Greece is a country that effortlessly blends ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery, no wonder it draws millions of visitors every year. Whether you're heading there for the ruins, the beaches, or the food, one thing’s for sure: figuring out how to get around is a key part of trip planning.

These days, getting from point A to B is easier than ever thanks to mobile apps that connect users with taxis and private rides. Names like Uber, Bolt, and FREENOW are familiar to many travelers - but which of them can you actually use in Greece? Here's what you need to know before you go.

Uber in Greece

Uber is one of the world’s largest ride-hailing platforms, available in over 10,000 cities globally. Known for its affordability and convenience, the app has become a go-to choice for travelers. However, its availability and the way it operates can vary significantly depending on local laws and regulations.

In Greece, Uber operates in a few key locations: Athens, Thessaloniki, and on popular tourist islands like Santorini, Corfu, and Mykonos. That said, Uber’s journey in Greece hasn’t been without its bumps.

In 2018, following legal disputes and strong opposition from traditional taxi associations, Uber suspended its UberX service, which allowed private individuals (non-professional drivers) to offer rides. The backlash was primarily due to concerns over unfair competition.

To adapt, Uber reintroduced its services through Uber Taxi, a model that connects users with licensed professional taxi drivers via the app. This ensures all rides comply with Greek law, complete with a taximeter and the necessary permits. In Greece, these taxis are typically yellow with a distinctive TAXI sign on the roof, making them easy to spot. Before confirming a ride, users can view details such as the car model, license plate, and driver rating.

One of the biggest advantages of using Uber in Greece? Seamless digital payments. Riders can pay by card or PayPal directly through the app - a major perk, especially considering that not all traditional taxis in Greece are equipped with card terminals.

FREENOW: Smart Rides with More Options

FREENOW, a popular European mobility app, emerged on the Greek market in 2019 following the rebranding of the local platform Beat (formerly TaxiBeat). Owned by a joint venture between BMW and Daimler, FREENOW offers a wide range of transportation options beyond just standard taxis.

In Greece, FREENOW currently operates in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion (Crete). Users can choose from regular taxis, eco-friendly vehicles (hybrids and EVs), or premium cars for a more luxurious experience. Like most taxis in Greece, FREENOW vehicles are also usually yellow and clearly marked, helping passengers easily identify them on busy streets.

Across Europe, FREENOW is active in more than 150 cities including destinations in Spain, Italy, France, Germany, the UK, Ireland, Austria, and Poland. Besides taxis, the app also supports micro-mobility options like electric scooters, bikes, and mopeds, making it a versatile tool for urban travelers.

What About Bolt?

Bolt, formerly known as Taxify, is another major player in the global ride-hailing market and is widely used in countries like Poland. However, it's important to note that Bolt does not currently operate in Greece.

Whether you're strolling through Athens, heading to the beach in Mykonos, or exploring ancient ruins in Heraklion, using a transportation app can make your journey smoother and more predictable. Uber and FREENOW both provide reliable, legal, and tech-savvy ways to move around Greece. Just make sure to download the right app before your trip - and you’ll be ready to ride.