Car Rental in Piraeus

Where to drive

• Drive to Cape Sounion to witness the Temple of Poseidon and a breathtaking sunset, approximately 65 km (1 hour 15 minutes) southeast of Piraeus.
• Explore the archaeological wonders of Athens, including the Acropolis and Parthenon, a short drive of about 10-15 km (20-30 minutes) from Piraeus city center.
• Take a scenic coastal route to Loutraki, known for its thermal springs and casino, approximately 85 km (1 hour 10 minutes) west of Piraeus.
• Visit the ancient site of Mycenae and the charming town of Nafplio in the Peloponnese, a longer day trip of about 140 km (1 hour 45 minutes) from Piraeus.
• Discover the pristine beaches and traditional villages of the Athens Riviera, stretching southeast from Piraeus, with destinations like Vouliagmeni and Saronida just 20-40 km away.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you will generally need a valid national driving license from your home country, held for at least one year. For non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is typically required in conjunction with your national license. You must also present a valid passport or national ID card. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25 and have held their license for two or more years, especially for larger car categories. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Piraeus vary significantly by car class and season. Economy cars can start from around 20-25 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium models might range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. During peak summer months, prices for all categories can increase by 50% or more 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 in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 110-130 km/h on motorways, unless otherwise indicated by signage. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.05%. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are required in tunnels and during adverse weather conditions. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants. Children under 3 years old must use an appropriate child restraint system; children between 3 and 11 years old and under 1.35 meters tall must use a suitable child seat or booster seat.

Parking

Parking in Piraeus can be challenging, especially in the city center and around the port. Blue zones indicate paid parking, often managed by parking meters or mobile apps, with varying time limits. White zones are typically for residents or specific purposes. Red or yellow lines usually signify no parking. Free parking can be scarce and often requires searching in residential areas further from the main attractions. It's advisable to look for designated parking garages or lots, which offer more secure and convenient options, though at a cost.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Piraeus and the surrounding areas. The most common types are unleaded gasoline (Blybdyh) and diesel (Petrelaiou). LPG is also available at some stations. Fuel prices are regulated and generally comparable to other Western European countries, though they fluctuate. Payment is usually accepted by credit card or cash. It's always a good idea to fill up before long journeys, especially when heading to more remote areas, as stations might be less frequent.

Which car to choose

For navigating the often narrow and busy streets of Piraeus and Athens, a compact or economy car is highly recommended due to ease of parking and maneuvering. If you plan extensive road trips to the Peloponnese or other regions with diverse terrain, a slightly larger sedan or a small SUV might offer more comfort and stability. Manual transmission cars are very common in Greece, but automatics are increasingly available, especially if booked in advance. Consider an automatic if you are not comfortable with manual on hilly or congested roads.

Frequently asked questions