Car Rental in Kokkini Hani

Where to drive

• Explore Knossos Palace: Drive to the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos, approximately 15 km (20-minute drive) from Kokkini Hani, to immerse yourself in legendary history.
• Visit Heraklion City: Head to Heraklion, Crete's capital, about 12 km (15-minute drive) away, for its archaeological museum, Venetian fortress, and vibrant city life.
• Discover Lassithi Plateau: Take a scenic drive to the Lassithi Plateau, around 60 km (1.5-hour drive), famous for its traditional windmills and charming villages.
• Relax at Stalida Beach: Enjoy the sandy shores and clear waters of Stalida Beach, approximately 15 km (20-minute drive) east of Kokkini Hani.
• Hike in Richtis Gorge: For nature lovers, the Richtis Gorge near Exo Mouliana is about 80 km (1.5-hour drive), offering a beautiful waterfall and hiking trails.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you'll generally need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your license is not in English or does not use the Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required by law. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories, and often an additional 'young driver's fee' applies for those under 25. Drivers usually need to have held their license for at least one year.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Kokkini Hani vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 20-30 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles can range from 50-100 EUR or more, especially in peak summer months. Expect prices to be highest from June to August, with more affordable rates available from October to April. The lowest daily price can be around 0 EUR during very specific off-peak promotions.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Greece, you drive 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 always watch for local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit is very low, approximately 0.05%, so it's best to avoid alcohol entirely if driving. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are required from dusk till dawn and in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and child seats are legally required for children under 12 or less than 1.35 meters tall.

Parking

In Kokkini Hani and many smaller towns in Crete, you can often find free parking, especially away from the immediate beachfront or main tourist strips. In larger towns like Heraklion, parking usually involves designated paid zones, often marked with blue lines, where you pay at a meter or via an app. Avoid parking in yellow-lined areas, which are reserved, and double-check signage to prevent fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Crete, including in and around Kokkini Hani. You'll find unleaded petrol (super) and diesel. Prices are regulated at a national level and are generally comparable across the island, though they can fluctuate. Payment is usually accepted by cash or credit card. It's advisable to fill up before long journeys, especially if heading into more remote areas, as some smaller stations may have limited operating hours.

Which car to choose

For exploring Kokkini Hani and the surrounding Cretan landscape, a compact or economy car is often ideal. Their smaller size makes navigating narrow village streets and finding parking much easier. If you plan to venture into more rugged, unpaved mountain roads, an SUV with higher ground clearance would be a better choice. Manual transmission cars are very common in Greece, so if you prefer automatic, it's best to book well in advance.

Frequently asked questions