Do you want to explore the historic center of Athens without getting stuck in endless traffic jams or squeezed into the metro? There’s a simple solution! Renting a scooter in the capital can make your life much easier, as long as you know how the “system” works and what to watch out for.
Many people may initially have concerns about where to park, safety issues, and other reasonable considerations. However, after renting a scooter, everyone agrees it’s one of the best decisions they have made. You can see more sights, move around freely, and avoid spending a fortune on fuel, parking, and even the rental itself. If you’re thinking along the same lines, read on for the most common questions our customers ask.
What kind of scooter can i rent?
If you’ve ever looked into what license you need to drive a scooter, you know… it can get more confusing than a GPS without signal. Don’t worry, we’ve clarified it for you, simply and clearly. With a standard car license (category AM), you can rent a 50 cc scooter. Yes, it won’t break any speed records, but for one person and city rides, it’s perfect. If you need something faster, here’s what you should know:
- If you’re looking at scooters up to 125cc with a maximum power of 11 kW, you need an A1 license. This is ideal if you want something practical, flexible, and economical.
- An A2 license allows you to ride motorcycles with power up to 35 kW (about 48 horsepower). It doesn’t matter if the bike is 250cc, 400cc, or more, as long as it doesn’t exceed the power limit.
- Finally, with an A license, you can ride any motorcycle, without restrictions on engine size or horsepower.
Rental & Fuel Costs
Renting a 50 cc scooter starts at around 23 euros per day. For a 125 cc scooter, prices start at 30 euros, while larger engines range from 40 to 60 euros per day.
As for fuel: a new 50cc scooter is generally very fuel-efficient. Depending on the model, rider weight, and driving style, it consumes about 2 – 3 liters per 100 kilometers. So, with a full tank of 5 – 6 liters, you can comfortably cover 150 – 200 kilometers.
Is it safe to ride a scooter in Athens?
Although Athens isn’t famous for patient drivers, with some experience and caution, you shouldn’t have any problems. Major avenues are in good condition, and renting a scooter allows you to move easily through traffic and find parking spots more conveniently. The most important thing? Don’t forget your helmet! Make sure it’s in good condition and fits properly.
Parking
Finding parking in Athens isn’t easy, but scooters make it much simpler. In many areas of the city center, such as Syntagma, Monastiraki, and Omonia, there are dedicated spots for two-wheelers. In Piraeus, around the port, you can usually find a place to park, while along the coastal road from Glyfada to Vouliagmeni, most shops offer free scooter parking.
What you need to know about insurance
Most rental companies include third party insurance in the rental price, as required by law. However, you can ask about adding extra coverage for damages or accidents. If you’re traveling from abroad, check whether your travel insurance covers scooter rentals. In case of an accident, hospital costs in Athens can be high for visitors, so it’s important to make sure you have adequate coverage.
