Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on idyllic beaches, or sampling delicious cuisine, your trip around Greece can be truly unforgettable. Here’s a concise guide with essential tips for traveling around Greece, covering everything from finding tickets to understanding local traffic rules.
General Tips
- Traveling by ferry is an authentic Greek travel experience.
- Not all islands have airports nor can they be reached directly from major ports.
- Buses are more popular than trains, especially when traveling to the South.
- In cities and popular islands, renting a car is not always necessary. Public transport and taxis are affordable and safe.
- If you choose to drive in Athens, be prepared to encounter traffic and limited parking spaces.
- Cities and villages are walkable and built with pedestrians in mind. Some historic areas may not be reachable by car.
Traveling in Mainland Greece
For domestic travel, Greece offers several options. If you’re hopping between cities or islands, start by checking flights. Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, and Sky Express are the main carriers offering domestic routes. Booking in advance, especially in the summer, can help you save money.
For shorter trips, KTEL buses are a reliable option. They connect virtually every town and village in Greece. Tickets can be purchased at bus stations or online through the regional KTEL websites.
Trains also used to be a popular way of transportation, especially in central and northern Greece, which has an extensive train network. In the last years, the local population opts for alternatives, as a recent train tragedy has raised concerns over the safety of train travel in Greece.
Ferry Travel: Navigating the Greek Islands
Ferries are the most common way to travel between the Greek islands. Companies like Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, and Minoan Lines offer extensive routes. Tickets can be purchased online, at ports, or through travel agencies. For popular islands like Santorini or Mykonos, book early to secure your spot, especially in summer. For smaller islands, such as Kimolos, Koufonisia, or Antiparos, direct ferry routes are less common. Travelers often have to reach a bigger island, such as Paros and Milos, and transfer to a smaller ferry or even a water taxi.
If you’re prone to seasickness, consider traveling on larger ferries, which are more stable. High-speed ferries are faster but more expensive and can be less comfortable in rough seas.
Driving in Greece: Tips and Traffic Rules
Renting a car is a great way to explore Greece at your own pace. However, keep these tips in mind:
- Driver’s License: Non-EU visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their regular license.
- Road Conditions: Greek roads vary in quality. Highways are well-maintained, but rural roads can be narrow and winding.
- Traffic Rules: Drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads and 130 km/h on highways. Seatbelts are mandatory, and using a phone while driving is illegal unless you have a hands-free system.
- Parking: In cities, finding parking can be challenging. In city centers, look for designated parking areas, as fines for illegal parking may apply. In most neighborhoods, parking is free but limited.
- Car-free areas: Greek cities and villages and generally walkable, as they were built with pedestrians in mind. Certain historical locations, such as Hydra island, are literal car-free zones.