Car Rental in Néa Alikarnassós

Where to drive

• Explore Knossos Palace: Drive approximately 5 km (10-15 minutes) to the iconic Minoan Palace of Knossos, one of Crete's most significant archaeological sites.
• Visit Heraklion City Center: Just a short 3-4 km drive (5-10 minutes) from Néa Alikarnassós, Heraklion offers vibrant markets, historical museums, and Venetian architecture.
• Discover the Lassithi Plateau: Embark on a scenic drive of approximately 50-60 km (1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes) to the Lassithi Plateau, famous for its traditional windmills and charming villages.
• Relax at Matala Beach: Head south for about 70-75 km (1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes) to Matala, known for its unique caves and laid-back atmosphere.
• Journey to Agios Nikolaos: Drive east along the coast for approximately 60-65 km (1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes) to the beautiful town of Agios Nikolaos, with its picturesque lake and harbor.
• Explore the Samaria Gorge (entrance near Omalos): While the gorge entrance is about 160 km away (3 hours drive), a rental car allows you to reach the starting point or other hiking areas in western Crete.

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 does not use the Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is typically required alongside your original license. A valid passport or national ID card is also necessary. The minimum age for car rental is usually 21, though some companies may have a higher minimum age (e.g., 23 or 25) for certain vehicle categories or require a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Néa Alikarnassós vary significantly by season and vehicle type. Economy cars might start from approximately 20-30 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium models can range from 60 EUR to over 100 EUR daily, especially during peak summer months. Expect prices to be higher from June to September.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Greece, drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 110-130 km/h on motorways, though always follow posted signs. The legal blood alcohol limit is approximately 0.05%. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are required at night and in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and child seats are legally required for children under 12 years old or under 135 cm tall, using an appropriate restraint system for their age and weight.

Parking

Parking in Néa Alikarnassós and nearby Heraklion can be challenging, especially in peak season. There are often designated paid parking lots (marked with a blue line), where you'll typically pay at a meter or through a mobile app. Free parking might be available on some streets (marked with a white line), but spots are scarce. Avoid parking in areas marked with yellow lines, as these are restricted and can result in fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Crete, including Néa Alikarnassós and along main routes. Unleaded petrol (Βενζίνη αμόλυβδη) and diesel (Πετρέλαιο) are the most common types. Prices are comparable to other European countries, currently averaging around 1.80-2.00 EUR per liter for unleaded petrol (as of early 2026). Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash for smaller, more remote stations.

Which car to choose

For navigating the narrow streets of towns and villages, and for easier parking, an economy or compact car is often ideal. If you plan to explore more rugged terrain or carry more luggage, a small SUV or a car with a slightly higher ground clearance could be beneficial. Manual transmission cars are very common in Greece, but automatics are also available, though they might be slightly more expensive. For comfortable long-distance travel on main roads, any mid-size sedan would be suitable.

Frequently asked questions