Greek Travel Community

Is it scary to drive in Greece?

1 - 7 of 7 Posts
A

axariotisxy

Active member
I have heard some horror stories of driving in Greece, but many of these stories took place in cities like Athens. Is this observation true?

The reason why I am asking is because I am going to be visiting Tinos soon and would like to rent a car to explore the island. I heard that this was a fantastic way to get around. Tinos is small, and to me this means the driving might not be bad.

I had a bad driving experience in Italy while in Rome, but once leaving Rome and entering the countryside it was totally fine. I'm hoping Greece is like this, too!
 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash and MatWatkinson
People in Athens are terrible drivers. They park anywhere they want, including sidewalks. There are traffic circles which are difficult to maneuver. No one seems to understand what the "right of way" means, though that may be an American concept. Countryside is better, mostly because there's so much less traffic. I would imagine you'd do fine driving in Tinos, especially if it's off-season, which I believe it is now. Enjoy!
 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash
axariotisxy said:
I have heard some horror stories of driving in Greece, but many of these stories took place in cities like Athens. Is this observation true?

The reason why I am asking is because I am going to be visiting Tinos soon and would like to rent a car to explore the island. I heard that this was a fantastic way to get around. Tinos is small, and to me this means the driving might not be bad.

I had a bad driving experience in Italy while in Rome, but once leaving Rome and entering the countryside it was totally fine. I'm hoping Greece is like this, too!
Click to expand...
 
People everywhere are bad drivers. Italian motorways are terrifying. Corfu, where I am isn’t particularly different. Drivers use mobile devices all the time. They drive recklessly, trying to beat everyone else. Why? Because they’re stupid. Dangerous driving causes horrific crashes, but still they go, crossing double white lines in excess of the speed limit, often on blind corners. Scooterists travel with a tray of coffee in one hand & a child on their lap. Why? Because they’re stupid. So, set off earlier, idiots. But when places don’t have enough policing, what do you expect?
 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash
axariotisxy said:
I have heard some horror stories of driving in Greece, but many of these stories took place in cities like Athens. Is this observation true?

The reason why I am asking is because I am going to be visiting Tinos soon and would like to rent a car to explore the island. I heard that this was a fantastic way to get around. Tinos is small, and to me this means the driving might not be bad.

I had a bad driving experience in Italy while in Rome, but once leaving Rome and entering the countryside it was totally fine. I'm hoping Greece is like this, too!
Click to expand...
No worries in Tinos....I assure you, it can be a little congested at the port with ships arriving and departing.... once you are a few kilometres outside you will be fine..... many villages to look forward to... not possible to drive fast anyways..... Enjoy your time.... try to go to Syros if you can..... another level of experience awaits you!..... Kalley Mera!
 
MatWatkinson said:
People everywhere are bad drivers. Italian motorways are terrifying. Corfu, where I am isn’t particularly different. Drivers use mobile devices all the time. They drive recklessly, trying to beat everyone else. Why? Because they’re stupid. Dangerous driving causes horrific crashes, but still they go, crossing double white lines in excess of the speed limit, often on blind corners. Scooterists travel with a tray of coffee in one hand & a child on their lap. Why? Because they’re stupid. So, set off earlier, idiots. But when places don’t have enough policing, what do you expect?
Click to expand...
Good morning from Thailand Mat.... you summing up about scootertists made me laugh ?...... here we have up to 5 on a motorcycle ..... feel sorry for poor motor bike.... you surprise me about Corfu!....I would have thought being a bigger island with wide roads drivers would be sensible which is not the case....In my years, living in Mykonos I have witnessed the most horrendous and horrific accidents and casualties....I personally had to assist in injuries!..
 
