When I tell people that I cycle in Athens, the typical response is either “You’re insane,” or “Oh my God, isn’t that dangerous?” So I thought my lovely readers might like to hear my tips for how to not die cycling in Athens.
Cycling in Athens can definitely be a challenge… The roads are VERY rough, there are no bike lanes anywhere, and people here are not accustomed to cyclists on the road. That being said, it is certainly not impossible to cycle here, and I actually quite enjoy it. I love the freedom of being able to go anywhere in the city, any time of day (or night), and not having to wait for public transportation. Also, most of the center of Athens is fairly flat, which means not having to worry about killing yourself with the hills. Plus, of course it’s good exercise!
So, how do you not die cycling in Athens?
Stay on the Main Roads.
This may sound a little backwards, but staying on the main roads makes cycling in Athens so much easier! The smaller roads have lots of parked cars, and there is no room for moving cars to get around you. They also are even more rough than the main roads, and you have to be very careful and slow down at every intersection. Main roads have space for your bicycle, and you don’t have to worry so much about intersections: either there is a signal, or you have the right of way. Simple. It is also acceptable to go against traffic on the main roads because there is enough space.
Use Lights
Of course you should always use lights at night, but particularly here in Athens, if there is any limitation on visibility, lights are very important. Reflectors just aren’t gonna cut it here, folks. As I mentioned before, people in Athens aren’t used to cyclists, so to stay safe, make sure they can see you.
Watch Out For Pedestrians
You would think people walking into the street would look where they were going, but Athenian pedestrians seem to have selective blindness for bicycles. Every time I have had a close call with my bike, it has been because someone walked right in front of me.
Avoid Merging Left
Even with relatively little traffic, it can be difficult to maneuver into the left lane to make a left turn, especially if you happen to be going uphill. Actually, it can be easier to merge when there is traffic because the cars are stopped, or moving very slowly, and you can get around (and often ahead of, hehe) them. To avoid the hassle though, I regularly turn right instead of left, make a U-turn, then wait for the light and go straight through the intersection. Especially if you aren’t used to the roads and cycling here, this is definitely the safer option.
You Can Take Your Bicycle On The Metro
If you need to go a long distance and don’t want to ride that far, you can take your bicycle on the metro. Generally speaking, the last car in the metro will have a bit more space, so aim for getting in that car. Also note: you cannot take your bicycle on the buses.
Drinking and Cycling is Ok
Know your limits, of course, but unlike some other places, it is acceptable to drink and cycle here. Be careful, but don’t worry about getting hassled.
I hope these tips will inspire you to try cycling in Athens! Do you have any other tips? Have you cycled in Athens? I’d love to hear about it!
