Whether you're planning to wander through the bustling streets of Athens or traverse the scenic coastal roads of Crete, renting a car in Greece offers unparalleled freedom and convenience. At Finalrentals, our aim with this tourist guide is to streamline your car rental experiences in the most convenient car rental locations in Greece.
Let’s get started;
Top Ten Locations to Rent a Car in Greece
1. Athens
Athens, the capital city of Greece, is a bustling metropolis known for its ancient ruins, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich history. Renting a car in Athens is the ultimate option if you want to explore both the city and its surrounding areas.
Why Rent a Car in Athens?
- Historical Sites: Visit the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora. Driving a rental car in Athens allows you to reach and explore these landmarks at your own pace easily.
- Day Trips: Take a drive to the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, or the ancient city of Delphi, both of which are within a few hours’ drive from Athens.
- Flexibility: Avoid crowded public transport and have the flexibility to explore nearby beaches and lesser-known attractions.
General Info:
- Population: Approximately 3.15 million in the metropolitan area.
- Traffic: Can be heavy, especially during peak hours. Plan your trips accordingly to avoid congestion.
- Rental Tips: Book your car in advance and consider renting a small vehicle for easier navigation through narrow city streets.
2. Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is known for its vibrant nightlife, historical monuments, and beautiful waterfront.
Why Rent a Car in Thessaloniki?
- Cultural Attractions: Visit the White Tower, the Rotunda, and the Archaeological Museum.
- Road Trips: Drive to the Halkidiki peninsula, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Convenience: Explore the surrounding regions, such as Mount Olympus and the ancient city of Pella at your leisure.
General Info:
- Population: About 1.1 million in the metropolitan area.
- Accessibility: Thessaloniki has good road connections, making it easy to explore northern Greece.
- Rental Tips: Look for car rental companies offering unlimited mileage if you plan to explore extensively.
3. Crete
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is known for its diverse landscapes, ancient ruins, and charming villages.
Why Rent a Car in Crete?
- Explore the Island: Drive along the stunning coastline, visit the Samaria Gorge, and explore the ancient palace of Knossos.
- Local Experiences: Discover traditional villages, local markets, and hidden beaches off the beaten path.
- Flexibility: Having a car allows you to experience the island’s diverse attractions at your own pace.
General Info:
- Population: Approximately 635,000.
- Tourism: Crete is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece.
- Rental Tips: Choose a car with good fuel efficiency, as distances between attractions can be significant.
4. Santorini
Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings and breathtaking sunsets, is a must-visit destination in Greece.
Why Rent a Car in Santorini?
- Scenic Drives: Explore the island’s stunning landscapes, from the caldera views in Fira to the picturesque village of Oia.
- Beaches: Visit the unique beaches of Santorini, such as the Red Beach and the Black Sand Beach in Perissa.
- Convenience: A car allows you to access remote locations and avoid crowded public buses easily.
General Info:
- Population: About 15,500.
- Peak Season: June to September, when the island is busiest with tourists.
- Rental Tips: Book in advance, especially during peak season, and opt for a smaller car for easier parking in tight spaces.
5. Mykonos
Mykonos, known for its lively nightlife and beautiful beaches, is another top destination in Greece.
Why Rent a Car in Mykonos?
- Beach Hopping: Easily visit the island’s many beautiful beaches, such as Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach.
- Nightlife: Drive to Mykonos Town for its vibrant nightlife and return to your accommodation safely at your convenience.
- Exploration: Discover quieter parts of the island, including traditional villages and scenic viewpoints.
General Info:
- Population: Around 10,000.
- Tourism: Mykonos is especially popular among young travelers and party-goers.
- Rental Tips: Choose a car with good air conditioning, as the island can get very hot during summer.
6. Rhodes
Rhodes, one of the largest Greek islands, is famous for its medieval architecture, ancient ruins, and beautiful beaches.
Why Rent a Car in Rhodes?
- Historic Sites: Explore the medieval Old Town, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the ancient city of Kamiros.
- Beaches: Visit popular beaches like Faliraki and Tsambika and hidden coves.
- Day Trips: Drive to the picturesque village of Lindos, known for its stunning acropolis and white-washed houses.
General Info:
- Population: Approximately 115,000.
- Tourism: A popular destination with a rich historical heritage.
- Rental Tips: Opt for a vehicle with good ground clearance if you plan to explore the island’s more rugged areas.
