Motorcycle on a Greek coastal road

Rent a Motorcycle in Greece

Why Rent a Motorcycle in Greece?

Greece is a motorcyclist's dream. Dramatic coastal roads that hug cliffsides, mountain passes through pine forests, and island routes where every turn reveals a new bay. Renting a motorcycle gives you the thrill of the open road combined with the practical advantages of two wheels — easier parking than a car, better fuel economy, and the pure joy of riding through one of Europe's most scenic countries.

Motorcycles are the step up from scooters for riders who want more power, longer range, and the confidence to tackle mountain roads and longer distances. If you have a motorcycle licence and enjoy riding, Greece will not disappoint.

Where to Rent a Motorcycle in Greece

SimplyBook connects you with local motorcycle rental agencies across Greece:

Crete — the ultimate Greek motorcycle destination with 300+ km of diverse roads

  • Chania — gateway to Samaria Gorge and western Crete's winding coast

  • Heraklion — central Crete base for mountain and south-coast rides

  • Rethymno — Arkadi Monastery, Plakias coast, mountain villages

  • Lasithi — Lasithi Plateau loop, one of Greece's great rides

Ionian Islands

  • Corfu — lush green interior, dramatic north-coast cliffs

  • Zakynthos — ride the western coast for jaw-dropping views

  • Kefalonia — mountain roads and the famous Myrtos Beach descent

Cyclades and Aegean

  • Santorini — caldera roads and Akrotiri peninsula

  • Paros — Cycladic back roads between villages

  • Lesvos — volcanic landscape and coastal touring

Mainland

  • Thessaloniki — launch point for Halkidiki and northern Greece tours

Types of Motorcycles Available

  • 125-250cc — lightweight, easy to handle, ideal for island riding

  • 300-600cc — mid-range, good for longer distances and two-up riding

  • 650cc+ — touring and adventure bikes for experienced riders and multi-day trips

Availability varies by destination. Smaller islands typically offer 125-250cc models, while Crete and the mainland have a wider range including adventure bikes.

Motorcycle Rental Requirements

  • Licence: You need a full motorcycle licence (category A, A1, or A2 depending on engine size). A car licence is NOT sufficient for motorcycles over 125cc in Greece.

  • Minimum age: 18 for A1 (up to 125cc), 20 for A2 (up to 35kW), 24 for full A licence (or 22 with 2 years A2 experience)

  • International Driving Permit: Non-EU riders must carry an IDP with motorcycle endorsement

  • Gear: Helmet required by law. We strongly recommend bringing your own gloves and jacket — agencies provide helmets but rarely other gear.

Tips for Motorcycle Touring in Greece

  1. Ride defensively — Greek drivers are not always motorcycle-aware, especially in summer tourist areas

  2. Carry water — dehydration affects concentration; stop regularly in summer heat

  3. Watch for goats — seriously, livestock on mountain roads is common

  4. Plan ferry crossings — if island-hopping, check the agency permits ferry transport

  5. Fill up when you can — petrol stations can be sparse on rural routes and smaller islands

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a motorcycle in Greece with a car licence?
No. Greek law requires a motorcycle licence (A1, A2, or A) for engines over 50cc. A car licence (category B) only covers scooters up to 125cc in some EU countries — not motorcycles.
What gear is provided with a motorcycle rental?
Agencies provide a helmet. Other gear (gloves, jacket, boots) is rarely included — bring your own or plan to buy locally.
Can I take a rental motorcycle on a Greek ferry?
Some agencies allow inter-island ferry crossings, others do not. Always check the terms when booking. Ferry tickets for motorcycles are significantly cheaper than for cars.
What is the best time of year for motorcycle touring in Greece?
May-June and September-October offer the best conditions — warm weather, dry roads, less traffic than peak summer. July-August is very hot and busy.

Want to explore Greece?