Car rental in Greece

Greece, with its rugged coastline, ancient ruins on mountainsides, and picturesque islands, is ideal for road trips. Whether you’re looking to explore mainland attractions or considering car hire in Santorini, selecting the right mode of transportation can elevate a good trip into an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• Necessity Depending on Your Route — In Athens, the metro is sufficient (€1.20 per ticket), but for mainland attractions and islands, a car is practically essential. For example, it takes approximately 4.5 hours to reach Meteora and 2.5 hours to Delphi.
• Documents and Age Restrictions — An international driving permit is officially required. The minimum age to rent a car is 21, with at least one year of driving experience. Drivers under 25 will incur an additional €15-25 per day as a young driver surcharge.
• Savings with Proper Booking — Reserving a car 2-3 weeks in advance can save you up to 40%. Booking a month ahead during peak season is advisable. Local rental companies are typically 20-30% cheaper than international chains but may offer fewer service guarantees.
• Insurance and Hidden Costs — The basic excess ranges from €800 to €1200, while full coverage costs about €15-25 per day. Note that a deposit will be blocked for 7-14 days following your return. Additional services include GPS for €6-8/day and an extra driver for €3-5/day.
• Greek Driving Specifics — Toll roads are of high quality (e.g., Athens-Thessaloniki costs €28), and local drivers frequently use the shoulder for overtaking. Fuel prices range from €1.55 to €1.65 per liter, and the “full-to-full” policy is the most advantageous.

About This Article

This comprehensive guide to car rental in Greece covers all aspects of planning an automotive journey across the country’s mainland and islands. It provides practical information regarding transportation needs in different regions, documentation requirements, tips for choosing rental companies, and insights into driving under Greek conditions.

What the Guide Includes:

• Necessity Analysis — Where a car is essential and where public transport suffices.
• Documentation — Requirements for licenses, age, experience, along with practical advice.
• Company Selection — A comparison of international networks and local operators with pricing details.
• Island Specifics — Detailed information on Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Zakynthos.
• Insurance and Costs — A breakdown of coverage types, deposits, and hidden fees.
• Driving Practice — Information on road features, parking, fuel, and the penalty system.
• Alternatives — Considerations for when taxis, public transport, or tours may be more beneficial.

Do You Need a Car in Greece?

Athens: Pros and Cons

The transportation situation in Greece’s capital is somewhat ambiguous. The city center boasts excellent public transport connections; the metro runs from 5:30 AM to midnight, with ticket prices at €1.20. Buses and trams further enhance the transport network, making it easy and economical to navigate the city.

However, renting a car in Greece becomes practically essential if you plan to visit destinations outside of the capital. The drive to Meteora takes about 4.5 hours, to Delphi approximately 2.5 hours, and to the Peloponnese peninsula around 2 hours. A car grants you the freedom to stop in picturesque villages and explore locations that are inaccessible by public transport.

Greek Islands: Where a Car is Essential

The situation changes dramatically on the islands.

Santorini, known for its narrow roads and steep descents to beaches, almost necessitates having transportation. The distance from Fira to Kamari beach is 12 km, and to the famous Akrotiri it is 15 km. Buses run irregularly, especially in the off-season, and taxis can cost between €40-50 per trip.

Mykonos surprises visitors with its hidden beaches and scenic routes. Reaching Elia beach or Armenistis lighthouse without a car is extremely challenging. Renting a car in Mykonos becomes essential for visiting the traditional Kiki’s tavern in the north of the island or the 180 bar, which offers panoramic city views.

Crete, being the largest Greek island, particularly requires a vehicle. The distance from Heraklion to Chania is 145 km, and navigating the mountain roads to Balos or Falassarna beaches demands confident driving and a reliable car.

Zakynthos boasts some of the most breathtaking driving routes in Greece. The road to the Navagio beach viewpoint winds through mountainous terrain, and reaching secluded bays on the southern coast is only possible by car.

Documents for Car Rental in Greece

Required Documents

The basic set of documents includes a valid passport, driver’s license, and a credit card in the driver’s name.

The minimum age for rental is 21 years, although some companies set the age limit at 23. Drivers under 25 typically incur an additional charge of €15-25 per day.

You must have at least one year of driving experience, while Premium and luxury car rentals require a minimum of two years.

