Rent a Car in Greece

Why Rent a Car in Greece?

Greece is a country made for road trips. From the winding coastal roads of Crete to the mountain passes of the mainland, having your own car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Unlike public transport, which can be limited on islands and rural areas, a rental car lets you reach hidden beaches, hilltop villages and tavernas that tour buses never visit.

A car is the best choice for families, groups of friends, or anyone who values comfort and flexibility. Air conditioning, ample boot space for luggage, and the ability to stop wherever the view catches your eye — that is what a car rental in Greece offers.

Where to Rent a Car in Greece

SimplyBook partners with local, family-run rental agencies across Greece. Here are the most popular destinations:

Crete — Greece's largest island, best explored by car

• Chania — Venetian harbour, Samaria Gorge, Balos and Elafonissi beaches

• Heraklion — Knossos Palace, Matala beach, gateway to central Crete

• Rethymno — Fortezza castle, Preveli palm beach, old town charm

• Lasithi — Vai palm forest, Spinalonga island, Agios Nikolaos

Ionian Islands

• Corfu — Lush green island, Paleokastritsa, Achilleion Palace

• Zakynthos — Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach, Laganas Bay turtles

• Kefalonia — Myrtos Beach, Melissani Cave, Captain Corelli country

Cyclades and Aegean

• Santorini — Caldera views, Red Beach, Oia sunsets

• Paros — Golden Beach, Naoussa fishing village, Cycladic whitewash

• Lesvos — Petrified Forest, olive groves, thermal springs

Mainland

• Thessaloniki — White Tower, Halkidiki beaches, northern Greece gateway

What Types of Car Can You Rent?

Our partner agencies offer everything from small city cars (ideal for narrow island roads and easy parking) to larger SUVs and minivans for families. Categories typically include:

• Economy (Fiat Panda, Toyota Aygo) — lowest daily rate, great fuel economy

• Compact (VW Polo, Opel Corsa) — a step up in comfort, still easy to park

• Sedan (Toyota Corolla, Skoda Octavia) — spacious boot, comfortable for longer drives

• SUV / Crossover — higher ground clearance for unpaved roads

• Minivan / 7-seater — for larger groups or families with luggage

Most vehicles come with manual transmission. Automatic is available but limited — book early if you need one.

Car Rental Requirements in Greece

• Driving licence: A valid licence from your home country is sufficient for EU citizens. Non-EU visitors should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national licence.

• Minimum age: Usually 21-23, depending on the agency. Drivers under 25 may pay a young-driver surcharge.

• Deposit: Most agencies require a deposit via credit or debit card. Many SimplyBook partners also accept cash deposits — use the No credit card needed filter when searching.

• Insurance: Basic insurance (CDW) is typically included. Full coverage that reduces or eliminates the excess is available as an add-on.

Tips for Driving in Greece

1. Drive on the right — Greece follows continental European rules

2. Book early in summer — June to September is peak season, and popular models sell out

3. Check your route for ferries — if island-hopping, confirm the agency allows ferry crossings

4. Fill up before returning — most agencies require a full-to-full fuel policy

5. Download offline maps — mobile signal can be patchy on mountain and coastal roads