Car Rental Réthymno — from €36/day

Car Rental in Réthymno, Crete

The salty kiss of the Cretan Sea breezes through the open windows as you navigate the winding coastal road towards Réthymno's Venetian Harbor. With a reliable car at your disposal, the ancient allure of Fortezza Castle and the sun-drenched beaches of Plakias are yours to experience at your own pace.

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Car Rental in Réthymno, Crete

Réthymno (Crete), Greece

Where to drive

Explore the Preveli Palm Forest and Monastery: A scenic drive south, approximately 35 km (about 50 minutes), leading to one of Crete's most famous beaches and a historic monastery.
Visit the Arkadi Monastery: Drive inland for about 25 km (around 30 minutes) to reach this historically significant monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance.
Journey to Chania Old Town: Head west along the coast for approximately 65 km (about 1 hour 15 minutes) to experience the Venetian harbor and vibrant streets of Chania.
Discover the Ideon Cave on Mount Ida: For a more adventurous drive into the mountains, about 50 km (around 1 hour 30 minutes) will take you towards the legendary birthplace of Zeus.
Relax at Plakias Beach: Drive south for about 35 km (around 45 minutes) to reach the popular, family-friendly beach of Plakias, known for its clear waters and relaxed atmosphere.
Hike through the Kourtaliotiko Gorge: A short drive, approximately 25 km (about 30 minutes) south of Réthymno, offers stunning natural beauty and hiking opportunities.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Greece, you typically 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 usually required alongside your original license. A passport or national ID card and a major credit card in the main driver's name are also essential. The minimum age for rental is generally 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories, and often imposing a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Réthymno vary significantly by car class and season. Economy cars might start from around 20-30 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium models could range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. During peak summer months, prices can easily double or even triple across all categories, reflecting the high demand. Booking in advance, especially for July and August, is highly recommended.

Price by month, €

25€

Jan

25€

Feb

30€

Mar

40€

Apr

55€

May

70€

Jun

90€

Jul

95€

Aug

75€

Sep

50€

Oct

35€

Nov

25€

Dec

Demand by month

15%

Jan

15%

Feb

25%

Mar

45%

Apr

65%

May

85%

Jun

95%

Jul

100%

Aug

80%

Sep

60%

Oct

30%

Nov

20%

Dec

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 these are approximations and always follow local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit is strict, approximately 0.05%. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are advisable in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and child seats are legally required for children under 135 cm in height.

Parking

Parking in Réthymno can be challenging, especially in the busy Old Town. Paid street parking is available, often indicated by blue lines, and you'll usually need to purchase tickets from kiosks or use mobile apps. There are also several private parking lots and garages near the Old Town, which are a convenient option. Free parking can be found further away from the center, but spaces fill up quickly, particularly during peak season. Always check signage carefully to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available throughout Réthymno and the main roads of Crete. Most stations offer unleaded (95 or 98 octane) and diesel. Prices are comparable to other European countries and fluctuate, but expect to pay around 1.80 EUR to 2.00 EUR per liter for unleaded gasoline (as of 2026). Many stations are self-service, but some still offer full service. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always wise to carry some cash, especially in more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For navigating Réthymno's narrow Old Town streets and coastal villages, a compact or economy car is often the most practical choice due to easier parking and maneuverability. If you plan to explore the island's mountainous interior or tackle unpaved roads leading to some remote beaches, an SUV with higher ground clearance would be beneficial. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatics are widely available, though often at a slightly higher price point. Consider an automatic if you are not comfortable with manual on hilly terrain.

Pros

Unrestricted exploration: Access remote beaches, mountain villages, and historical sites beyond public transport routes.
Flexibility and convenience: Set your own pace, stop whenever and wherever you like, without relying on bus schedules.
Comfort for families/groups: More space for luggage and passengers compared to public transport or taxis.
Cost-effective for longer trips: Can be more economical than multiple taxi fares for extensive sightseeing.
Easier access to accommodation: Many villas and apartments outside the city center are best reached by car.

Cons

Challenging parking: Finding parking in Réthymno's Old Town can be difficult and expensive.
Narrow and winding roads: Some rural roads are narrow, steep, and require careful driving.
Traffic in peak season: Main roads and popular areas can experience congestion during summer.
Fuel costs: While comparable to Europe, fuel can add a significant cost to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Réthymno?

The minimum age is generally 21 years old, but some rental companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories. A young driver surcharge often applies for those under 25.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Greece?

If your domestic driving license is not in English or does not use the Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is typically required alongside your original license.

What is the best way to pick up a rental car in Réthymno?

You can pick up your rental car directly in Réthymno city center, or, for convenience upon arrival, at Chania (CHQ) or Heraklion (HER) airports, which are the main entry points to Crete. This allows you to drive directly to Réthymno.

Can I cancel my car rental reservation?

Most car rental bookings through platforms like RentoRika offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before the pick-up time. Always check the specific cancellation policy of your booking.

What payment methods are accepted for car rental?

A major credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) in the name of the main driver is almost always required for the security deposit. Some companies may accept debit cards for the rental cost, but a credit card is essential for the deposit.

Are there automatic cars available for rent in Réthymno?

Yes, automatic transmission cars are widely available, though they might be slightly more expensive and should be booked in advance, especially during the high season, as manual cars are more common in Greece.

Available cars — Réthymno (Crete)