International Driving Permit in Greece: Official Requirements vs. Practice

Officially, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required in Greece. You can obtain an IDP from automobile associations in your country; the process takes 1-2 weeks and costs between €30-50.

In practice, many companies, especially local ones, accept national licenses that are written in Latin script. However, if stopped by police or involved in an accident, not having an IDP can lead to significant complications.

Experts unanimously recommend securing an IDP in advance to avoid potential difficulties.

How to Choose and Book a Car in Greece

Best Platforms for Price Comparison

Rentalcars.com is a leader in coverage and ease of use. The platform collaborates with most rental companies and offers a flexible filtering system. The option for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the rental is particularly convenient.

Economybookings.com specializes in budget offers, often presenting prices 10-15% lower than competitors. It is particularly effective for finding deals from local companies.

AutoSlash.com features a unique price tracking system that can uncover discounts even after booking by automatically recalculating costs when rates drop.

International Networks vs. Local Companies

International companies such as Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Sixt provide a guarantee of standard service quality and have an extensive network of offices. Their prices are typically 20-30% higher but include comprehensive insurance and 24/7 technical support, making them suitable for customers who prioritize service consistency.

In contrast, local companies offer more flexible conditions and attractive prices.

Athens Car Rental (ACR) is known for its personalized approach and the convenience of car delivery anywhere in Athens.

Economy Car Rentals offers some of the best prices on the mainland, while Avance specializes in quality vehicles with full-service packages.

On the islands, noteworthy options include:

• AutoUnion (operates 24/7 in Mykonos)
• 1st Choice Santorini (based in Oia)
• Cars4Rent (wide selection in Santorini)
• Rental Center Crete (specializes in Crete and provides transfer from Heraklion port)

Booking Tips

Booking 2-3 weeks in advance can save up to 40% on rental costs. During peak season (July-August), it’s advisable to extend this period to about a month.

When deciding between manual and automatic transmission, consider the driving conditions in Greece. The mountain roads of Santorini or Zakynthos are much easier to navigate with an automatic vehicle, particularly in heavy traffic.

For narrow island roads, compact cars are the best choice. The Nissan Micra or Fiat Panda can easily maneuver through tight alleys in Mykonos, and their fuel efficiency becomes especially beneficial for longer drives in Crete.

Insurance and Hidden Costs

Types of Insurance

Basic coverage (CDW) is included in the rental price and covers damages above a specified excess, typically ranging from €800 to €1200. This level of coverage is usually adequate for experienced drivers on well-maintained roads.

Full coverage (Super CDW) reduces the excess to zero and costs between €15 and €25 per day. This option is particularly recommended for driving in areas with narrow roads and limited parking options.

Insurance through Rentalcars.com tends to be 20-30% cheaper but requires upfront payment for potential damages, which will be reimbursed later. Local companies offer on-site insurance that is more expensive but easier to process.

Deposits and Additional Services

The standard deposit is €800 for rentals without full coverage, but this can be reduced to €200 with the purchase of additional insurance. The card blocking for the deposit generally occurs 7-14 days after the vehicle is returned.

GPS navigation is available for €6-8 per day; however, mobile apps like Google Maps and Waze function just as effectively with internet access. Child seats are available for €5 per day, and there is an additional driver fee of €3-5 per day.

Delivery and Return

Most local car rental companies provide delivery services for an extra fee of €15-25. This is particularly convenient on islands for late arrivals or when staying at remote hotels.

For convenient out-of-hours returns, you can leave the keys in a designated box or under the mat, as Rentity Car Hire in Zakynthos practices.

Driving in Greece: Features and Practical Tips

Road Specifics and Driving Style

The toll roads in Greece are of excellent quality. For instance, traveling the Athens-Thessaloniki route costs €28, while the journey to Meteora is €18. These fees are justified by the time saved and the comfort of the drive, as alternative routes can extend travel time by 30-40%.

Adapting to the local driving style is essential when driving in Greece. Greek drivers commonly use the shoulder to overtake and may not always maintain a safe distance. On narrow roads, it is customary to slow down and move toward the shoulder to allow faster vehicles to pass.

Navigation and Parking

While Google Maps is generally reliable in cities, it may suggest less optimal routes through mountainous areas. In cases where maps conflict with road signs, it is advisable to trust the signage.

