Driving

As with any large city there are government rules and regulations and one of the most important Greece travel tips involves driving. If you plan on transporting yourself and your family around town, you do need to know what’s required before you get behind the wheel. For example, children under 10 aren’t allowed in the front seat and seat belts must be worn by front seat passengers and driver. Seat belts must be worn by children in the back seat. You may use your national license but in some cases, an international driving permit or international translation of driver’s licence is required. Be aware that Greece has the highest car accident rate in Greece. If you're an inexperienced driver, Greece's roads may not be for you. Car rental fees and gas are both expensive, especially from a USA-based perspective. Greece is a mountainous country, and many roads will be curvy. In late fall and winter, they may be wet, snowy, or icy

Visitors and not residents of Greece who plan to drive should secure the necessary documents to avoid being denied car rental or fined/detained by police.

EU citizens: If you’re an EU citizen, the license from your home country is perfectly fine as long as it hasn’t expired.
 

Americans: If you have a valid American license, an International Driving Permit (IDP) from one of two issuing authorities in Canada and the USA — AAA or AATA — is necessary and must be secured before leaving home by downloading the online form and submitting it in person or by mail. An IDP is not an international driver’s license; it is essentially a translation of your normal license, which is the reason it requires no tests, is only good while you’re a tourist.

Car rental agencies should ask for both a valid unexpired driver’s license and an IDP before renting scooters or vehicles; those who do not are bending the law.

Canadians: If is a Canadian citizen visiting Greece, the Embassy recommends securing an International driving Permit.

Other non-EU citizens: Check with your embassy before leaving home.