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Looking for car hire in Santorini? Santorini Island in the Cyclades, known for its iconic sunsets and whitewashed buildings with blue domes, is one of Greece's most stunning destinations. When you rent a car in Santorini, you have the freedom to explore the island's highlights, including the breathtaking cliffs of Oia, the archaeological site of Akrotiri, and the bustling town of Fira.
A Santorini car rental gives you access to beautiful beaches like Red Beach and Perissa. ATV rental in Santorini and scooter rental are also popular choices for navigating the island's narrow roads. Simplybook connects you with trusted local agencies — compare prices, book online, and pick up at the airport or your hotel.
Pick-up and delivery are available at Santorini Airport (JTR), Athinios Port, and locations across the island.
Getting Around Santorini
Santorini's road network is compact but notoriously narrow, especially along the caldera rim between Fira and Oia. The island has a well-known ATV culture — ATVs and scooters are the most popular way to get around, handling tight streets and limited parking far more easily than cars.
A small car is comfortable for reaching southern beaches like Vlychada and Perivolos, or for visiting Akrotiri and the island's wineries. Be warned: parking in Oia is a notorious challenge, especially around sunset, so arrive early or use an ATV.
Santorini Airport (JTR), also called Thira Airport, is centrally located near Kamari, just 6 km from Fira. Athinios Port, where ferries from Piraeus and other islands dock, is 10 km from Fira.
Top Driving Routes in Santorini
Fira to Oia along the Caldera (11 km, 20 minutes)
The most iconic drive on Santorini follows the caldera rim from Fira north to Oia. The road passes through Firostefani and Imerovigli — stop at Skaros Rock viewpoint for one of the most dramatic panoramas in Greece. The drive is short but the views are extraordinary, especially in late afternoon golden light. Park early in Oia and walk down to Ammoudi Bay for dinner.
Akrotiri and the Southern Loop (25 km)
Drive south from Fira to Akrotiri, the “Minoan Pompeii” — a Bronze Age city preserved under volcanic ash for 3,600 years. Continue to Red Beach, then loop east through Emporio village to Perissa and Perivolos — the island's longest black sand beaches. End at Vlychada, a surreal beach beneath sculpted white cliffs.
Wine Route (15 km)
Santorini produces distinctive wines from volcanic soil, particularly Assyrtiko. Visit Santo Wines for caldera-view tastings, then drive to Venetsanos Winery and Gavalas in Megalochori. End at Art Space Winery in Exo Gonia, housed in a 300-year-old cave. The entire route fits in a leisurely afternoon.
Beaches and Key Sites
Red Beach — Dramatic red volcanic cliffs meeting turquoise water. Short walk from Akrotiri parking. Arrive early in summer.
Perissa & Perivolos — Long black sand beaches with beach bars and watersports. Easy parking, 15 minutes from Fira.
Kamari — Organised black pebble beach with restaurants. Near the airport, convenient first-day stop.
Vlychada — White cliff formations behind a quiet black sand beach. Near the marina, 12 km south of Fira.
Akrotiri — Remarkably preserved Minoan city, often called the Greek Pompeii.
Oia Sunset — The world-famous sunset from the castle ruins. Arrive by 5 PM in summer.
Best Time to Visit Santorini
June to September is peak season — hot, spectacular sunsets, very crowded. Rental prices highest July-August.
April-May and October offer excellent weather, thinner crowds, lower prices. Swimming warm from June through October.
Winter is quiet and atmospheric — many tourist businesses close but the volcanic landscape is beautiful year-round.
Practical Tips
ATV vs car: ATVs are the island favourite — easy parking, fun, perfect for short distances. A car is better with luggage or children.
Pickup: Santorini Airport (JTR), Athinios Port, Fira, or hotel delivery.
Oia parking: Arrive by 5 PM in summer for sunset. ATVs/scooters fit into smaller spots.
Road safety: Caldera roads are narrow with no guardrails in places. Drive slowly, especially at night.
Santorini Food and Wine
Santorini's volcanic soil produces unique flavours. Fava (yellow split pea puree), tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters with tiny cherry tomatoes), and white aubergine are local specialities. Pair with crisp Assyrtiko wine — mineral notes from volcanic terroir.
For a memorable dinner, drive to Ammoudi Bay below Oia for grilled octopus as the sun sets over the caldera. In Pyrgos, hilltop restaurants serve modern cuisine with panoramic views.
Why Book with Local Agencies
Simplybook connects you with local agencies who understand Santorini's unique roads and parking. Personal service, hotel delivery, competitive prices. Why support local companies?