Destination · Greece
Car Rental in Alimos, Greece
While most visitors flock to the Acropolis, savvy travelers to Alimos know the real magic lies in its seaside charm, just a short drive from Athens' bustling center. Renting a car here unlocks the hidden tavernas along the Saronic Gulf coastline and allows for spontaneous detours to picturesque beaches like Kavouri, perfect for an afternoon dip in the Aegean.
Search & book · Alimos (Athens)
Alimos (Athens), Greece
Car Rental in Alimos, Greece
While most visitors flock to the Acropolis, savvy travelers to Alimos know the real magic lies in its seaside charm, just a short drive from Athens' bustling center. Renting a car here unlocks the hidden tavernas along the Saronic Gulf coastline and allows for spontaneous detours to picturesque beaches like Kavouri, perfect for an afternoon dip in the Aegean.
Where to drive
- Drive along the Athenian Riviera to Cape Sounion, home to the Temple of Poseidon, a scenic 45-minute drive (approx. 45 km) offering breathtaking sunset views.
- Explore the historic center of Athens, including the Acropolis and Plaka, just a 20-minute drive (approx. 10 km) from Alimos, allowing for easy day trips.
- Visit Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural thermal spa, a short 15-minute drive (approx. 12 km) south of Alimos, perfect for relaxation and swimming.
- Discover the archaeological site of Marathon and its museum, roughly an hour's drive (approx. 40 km) northeast, providing insight into ancient Greek history.
- Take a day trip to Nafplio, a beautiful Venetian-era town in the Peloponnese, about a 2-hour drive (approx. 140 km) away, featuring charming streets and fortresses.
What documents you need
To rent a car in Greece, you typically need a valid driver's license held for at least one year, a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your driver's license is not in English or does not use the Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required. The minimum age for renting is generally 21, with surcharges often applied for drivers under 25.
How much rental costs
Car rental prices in Alimos vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 15-20 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models might range from 40 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Expect prices to be considerably higher, sometimes double or triple, during the peak summer months.
Price by month, €
Demand by month
Traffic rules and fines
In Greece, driving is on the right. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and 130 km/h on motorways, though always observe local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit is strict, approximately 0.05%. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but advisable in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 12 years or less than 1.35 meters tall.
Parking
Parking in Alimos, especially near the marina and popular areas, can be a mix of free and paid zones. In many areas, look for blue lines indicating paid parking, usually via meters or mobile apps, and white lines for free parking. Yellow lines typically signify no parking. During peak season, finding free spots can be challenging, so consider parking garages or private lots for convenience.
Fuel stations
Fuel stations are widely available throughout Alimos and the surrounding Attica region. Unleaded petrol (Βενζίνη αμόλυβδη) and diesel (Πετρέλαιο) are standard. Fuel prices are generally higher than the European average, currently around 1.80-2.00 EUR per liter for unleaded petrol, but these are approximate and fluctuate. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always good to have some cash for smaller purchases or in case of card issues.
Which car to choose
For exploring Alimos and the Athenian Riviera, an economy or compact car is ideal for navigating tighter city streets and finding parking. If you plan longer trips to more mountainous regions or the Peloponnese, a mid-size car or a small SUV would offer more comfort and better handling. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatics are readily available if preferred.
Pros
- Unrestricted access to the beautiful Athenian Riviera and its hidden coves.
- Flexibility to visit ancient sites like the Acropolis and Cape Sounion at your own pace.
- Opportunity for spontaneous day trips to charming towns and natural attractions.
- Convenience for carrying luggage, beach gear, or shopping finds.
- Escape crowded public transport, especially during hot summer months.
Cons
- Parking in popular areas of Alimos and Athens can be challenging and sometimes costly.
- Traffic, especially in central Athens, can be heavy during peak hours.
- Road signs are primarily in Greek, though main routes often have English translations.
- Fuel costs in Greece can be higher compared to some other European countries.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cancellation policy for car rentals in Alimos?
Cancellation policies vary by rental provider. Many offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, while others may charge a fee. Always check the specific terms and conditions of your booking.
Do I need to prepay for my car rental in Alimos?
Some rental companies require prepayment, while others allow you to pay upon arrival. Often, prepaying can secure a better rate. A credit card in the main driver's name is almost always required for a security deposit, regardless of prepayment.
Can I rent a car in Alimos with a foreign driver's license?
Yes, a valid foreign driver's license is acceptable. If your license is not in English or does not use the Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required in Greece alongside your original license.
What is the best place to pick up a rental car in Alimos?
For convenience, many travelers choose to pick up their rental car directly at Athens International Airport (ATH) upon arrival. Alternatively, several rental agencies have offices in Alimos itself or nearby in central Athens, offering flexibility depending on your itinerary.
Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of when renting a car?
Be aware of potential extra charges such as young driver surcharges (for those under 25), additional driver fees, GPS rental, child seats, and one-way rental fees if you drop off the car in a different location. Always read the rental agreement carefully for a full breakdown of costs.