Driving is one of the best ways to explore any country, offering flexibility, freedom and access to places that would be hard to discover otherwise.
We have summarised below everything you need to know for a safe, smooth and enjoyable driving experience in mainland Greece.
Is driving in Greece easy?
Greece is a relatively safe and easy country for self-driving holidays all year round.
Major highways and main roads are generally well maintained, and the road network is well signposted, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed and stress-free drive.
Rural roads may be narrower and more winding, with occasional potholes – especially in mountainous regions. However, these routes are often the most scenic and rewarding parts of your journey.
Tolls, fuel stations and rest stops in Greece
When driving on major highways and national roads, there are toll stations along the way.
- Typical cost: €1.50 – €3.50 per toll station (for standard cars)
- Payment: cash or card at each station
For instance, when travelling from Athens to Monemvasia in the Peloponnese, the toll cost is around €17, while to Delphi it is less than €10.
The most expensive toll in Greece is the Rio–Antirrio Bridge, which connects the Peloponnese with Central Greece: Its cost is approximately €15, but you always have the option to take the ferry, which takes approximately 15–20 minutes and costs around €7.
The ferry is not only more economical but also offers a relaxing break from driving, with beautiful sea views.
Fuel stations and motorway service areas are available approximately every 50 km. There you will find:
- Fuel and charging points
- Food and coffee options
- Rest areas and WC facilities
There are also additional stop points and rest areas between major service stations, making long drives comfortable and convenient.
Driving rules in Greece
- Driving is on the right-hand side of the road and the driver’s seat is on the left-hand side of the vehicle
- At roundabouts, vehicles entering usually have priority, but always check the signs
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers
- Child seats are mandatory for children under 12 years old or 1.5m tall
- Driving in the emergency lane is prohibited and stopping there is allowed only in case of absolute emergency.
Driving in Winter Conditions
If you are planning a winter road trip in Greece, especially in mountainous regions or northern Greece, keep in mind:
- Snowfall is possible in high-altitude areas
- Main roads are regularly cleared by snowplows
- It is obligatory to have snow chains inside your car, so always ask for this extra when renting a vehicle
Tip: If you are staying in a mountain village and snowfall is expected, it is advisable to park your vehicle on the main road rather than in narrow streets.
Always follow the instructions of the local authorities regarding road conditions, closures or detours.
Speed limits and road safety
Unless a specific sign for a speed limit suggests otherwise, these are the legal speed limits when driving in Greece:
- Urban areas: 50 km/h
- Open roads: 90 km/h
- Motorways: 120 km/h
Speed cameras operate in Athens and across mainland Greece, so it is important to always respect speed limits.
Driving license requirements in greece
To drive in Greece, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving license.
If you come from a European Union country, as well as Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, you do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) – your valid driving license is enough.
Citizens of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Central African Republic, Chile, Costa Rica, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ecuador, Georgia, Ghana, Guyana, Holy See, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Liberia, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Niger, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Republic of Moldova, Russian Federation, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tajikistan, Thailand, North Macedonia, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Vietnam and Zimbabwe, are required to hold only their national card-type driving license.
Citizens of all other countries outside the EU are required to hold a driving license valid in Greece and the European Union, or an International Driving Permit, which must be presented together with their national driving license.
Parking in Greece
Parking is not allowed within:
- 3 meters of a fire hydrant
- 5 meters of a junction
- 15 meters of a public transport stop
If you park in a No Parking zone in Athens or certain other areas, the police may impose a fine or remove the car’s license plates.
Especially in Athens, street parking usually requires payment which can be easily made by the MyAthensPass mobile app, so we recommend downloading it in advance for your convenience. The cost is 1€ per hour and you can easily extend your parking time through the app at any time.
In smaller towns and villages, parking is usually easy and free.
Restricted areas in Greece
To reduce traffic in Athens’ city center and other major Greek cities, certain central areas have restricted car access. Access depends on whether your license plate ends in an odd or even number:
- Odd numbers: allowed on odd-numbered days
- Even numbers: allowed on even-numbered days
Fortunately, these restrictions do not apply to rental cars!
Why choose a self-drive road trip in Greece?
The Greek mainland is one of the best road trip destinations in Europe and self-driving tours offer a unique, authentic and enriching way to explore the best of the country.
Here’s why:
- Flexibility and Freedom: You can explore in your own way, travel at your own pace and stop wherever you like for as long as you like.
- Personalized experience: You can design your journey around your interests, whether that’s nature, culture, history, food, hiking or other outdoor activities.
- Privacy: You share the journey only with your chosen travel companions (friends/family/partner) and not with people you don’t know.
- Convenience: You travel comfortably in your own car or a rental vehicle without fixed schedules.
- Scenic routes: You will xperience epic drives through mountains, coastal roads, traditional villages, and hidden landscapes at your leisure.
- Gastro-experience: No fixed schedules or pre-booked restaurants & meals giving you the freedom to savor your favorite Greek flavors whenever and wherever you like!
- Local Interaction: You have the chance to experience Greece like a local and connect more deeply with its culture, people and everyday life.
Start your self-drive adventure in Greece
At WANDERLIFE Greece, we design fully customised self-drive itineraries. You simply book your flights and we take care of everything else:
- Accommodation and rental car tailored to your preferences
- Entrance tickets for selected archaeological sites
- Organisation of activities and experiences along the way
- Daily tips, recommendations and valuable information on routes, attractions, activities and hiking trails – your personalised travel guide!
Everything you need for a seamless, stress-free and unforgettable journey.
Ready to hit the road?
Start your tailor-made self-drive adventure in mainland Greece and explore the country at your own pace!