Car Rental in Polychrono

Where to drive

• Drive to the thermal springs of Agia Paraskevi (approx. 20 km, 30 min) for a relaxing dip and stunning cliffside views.
• Explore the vibrant town of Kallithea (approx. 10 km, 15 min), known for its nightlife and beautiful beach, perfect for an evening out.
• Visit the traditional village of Afytos (approx. 15 km, 20 min) with its stone houses, panoramic sea views, and excellent tavernas.
• Embark on a day trip to the second 'finger' of Chalkidiki, Sithonia (approx. 80 km to Neos Marmaras, 1.5 hours), renowned for its untouched natural beauty and pristine coves.
• Discover the ancient city of Olynthos (approx. 50 km, 50 min), an important archaeological site offering a glimpse into classical Greek life.
• Head south to Paliouri (approx. 25 km, 35 min) to enjoy the famous beach bar scene at Cabana Beach or Glarokavos Lagoon.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you'll generally need a valid driving 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 required. A valid passport or national ID card and a credit card in the main driver's name are also essential. The minimum age for renting is typically 21, with surcharges often applied for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Polychrono vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 20-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models might range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Expect prices to approximately double or even triple during the peak summer months of July and August.

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 on open roads, and 110-130 km/h on motorways, though always observe local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, which is very strict. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are recommended in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and children under 12 or shorter than 1.35 meters must use appropriate child seats.

Parking

In Polychrono, finding parking can be challenging, especially during peak summer months. There are usually designated free parking areas, but these fill up quickly. Some hotels offer private parking. In other towns, you might find paid parking zones indicated by blue lines on the road; you'll typically need to purchase a parking card from a kiosk or use a mobile app. Always check signage carefully to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available along the main roads of Chalkidiki. Petrol (unleaded) and diesel are the most common types. The approximate price for unleaded petrol usually ranges from 1.80 EUR to 2.10 EUR per liter, and diesel is slightly less. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash, especially in more remote areas. Many stations close for a siesta in the afternoon, so plan accordingly.

Which car to choose

For exploring Polychrono and the Kassandra peninsula, an economy or compact car is often ideal. Their smaller size makes navigating narrow village streets and finding parking much easier. If you plan to venture into more rugged areas of Sithonia or have more luggage, a compact SUV offers better ground clearance and comfort. Manual transmission cars are very common in Greece, but automatics are available, though often at a higher price.

Frequently asked questions