Renting a car in Rhodes allows you to explore the island’s historical sites during the day and relax on its beautiful beaches in the afternoon, all on your own schedule.
7. Corfu
Corfu, located in the Ionian Sea, is known for its lush green landscapes, Venetian architecture, and charming villages.
Why Rent a Car in Corfu?
- Scenic Drives: Enjoy drives along the coastline and the island’s green hills and olive groves.
- Historic Sites: Visit Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Achilleion Palace.
- Beaches: Discover the island’s many beautiful beaches, such as Paleokastritsa and Sidari.
General Info:
- Population: About 100,000.
- Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.
- Rental Tips: Consider renting a small car for more straightforward navigation on narrow, winding roads.
A car rental in Corfu allows you to spend the morning exploring Corfu Town’s historic streets and the afternoon relaxing at one of the island’s stunning beaches, providing a perfect balance of culture and relaxation.
8. Naxos
Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands, is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and traditional villages.
Why Rent a Car in Naxos?
- Beaches: Visit famous beaches like Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna, as well as more secluded spots.
- Historic Sites: Explore the Portara (Temple of Apollo) and the ancient ruins of the Temple of Demeter.
- Villages: Drive through charming villages such as Halki and Apeiranthos, each offering unique local experiences.
General Info:
- Population: Approximately 20,000.
- Tourism: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and rich history.
- Rental Tips: Book in advance, especially during summer, to secure the best rates and availability.
Renting a car in Naxos allows you to explore the island’s diverse attractions, from ancient ruins to pristine beaches, making your visit comprehensive and enjoyable.
9. Zakynthos
Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant nightlife, and natural beauty.
Why Rent a Car in Zakynthos?
- Beaches: Visit the iconic Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach and other beautiful beaches like Laganas and Tsilivi.
- Natural Attractions: Explore the Blue Caves and take a boat trip to see the Caretta Caretta turtles.
- Flexibility: Having a car allows you to explore the island’s natural beauty at your own pace, away from the crowded tourist spots.
General Info:
- Population: Around 40,000.
- Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.
- Rental Tips: Choose a car with good air conditioning, as the island can get very hot during summer.
With a rental car, you can visit the famous Navagio Beach early in the morning before the crowds arrive and explore other hidden gems throughout the day.
10. Patras
Patras is a vibrant port city in the Peloponnese region known for its lively carnival, historical sites, and beautiful coastline.
Why Rent a Car in Patras?
- Historic Sites: Visit the Roman Odeon, the Castle of Patras, and the impressive Church of Saint Andrew.
- Road Trips: Drive to nearby attractions such as the ancient city of Olympia and the beautiful beaches of the Peloponnese.
- Flexibility: Explore the surrounding countryside and coastal areas at your own pace.
General Info:
- Population: Approximately 170,000.
- Accessibility: Well-connected by road and ferry to other parts of Greece.
- Rental Tips: Ensure your rental agreement includes comprehensive insurance for peace of mind.
Renting a car in Patras allows you to take a day trip to the ancient Olympia, home of the original Olympic Games, and return to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Valuable Tips for Renting a Car in Greece
- Book in Advance: Car rentals can be in high demand, especially during the peak tourist season (June to September). Booking in advance ensures you get the best rates and availability.
- Insurance: Make sure your rental includes comprehensive insurance. This will cover you in case of accidents or damage.
- Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is required, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU citizens.
- Fuel Policy: Check the rental company's fuel policy. Some offer a full-to-full policy, where you return the car with the same amount of fuel it had when you picked it up.
- GPS/Maps: A GPS or a good map can be very helpful, especially in rural areas with limited signage.
- Local Traffic Laws: Familiarize yourself with Greek traffic laws and road signs. For example, in Greece, you drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Parking: Parking in cities can be challenging. Look for designated parking areas and avoid leaving your car in restricted zones to avoid fines.
Renting a car in Greece opens up a world of possibilities. You can explore the country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture on your schedule.
Drive in Greece with Finalrentals
Whether you're planning to explore the ancient ruins of Athens, relax on the stunning beaches of Crete, or take a scenic drive through the picturesque villages of Naxos, Finalrentals has you covered. With our wide range of vehicles and convenient locations, you can find the perfect car to suit your needs and make the most of your Greek adventure.
With Finalrentals, every moment in Greece is an opportunity for adventure. Rent a car with FInalrentals today and start your unforgettable Greek journey. Book your dream ride NOW.
