Car Rental in Greece

Basic information and tips on driving & renting a car in Greece

---

Greece and the Greek islands in general have had a major upgrade in transportation services. The new "metro" subway trains, tram and the "Proastiako" has greatly improved in and outside of Athens as well as reconstruction and repaving of main highways and the ever welcomed construction of the "Attiki Odo" which cuts travel time to Athens international Airport in half.

Driving in Athens can be a nerve racking experience for some, mostly in and around the city's center because of heavy traffic, narrow streets and limited parking spaces.

Greeks in general have a tendency to ignore basic rules of the road and are unfamiliar with driver courtesy. Stop signs, turning signal and red lights are passe. The further away you get from Athens the better it gets so be prepared to expect the unexpected and you will be fine.

Tip: When driving through small villages beware of stray goats & donkeys on the road!!

Rent a car in Greece
Renting a car has certain advantages that give you the freedom to explore Greece and the Greek islands and visit places at your own pace. Typical car rental rates can start from 40 euros and up per day depending on the season and type of car you want to rent.

---

---

The basics:

• Most rent a car agencies require that you be at least 23 years old to rent a car and have valid drivers license for at least 1 year. Some rental car categories require that you be at least 25 and have a valid credit card.
• If you live in Europe you shouldn't have a problem using your driver's license in Greece. From any other country you might have to get a temporary international drivers license permit. Ask your travel agent or embassy just to be sure.
• Some car rental agencies have a minimum rental period of 3 days.
• When renting a car in Greece it's always a good idea to go for the full insurance coverage just to be on the safe side. Paying a couple of euros extra is worth it to avoid any hassles if you get in to an accident.
• Be careful where you park your rental car and avoid speeding since traffic fines and violations are paid for by you. (And are very expensive!)
• Most rental cars in Greece have standard transmissions but you can rent automatics too. Just don't forget to ask what type it has in case you don't know how to drive a stick shift.
• Gas stations in Greece are mostly full service, so just tell the guy at the pump how much you want (in euros) and what type of gas (super or unleaded) on average gas is around 1 euro a liter. (credit cards are not often accepted so have cash on hand.)
• Highway & road tolls are around 2.00 to 3.00 euros for cars.
• Renting a car and taking it on a ferry to a Greek island or out of Greece needs written permission from your car rental agency.
• Before driving your rental car away, make sure everything is in order, check and see if you have all your papers, drivers license, car permit, insurance, road map etc...
• Before driving away, give your rental car a once over and make sure there are no dents, scratches, and that everything is working, lights, AC, brakes so you wont be blamed and billed for it later on when returning the car.