Luana said:
People in Athens are terrible drivers. They park anywhere they want, including sidewalks. There are traffic circles which are difficult to maneuver. No one seems to understand what the "right of way" means, though that may be an American concept. Countryside is better, mostly because there's so much less traffic. I would imagine you'd do fine driving in Tinos, especially if it's off-season, which I believe it is now. Enjoy!
Click to expand...
Ugh - I fell into hot tailpipe on a motorcycle once in Athens and burned my leg. The driver had parked on the sidewalk and I tripped into a hole and fell on the bike. I would never drive in Athens, but I have driven in the countryside and on the islands and it's been fine. It's just Athens that's a nightmare!
 
1 - 7 of 7 Posts
You must log in or register to reply here.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION AND READ OTHER GREEK INFO:

Which Greek island feels the least touristy in the summer?

I know that July and August are busy almost everywhere in Greece, especially on the more famous islands, but I’m curious about places that still feel relatively local and relaxed even during peak season.

I’m not necessarily looking for somewhere completely empty. I’d just love an island where you can still find traditional villages, local tavernas, quieter beaches, and a slower pace without feeling like the entire island is built around tourism.

Have you visited an island in the summer that still felt authentic and not overly crowded? I’d especially be interested in places where locals still seem to set the rhythm of daily life rather than visitors.

Which island would you recommend, and what made it feel less touristy to you? Was it the beaches, villages, restaurants, fewer cruise ships, or just the overall atmosphere?

Why do some score tracking platforms show delayed match updates?

Been tearing my hair out lately trying to follow live matches because some score‑tracking apps update super fast while others lag like they’re stuck in another century. I’m talking minutes behind, not seconds. It’s driving me nuts, especially when I’m juggling fantasy leagues and friendly bets with my buddies. I keep switching between apps hoping one will magically work better, but no luck so far. Is this just bad servers, licensing stuff, or am I using the wrong platforms altogether? If anyone knows what actually causes these delays—or has app recommendations—I’m all ears.

Ferry vs flying between islands, what’s better?

I’ve always been a ferry guy when it comes to Greece, something about pulling into a port and seeing the island come into view just feels right. But this trip is a little different because I’m traveling with someone who gets pretty motion sick, so now I’m seriously considering flying between islands instead.

Curious what you guys think, ferry vs flying, what’s actually better?

I know ferries are part of the whole island-hopping experience, and they’re usually more flexible, but I’ve also had a couple rough rides when the water wasn’t calm. On the flip side, flights seem quicker and smoother, but maybe more hassle overall.

If you’ve done both, what would you recommend, especially in a situation like this? Is flying the smarter move, or are ferries still worth it if you plan carefully?

A Greek Architect’s Guide to Choosing a Professional CT Limo Service

I’m originally from Greece and work as an architect, and due to a recent job rotation, I’ve relocated to Connecticut for corporate projects. Since I’m still getting familiar with the area, I’ve been researching reliable CT limo service options for business travel, airport transfers, and professional meetings. I’ve noticed there are several technical factors people often overlook, such as fleet maintenance standards, chauffeur training, proper licensing, insurance coverage, and real-time ride tracking, all of which seem important for safety and reliability. I came across Wood Black Car Service during my comparisons, which piqued my curiosity about how different companies manage their operations behind the scenes. For those who regularly use limousine services in Connecticut, what features or standards do you think matter most when choosing a truly professional provider?

Is Greece easy to travel around without renting a car?

I’m trying to figure out whether it’s realistic to travel around Greece without renting a car. I’d prefer not to drive if I can avoid it, especially since I’m not familiar with the roads, parking, or driving customs there.

For those who have traveled around Greece using public transportation, how easy was it? I know there are buses, ferries, taxis, and domestic flights, but I’m wondering how practical they are once you get outside the main tourist areas. Did you ever feel limited by not having a car?

I’m also curious whether it makes sense to rely on public transportation for most of the trip and just rent a car for a day or two when needed. Are there certain types of places that are especially difficult to reach without one?

I’d love to hear from anyone who has done a Greece trip mostly or entirely without driving.
Sign up for a free account and share your thoughts, photos, questions about Greek food, travel and culture!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top