Parking in Athens:

• City Center: Paid zones cost €1-3 per hour.
• Large Parking Lots: €15-20 per day.
• Outskirts: Free parking is available in residential areas.

Parking on Islands:

• Santorini: Paid parking in Fira (€10/day) and free parking at most beaches.
• Mykonos: Valet parking in the city center costs €20/day; free parking is available at the port and bus station.
• Zakynthos: Mostly free parking is available; paid parking is limited to main attractions.

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Fuel and Operating Costs

Fuel Types and Gas Stations

Most rental cars in Greece run on 95 octane gasoline, while diesel engines are less common. Be sure to confirm the fuel type when picking up your vehicle, as an error can lead to significant costs.

Fuel prices range from €1.55-1.65 per liter for gasoline and €1.45-1.55 for diesel. On islands, prices can be 5-10 cents higher due to transportation costs.

The most cost-effective fueling policy is “full-to-full,” where you receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. Alternative options, such as “full-empty” or a refueling surcharge, can cost an additional 15-25%.

Toll Roads

While electronic payment systems are becoming more common, cash is still accepted at most toll booths. Since cards aren’t universally accepted, it’s advisable to carry small denominations of cash.

Regional Features

Athens and Mainland Greece

When exiting Athens airport, the first toll section costs €2.80. Roads leading to major attractions are well-marked, but using GPS can help you avoid traffic jams, especially during peak hours.

Many historical sites have limited car access. For instance, parking at Delphi is located 500 meters from the archaeological complex, while in Olympia, it is 200 meters away.

Santorini

Recommended car hire companies in Santorini include 1st Choice Santorini (office in Oia), Cars4Rent (Fira), and Car4u (Karterados). All offer car delivery except for Santorini Easy Car Rentals, which does not service Oia due to the long distance.

Parking in Oia is both limited and paid (€5 for a minimum of 2 hours). In Fira, free parking is available at the bus station, but it requires a 10-15 minute walk to the center.

The island’s roads are narrow and steep, particularly when descending to the beaches. Having an automatic transmission can make driving in these conditions much easier.

Mykonos

The three primary car rental companies at the airport and port are AutoUnion, Hertz, and Sixt. AutoUnion provides 24-hour service and offers the most competitive prices.

Renting a car in Mykonos allows access to the remote beaches on the northern coast and helps you avoid crowded buses during peak season. Many beaches, such as Agios Sostis, Fokos, and Merchia, are nearly inaccessible without personal transportation.

Crete

Rental Center Crete and Mike Tours SA cater to visitors on Greece’s largest island. Both companies provide complimentary port pickup in Heraklion and return to the airport.

Crete is vast, with considerable distances: it’s 145 km from Heraklion to Chania, and 65 km to Agios Nikolaos. Mountain roads leading to the southern coast require cautious driving, especially when heading to Preveli or Falassarna beaches.

Zakynthos

Family-owned businesses like Rentity Car Hire offer personalized service and flexible terms. The island has relatively calm traffic and well-maintained roads.

Access to Navagio Beach is only possible from the viewpoint; the beach itself can only be reached by sea. A car is essential for getting to the viewpoint and visiting other attractions on the island.

Safety and Practical Recommendations

Safety Techniques

When picking up the vehicle, be sure to take a video of all sides, focusing particularly on the wheel rims and bumpers. This will help protect you from any unfounded claims when you return the car.

The vehicle should include a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher, as required by EU regulations. Most rental companies provide these items, but it’s wise to verify.

Emergency contacts: police: 100, ambulance: 166, fire department: 199, and the unified European emergency number: 112.

What to Do in Case of Problems

If you’re involved in an accident, do not move the car until the police arrive. Photograph any damage and collect contact information for witnesses. Most rental companies offer 24-hour technical support in English.

Car breakdowns are generally covered by insurance, but you must contact the rental company immediately. Attempting self-repair may not be reimbursed.

Traffic violation fines are sent to the rental company, which will charge your credit card within 1-3 months after your trip, along with a processing fee of €25-35.

Useful Apps and Tips

Mobile internet is crucial for navigation. Local SIM cards cost between €10-15 and provide 5-10 GB of data, sufficient for an extended trip.

