What to see & do with your IDP in Greece?
Greece is built for exploration. With an international driving permit in Greece, you’re not tied to bus timetables or tour groups—you can chase sunsets, stop at local bakeries, and dive into roadside ruins whenever you like.
Begin in Athens, but don’t linger too long. Head northwest toward Delphi, passing through olive groves and mountain villages en route to one of the ancient world’s most spiritual sites. The views along the way rival the destination itself.
Next, turn your wheels toward Meteora. This surreal region, where monasteries perch atop massive stone pillars, is best reached by car. The journey is scenic and the area’s dispersed layout makes driving especially useful.
Southern Greece is rich with coastal charm. On the Peloponnese peninsula, you’ll find medieval towns like Monemvasia, seaside promenades in Nafplio, and Kalamata’s vibrant food scene. Driving lets you uncover small coves, archaeological ruins, and family-run tavernas off the beaten path.
Crete deserves a trip of its own. Its winding roads connect dramatic gorges, ancient ruins, and some of Greece’s most photogenic beaches—like Elafonissi and Balos. Renting a car here gives you full access to rural villages, vineyards, and hikes like the Samaria Gorge trail.
For something quieter, explore the northern regions like Zagori or Chalkidiki. These areas offer alpine lakes, pine forests, and uncrowded beaches that aren’t easily reached without a car. Greek road signs often include English, and highways are generally in good condition, making navigation easier for international drivers.
With the flexibility of a car and an IDP, you’ll experience a more authentic, unhurried side of Greece—where spontaneous detours lead to unforgettable discoveries.
Time to travel around Greece
Greece’s position at the crossroads of Europe and the Balkans makes it a strong base for road travel into nearby countries. With an international driving permit in Greece, you’ll find border crossings more efficient, especially in non-EU territories where translation matters.
Plan extended road trips to explore medieval towns, mountain lakes, and Adriatic coastlines just a few hours from the Greek border. Your IDP allows smoother car rentals and easier checkpoints across the region.
Other Destinations
Everything You Need to Know About International Driving Permits for Greece
If you’re thinking about exploring Greece by car, it’s important to know when an international driving permit in Greece is needed—and what local rules to expect.
Visitors from the EU can drive using their home licenses. However, travelers from countries like the USA, Australia, Canada, and many others outside the EU or EEA are often asked for an IDP, especially when renting a car. Even if Greek law doesn’t require it in all cases, rental agencies may enforce their own policies and deny service without it.
Traffic police in Greece may stop cars for documentation checks, particularly in rural areas, islands, or near border zones. Showing an IDP alongside your original license can simplify these encounters by eliminating language confusion.
Driving habits in Greece can vary. In cities like Athens, expect heavy traffic and assertive drivers. In contrast, rural roads can be quiet but winding, so caution is key. Highway conditions are generally good, and major routes are well-signposted.
Here are key road rules and penalties to be aware of:
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Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers
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Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
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Open roads: 90 km/h
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Highways: 130 km/h
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Mobile phone use is only allowed with hands-free devices
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Legal blood alcohol limit: 0.05% (lower for novice drivers)
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Tolls are frequent on main highways—carry cash or cards
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Illegally parked cars may be ticketed or towed
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Children under 12 must use a car seat or booster
For official updates, visit Hellenic Police Traffic Division or the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.
Need more advice before hitting the road? Check out our Greece Driving Guide.
Yes, it is possible to take a rental car from mainland Greece to the islands via ferry, but you must confirm this with your rental agency in advance. Many Greek car rental companies allow ferry travel, though some may require prior notice, written permission, or an added fee for ferry insurance coverage. Without permission, ferrying a rental vehicle could void your rental agreement or insurance coverage.
Not all islands have the same infrastructure, so road conditions and rental availability may vary. Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes, for example, are well-equipped for self-driving, while smaller islands may have narrow roads or limited parking. Before boarding a ferry, ensure you’re familiar with boarding procedures and have the necessary paperwork ready. Ferry schedules and vehicle space can vary by season, so booking early is recommended—especially in summer.
In Greece, not all gas stations operate 24/7. While major highways and urban centers may have round-the-clock service, most rural or island stations close in the evening, particularly outside the tourist season. Many stations now offer self-service pumps, but these are less common in remote areas.
As for payments, most stations accept credit and debit cards, especially in cities and along major routes. However, smaller or family-run stations may prefer cash. It’s wise to carry some euros, especially when driving through rural regions or smaller islands. If you’re planning a long trip, refuel before entering mountainous areas or lesser-populated islands where station hours may be more limited.
Driving in mountainous regions of Greece, such as Zagori or Pelion, can be safe and rewarding for confident drivers. These areas offer spectacular views and charming villages but come with narrow roads, sharp curves, and occasional steep drop-offs. In winter, some routes may be icy or closed due to snow, especially in higher altitudes.
Road conditions are generally decent, but signage may be limited, and guardrails aren’t always present on smaller roads. It’s important to drive slowly, use lower gears when descending, and be aware of animals or farm vehicles. Local drivers are used to these conditions and may travel faster than expected—let them pass when safe.
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and avoid driving at night if unfamiliar with the route. GPS may not always be reliable in these remote regions, so offline maps are helpful.