Car Rental Athens
Within the extensive city of Athens it is easy to imagine the golden age of Greece when Pericles had the Parthenon built. Athens is built around the Acropolis and Mt. Lycabettus, which the goddess Athena was said to have dropped from the heavens as a bulwark to defend the city. Athens, the capital of Greece is currently home to over four million residents. The city is packed with lively taverns and bustling shops. The entrance to the Acropolis is the Propylea, which extends 150 feet adjoining the temple of Athena Nike or Wingless Victory. The Parthenon is on the highest part of the Acropolis and was built between 447 and 437 BC. Athens will be hosting the Olympics next year in 2004.
Driving in Greece
The minimum age of a driver is 18 years. Children must be at least 10 years of age to sit in the front seat. The use of seat belts is required for all front seat passengers. Many roads are three lanes wide, the middle lane is used for passing in both directions. If there is little room to pass on the road, fast drivers expect slow drivers to pull onto the shoulder in order to let them by.
Speed Limits
| Area |
Limit |
| Expressways |
120 KM/H (cars) 90 KM/H (motorcycle) |
| Outside the City |
110 KM/H (cars) 70 KM/H (motorcycle) |
| In the City |
50 KM/H (cars) 40 KM/H (motorcycle) |
Drinking and Driving
The maximum legal blood alcohol limit is 50 mg.
Parking
You are not allowed to park within 3 metres of a fire hydrant, within 5 metres of an intersection, or within 15 metres of a public transportation stop, though practically no one follows this rule. If you park in a No Parking zone in Athens or certain other areas, the police may confiscate your license plates if you owe a traffic fine or fines.
Fuel
Lead-free is widely available. Regular unleaded petrol has an octane rating of 91 or 92; the octane rating of super is 96 or 98. Unleaded is called amoliwdi wensina. Unleaded super petrol has an octane rating of 95.
Helpful Contact Numbers
Here are some telephone numbers you may find useful during your trip in Athens.
- Emergency (service in English): 112
- Roadside Assistance: Greek Automobile Touring Club (ELPA) Tel: 01-779-1615
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