9 Greek Islands Best Enjoyed from the Driver's Seat
Lefkada. ...
Naxos. ...
Zakynthos. ...
Kythira. ...
Chios. ...
Samos. ...
Lesvos. ...
Kefalonia.
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Located off Greece's Ionian coast, Zakynthos (also known as Zante Island) is small enough to navigate in a couple of days by car, making it an ideal Greek island for a driving holiday. This route will take you clockwise around the island, discovering the most popular beaches and locations.
Hydra is a vehicle-free island, so there are no roads, no cars and no motorbikes! The only 4-wheel vehicle you will see in Hydra is the garbage truck. The best way to explore the island is on foot, as there are many trails and paths.
All you need is a positive attitude, and you'll be good to go. Driving on the islands is good when you become familiar with the narrow streets and the parking rules. At the same time, driving in major cities such as Athens with your rented car is often much more chaotic and, as a result, a bit more difficult.
U.S. citizen tourists/temporary residents with stays less than six months with a valid United States driver's license can drive in Greece with their U.S. license. For stays more than 185 days in Greece: A Greek license may be required.
U.S. citizen tourists/temporary residents with stays less than six months with a valid United States driver's license can drive in Greece with their U.S. license. For stays more than 185 days in Greece: A Greek license may be required.
The best way to get around Santorini is on foot or by bus. You'll see that it's easy to walk around the tiny seaside towns, but the bus is best to get from one town to another. There are KTEL bus routes from Fira (the capital city) to many different destinations around the main island.
Renting a car in Greece tip: The biggest benefit of having a rental car in Greece is that you can visit the off the beaten track sights and stay in hotels from the crowds. This also allows you to save money as generally hotels in urban areas are more expensive as tourists can't travel too far from them without a car.
Santorini is somewhat of a cliché choice to kick-off the list, but there are a multitude of reasons why the film-set stunning island is considered one of the most beautiful islands in Greece.
July and August are the hottest. The best time to visit is late spring (May) and fall (Sept–Oct). It's pleasant, with comfortable weather, no rain, and smaller crowds (except during holiday weekends). Winter (late October through mid-March) is colder, with some rainfall.
Right turns of red traffic lights: unlike what is allowed in some countries, in Greece you are not allowed to make a right turn on a red traffic light, unless there is a distinct, separate, traffic light placed showing a green or pulsing orange right turn signal .
Language. The signs in Greece are in two languages: Greek (Greek Alphabet) and English (Latin Alphabet). Previously, the signs were in Katharevousa and used the Polytonic system, until 1976 and 1981, which were replaced by the Demotic and Monotonic systems respectively.
History and Culture: Chania is one of the most historically rich cities in Greece and is known for its stunning architecture, narrow streets, and rich cultural heritage. Friendly Community: The local people in Chania are known for being warm and friendly, making it a welcoming destination for expats.
In brief: The Greek islands with the best beaches are Crete, Mykonos, Naxos, Milos, Paros, Ios, Lefkada, Zakynthos, Rhodes, Karpathos and more. The best for families with kids are Agios Georgios in Naxos and Agios Nikitas in Lefkada. The best for partying are Paradise Beach in Mykonos and Pounda Beach in Paros.