Through the years we’ve noticed that many people have the same questions with regards to driving or renting vehicles in Greece.
If you’re planning a trip to Greece making the perfect road trip inspired by Greek Mythology, or want to discover lesser-known areas in the Peloponnese peninsula, these Questions and answers will help you.
If you have questions that don’t get answered on this page, please contact us. We’d love to help!
I’d like to visit Greece along with my loved ones. Do I choose to use Public Transport, Rent a Car or a private Transfer?
There isn’t a correct or incorrect answer to this question since the three choices, which include hiring a vehicle, using public transfers, or using private transferhave pros and pros.
Short answer this question is that it DEPENDS on your family’s budget as well as your family’s needs for interests and the age of your kids and the length of your trip, and how many places you’d like to visit , but most important. your comfort zone.
If you have the money you, we would recommend hiring a vehicle or using private transfer services as public transportation will be extremely demanding for children and will take a long time.
Why should I rent a car with my family members in Greece?
A car rental service in Greece is a fantastic option for families that want to get to know more about the region they’re traveling to and feel a sense of being an actual local. It’s easy, and more affordable than private transfers as well as enables you to visit places your family enjoys and would otherwise be unable to see.
Greece is a tiny country that is home to a variety of stunning beautiful villages, historical sites breathtaking beaches, beautiful landscapes, and lively cities. Car rental on your family trip to Greece can give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and design your own itinerary, based on your children’s schedule and preferences.
All you need to do is to rent the right vehicle and do your research regarding your itinerary and driving regulations and read our tips for driving and renting a car included in this post.
DRIVERING REQUIREMENTS, and LEGISLATION
What age do you need to be to get an automobile in Greece?
To lease a vehicle in Greece it is necessary to be at minimum 21 years old. Also, you must have had your driver’s permit for at the least twelve consecutive months, regardless of age. Keep in mind that some Greek rental agencies require 2 years. It’s not unusual that the minimum age varies according to the car type.
A few car rental firms in Greece may charge an extra fee when the driver renting the car is less than 25 . The maximum age you could be to rent a car for Greece can be 70 (for certain companies it’s 75).
Do I require to get a Credit Card?
If you are renting a vehicle and you are not carrying your EU driving licence, your international driving license or IDP You will be asked to provide your passport as well as the credit card you have. Be aware that the majority of car rental businesses in Greece will not take debit card payments.
The majority of Greek car rental firms require credit cards to guarantee the reservation. They will also require as a deposit a proviso in the event there is any damage to the vehicle upon return. Your credit card will not charge if there aren’t issues with the return of the car.
What are the laws regarding Car Seats in Greece?
It is mandatory to get an automobile babyor children in Greece. There are two options to consider when you’re thinking of renting a car
Bring your car seat or
You can get one from the rental car company.
According to the car rental service You could be charged additional fees in the event that you wish to purchase one from the car rental business. It is important to inform the rental company about the height, age as well as weight prior to selecting your vehicle.
When we published the article in question, there were these guidelines were in effect. Make sure to confirm the laws at your point of departure.
Children younger than 3 years old age must be in the confines of a child when travelling in a automobile.
Children who are younger than 135cm and between 3 and 11 must be secured with a suitable child restraint
Children who are 12+ years of age (provided they’re at or above 1.35m tall) are able to sit in a car with an adult’s seatbelt for restraint.
The airbag should be turned off in the event of placing an infant facing rear in the front seat of a passenger.
Do I need to bring my car seat from home or rent one at the rental car company?
This is among the most frequently requested questions we receive from our clients. We always answer that it Depends! Here’s why:
Contact your airline’s company and inquire if there’s an additional cost if you carry your own car seat to the plane. Ask what the be the surcharge.
Contact the rental car company and ask the same question.
Check the two options.
Get in touch with the experts for car rental Corfu airport.
If your family’s trip isn’t solely a self-driving journey It might be more affordable to take your car seat.
Make sure, when you are taken to the port or airport the company that will pick you up will be equipped with the right car seat for your child.
ADVICE & TIPS FOR DRIVING Greece
Driving in Greece General guidelines
In Greece the country, all vehicles are operated on the right side of the road.
Take a left turn, do not overtake at a turn. Make sure to keep your taking your time if you can, since Greece is very mountainous.
It is a legal requirement in order to buckle your seat belt all times.
The traffic coming from your right side is first, until there is an intersection with a stop sign. road.
Greek roundabouts can be difficult to navigate because priority changes when you drive around. If the road you’re approaching doesn’t have any stop signs, then drivers on the roundabout have to move to the right. If the road that leads to it has a stop sign that traffic who is on the road already gets priority.
The limits of alcohol for drivers in Greece are quite minimal, with 0.05 percent (0.25mg in liters of breath). If you’ve held their license for less than two years the limit is less than that, which is 0.02 percent (0.10mg in liters of breath).
The gas (petrol) station in Greece
It is not a problem in finding the nearest gasoline (petrol) stations in Greece If you’re in a city or large town. However, you may encounter some issues finding gas stations located in the rural regions, such as in lesser Greek islands. Plan ahead and be aware of the tank.
The majority of gasoline stations in Greece do not have self-service (with the one exception in Athens)
The majority of gas stations take credit card payments, however they aren’t all.
On weekends, the majority of gas station (especially in rural regions) operate from 7 AM until 7 midnight. In rural areas, petrol stations could not be open on Saturdays.
Make sure you return your rental car with the full tank of fuel.
Tolls
There are two major road tolls in Greece The first one runs between Athens towards Thessaloniki (E75) as well as the other one runs starting from Athens up to Peloponnese (8).
There are several toll booths located on both roads. Make sure your cash is sufficient on you. Tolls vary from EUR1-4. Tolls between Athens up to Thessaloniki EUR40.
What is the road as in Greece?
Most of the main routes are generally in excellent condition, and aligned to international standards and sealed. When you exit the main roads, and take other roads it is possible to encounter roads that are not of good quality and inadequate signs.
Be sure to have read the plan prior to departure, don’t hesitate to contact your hotel’s concierge or ask for help from locals in the event that you are lost.
Islands: Keep in mind the fact that Greek Islands are mountainous, and roads could have lots of curves and beds. Drive safely.
Of all the islands Crete being the biggest is home to the main highway which connects the north east and north-west part. There are several secondary roads connecting the south and north.
Are you able to safely drive around Athens?
It’s a great question! For those who are coming from USA, Athens, in particular, can appear to have an turbulent, chaotic look in regards to driving. Parking is another issue!
We suggest not driving through the city if you can and instead use public transport like the metro system that is so great.
Outside of Athens In the area outside of Athens, it is important to be alert of your surroundings at all times, and be ready for the tight road switchbacks that go to and from the mountains.
Parking
Parking can be a challenge in Athens as well as other major cities. Make sure you park in marked parking areas and follow the rules given. If you’re not sure, contact someone in the area for assistance.