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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Santorini Island
Santorini Island
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Santorini Island
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Santorini Island
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Santorini Island
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Santorini Island?
Santorini Island, Greece, is renowned for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed villages, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. While the island offers public transportation and taxis, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore its hidden gems and experience its beauty at your own pace.
Discover Hidden Gems. A rental car allows you to venture beyond the popular tourist spots and discover secluded beaches, traditional villages, and breathtaking viewpoints that are often missed by those relying on public transport.
Enjoy Unrestricted Exploration. With a car, you can easily explore the entire island, from the iconic caldera views in Oia to the black sand beaches of Perissa and Perivolos, without being constrained by bus schedules or taxi availability.
Capture Breathtaking Sunsets. Santorini's sunsets are legendary, and with a rental car, you can find the perfect, less crowded spot to witness this natural spectacle, away from the bustling tourist areas.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Santorini Island
Before booking a rental car on Santorini Island, it's crucial to understand the terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Here are some essential points to consider.
Area
Approximately 76 square kilometres (29 square miles)
Population
Around 15,500 permanent residents
Time Zone
Eastern European Time (EET), UTC+2
Ideal for
Island Exploration
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic in Fira and Oia, especially during sunset hours.
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies on Santorini Island require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have higher age requirements for certain vehicle categories, and young driver surcharges may apply for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. EU licence holders can use their licence. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their original licence, depending on their country of origin. A passport is also typically required.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic car rentals usually include third-party liability insurance. Additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection are available. A security deposit is usually held on the renter’s credit card and refunded upon vehicle return, provided there are no damages.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others may have daily or total mileage restrictions. Fuel policies vary, but many require returning the car with a full tank to avoid refuelling charges.
5. Extra FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, GPS navigation systems, child seats, and out-of-hours pickups or drop-offs. Always clarify these charges beforehand.
Car Rental Prices in Santorini Island – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices for Santorini Island
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £30 / $38 / €35 per day
Classic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Executive:
from £50 / $63 / €58 per day
7 Seater:
from £60 / $75 / €70 per day
Automatic:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
SUV:
from £45 / $57 / €52 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to high demand from tourists. Booking well in advance is recommended.
Low season (November to March): Rental rates are often discounted during the off-season. You can find significantly cheaper deals and enjoy a quieter island experience.
Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Santorini Island?
Booking a car in Santorini involves several key steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to check prices from different rental companies. Look for deals and discounts, but also consider the fine print.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering the island's terrain and your travel plans. Smaller cars are easier to navigate narrow streets, while SUVs are better for rougher roads.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements, to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and ensure vehicle availability by booking well in advance, especially during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, passport, and credit card when collecting your rental. Inspect the car for any existing damage before driving off.
General Information About Santorini Island
Santorini Island offers a unique driving experience with its narrow streets, scenic routes, and stunning views.
Santorini is a captivating island in the Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades archipelago. It's famous for its dramatic landscapes, whitewashed villages, and breathtaking sunsets. While the island is relatively small, exploring it by car gives you the freedom to discover its hidden gems and enjoy its beauty at your own pace. However, driving on Santorini requires some awareness due to narrow roads, traffic during peak season, and limited parking in popular areas. Before setting off, it’s important to review local traffic laws, fuel station availability, and parking regulations to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience during your visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Oia
Famous for its stunning sunsets and picturesque whitewashed buildings.
Fira
The island's capital, offering panoramic views, shops, and restaurants.
Akrotiri
An ancient Minoan city buried by a volcanic eruption, offering a glimpse into the island's history.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Lots
Available in major towns like Fira and Oia, but can fill up quickly during peak season.
On-Street Parking
Limited and often metered, especially in popular areas. Be sure to check parking regulations.
Hotel Parking
Many hotels offer parking for guests, which can be a convenient option.
Gas Stations in Santorini Island
Availability
Gas stations are available in several locations across the island, but it's good to know where they are.
Major Brands
You can find well-known brands like Shell and BP, as well as local stations.
Refueling Tips
It's a good idea to refuel before heading to more remote areas, as gas stations may be less frequent.
Useful Tips for Visiting Santorini Island
Drive Defensively
Be aware of scooters, ATVs, and pedestrians, especially in tourist areas.
Check Road Conditions
Some roads, particularly in rural areas, may be unpaved or narrow. Drive cautiously.
Allow Extra Time
Traffic can be heavy during peak season and around sunset. Plan accordingly.
Sunset Viewing
Arrive early to secure a good spot for sunset viewing, as parking can be challenging.
Key Transportation Hubs in Santorini Island
Airports
Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR)
The main airport on the island, serving both domestic and international flights.
Ports
Athinios Port
The primary ferry port for Santorini, connecting the island to other Cycladic islands and mainland Greece.
Old Port of Fira
Used mainly for cruise ships and local boat tours. Accessible by cable car, donkey, or stairs from Fira town.
Bus Stations
Fira Bus Station
The central bus hub in Fira, providing connections to various towns and beaches across the island.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Santorini Island?
Renting a car in Santorini Island requires a few essential documents and considerations to ensure a smooth rental experience.
A valid driver’s license is required. EU licence holders can use their licence. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their original licence, depending on their country of origin.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, although some may have higher age limits for certain vehicle categories. A young driver surcharge might apply for drivers under 25.
A valid credit or debit card in the primary driver's name is necessary for the security deposit. Some companies might only accept credit cards for the deposit.
A passport or another form of identification may be required for international renters.
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Santorini Island as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Santorini was breathtaking! Exploring the island by car was perfect; spent blissful days relaxing by the coast.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 15.03.2025
Santorini was magical! Having a car made exploring so easy. The beaches were stunning, though some tourist shops felt a bit overpriced.
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 07.07.2025
Island hopping with friends was amazing! Exploring Santorini by car was so convenient and fun.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 19.11.2024
Pretty chill, tbh
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 21.02.2025
Santorini exceeded expectations! My business trip was surprisingly relaxing, thanks to easily navigating the island by car. Stunning views everywhere.
Evelyn Lee
Reviewed: 31.07.2025
Pretty good, actually.
Maya Wilson
Reviewed: 27.07.2025
Heard so much about Santorini, and it lived up to the hype! Exploring by car was a breeze; loved every minute.
Ava Brown
Reviewed: 18.10.2024
Sun-drenched coast, perfect car, pure bliss!
Katherine Wilson
Reviewed: 14.11.2024
Pretty chill vibe.
Isabelle Thompson
Reviewed: 15.12.2024
Pretty relaxed vibe.
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 04.09.2024