads:
On islands like Crete, Rhodes, or Naxos, the main roads are paved, while secondary roads are often gravel tracks. Be careful with rental cars – many companies prohibit driving on unpaved roads.
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⚙️ Traffic rules in Greece
Speed limits
| Street | limit |
|---|---|
| Within the town | 50 km/h |
| Outside of town | 90 km/h |
| Expressways | 110 km/h |
| Highways | 120 km/h |
Note: Checks are rare on smaller islands, but regular on the mainland – often with mobile speed cameras.
Seatbelt & Helmet Law
In Greece, seatbelts are mandatory for drivers and all passengers.
Motorcyclists and scooter riders must wear an approved helmet – violations are severely punished (from €350).
Blood Limit
The blood alcohol limit is 0.5 (0.2 for novice drivers).
Exceeding this limit can result in hefty fines and license suspension.
Police checks are primarily conducted in the summer and on weekends.
Cell Phone Use While Driving
Only permitted with a hands-free device.
Using a mobile phone while driving will result in a €100 fine and a 60-day license suspension.
Parking
Parking in Greece can sometimes be an adventure.
Parking spaces are scarce in larger cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion, and many areas are subject to a fee.
Parking is usually free on islands, but: Watch out for yellow lines – parking is prohibited there!
💶 Tolls in Greece
Motorways in Greece are subject to tolls. Prices range from €1.20 to €3.50 per section.
There are no tolls on the islands – only on the mainland.
Payment:
Cash or card directly at the toll booth
No e-toll system required (like in Italy)
A trip from Athens to Thessaloniki costs approximately €30 in tolls.
🧾 Driver’s License & Documents
EU driver’s licenses are valid in Greece.
You must carry:
Driver’s license
Vehicle registration document
Identity card or passport
Green Card (international motor insurance certificate) (recommended)
If you are driving a rental car, you should also have your rental documents with you.
🚗 Renting a car in Greece – is it worth it?
Absolutely.
A rental car is the best way to truly explore islands like Crete, Naxos, or Rhodes.
Prices vary considerably depending on the season – more expensive in summer, often cheaper in spring and autumn.
💡 Tip:
Compare prices online beforehand:
Important information:
Minimum age: usually 21 years
Credit card in the driver’s name required
Comprehensive insurance without excess recommended
Register a second driver (otherwise no insurance!)
⛽ Fueling & Gas Prices
Gas prices in Greece are among the highest in Europe.
As of autumn 2025:
Super: approx. €1.95
Diesel: approx. €1.75
Many gas stations are not open 24 hours, especially on islands.
In cities, attendants often assist with refueling – self-service is rare.
👉 Current information in the article:
➜ Petrol prices & refueling in Greece
🅿️ Parking in cities and at airports
In major cities, parking through Parclick or similar providers is worthwhile.
Athens Airport: from €5 per day
Thessaloniki Airport: from €4 per day
🏝️ Driving on the Islands
Crete
Long distances, many curves. The main road from Chania to Agios Nikolaos is good, but overtaking is often daring.
Rhodes
Easy to drive, but Rhodes Town is narrow. Rental cars are often automatic.
Naxos & Paros
Light traffic, but narrow roads. Watch out for potholes and goats on the road!
💡 Road Behavior
Greeks drive emotionally, but are usually attentive.
Honking is not a sign of aggression, but often a warning signal or greeting.
⚠️ Be careful of:
Overtaking on curves
Double parking
Roundabouts: right-of-way is often unclear
🚓 Police & Fines
The Greek police regularly check:
Speed
Alcohol
Seatbelt use
Fines are high, e.g.:
| violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Using a mobile phone while driving | 100 € |
| No seatbelt | 350 € |
| Illegal parking | 80–150 € |
| Alcohol over 0.5‰ | from €200 |
| Overtaking where prohibited | 700 € |
🧭 Conclusion: Driving in Greece – Relaxed with Preparation
Driving in Greece isn’t a problem if you embrace the country.
The roads are scenic, the people are helpful – but rules are interpreted somewhat more flexibly.
With a little caution and composure, you can enjoy the freedom of driving and discover places no bus goes to.