Driving in Crete tips

Driving in Crete is quite an experience. Always an adrenaline rush, for good and bad reasons. Let’s look at the bad ones first:

- Cretan drivers are notorious for not abiding by the law. You’ll often see speeding cars left and right, which you should just let overtake you and pass through. Not a good idea to respond to road rage, if that occurs.

- Cretan highways are peculiar. In most roads, there’s a line diving the two lanes, though you’ll see cars overtaking other cars in parts of the road that they’re not supposed to. A good rule is to constantly keep right and just let speeding cars overtake you easily.

- Cretans are fast drivers. If you’re going to stop at a spot for photo shoots, make sure you don’t block the road or you’re not close to a turn, especially a sharp one.

- Always stop and watch for oncoming cars at “stop” signs. Yes, unfortunately, Cretans don’t always respect the signs. Better be predictable.

- Parking is usually allowed everywhere, unless a sign stated otherwise, there’s a garage or a pedestrian pass.

And now the good side:

- Car rides in Crete offer spectacular views. You’ll definitely want to stop along your way and photo shoot the view or just gaze and meditate in silence.

- Driving is the most reliable way to get from A to B. Bus connection is good, but won’t get you everywhere.

- Hitch-hiking is possible and safe in order to get where you want. It’s something that travelers often do in Crete and it’s a safe way to get somewhere if you’re stranded or just don’t have a car.