Car Rental in Plakias, Crete

Where to drive

• Drive to Preveli Palm Beach (≈10 km, 15 min): Famous for its unique palm forest and river, it's a must-see, and a car lets you arrive early to beat the crowds.
• Explore the Kourtaliotiko Gorge (≈15 km, 20 min): Drive through this dramatic gorge, stopping at viewpoints and perhaps hiking to the waterfalls within.
• Visit the historic Monastery of Arkadi (≈60 km, 1 hour 15 min): A significant site in Cretan history, offering beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.
• Day trip to the fishing village of Agia Galini (≈35 km, 45 min): Enjoy a different coastal vibe, fresh seafood, and picturesque harbor views.
• Discover the beaches of Souda and Damnoni (≈5 km, 10 min): Just a short drive from Plakias, these offer more swimming and sunbathing options with fewer people.
• Journey to Spili village (≈25 km, 30 min): Known for its Venetian fountains and lush greenery, it's a delightful stop for a traditional Cretan coffee.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you typically need a valid national driving license 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 required by law. You'll also need your passport or national ID card and a major credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. The minimum age for rental is generally 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories, and often an additional 'young driver fee' applies for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Plakias vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 20-30 EUR per day in the low season (winter), while the peak summer months (July-August) can see prices for similar vehicles rise to 50-70 EUR or more. SUVs and premium models will naturally be more expensive, potentially ranging from 60 EUR to over 120 EUR daily, depending on demand and availability. Booking in advance, especially for summer, is highly recommended 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 typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 110-130 km/h on motorways, though these can vary, so always observe local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, which is very strict. Headlights are not required during the day but are mandatory in tunnels and poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and children under 12 or less than 135 cm tall must use appropriate child seats or booster seats.

Parking

In Plakias, parking is generally easier than in larger towns. There are usually free public parking areas near the beach and within the village. During peak summer months, finding a spot directly in the most central areas might require a bit more patience, but it's rarely a major issue. Always check for any 'No Parking' signs or restricted zones to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are available in Plakias and surrounding towns. The price of unleaded petrol (95 RON) is approximately 1.80-2.00 EUR per liter, while diesel is slightly cheaper, around 1.60-1.80 EUR per liter (as of 2026, subject to change). Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash, especially in smaller, more remote villages.

Which car to choose

For exploring Plakias and the winding, sometimes unpaved, roads of rural Crete, a compact or economy car is often ideal. Their smaller size makes navigating narrow village streets and parking easier. If you plan to venture into more mountainous or rugged terrain, a small SUV with higher ground clearance could be beneficial. Manual transmission is very common in Greece, but automatic options are available if preferred, though they might be slightly more expensive and less readily available.

Frequently asked questions