Riding along the coast on a scooter with the sea next to you is a pretty great feeling. Just be smart about it, because Crete's roads can be tricky.
What licence do you need?
- Scooters up to 50cc: usually fine with a normal car licence
- Anything bigger: you need a motorbike licence (A1, A2 or A, depending on the engine)
- Quads and ATVs: most companies ask for a car licence
Rules depend on where your licence comes from, so ask the rental shop. If you ride without the right licence, your travel insurance usually won't pay if something happens.
Stay safe
- Helmets are required by law, wear one even for a short ride
- Watch out for gravel, sand and goats in the bends
- Avoid riding in the midday heat and after dark on mountain roads
- Check the brakes and tyres before you leave the shop
Where it's fun
The coast roads around Chania and Akrotiri, the flat Messara plain in the south and the area around Elounda are great for a day on a scooter. Quads are popular for dirt road adventures, but often the easier and safer choice is a guided quad or buggy tour.
Find tours on the Buggy & quad bikes page.
Updated: 2026-10-29
