Car Rental in Préveza, Greece

Where to drive

• Explore the beaches of Loutsa and Ammoudia: Drive north along the coast for about 30-40 minutes (25-30 km) to find these beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for a relaxing day.
• Visit Ancient Nikopolis: Just a short 15-minute drive (≈8 km) north of Préveza, this expansive archaeological site offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman history, founded by Emperor Augustus.
• Day trip to Parga: A scenic drive of approximately 1 hour (≈60 km) north will take you to the picturesque coastal town of Parga, known for its Venetian castle and vibrant waterfront.
• Discover the Acheron River Springs: Head inland for about 1 hour and 15 minutes (≈55 km) to experience the mythical Acheron River, where you can hike, raft, or simply enjoy the pristine nature.
• Explore Lefkada Island: Cross the undersea tunnel to Lefkada and drive south to explore its famous beaches like Porto Katsiki or Egremni, a journey that can take 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your destination on the island (≈40-80 km).
• Visit Ioannina: A longer but rewarding trip inland (≈1.5 hours, 100 km) to the capital of Epirus, Ioannina, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and a stunning lake with an island.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you will generally need a valid driving license from your home country, held for at least one year. If your license is not in English or a Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required. A passport or national ID card and a major credit card in the main driver's name are also essential. The minimum age for renting is typically 21, though some companies may have a higher minimum age (e.g., 23 or 25) or apply a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Préveza vary significantly by season and vehicle type. During the peak summer months, an economy car might start from around 30-40 EUR per day, while an SUV or premium model could range from 70-120 EUR or more. In the quieter winter period, economy cars can be found for as low as 15-25 EUR per day, with prices generally increasing by 50-100% or more during 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 alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05% BAC (0.02% for new drivers). Headlights must be used in tunnels and during conditions of poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 12 years old or less than 1.35 meters tall.

Parking

In Préveza, parking can be found in designated areas. There are often paid parking zones in the town center, indicated by blue lines on the road, where you purchase tickets from machines or kiosks. Free parking might be available further from the central areas or in specific car parks. During peak season, finding a spot can be challenging, especially in popular tourist spots.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available in and around Préveza, offering unleaded petrol (Βενζίνη αμόλυβδη) and diesel (Πετρέλαιο). Prices are generally comparable across Greece, with unleaded petrol typically costing around 1.80-2.00 EUR per liter, and diesel slightly less (figures are approximate and fluctuate). Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller, more remote stations.

Which car to choose

For navigating Préveza's town streets and coastal roads, an economy or compact car is often sufficient and easier to park. If you plan to explore more mountainous regions or travel with more luggage or passengers, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would provide more comfort and power. Manual transmission cars are very common in Greece, but automatics are available, though they might be slightly more expensive.

Frequently asked questions