Driving in Crete: what to know before leaving Heraklion Airport
Driving in Crete is easier than its reputation, provided you know three things: on the national road slower cars move half onto the hard shoulder to let others pass, mountain roads take twice as long as the map says, and village petrol stations close early.
The national road from Heraklion Airport
The airport sits beside the north coast road (EO90, often called VOAK), which links Kissamos in the west to Sitia in the east via Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos. Some sections are modern dual carriageway, others are an old two-lane road with a wide hard shoulder, and long stretches are being rebuilt, so lanes and limits change. Expect slow trucks, sudden roadworks and speed cameras.
On the two-lane sections, slower drivers pull half onto the hard shoulder so faster cars can overtake in the middle. You are expected to do the same when someone is right behind you. Watch for cyclists and parked cars on that shoulder.
Speed limits and rules in Crete
| Rule | Greece |
|---|---|
| Built-up areas | 50 km/h (often 30–40 in villages) |
| Outside built-up areas | 90 km/h |
| Expressway sections | up to 110 km/h where signed |
| Alcohol limit | 0.5 g/l (0.2 for new and professional drivers) |
| Seatbelts, phones | Seatbelts for all; no handheld phone |
Mountain roads, goats and timing
South of the national road, Crete is mountainous. Roads to the south coast, the Lasithi plateau or the gorges are narrow, winding and sometimes unfenced, with goats on the tarmac around bends. Google’s times are optimistic; add 30%. Avoid driving them for the first time after dark.
Parking and petrol
In Heraklion, Chania and Rethymno old towns, park outside the centre in a paid car park and walk. Blue lines usually mean paid parking, yellow lines mean no parking. Petrol stations on the national road stay open late; in villages they often close in the evening and on Sunday, and some only take cash. Return your rental car full if your contract is full-to-full, and read our deposit and insurance guide before signing.
Frequently asked questions
Is it hard to drive in Crete?
Not on the main roads. The challenges are the hard-shoulder overtaking habit, narrow mountain roads and parking in old towns.
What is the speed limit in Crete?
50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h outside, up to 110 km/h on signed expressway sections.
Do I need an International Driving Permit in Crete?
For non-EU, non-UK licences generally yes, including US licences.
Are petrol stations open on Sunday in Crete?
On the national road and in towns usually yes; in villages many close on Sunday and in the evening.
Not driving tonight?
Take a transfer from the airport and start driving tomorrow in daylight.
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