Roads and Driving

Driving is on the right side of the road in Crete. Seatbelts are mandatory, and using a cell phone while driving is prohibited. Alcohol should never be consumed before driving.

Main Roads

Along the northern coast, there’s a high-speed road from Kissamos to Sitia with a speed limit of around 90 km/h. It features wide lanes and emergency lanes on both sides.

Safety Measures

Crete has speed control cameras installed along various spots of the national road, which are operational. Respect speed limits to avoid fines.

Traffic Practices

On major roads with emergency lanes, drivers often use half of the emergency lane to allow overtaking. Flashing headlights usually signal a need to move over.

Parking

Major towns typically offer larger parking areas outside or near the port. Check with your accommodation for parking recommendations. Do not leave personal belongings in the car to avoid theft, although Crete is generally safe.

Challenges

Traffic can be complex in old towns with restricted car access at certain times. Small villages have narrow streets with blind corners, requiring cautious driving and the use of mirrors.

Fuel and Stations

Gas stations are not automated; interacting with the station attendant is common. Plan ahead for fuel stops due to the island’s size and varied terrain.

Wildlife and Local Tips

Watch out for wild animals on the roads, particularly at night in mountainous areas. Be cautious of farm animals in villages and goats in tourist spots—avoid parking under trees due to goat activity.

Etiquette

Avoid honking in villages, where stopping for conversations is normal. In cities like Heraklion, traffic can be intense, and honking is more common.

A Local Advises:

In any village anywhere in the island, priority on a crossroad is always given to the local with the farm / pick-up vehicle, followed by the local with a normal car, then the one who have married a woman from the village. After them, everyone else follows…. Remember: If they have to ask you, “Whose child are you?” then you’re definitely last on the priority list…

If you see a goat staring at your car, it’s probably plotting to test your parking skills. Avoid becoming its next climbing frame!

In Crete, we drive with patience and maybe a dash of confusion. It’s all part of the island charm, so embrace the journey.