Car Rental at Mytilene International Airport (MJT)

US license holders can drive in Greece for up to 6 months with an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your valid US license. While some rental agencies may let you rent with just a US license, an IDP ($20-25 via AAA) is strongly recommended and often required at border control if pulled over. The IDP is a simple translation—no driving test needed.

Yes, expect to pay a young driver surcharge of approximately €10-15 per day if you're under 25. Most agencies in Lesvos set the minimum rental age at 21, but drivers under 25 fall into the young driver category. Drivers aged 25+ typically avoid this surcharge entirely. Book online in advance—some agencies waive the surcharge for bookings of 7+ days.

Greece drives on the right side of the road. On Lesvos, you'll encounter a mix of conditions: the main coastal roads (like the road from Mytilene to Kalloni) are generally well-paved, but rural mountain roads leading to villages like Petra or Molivos can be narrow, winding, and have unmarked edges. In winter (Nov-Mar), expect potholes, occasional flooding, and fog in mountainous areas. Summer roads are dusty but easier to navigate.

Unleaded gasoline (95 octane) and diesel are widely available. Stations are plentiful in Mytilene and main towns, but in remote areas—especially the western and northern parts of the island—you may drive 30-50 km between stations. Rural stations may close by 8-9 PM and on Sundays. Always keep at least a quarter tank when heading to remote beaches or mountain villages. Credit cards are accepted at major stations but cash is preferred at small ones.

Greece has mobile speed cameras and fixed radar traps throughout the country. On Lesvos, you'll commonly encounter them on the Mytilene–Kalloni–Kaloni national road. Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 80-90 km/h on rural roads, 110 km/h on intercity routes. Fines range from €40-200 depending on excess speed. Greek police occasionally set up impromptu checkpoints, especially in summer. If renting, the agency will notify you of any fines upon return.

Snow chains are rarely needed on Lesvos itself, as snowfall at sea level is uncommon (maybe 1-2 days per winter). However, if you're driving to the mountain villages like Agiasos (in the Olympus range), snow chains may be required by law from November to April—the police enforce this at the mountain pass. For most coastal tourist areas and main towns, all-season or summer tires suffice year-round. Rent a 4WD in winter if planning mountain routes; it's not mandatory but makes steep climbs much safer.