Car Rental in Gouviá

Where to drive

• Explore Corfu Town: Just a 15-minute drive (≈8 km) south of Gouviá, the UNESCO-listed Old Town offers Venetian architecture, charming alleyways, and the Old Fortress.
• Visit Paleokastritsa: Drive west for about 30 minutes (≈15 km) to discover the stunning bays, monastery, and crystal-clear waters of Paleokastritsa, perfect for swimming and boat trips.
• Discover Sidari and the Canal d'Amour: Head north for approximately 50 minutes (≈30 km) to see the unique rock formations and sandy beaches of Sidari, including the famous Canal d'Amour.
• Journey to the South: Drive south to explore the quieter side of Corfu, visiting places like Kavos (≈1 hour, 40 km) for its lively atmosphere or the tranquil beaches of Marathias.
• Mount Pantokrator: Take a scenic drive to the highest point of Corfu (≈1 hour, 30 km), offering breathtaking panoramic views of the entire island and beyond.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you typically need a valid driving license (held for at least one year), your passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. If your driving license is not in English or does not use the Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required. The minimum age for car rental is usually 21, though some companies may have a higher minimum age (e.g., 23 or 25) or apply a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Gouviá vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 10-15 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models can range from 40-80 EUR or more daily. Expect prices to be considerably higher, often doubling or tripling, during the peak summer months (July-August). Booking in advance, especially for summer 2026, is highly recommended to secure better rates.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Greece, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 110-130 km/h on motorways (though Corfu has no motorways, mainly national and local roads). The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are required in tunnels and poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and child seats are mandatory for children up to 12 years old or under 1.35 meters in height.

Parking

In Gouviá and many parts of Corfu, finding free parking can be challenging, especially in peak season. There are usually designated paid parking areas, often marked with blue lines, where you pay at a machine or through a mobile app. Free parking, marked with white lines, is rare in busy areas. Be cautious of yellow lines, which indicate no parking zones. In Corfu Town, several large paid parking lots are available near the old town.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Corfu, including near Gouviá. The main types of fuel are unleaded petrol (95 and 100 octane) and diesel. Fuel prices are regulated nationally and tend to be similar across the island, though slightly higher than on the mainland. Stations usually accept cash and major credit/debit cards. It's advisable to fill up when you see a station, especially if exploring more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For navigating Corfu's often narrow and winding roads, an economy or compact car is often the most practical choice. Their smaller size makes parking and maneuvering easier, particularly in villages and busy towns like Corfu Town. While an automatic transmission offers more comfort, manual cars are more common and generally more affordable. If you plan to explore more challenging terrain or carry extra luggage, a small SUV could be a good compromise, but be mindful of road widths.

Frequently asked questions