Car Rental at Kos International Airport

Where to drive

• Explore Kos Town: Just a 25-minute drive (≈22 km) from the airport, Kos Town offers historical sites like the Castle of the Knights, the Ancient Agora, and the Plane Tree of Hippocrates.
• Visit the Asklepion: Drive ≈20 minutes (≈16 km) from the airport to the ancient healing center of Asklepion, one of the most significant archaeological sites on the island.
• Discover Zia Village: A scenic drive of ≈35 minutes (≈25 km) from the airport leads to Zia, a picturesque mountain village known for its stunning sunset views and traditional tavernas.
• Relax at Paradise Beach: Head south for ≈30 minutes (≈28 km) to reach Paradise Beach, one of Kos's most famous sandy stretches, perfect for swimming and water sports.
• Explore Kefalos and the west coast: Drive ≈45 minutes (≈35 km) to the western tip of the island to visit Kefalos village, explore its medieval castle, and discover quieter, unspoiled beaches like Limnionas.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you will generally need a valid driving license held for at least one year. If your license is not from an EU country, the UK, or a few other recognized nations, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required in conjunction with your national license. You will also need your passport or national ID card and a major credit card in the main driver's name. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, and drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices at Kos International Airport vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models can range from 60-120 EUR or more daily during peak summer months. Expect prices to be significantly higher from June to September.

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%. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are recommended in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants. Children under 1.35 meters tall must use an appropriate child seat or booster seat.

Parking

In Kos Town and other popular areas, parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are designated paid parking lots, often indicated by blue lines, where you pay at a machine or via a mobile app. Free parking areas exist but are scarcer. Always check local signage carefully to avoid fines or towing. Outside of main towns, parking is generally easier to find and often free, particularly near beaches and attractions.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Kos, especially along main roads and in larger towns. Prices for unleaded gasoline (Eko Super 95) and diesel are comparable to the European average, though they can fluctuate. Most stations accept major credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash on hand, especially in more rural areas or for smaller purchases. Self-service pumps are common, but attendants are often available during business hours.

Which car to choose

For navigating Kos's winding roads and sometimes narrow village streets, a compact or economy car is often the most practical choice. It's easy to park and fuel-efficient. If you plan to explore more rugged, unpaved paths leading to secluded beaches, a small SUV with higher ground clearance could be beneficial. Manual transmission is prevalent, but automatic cars are available, though often at a slightly higher premium.

Frequently asked questions