Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Road surfaces can change rapidly when a section of road has succumbed to subsiden-
ce or weathering. Snow and ice can be a serious challenge in winter, and drivers are ad-
vised to carry snow chains. Animals in rural areas may wander onto roads, so extra vigil-
ance is required.
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Roads passing through mountainous areas are often littered with fallen rocks that can
cause extensive damage to a vehicle's underside or throw a bike rider.
Road Rules
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In Greece, as throughout Continental Europe, you drive on the right and overtake on the
left.
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Outside built-up areas, traffic on a main road has right of way at intersections. In towns,
vehicles coming from the right have right of way. This includes roundabouts - even if
you're in the roundabout, you must give way to drivers coming onto the roundabout to
your right.
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Seat belts must be worn in front seats, and in back seats if the car is fitted with them.
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Children under 12 years of age are not allowed in the front seat.
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It is compulsory to carry a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher and warning triangle, and it is for-
bidden to carry cans of petrol.
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Helmets are compulsory for motorcyclists if the motorcycle is 50cc or more. Police will
book you if you're caught without a helmet.
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Outside residential areas the speed limit is 120km/h on highways, 90km/h on other
roads and 50km/h in built-up areas. The speed limit for motorcycles up to 100cc is 70km/h
and for larger motorcycles, 90km/h. Drivers exceeding the speed limit by 20% are liable to
receive a fine of €60; exceeding it by 40% costs €150.
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A blood-alcohol content of 0.05% can incur a fine of €150, and over 0.08% is a criminal
offence.
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If you are involved in an accident and no one is hurt, the police will not be required to
write a report, but it is advisable to go to a nearby police station and explain what
happened. You may need a police report for insurance purposes. If an accident involves
injury, a driver who does not stop and does not inform the police may face a prison sen-
tence.
Hitching
Hitching is never entirely safe in any country in the world, and we don't recommend it.
Travellers who decide to hitch should understand that they are taking a small but poten-
