Germany vs Greece 2026: 50 km/h Towns vs Greece's 30

Greece’s default built-up limit became 30 km/h on 1 January 2026, while Germany keeps 50 km/h. A phone offence in Greece costs EUR 350 with a 30-day licence suspension. In Germany it is EUR 100 plus 1 point. Both countries set the alcohol limit at 0.05%. Germany’s motorways have no general limit, with 130 km/h recommended.

Greece’s 30 km/h towns and the German Autobahn

Greek towns default to 30 km/h unless a sign or a road of two lanes or a median says 50, while rural roads carry 90 km/h and motorways 130. Germany posts 50 in towns and 100 on rural roads, with no general Autobahn limit and 130 advised; warning fines of EUR 5-55 (section 56 OWiG) can be paid on the spot.

Alcohol limit and everyday penalties

There is no alcohol gap, 0.05% on both sides. The penalties are heavier in Greece: EUR 350 plus a 30-day licence and vehicle-document suspension for no seatbelt, EUR 350 and 30 days for a phone (repeat EUR 1,000 and 180 days), EUR 700 and 60 days for a red light.

Driving licence and international driving permit rules

Greece lists an IDP as not required: licences from the US, Canada, Australia and the UK are valid as they are, with a translation only if not in Greek or English, while other non-convention licences need a licence plus translation or an IDP (KOK art. 94). Germany lists an IDP or translation as required for non-EU licences (FeV section 29). Check your licence with the driving permit checker.

A speeding ticket abroad: the amounts

Greek fines are tied to suspensions, from EUR 150 up to 20 km/h over to EUR 700 with a 60-day suspension above 50 over. Few fixed cameras exist but mobile police radar is common, on-the-spot fines are standard and cameras tolerate about 10 km/h; keep cash. Germany tolerates about 3 km/h and sends fines home under the EU directive.

Tyres for winter, kit for the glovebox

Greek roads carry no winter-tyre rule. Germany requires winter tyres in ice, snow, slush or black ice, accepting only 3PMSF since 1 October 2024. Greece requires a fire extinguisher, first-aid kit and triangle; Germany a first-aid kit, vest and triangle.

Charges on the road and numbers to save

Greece answers on 112, while the police line is 100, the ambulance line 166 and the fire line 199; Germany on 112, with 110 for police. Greek motorways charge tolls at booths, for example Athens to Thessaloniki about EUR 30 and Athens to Patras about EUR 15. German motorways are free for cars.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the default speed limit in Greek towns?

30 km/h since 1 January 2026, with 50 km/h on roads with two or more lanes per direction, one-way roads with at least two lanes, or a central median.

Does Greece require an IDP?

Not for US, Canadian, Australian or UK licences; others need a translation or an IDP.

How do Greek suspensions work for speeding?

Over 20 km/h brings a 20-day suspension, over 30 a 30-day suspension and over 50 a 60-day suspension.

Should I carry cash in Greece?

Yes. On-the-spot fines are standard practice and tolls are paid at booths.

What is the Greek fine for no seatbelt?

EUR 350 plus a 30-day suspension of licence and vehicle documents.

Paying a fine abroad: who pays and how

A fine issued in Greece or Germany is handled differently depending on your plate. Germany sends notices for EU-registered cars to the keeper’s home address, and a processing fee may be added, while hire cars are passed on by the rental company. Greek fines are often collected on the spot, so carrying cash helps. Read the guide to paying driving fines abroad before you travel.