Car- Renting a car is an easy and inexpensive way for tourists to get around within the country. Rental car pricing can range anywhere from $100-$200/week. Thankfully Greeks drive on the right hand side of the road, so it won't be too much of a learning curve for us westerners. Greece has a high accident rate so buckling up is a must!
Moped- Moped rentals are the most popular way for visitors to get around. It can cost as little as 10E/day. A driver’s license is necessary to rent and drive a moped. Some rental places require tourists to leave their passport as collateral to make sure they get the moped back. However, we suggest finding a way to get around leaving your passport with someone you just met. It is never a good idea to leave your passport with a foreign person you do not know in a foreign country.
Bus- The intercity bus system is very efficient and can get you almost anywhere on the mainland of Greece if you plan your route correctly.
Ferries and Boats- The best way to get to the islands of Greece is via ferry; although, some people choose to take a connecting flight into their island which can be quicker. A boat called the “flying dolphin” can get you to your island very quickly and efficiently, however, you lose the charm of seafaring that you get while riding the ferries.
Airplanes- Greece has 16 international airports, but only Athens and Thessaloniki receive regular international flights. The Greek carrier plane Olympic Airways is the major airline in Greece.
Metro- The metro in Athens is relatively newly built and said to be the most beautiful system in the world. Reviewers of the metro claim it is easy, clean and has a fairly extensive service. Reviewers also agreed the system was extremely beautiful and well kept.
Taxi- One of the best ways to get around within Greece is by foot, however, the taxi system is another form of transportation. In Athens and other large cities, taxis are very hard to flag down. They only pick up passengers who are headed in their general direction even though this is illegal. Don’t waste your time or effort arguing with how the taxi system works. Also, be aware that taxis will keep picking up passengers until the cab is full. If there is an extra seat, you might have company coming! All passengers only pay for their fare so take note of the meter when entering a taxi that currently has other travellers riding. Don’t expect to leave a tip.
When you flag down a taxi, raise your arm in the direction you are heading and stare the driver in the eyes until he stops. Make sure you get in the cab before telling the driver your destination. Don’t make the mistake of telling him your destination before you enter the cab as he may decide taking you to your requested destination is not worth it.
Smaller towns have specific taxi stations so you must go to the station to pick up a cab. The cabs in these small towns do not have taxis floating around looking to pick up travelers.
Donkeys- Donkeys are used on many islands for rides or for taking tourists on strolls around town. In Santorini you can climb up the town from the harbor by donkey. Small Islands often use donkeys as their main mode of transportation as they are efficient on steep, narrow streets.
However you decide to get around Greece, just know the main forms of transportation in the areas you are thinking of traveling. Knowledge is power and knowing is half the battle of travel bloopers!
Speak with your Passport Health travel medicine specialist during your travel consultation about the safety risks for the area to which you are planning to travel. The nurse may have some valuable, updated information that could affect your transportation plans. Additionally, pick up a phrase book. It could really help you communicate better with the local transportation providers and give you a smoother ride.
What do you suggest is the best mode of transportation in Greece? What advice can you give future travelers in terms of planning their trip regarding transportation?
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