Information and tips on driving on Karpathos and renting a vehicle

Of all the transport options, renting a car is our number one. This is still the easiest way to explore the island at your own pace. Besides, taxis are very expensive and with the bus, you are stuck with fixed times anyway.

We did notice that renting a car on Karpathos is a bit more expensive than on other Greek islands. Perhaps this is because Karpathos is smaller (fewer rental companies). Depending on the period, you can rent a car for €30 to €100 per day.

It's best to book a car in advance. It is often cheaper to arrange this as early as possible and we have experienced on Karpathos that last minute there was simply no car to rent on the entire island, bizarre!

Keep in mind: Karpathos is a smaller island there are few automatic cars available on the island. So if you want to hire an automatic, book in advance. At the last minute is often impossible to arrange.

Tips:

• You can rent a car abroad from the age of 21 and when you have had your driving licence for two years. However, some companies may charge an extra fee because you are still inexperienced and some companies only let you rent from 23.

• A 4x4 is not required.

• Going island hopping by car? Check this with your rental company. In some cases, this is not allowed or you pay an extra fee. If you don't, you are not insured.

• Be careful with unpaved roads to remote beaches. You are often not insured and coverage is poor in case of an emergency. Always check this with the rental company.

• Beware of stray wildlife. Goats and sheep like to lie and walk on the road and cats also often run across the road. They often bolt from under the dustbins.

• Karpathos is very quiet in terms of traffic (except for the centre of Pigadia). You won't find any traffic lights here.

• Karpathos has many mountains and the roads to beaches can be a bit steep. Mastering the slope test is therefore highly recommended.

• Parking is free everywhere. In Pigadia there are several parking spaces and further on the island (at beaches etc.) it is mainly just park your car where you can.

The roads

As far as we are concerned, the roads on Karpathos are fine. The roads are quiet and there are no roundabouts or traffic lights. There is one road that goes around the island with a turnoff here and there to various beaches. Some bits can be a bit narrower, but if you just drive slowly it's no problem. Let others overtake if they want to. Certainly, the locals know perfectly well which places they can overtake and then take their chance.

Are the roads safe to drive?

We often get this question and find it difficult to answer, because we have been driving here for years and don't find it a problem at all. Also, it is different for everyone. That's why we made a video with some footage, so you can decide for yourself what you think of the roads here. Check out this video about the roads on Karpathos.

Fuel

On Karpathos, there are five places where you can fill up. There is one petrol station at Arkassa, two between Amoopi and Pigadia and two as you drive out of Pigadia towards Aperi. We have pinned all of them in the Karpathos maps, of course.

Quad, scooter or motorbike

Rather not rent a car? You can also opt for a quad, scooter or motorbike. These means of transport are often slightly cheaper than a car but also have their disadvantages.

After all, driving a quad bike is quite tiring. Choose to hire it for 1 or 2 days, for example. A scooter is also less stable with two wheels. Also, the wind on Karpathos can be quite strong. We ride scooters ourselves, but if you're not used to it, we wouldn't necessarily recommend it. In the end, choose what you like.

Important to know: With a B licence, you can hire up to 125cc, but you must be 28 years or older, have had your licence for 7 years and have AM+B on your licence. If you don't meet these requirements or only have an AM driving licence, you may rent up to 50cc. For vehicles over 125cc, you need a motorbike driving licence. Please note that you are not insured if you do not comply with these rules.

Public transport on Karpathos

Don't want to rent your rented vehicle? Explore Karpathos by bus! Keep in mind that you do become more bound to the times the bus runs. It also doesn't get you everywhere. On the other hand, it is a cheap option! In low season, the buses run much less. This is because the buses are used for the kids who have to go to school. When school is finished (June) the busses will drive more frequently.

You can check the bus schedule at the bus station in Pigadia.