Destination · Greece
Dreaming of a drive along the scenic coastal road to Cape Sounion, or a quick escape to the monasteries of Meteora? Unlock the ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes surrounding Athens with the perfect set of wheels.
Athens, Greece · June 10, 2026 - June 17, 2026 · driver aged 28
Dreaming of a drive along the scenic coastal road to Cape Sounion, or a quick escape to the monasteries of Meteora? Unlock the ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes surrounding Athens with the perfect set of wheels.
To rent a car in Greece, you typically need a valid national driving license held for at least one year, a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. For non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required alongside your national license. The minimum age for rental is generally 21, with surcharges often applied for drivers under 25.
Car rental prices in Athens vary significantly by season and vehicle class. Economy cars can start from around 20-30 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models might range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Expect prices to increase by 50-100% during the peak summer months.
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In Greece, driving is on the right. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 130 km/h on motorways, unless otherwise signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but recommended in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children up to 12 years old or under 1.35 meters in height.
Parking in central Athens can be challenging and is mostly paid. Look for blue lines indicating paid parking zones, which require pre-purchased parking cards from kiosks or specific apps. White lines usually signify free parking, while yellow lines mean no parking. There are also numerous private parking garages, especially around tourist areas, offering hourly or daily rates.
Fuel stations are widely available throughout Athens and on major routes. Unleaded petrol (95 and 100 octane) and diesel are standard. Prices are comparable to other Western European countries, typically paid by card or cash. Look for stations displaying prices prominently.
For navigating Athens' city streets, a compact or economy car is ideal due to narrow roads and limited parking. If you plan extensive trips to rural areas, mountainous regions, or sites like Meteora, a car with a slightly more powerful engine or even a small SUV (especially with automatic transmission) might offer more comfort and easier driving on varied terrain.
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Cancellation policies vary by rental company. Many offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, while others may charge a fee for late cancellations. Always check the specific terms of your booking.
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