Car Rental in Chios

Where to drive

• Drive to the medieval Mastic Villages (Mastihohoria) like Pyrgi, Mesta, and Olympi, about 30-40 km south of Chios Town (≈ 45-60 minutes driving). These villages offer unique architecture and a glimpse into mastic production.
• Explore the northern part of the island, visiting Anavatos, the 'Mystic Citadel,' and the secluded beaches around Volissos, approximately 40-50 km from Chios Town (≈ 1 hour 15 minutes driving).
• Head to the beautiful beaches of Karfas (≈ 7 km, 15 minutes), Agia Fotia (≈ 12 km, 20 minutes), or Komi (≈ 25 km, 35 minutes) for a relaxing day by the Aegean Sea.
• Visit the Nea Moni Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, located approximately 15 km west of Chios Town (≈ 30 minutes driving) through scenic mountain roads.
• Discover the coastal town of Lagada and its charming fishing harbor, about 17 km north of Chios Town (≈ 25 minutes driving), offering fresh seafood and a peaceful atmosphere.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you typically need a valid driving license from your home country, a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your driving license is not in English or does not use a Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, and drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. Some companies require a minimum of one year of driving experience.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Chios vary significantly by season and vehicle class. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and larger family cars can range from 50-80 EUR. During peak summer months (July-August), prices can easily double, with economy cars costing 50-70 EUR or more, and premium vehicles exceeding 100-120 EUR per day. Booking in advance, especially for summer, is highly recommended.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Greece, driving is on the right-hand side. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 110-130 km/h on motorways (though Chios has limited motorways). Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children under 12 years old or under 135 cm tall must use appropriate child seats. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Headlights are not required during the day unless visibility is poor. Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited without a hands-free system.

Parking

In Chios Town, parking can be challenging, especially in the central areas and during peak season. There are some paid municipal parking lots available, often marked with blue lines, where you pay at a meter or via a mobile app. Free parking might be found on the outskirts of town or near specific attractions, but spaces are limited. In smaller villages and at beaches, parking is usually free, though informal and dependent on available space.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Chios, particularly in Chios Town and along main routes. Prices for unleaded gasoline (petrol) are generally higher than in mainland Europe but comparable to other Greek islands. Expect to pay around 1.80-2.00 EUR per liter, though prices fluctuate. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash, especially in more remote areas. Diesel is also available.

Which car to choose

For exploring Chios, a compact or economy car with a manual transmission is often the most practical choice. The island's roads can be narrow and winding, especially in the mountainous regions and within old villages like Pyrgi or Mesta. A smaller car makes navigating these tight spaces and parking much easier. If you plan to visit more rugged, unpaved routes to secluded beaches, a small SUV with higher ground clearance could be beneficial, though most main attractions are accessible by standard vehicles.

Frequently asked questions