Road travel in Greece isn’t just about getting from one place to another—it’s part of the adventure. The country’s landscapes shift dramatically as you travel: olive groves give way to mountain passes, coastal views open up to endless blue seas, and sleepy villages surprise you with unexpected charm. Whether you’re taking a public bus, hiring a car, or flagging down a taxi, the roads of Greece promise discovery at every turn.

KTEL Buses: Greece’s Public Transport Backbone

If you’re looking for an affordable, efficient, and authentic way to get around, KTEL buses are your best bet. These intercity buses connect nearly every town and city in Greece, from the bustling streets of Athens to remote villages where life moves at a slower pace.

Why Choose KTEL Buses?

KTEL buses are deeply ingrained in the rhythm of daily Greek life. Locals rely on them for everything from commuting to visiting family, making them a great way to see Greece through the eyes of its people.

• Affordable: They’re budget-friendly, even for long distances.
• Extensive Coverage: KTEL buses connect major hubs, smaller towns, and even remote villages.
• Comfortable Rides: Modern buses come with air conditioning and spacious seating.

Major KTEL Hubs

KTEL operates out of nearly every major city and island. Some key hubs include:

• Athens:
  • Kifissos Station: For routes to the Peloponnese and western Greece.
  • Liosion Station: Handles northern destinations like Delphi and Meteora.
• Thessaloniki: A central hub for northern Greece, linking to places like Halkidiki and Kavala.
• Crete: The KTEL network connects Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymno to surrounding villages and beaches.
• Corfu and Other Islands: Island buses often link main towns with scenic beaches and outlying villages.

Tips for KTEL Travel

• Check Schedules: Timetables are usually reliable, but it’s best to confirm times, especially for rural routes.
• Buy Tickets Early: During summer, popular routes can fill up quickly.
• Arrive on Time: Stations, especially in cities, can be bustling—aim to get there at least 20 minutes before departure.

For travelers looking to immerse themselves in Greek culture while keeping their itinerary affordable, KTEL buses are a perfect choice.

Car Hire: Explore Greece at Your Own Pace

There’s no better way to discover Greece’s hidden gems than by renting a car. It gives you the freedom to stop wherever inspiration strikes, whether it’s a roadside taverna, a secluded cove, or a hilltop monastery.

Why Rent a Car?

• Flexibility: Go off the beaten path and create your own schedule.
• Access to Hidden Spots: Many of Greece’s best sights are far from public transport routes.
• Scenic Routes: From the Peloponnese’s winding mountain roads to Crete’s dramatic coastline, the drives themselves are part of the experience.

What to Know Before Renting

• Licensing: EU citizens can use their licenses. Visitors from other countries may need an International Driving Permit.
• Insurance: Make sure your rental includes basic coverage and consider adding extra protection for peace of mind.
• Age Requirements: Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with additional fees for younger drivers.

Tips for Driving in Greece

• Stay Alert: Mountain roads can be steep and winding, and city traffic, particularly in Athens, can be intense.
• Plan Your Stops: Gas stations in rural areas may close early, so refuel whenever you have the chance.
• Drive Slow on Islands: Roads are often narrow and shared with pedestrians, cyclists, and occasionally goats! Check also the location of the gas stations before you start your route, as usually there is only few and you don’t want to stay without fuel in some remote mountainous villages.
• Tolls:  In every trip in the Greek national roads you will meet many tolls in your route. Especially during the summer and bank holidays,  there will be a lot of  traffic to pay them. Our best advice to give is to take a Fast Pass  and… pass without waiting long in the queue, especially if you are travelling in Greece often or you travel a lot around the country.  Otherwise, you can easily pay by cash or card in person  or in the automatic machine.

Renting a car transforms your trip into a personal adventure, giving you the freedom to see Greece in a way that’s entirely your own.

Taxis: Reliable and Convenient for Every Traveler

In Greece, taxis are more than just a mode of transport—they’re a window into the culture of movement and daily life. From the yellow cabs darting through Athens’ bustling streets to the quieter rides on islands like Crete or Rhodes, taxis offer a dependable way to get around when public transport doesn’t fit the itinerary.

What You Need to Know

• Official Taxis: In Athens, taxis are yellow and easy to spot, while on many islands, they are white or another designated color. Licensed taxis always display clear signage and registration details.
• Fares and Meters: For city rides, fares are metered. For longer trips or journeys outside the city limits, it’s common to agree on a price with the driver beforehand.
• Flat Rates: Routes to and from airports often have fixed rates, so ask your driver about these to avoid confusion.

Navigating Your Taxi Journey

1. Confirm the Cost: If the meter isn’t being used, particularly for longer distances, settle on a price before you start the ride.
2. Carry Cash: While some drivers accept cards, cash remains the preferred payment method, especially in smaller towns or villages.
3. Use Taxi Apps in Cities: In urban hubs like Athens, apps such as Beat can help you book a ride with confidence. These platforms often provide upfront pricing and real-time tracking, adding a layer of convenience.
4. Ask About Extra Fees: Late-night rides, luggage, or road tolls may incur additional charges. Confirm with your driver before departing.
5. Stick to Licensed Taxis: Unlicensed drivers may be tempting, but official taxis ensure safety, fair prices, and professionalism.

When Taxis Are the Best Choice

Taxis are particularly useful for shorter distances, late-night trips when public transport isn’t running, or when you need direct access to your destination. On islands, they’re an efficient way to visit several spots in one day, especially when navigating narrow, unfamiliar roads isn’t appealing.

The Roads of Greece: A Journey Worth Taking

Every road in Greece tells a story, whether it’s winding along the coast with the Aegean glittering below or cutting through a mountain pass dotted with ancient ruins. Public buses provide a glimpse into the rhythm of local life, rental cars let you follow your curiosity to the most remote corners, and taxis offer convenience and comfort when you need it most.

Road travel in Greece isn’t just a means of transport—it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the landscapes, culture, and history of this timeless land. Wherever the road takes you, you’ll find that the journey is as rewarding as the destination.