Driving Rules in Greece for Visitors and Tourists
Driving in Greece as a visitor is easy once you know a few local rules. Some of them differ from the rest of Europe. Roundabout priority is one example, and the rules on alcohol and phone use are stricter. This guide covers what you need to know before you pick up your rental car, ATV or scooter, so you can enjoy your trip without fines or surprises.
Greece driving rules at a glance
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Driving side | Right-hand side of the road |
| Speed in towns | 50 km/h, many streets signed 30 km/h |
| Speed on rural roads | 90 km/h, often lower on island roads |
| Speed on expressways and motorways | 110 km/h and 130 km/h |
| Alcohol limit | 0.5 g/l, or 0.2 g/l for new drivers, professional drivers and motorcycle riders |
| Seatbelts | Mandatory for every passenger, front and back |
| Helmets | Mandatory on scooters, motorcycles and ATVs, for rider and passenger |
| Mobile phone | Hands-free only |
| Roundabouts | Without signs, priority goes to traffic coming from the right |
Alcohol Limit for Driving in Greece
The legal blood alcohol limit in Greece is 0.5 g/l for most drivers. A lower limit of 0.2 g/l applies to new drivers with less than two years of experience, to professional drivers and to riders of motorcycles and mopeds. In practice, one drink can be enough to reach the lower limit.
Police carry out frequent breath tests, especially in the evenings and during the summer season on the islands. Since the new traffic code of 2025, penalties go up with the alcohol level and include fines, license suspension and, at high levels, criminal charges. The safest choice on holiday is simple: if you drink, don’t drive. Take a taxi or walk back to your accommodation.
Speed Limits in Greece
Speed limits depend on the type of road, and road signs always take priority:
- Towns and villages: 50 km/h, with many streets now signed at 30 km/h
- Rural roads: 90 km/h, usually lower on narrow or winding roads
- Expressways: 110 km/h
- Motorways: 130 km/h
On islands such as Milos, roads are narrow and full of curves, so you will rarely drive faster than 50 to 60 km/h. Speed cameras are becoming more common across Greece.
Roundabout Rules in Greece
This is the rule that surprises most visitors. In most European countries, traffic already inside the roundabout has priority. In Greece, when there are no signs, priority goes to the vehicle coming from the right, which often means cars entering the roundabout.
Many roundabouts have “give way” signs at the entrances, and in that case traffic inside the roundabout has priority. Always look for the signs as you approach, slow down and be ready to give way.
Seatbelts and Helmets
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, in the front and in the back. Children must travel in a child seat suitable for their age and height.
On scooters, motorcycles and ATVs, both the rider and the passenger must wear a properly fastened, approved helmet. Under the new traffic code, riding without a helmet means a fine of €350 and a 30-day license suspension. If a passenger is not wearing a helmet, both the passenger and the driver are fined.
Mobile Phones While Driving
You may only use your phone with a hands-free system. Calls, texting and holding the phone to check maps are all banned, and the ban also covers smartwatches and tablets. The fine is €350 with a 30-day license suspension, and much higher for repeat offenses.
If you use GPS, set your route before you start and keep the phone in a mount with voice directions.
Driving License Requirements for Tourists
Visitors with a driving license from an EU country can drive in Greece with their national license. Drivers with a license from outside the EU should carry an International Driving Permit together with their national license. Check with your rental company when you book, and always carry your license and passport or ID while driving.
Driving on Milos and Other Greek Islands
Island driving is different from city driving:
- Narrow roads and sharp turns: drive slowly and use your horn before blind corners.
- Dirt roads: many beaches on Milos are reached by dirt roads. Check with us which roads are suitable for your vehicle and covered by your rental terms.
- Busy summer traffic: expect pedestrians, scooters and quads near beaches and villages, especially in July and August.
- Parking: in popular spots such as Plaka and Sarakiniko, parking fills up early. Arrive in the morning or late afternoon, and see our guide to parking in Milos.
An ATV or a scooter is the easiest way to reach small beaches and park in villages. A car is the better choice for families and longer days out.
Tips for Driving a Rental Vehicle
- Read the rental terms before you collect the vehicle, especially what the insurance covers.
- Check the vehicle for existing damage and make sure it is recorded before you leave.
- Traffic fines are the responsibility of the driver.
- In case of a breakdown or accident, call the rental company straight away and follow their instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the alcohol limit for driving in Greece?
The limit is 0.5 g/l of blood alcohol for most drivers. It is 0.2 g/l for new drivers, professional drivers and riders of motorcycles and mopeds.
Can you drink and drive in Greece?
Only below the legal limit, but even one drink can put new drivers and motorcycle riders over 0.2 g/l. The safest option is not to drive after drinking.
Who has priority at a roundabout in Greece?
When there are no signs, vehicles coming from the right have priority. If there are “give way” signs at the entrance, traffic inside the roundabout has priority.
Do you have to wear a helmet in Greece?
Yes. A helmet is mandatory for both rider and passenger on scooters, motorcycles and ATVs.
What are the speed limits in Greece?
50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on rural roads, 110 km/h on expressways and 130 km/h on motorways, unless signs show otherwise.
Can tourists drive in Greece with their own license?
Yes, with an EU license. Drivers from outside the EU should also carry an International Driving Permit.
Ready to explore Milos? Book your car, ATV or scooter online and pick it up when you arrive.