Taking the wheel of a car rental in Athens soon? Pay attention. Greek drivers do not drive like other drivers in the world. They either park illegally or double park, and honk their horns in synchronicity with the traffic lights. Use these tips to help you keep safe.

1. Follow the Speed Limit – Speed limits are posted on road signs. You don’t have to worry about the language barrier-the pictures are self-explanatory. As a general guide, though, please keep the following speed limits in mind:

– urban areas: 30 to 50 kph
– outside cities: 68 to 110 kph
– expressways / freeways: 75 kph to 120 kph

2. Avoid Certain Areas – Like other big cities, Athens has areas identified as a hot spot for criminal activities. Try not to pass by the following areas:

– Syntagma
– Plaka
– Omonia
– Piraeus
– Karaiskaki Square
– Vathis Square
– Sofokleous Street
– the western end of Pireos Street

In these areas, robbery, purse-snatching, and pickpocketing are rampant. Locals avoid these areas as much as possible; so should you.

3. Follow Parking Rules – Make sure you park you car rental in Athens more than

– 15 feet away from an intersection
– 45 feet away from a bus stop
– 9 feet away from a fire hydrant

Otherwise, you could be slapped with a parking violation. Also, keep in mind that some areas may require you to buy a booth ticket before you can park on the streets. If this is the case, you will find this instruction indicated in both Greek and English.

Finally and most importantly, keep calm. Whether you’re going to The Acropolis or taking the scenic route to Parnitha National Park, do not let other drivers upset you. Driving your car rental in Athens can be quite a challenge because most Greeks think of traffic rules as “suggestions” that they can choose to ignore. If you can keep your cool on the road, you should be just fine.