Safe Driving on Kythira
Driving:
In Greece drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Stop Signs at junctions:
You may notice these are not always placed at the actual junction and you may have to stop past the sign to be in a more visual position, however all road signs must be obeyed.
Speed Limits:
The speed limits in Greece are as follows:
50 kilometres per hour in built up areas.
90 kilometres per hour on open roads.
110 - 130 kilometres per hour on motorways (of which do not exist on Kythira)
Lower local limits often apply near schools.
Road conditions:
You will find the majority of the main roads on Kythira are in good condition, however, a lot of the smaller roads can have uneven surfaces and can be quite narrow. Extra caution should be taken. It is also quite common to find drivers in the middle of the road and this can be due to a number of reasons such as, an unexpected parked vehicle, to avoid fallen rocks or animals grazing on the side of the road. A lot of drivers (mainly of heavy vehicles and bus drivers) use the horn around blind narrow corners to alert other vehicles of their presence. Dirt/Unsealed roads: There are a number of beaches or points of interest on the island that are only accessible via dirt roads. Although we recommend not driving your rental vehicle on these roads, doing so requires great caution and is at driver’s own risk.
Animals on the road:
Watch out for animals on the road, sometimes they can wander onto roads so be prepared.
Traffic Lights:
There are no traffic lights on Kythira
Roundabouts:
There are no roundabouts on Kythira
Wet Weather:
Although rain is not common during the summer months, if it occurs the roads can become very slippery due to the built up of oil and grime.
Please take extra care when driving in wet conditions.
Drink Driving:
It is illegal to have a level of alcohol in the bloodstream of more than 0.05 per cent. As a guide this is equivalent to one small beer.
Helmets and Seat Belts:
Both are mandatory and not wearing them will result in a fine for each passenger.
Child Safety:
Children measuring less than 1.35m and under 11 must be seated in an appropriate child safety seat for their size. Children under 10 may not travel in the front seat.
Mobile Phones:
Unless using hands free the use of mobile phones whilst driving is prohibited.
Car Parking:
Car parking around the island is free.
Parking Violations:
Incorrect parking (in a No Parking zone, Taxi stand etc) could result in a parking ticket. For serious violations the police may remove your number plates rendering the vehicle illegal, If this occurs you must contact us immediately. The Police: In Greece, the Police do not need "probable cause" to stop you. They are permitted by law to make random stops and checks on vehicles.
Petrol Stations:
There are a total of four (4) petrol stations on Kythira. Two situated in the northern part of the island just outside the town of Potamos and two in the south in the towns of Livadi and Kontolianika. They are open 7 days a week all year round.
In the summer period the petrol stations operating hours are from 07.00 – 22.00.
During the winter months they operate from 07.00-14.00 & 17.00-21.00.