Roads in the city are always crowded with traffic and in order to cut traffic pollution, the Greek government has introduced various measures including only allowing local vehicles with odd-numbered license plates to use the roads on odd-numbered days, and even-numbered cars on even days-weekdays only. This includes rented vehicles with local Athens license plates.
Most road signs are international and easily understood, and there are names in the Latin script under the Greek lettering.
Speed limit on open roads is 100 km/h and in towns 50 kp/h. Both speed limit and distance signs are in kilometres.
Seat belts are compulsory, as are crash helmets when riding a motorcycle. Drunk driving laws are strict and road patrols can test you and issue on the spot fines.
Many districts have one-way systems to ease the flow of traffic around the narrow streets.
If you have an accident or breakdown while on the highway put a red warning triangle some distance down the road to warn oncoming traffic.
Always carry the telephone number of your rental office when you travel.
They will be able to advise you if you have difficulties. In case of accident
or theft, contact the Tourist Police, tel. 171, who will send an English-speaking
officer to help you. The Greek motoring organisation ELPA provides roadside
assistance. If you are a member of an affiliated assocation in your own
country you will be able to get help without charge (check this before
you depart), otherwise they will make a charge.
Hitchhiking is not illegal in Greece,
however city public transport is comprehensive and inexpensive, which
means that few travellers hitchhike as a method of getting around. It
is more common to hitchhike in the countryside.
Athens is a congested city and the main tourist attractions are centred
in such a small area that it makes little sense to rent a vehicle. Using
the Metro system will limit the amount of walking and taxis are plentiful
and cheap. If you want to visit some of the islands it is easier to take
the Metro to Pireaus, which terminates just across the street from the
main harbour area. However, if you intend to spend a few days touring
the Argolid, a car would be an asset.
You will find all the major rental companies either at the airport or with offices in central Athens. Your hotel should also be able to arrange car rental for you.
Those who want to rent should carry an international
driver's license, providing that it has been held for one full year and
the driver is over 21 years of age.
Insurance is often included in the rental rates but do enquire and read
the contract thoroughly to be sure. Collision damage waiver is advisable
and if your credit card or home insurance does not provide it, it should
be purchased as part of the rental agreement.
I'd like to rent a car (tomorrow). Tha
ithela na nikiao ena aftokinito (avrio).
for one day/a week gia mia imera/mia evdomada