The best times to travel are in the morning and evening. From 12:00 to 16:00, traffic on popular routes can reach its peak, especially on islands during high season.

During the tourist season, allow extra time for your trips; delays at major attractions and beaches can increase travel time by 30-50%.

Alternatives to Car Rental

Public Transport

The KTEL bus network connects most mainland Greek cities. A ticket from Athens to Thessaloniki costs €31, and the journey takes 6 hours. On the islands, local buses serve the main routes, although schedules can be irregular.

The Athens metro operates until midnight, with a day ticket costing €4.50. This ticket covers all types of public transport, including trams and suburban trains.

Taxis and Transfers

Greek taxis operate on a meter system, charging a base rate of €1.29 plus €0.68 per kilometer in the city and €1.16 per kilometer outside of it. Night fares (from midnight to 5:00 AM) increase by 50%.

For short distances or one-time trips, taking a taxi can be more convenient than renting a car. For example, a transfer from Athens airport to the city center costs €38 during the day and €54 at night.

Organized Tours

Group tours to major attractions cost between €40 and €80 per person, which typically include transport, a guide, and entrance tickets. A day trip to Meteora from Athens costs €65, which is comparable to the combined costs of car rental, fuel, and tolls.

Private guides with cars charge between €150 and €250 per day, which can be worthwhile for small groups or those seeking a personalized experience.

Expert Review on Car Rental in Greece

Renting a car in Greece can feel like playing the lottery, especially if you opt for local companies in search of lower prices. While their rates are tempting, be prepared for unexpected surprises. For instance, during a visit to Santorini, I encountered a “brand new” car that had 150,000 kilometers on the odometer, along with scratches that the rental employee conveniently overlooked during inspection. Once you return the car, every new scratch becomes a thorough investigation. My advice: document every inch of the vehicle, or you’ll end up proving that the dent on the bumper was there before you.

Driving in Greece is an experience in itself. Greeks tend to overtake on the shoulder, and maintaining distance is often viewed as a sign of inexperience. On the winding roads of the islands, local drivers often speed, causing tourists to cling to the cliffs and pray for safety. The journey to Navagio Beach in Zakynthos is particularly intense — even experienced drivers find it challenging. Parking in Greek towns can also be quite difficult; in Oia, finding a parking spot is often harder than securing a hotel room in August, and you’ll pay a premium for the privilege.

Nevertheless, without a car, you may only see about 30% of what Greece has to offer. Public transport operates on a “when possible” basis, taxi fares can be exorbitant, and many of the most beautiful locations are inaccessible by bus. So, rent a car, but be mentally and financially prepared for the unique challenges of driving in Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car without a credit card? 

No, all reputable companies require a credit card to hold the deposit. Debit cards are not accepted because they cannot block the necessary amount.

What should I do if I forgot my international driving permit? 

Many local companies accept national licenses written in Latin script, but this carries a risk of issues with law enforcement. As a last resort, you can try obtaining a permit through the consulate.

Is it worth renting a GPS? 

With mobile internet, a GPS is generally unnecessary as Google Maps works very well. GPS rentals typically cost €6-8 per day, which adds up to more than the price of a local SIM card with internet over a week.

Can I drive a rental car between islands? 

Most companies allow car transportation on ferries if you notify them in advance. The cost for car ferry services ranges from €45 to €80 depending on the route.

What should I do in case of a breakdown in a remote location? 

All major companies offer 24/7 technical support. The contact number is usually found on the keys or in the car’s documentation. In the event of a serious breakdown, a replacement vehicle will be provided.

Is it mandatory to wash the car before returning it? 

The car should be returned in the same condition as when it was received. Heavy dirt may incur a washing fee of €20-30, but normal road dust is not a concern.

Can I add a second driver after registering the rental? 

Yes, you can register an additional driver at the company office for an extra €3-5 per day. You’ll need to provide the additional driver’s license and passport.

What’s included in standard insurance? 

Basic insurance typically covers third-party damage and car damage above the excess amount, which usually ranges from €800 to €1200. However, theft and glass damage may not be included.

How can I avoid extra charges upon return? 

Carefully review the rental conditions, especially regarding the fueling policy and penalties for late returns. Take photos of the car at both pickup and drop-off, refuel it to a full tank, and ensure you return it on time.

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