Car Rental in Paros, Greece

Where to drive

• Drive to Lefkes, a picturesque mountain village about 10 km (6 miles) from Parikia, offering stunning views and traditional architecture. The drive takes around 15-20 minutes.
• Explore the golden sands of Kolymbithres Beach near Naoussa, roughly 12 km (7.5 miles) from Parikia, a drive of about 20-25 minutes. Its unique rock formations are a must-see.
• Visit the fishing village of Naoussa, approximately 10 km (6 miles) north of Parikia. This charming harbor town is perfect for an evening stroll and dinner, about a 15-minute drive.
• Head south to Aliki, a tranquil fishing village with excellent tavernas and a lovely beach, around 15 km (9.3 miles) from Parikia, taking about 20-25 minutes to reach.
• Circumnavigate the island to discover various beaches like Golden Beach (Chryssi Akti) or Faragas, each offering unique atmospheres and watersports opportunities. The full loop of the island is approximately 60-70 km (37-43 miles).

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you typically need a valid driver's license held for at least one year. If your license is not in English or does not use a Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required in conjunction with your original license. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, though some categories may require drivers to be 23 or 25, and young driver surcharges may apply for those under 25. A passport or national ID card is also necessary.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Paros vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 20-30 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles might range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. During the peak summer months, prices for all categories can easily double or even triple due to high demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Greece, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are approximately 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) outside urban areas, and 130 km/h (81 mph) on motorways (though motorways are limited on Paros). 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 (4 ft 5 in) must use an appropriate child restraint system.

Parking

In Parikia and Naoussa, finding free parking in the high season can be challenging. Most towns offer designated paid parking lots, often with hourly rates. On-street parking can be scarce, and some areas may have restrictions (blue lines for paid parking, yellow for no parking). Always check signs carefully. Outside the main towns, especially near beaches or villages, free parking is generally more available.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are available across Paros, particularly along the main roads connecting Parikia, Naoussa, and the larger villages. Unleaded petrol (95 and 100 octane) and diesel are widely available. Fuel prices are regulated nationally and are generally higher than the European average, approximately 1.80 EUR to 2.00 EUR per liter for unleaded petrol. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash, especially in smaller, more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For navigating Paros's sometimes narrow and winding roads, a compact or economy car is often the most practical choice. It's easier to park and maneuver in villages. If you plan to explore more rugged or unpaved tracks leading to secluded beaches, a small SUV with higher ground clearance might be beneficial. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatics are available, though they may be in higher demand and cost more.

Frequently asked questions