On Samos, you drive through beautiful landscapes, along the sea, through mountain villages and over quiet roads. Still, it is important to remember that traffic rules apply here as well. Sometimes the speed signs may seem a little inconsistent: first 50 km/h, then 30 km/h and sometimes even 20 km/h. But even if it feels strange, according to Greek law you must follow the speed limit shown on the sign.

Luckily, you are on holiday. You do not need to rush to the office or to your next appointment. The only appointment you may have is with your sunbed at the beach. That is why we always say at yes rent a car Samos: drive calmly, enjoy the road and do not let anyone rush you.

Speed Checks on Samos

There are also speed checks on Samos. These are not always fixed cameras, but often simple laser checks. This means the police can be standing in different places, even where you do not expect them. We recently had someone who drove 60 km/h where only 50 km/h was allowed and immediately received a fine.

That is, of course, a waste of holiday money. And honestly, those few minutes you might save are never worth it. Just drive calmly, watch the signs and take your time. Samos is best discovered without rushing.

Zero Tolerance in Greece

The police in Greece, including on Samos, follow a strict approach. This does not only apply to speeding, but also to normal traffic rules. Think of overtaking where there are double solid lines, ignoring a stop sign or driving under the influence of alcohol.

A stop sign really means stop here too. Not rolling through slowly, not just checking whether something is coming, but fully stopping as you once learned. A double solid line also means: do not overtake. Even if the road looks quiet, it is still not allowed.

Fines Are Not Only for Tourists

On Facebook, you sometimes read stories from people who think the police mainly fine tourists to make money. That is simply not true. Local people on Samos also receive fines when they break the rules. The police check everyone: tourists, Greeks, locals and visitors.

For serious offences, the consequences can be even more unpleasant. A driving licence can be taken away temporarily, sometimes for several months. With too much alcohol, someone may even have to spend the night sobering up. So the rules are not more relaxed just because you are on an island. They are similar to the rest of Europe and are taken seriously.

Alcohol and Driving on Samos

Samos has lovely wine, friendly tavernas and relaxed evenings. But here too, alcohol and driving do not go together. Always decide who will be the designated driver, or leave the car parked if you want to drink. A holiday should stay enjoyable, and getting back safely is part of that.

At yes rent a car Samos, we believe it is important that our guests receive not only a good car, but also clear information. That is why we prefer to give useful tips in advance, so you do not face unpleasant surprises on the road.

Received a Fine Anyway?

If you are stopped and receive a fine, please let us know. Keep the pink ticket, or take a photo of it and send it to us via WhatsApp. We can then check it with you and help arrange the payment properly.

If we pay the fine for you, we will send you a payment request afterwards. You can simply transfer the amount to our Greek bank account, even after you have returned home. This way everything is handled correctly and you do not have to worry about it.

Our yes Tip

Our most important tip is simple: drive calmly, really stop at stop signs, do not overtake on double solid lines and do not drink if you still need to drive. Then driving on Samos is relaxed, safe and above all beautiful.

At yes rent a car Samos, we always say: you are on holiday, so take your time. Samos does not need to be discovered quickly. Samos should be experienced calmly.