Car Rental in Kos, Greece

Where to drive

• Drive to Zia village (≈15 km, 25 min from Kos Town) for breathtaking sunset views over the Aegean Sea and traditional Greek tavernas.
• Explore the archaeological site of Asklepion (≈4 km, 10 min from Kos Town), an ancient healing center with significant historical importance.
• Journey to the thermal springs of Embros Thermae (≈13 km, 20 min from Kos Town) for a unique natural spa experience by the sea.
• Discover the pristine beaches of Kefalos bay (≈40 km, 50 min from Kos Town), including Paradise Beach and Agios Stefanos, perfect for swimming and water sports.
• Visit Antimachia Castle (≈25 km, 30 min from Kos Town), a well-preserved Venetian fortress offering panoramic views of the island's interior.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you'll generally need a valid driver's license from your home country, held for at least one year. If your license is not in English or a Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required alongside your original license. A passport or national ID card is also necessary. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25, especially for larger car categories, and may charge a young driver's fee for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices on Kos vary significantly by season and car class. Expect economy cars to start from around 20-30 EUR per day in the low season, potentially rising to 50-70 EUR or more in peak summer. SUVs and premium models can range from approximately 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily, depending on demand. Booking well in advance, especially for summer travel, is advisable 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 Kos has no motorways. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.02% for new drivers). Headlights are not required during the day. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are legally required for children under 12 years old or under 135 cm tall.

Parking

In Kos Town, finding free parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are several paid parking lots available near the harbor and main attractions. In smaller villages and at beaches, parking is often free, but spaces can fill up quickly. Always look for parking signs; illegal parking can result in fines or towing. Blue lines usually indicate paid parking, while white lines are typically free.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across the main roads of Kos, with a good concentration around Kos Town and along the routes to popular destinations. Most stations offer unleaded gasoline (95 or 100 octane) and diesel. Fuel prices are regulated nationally and are generally comparable to mainland Greece, typically around 1.80-2.00 EUR per liter for unleaded in 2026, though prices fluctuate. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash on hand.

Which car to choose

For navigating Kos, a compact or economy car is often the most practical choice. These cars are easy to maneuver through narrow village streets and park in crowded areas. While the main roads are generally well-maintained, some routes to secluded beaches or mountain villages can be steep or unpaved, so a car with decent ground clearance might be beneficial if you plan extensive off-the-beaten-path exploration. Manual transmission is common, but automatics are available, often at a slightly higher price.

Frequently asked questions