Renting a Car in Greece - Practical Information

Car hire in Greece is the best option to discover this stunning country at your own pace and explore off-the-beaten-path beauties and points of interest. 

In this article, you can read everything you need to know to rent a car in Greece safely, anxiety-free and according to your budget.

The cost of car rental in Greece depends on various factors. The main factors affecting rental prices are season and destination. The touristic destinations, such as Athens and the famous Greek islands, are of course more expensive than other, less touristic places. During the high-season (July and August), prices are significantly higher than in the mid or low season. One other thing you should remember regarding the destination and the seasonal variations is that in destinations with only a few cars, such as small islands, rental prices are higher due to the low offer in combination with high demand.

Another factor affecting Greek car rental costs is the vehicle type, as bigger cars, such as SUVs and family cars, are more expensive than small cars. Keep also in mind that for long rental periods you can find special prices that significantly lower the rental cost.

Rental prices start from 8.47 EUR per day, but as mentioned, you may expect variations in seasonal car rental prices in Greece. In middle season, you can rent a car on average at 20-50€, while during the high season, average prices are 40-70€ for small cars.

Renting a car in Greece is a simple procedure. The step-by-step rental process consists of the following:

1. Choose online from our user-friendly platform or in-person in Abbycar’s rental location the vehicle type that meets your criteria according to your needs and budget.
2. Provide a valid driving license, passport or ID and credit card.
3. A deposit amount will be blocked in your credit card, but not charged. This deposit will be charged only in case of damage.
4. You take the car after inspecting its situation and take photos to prove the existence of any prior damage. You should also check the mileage and gas mileage.
5. You return the car at the drop-off point and pay.

Abbycar is one of the most reliable car rental companies in Greece that offer both online and in-person rental procedure. However, booking your car online has the advantage of organizing in advance your journey and having the benefit of special offers and deals.

Regarding the age requirements to rent a car in Greece, the minimum age is 25 years, but you can be as young as 23 years old if you pay an additional young driver fee. However, keep in mind that this is an option only for a few car groups. The maximum car rental age limit in Greece is 70 years, but you can be as old as 75 years old if you pay an additional senior driver fee.

The car rental payment options in Greece are:

• Cash
• Debit cards
• Credit cards.

The vehicle rental insurance in Greece is mandatory and you can choose wider coverage according to your needs.

The insurance options for car hire in Greece and their coverage details are:

• Collision Damage Waiver: This type covers the financial liability for damage to the rental car, but it includes a deductible. This is the amount, which is blocked in your credit card.
• Theft Protection: It covers the rental car in case of theft.
• Third-Party Liability Insurance: It covers damage to other people’s property and injuries to others.
• Personal Accident Insurance: It covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
• Super Collision Damage Waiver: This type covers all damages to rental car and others, so it reduces or eliminates the deductible. If it eliminates the deductible, you are not obliged to provide a credit card, as no security amount is blocked.
• Roadside Assistance: Road assistance provides help 24/7 in case of emergency.

These types of insurance can be offered both individually and in packages. The mandatory basic coverage includes Third-Party Liability Insurance and Collision Damage Waiver. Additional coverage is not mandatory, but you may find it useful, especially if you drive in a place you are not familiar with or you are an inexperienced driver.

The main factors you should take in mind when choosing the right insurance are:

• Budget
• Destination
• Driver’s experience
• Vehicle type

The US license for car rental in Greece is valid for many rental companies that accept it without further documentation. However, most companies require an international driving permit.

Keep in mind that in many cases you may need an international driving permit (IDP). The Greek law requires foreign drivers, including those from the US, to have an international license in addition to their national driver's license. Thus, in case of inspection or accident, an international driving license is required.

The most important tips for US travelers renting cars in Greece are:

• Book in advance especially during the high season.
• Choose the right car: The right car in Greece is not necessarily a big car, as the streets in most islands and cities are narrow and there are only a few parking spots.
• Driving rules: Familiarize yourself with Greek traffic laws and road signs.
• Use navigation app: As the cost to use your mobile phone for internet data may be high, you can ask for GPS from the rental company.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) in Greece is required for drivers from non-European Union (EU) countries. This includes countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Argentina, Japan, China etc. For drivers from EU countries, an IDP is not mandatory.

Subsequently, if you are about to travel to Greece and you want to rent a car, it is highly advisable to obtain an international driving license. The application process is not the same for all countries, so you have to find which institution conducts the process. The procedure is simple, as you don’t pass any exams, because you already have a valid local license. You just have to provide the necessary documents and photos, fill the application form and pay the fee. The processing can take a few weeks, so apply in advance of your trip.

Read our article: Do you need an international driving license in Greece? Tips for non-EU drivers

The benefits of having an international driver's permit are:

• Legal compliance for driving in many foreign countries.
• Translation of your license into multiple languages, so you can communicate with authorities.
• Easy rental procedure.
• Convenience and flexibility during your travel.

The essential documents you need to rent a car in Greece are:

• Driving license
• Passport or ID
• Credit card under your name (the main driver’s name).

Regarding the security deposit, keep in mind that an amount of money, which depends on the vehicle type and the type of insurance, will be blocked on your credit card. If you don’t have a credit card, you can pay cash or with debit card, if you choose Super Collision Damage Waiver, which covers any damages, so that no security deposit is required.

Additional fees and charges apply if you choose extra options with car rental in Greece. These extra options include additional driver, GPS, child seat etc. There are also additional fees for young or senior drivers. Penalties are charged in case you disrespect the terms and conditions of rental agreement and in case of damage or state fines, you will be charged an administration fee.

In conclusion, the requirement for car hire in Greece are:

• Have a passport or ID, credit card and national (or when required international) driving license.
• Age 23-75 years old.
• Pay for mandatory insurance (Collision Damage Waiver and Third-Party Liability Insurance).

Rent a car in Greece with Abbycar and explore everything this amazing country has to offer conveniently and on a budget!