Greece

Fines for speeding in Greece

  • Up to 20 km/h over the limit: €40 fine.
  • 21–30 km/h over the limit: €100 fine.
  • More than 30 km/h over the limit: €175 fine and a possible 2-month driving ban.

Note: Fines are reduced by 50% if paid within 10 days.

Do I need to purchase Vignette?

In Greece, there is a toll system for highways, but no vignette system for passenger vehicles. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Who Needs a Vignette?

  • No vignette required for passenger vehicles in Greece.
  • Instead, Greece uses a toll system on certain roads and highways.

2. Where Are Tolls Needed?

  • Toll Roads (Egnatia Odos and other highways): Greece has a network of toll roads, especially in the northern and central parts of the country.
    • Egnatia Odos: One of the most important toll highways, running across northern Greece from Igoumenitsa to Alexandroupoli.
    • Other Highways: Tolls are also present on major highways such as the Patras–Athens–Thessaloniki route, and routes leading to Athens, Thessaloniki, and the Peloponnese.
  • Toll Bridges: Some bridges, such as the Rio-Antirio Bridge connecting the Peloponnese to mainland Greece, also charge tolls.

3. Toll Prices

  • Toll Charges: Prices depend on the highway, distance, and vehicle type.
    • Passenger Cars: Toll prices for a typical trip on highways range from €2 to €10, with some longer routes like Athens to Thessaloniki costing more.
    • Motorcycles: Usually pay about 50% of the toll for cars.
    • Larger Vehicles: Trucks and buses may pay significantly higher tolls, depending on size and weight.

For example:

  • The Athens to Thessaloniki route (via E65 and E1 highways) could cost around €10-15 for a passenger car.

4. Where to Pay Tolls

  • Toll Booths: Tolls are collected at booths along the highway where drivers stop to pay. Most toll booths accept:
    • Cash (Euros)
    • Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard)
  • Electronic Toll Systems: Greece has an electronic toll collection system called e-pass that allows for faster payments without stopping. You can get a device for automatic payment.
    • The e-pass system works on many toll roads and can be a convenient option for frequent travelers.

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • Toll Evasion: If you fail to pay at toll booths, fines will apply.
    • Fines can range from €50 to €100, depending on the violation and location.
    • If you use an e-pass but have insufficient funds, you may also face fines.

6. Additional Information

  • Environmental Zones: There are currently no low-emission zones (LEZs) in Greece, but regulations may change in the future.
  • Toll-Free Routes: Many smaller or rural roads are toll-free. If you wish to avoid tolls, you can choose alternative, longer routes, though they might take more time.

7. Tips for Travelers

  • Get an e-pass: If you’re traveling frequently on toll roads, consider obtaining an e-pass to avoid stopping at toll booths.
  • Have cash or a card ready at toll booths, especially on less busy routes.
  • Plan Your Route: If you’re driving long distances or planning to visit tourist areas, check toll prices in advance to estimate your travel costs.