Everything German Travellers Need to Know About Driving in Greece

A Flexible and Rewarding Way for German Tourists to Travel

For many German travellers heading to Greece, there’s simply no better way to soak up the country’s beauty than from behind the wheel. With ancient ruins, breathtaking coastlines, quaint mountain villages, and sun-drenched islands, driving through Greece offers the kind of freedom and spontaneity that public transport can’t match.

Whether you're chasing hidden beaches, planning a Peloponnesian road trip, or just hoping to stop for lunch in a quiet taverna, a car gives you total control. If you're new to driving in Greece, it can feel a little daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. From licences to local rules, here’s everything you need to know before setting off.

Why Drive in Greece?

Greece is a country best enjoyed at your own pace. While public transport does exist, it’s often limited, especially outside big cities and on smaller islands. Trains are sparse and mostly serve the northern parts of the mainland. Buses can be time-consuming, infrequent, and rarely reach the hidden spots that make Greece so charming.

Driving allows you to stop where you want, take scenic detours, and discover beaches or ruins most tourists never see. From the olive groves of the Peloponnese to Crete’s rugged hills, having a car lets you explore places buses can’t reach. It also gives you freedom from fixed timetables, something many German travellers value when adjusting to Greece’s more relaxed pace.

Legal Requirements and Age Restrictions

Before picking up your rental car in Greece, make sure you meet the legal and rental requirements. German licences are accepted, so EU citizens don’t need an International Driving Permit for short visits. Your licence must be valid and at least one year old. If it’s recently issued or unusually formatted, check with your rental provider. Most companies require drivers to be at least 21, with some vehicle types needing a minimum age of 25. Drivers under 25 may face a young driver surcharge. A passport or ID and a credit card in the lead driver’s name are also required for the security deposit.

Understanding Greek Road Rules

Driving in Greece can be enjoyable and relatively straightforward, but it helps to understand a few key rules and customs before setting off. Here are the most crucial things German visitors should keep in mind to stay safe and avoid surprises on the road:

• Drive on the right-hand side: Cars drive on the right and overtake on the left. Road signs are typically displayed in both Greek and English, making navigation generally easy for tourists.
• Seatbelt and child safety laws: Seatbelts must be worn by everyone in the car. Children under 12 must sit in the back seat and use a suitable car seat.
• Alcohol and phone rules: The legal alcohol limit is 0.05%, or 0.02% for new drivers. Using a mobile phone is only allowed with a hands-free system.
• Speed limits vary by area: Typical limits are 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on rural roads, and up to 130 km/h on motorways. Be cautious on mountain roads, where limits are lower.
• Greek driving stle: Local drivers can be assertive, especially in busy areas. Stay alert, remain calm, and drive defensively to adapt smoothly to changing conditions.

Roads, Signage, and Conditions

Driving around Greece offers a mix of smooth highways and more challenging rural roads, especially for first-time visitors from abroad. Understanding what to expect with road conditions, signage, tolls, and parking can help you stay prepared and stress-free throughout your trip. Here's a breakdown of the key points:

• Main roads are generally in good shape: Highways connect major cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras. Toll roads are common and typically cost between €1 and €3 per segment, though longer routes may total over €25 or more.
• Rural and island roads can be tricky: Roads in mountainous or island regions are often narrow, steep, or winding. Some surfaces may be uneven or have potholes, so it’s best to drive cautiously—especially at night.
• Parking in cities can be difficult: Street parking in towns like Athens and Thessaloniki is limited. Blue zones require payment, white zones are free, and garages are safer but costlier. Avoid illegal spots to prevent fines or towing.

Fuel and Filling Up

Refuelling in Greece is generally straightforward, but there are a few useful things to know—especially for first-time visitors from Germany. From fuel types to payment options and return policies, here’s what to expect:

• Petrol stations are widely available: They can be found across the mainland and on popular islands, but rural ones may close early or remain shut on Sundays.
• Fuel prices are higher than in Germany: Expect to pay more per litre, especially in remote areas or on the islands.
• Most stations offer full service: An attendant will usually fill the tank for you, which is convenient. Just make sure to confirm the fuel type and amount in advance.
• Hire cars use petrol or diesel: Petrol is more common, but diesel is available. If you’re unsure, ask your hire company before leaving.
• Payments are usually in cash: Many stations now accept cards, but it’s a good idea to carry coins and small notes—especially in rural areas.
• Check your hire car’s fuel policy: Most contracts require either full-to-full refuelling or prepaid fuel. Full-to-full generally offers the best value.

Insurance and Extras

Understanding insurance and optional extras is key to avoiding surprises during your car hire in Greece. While some coverage is included by law, it's often not enough to fully protect you in case of an accident or damage. Here’s what you should know:

• Basic third-party insurance is legally included: This only covers damage to other vehicles or people. For your protection, consider adding a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which covers damage to the hire car minus an excess.
• You can reduce your excess: Paying for Super CDW or full coverage can lower or eliminate your liability and often includes theft protection. Some German credit cards offer insurance benefits, but the hire company may still place a hold on your card.
• Extras are available at most locations: Items like GPS, child seats, or snow chains can be hired daily. If another person will be driving, they must be added to the booking and show their documents in person.

For more details on coverage and how it works in practice, check out What You Need to Know About Car Rental Insurance in Greece.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Tips

Final Rentals offers convenient collection points across Greece, including major airports and city branches that may offer more competitive pricing. Plan for 30–45 minutes at pick-up to handle paperwork and vehicle checks. It’s a good idea to photograph the car and confirm the fuel level, mileage, and necessary documents. When returning the vehicle, stick to the fuel policy, allow extra time during busy periods, and ask for a final receipt to confirm everything is in order.

Rent a Car in Greece with Final Rentals

Renting a car for the first time should be a reassuring experience. Final Rentals fosters confidence from start to finish, especially for travellers from Germany, by offering clarity, support, and ease. Here’s what makes them a top choice:

• Clear and effortless booking: The platform works smoothly with no hidden charges, allowing easy reservation and flexible pick-up at airports or city branches. It’s ideal for German travellers who like to plan but keep options open.
• Transparent policies and multilingual support: Prices are competitive, and a helpful customer service team assists during the entire rental period, offering support if plans change or issues arise.
• Wide fleet and useful extras: Choose from compact cars for city drives or larger vehicles for longer trips. Add GPS, child seats, or insurance at booking, with clear guidance provided upfront.
• Trusted by international users: With hundreds of positive reviews from tourists worldwide, Final Rentals is a reliable choice for German tourists seeking a smooth, dependable rental experience.

Driving through Greece offers a unique way to connect with the country’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and relaxed rhythm of life. For German tourists seeking flexibility and a deeper travel experience, choosing to rent a car in Greece opens the door to hidden beaches, mountain villages, and historical sites beyond the typical tourist routes. With proper preparation and Final Rentals, your journey can be smooth, memorable, and entirely your own. Take the wheel, enjoy the freedom, and let the road guide you through everything Greece has to offer!