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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Athens
Athens
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Athens
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Athens
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Athens
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 Athens?
Athens, the historical heart of Greece, is brimming with ancient wonders and vibrant modern life. While the city boasts a good public transport system, a rental car offers unparalleled freedom to explore at your own pace, especially if you plan to venture beyond the city limits.
Uncover Ancient Treasures. With a rental car, iconic sites like the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Ancient Agora are easily accessible, allowing you to delve deep into Greece's rich past.
Explore Beyond the City. Discover stunning coastal routes along the Athenian Riviera, or take a day trip to the archaeological site of Delphi, all within easy driving distance.
Enjoy Comfort and Convenience. Avoid crowded buses and trains, especially during peak tourist season. A rental car offers a relaxed and flexible travel experience.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Athens
Before renting a car in Athens, be aware of the essential terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. These typically cover minimum age requirements, necessary documentation, insurance options, and fuel policies.
Area
412 square kilometres (159 square miles)
Population
Approximately 664,046 residents (city proper)
Time Zone
Eastern European Time (EET), UTC+2
Ideal for
Exploring historical sites and coastal drives
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic between 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Athens require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, some companies may have higher age limits or charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License and DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU citizens. Always carry your passport or ID card.
3. Insurance and DepositsRental agreements usually include basic insurance. Consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Theft Protection. A security deposit is held on your credit card.
4. Mileage and Fuel PolicyCheck if the rental includes unlimited mileage or if there are restrictions. Fuel policies vary—full-to-full is common, requiring you to return the car with a full tank.
5. Extra FeesAdditional charges may apply for extra drivers, GPS navigation systems, child seats, or out-of-hours pick-up/drop-off.
Car Rental Prices in Athens – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9 / $12 / €11 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Higher demand leads to prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often offer discounts and lower prices
*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 Athens?
Renting a car in Athens involves a few straightforward steps. From comparing prices to understanding the rental agreement, here’s a simple guide to help you secure the best deal and enjoy a smooth experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best rental deals from various agencies based on your dates and preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for family trips.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the mileage limits, insurance coverage, and security deposit requirements before booking.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better prices and vehicle availability by booking your rental car well in advance, especially during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, passport, credit card, and any other required documentation when collecting your rental.
General Information About Athens
Athens is a city steeped in history and buzzing with modern life. To make the most of your driving experience, it’s useful to know some local driving conditions.
As the capital of Greece, Athens is a vibrant city with a mix of ancient sites and contemporary culture. While the city has a good public transport network, renting a car is a great way to explore the surrounding regions, such as the Peloponnese or the scenic coastal roads. Driving in Athens itself can be challenging due to traffic congestion and narrow streets.
Top Attractions to Discover
The Acropolis
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Acropolis is a must-see landmark in Athens, offering breathtaking views of the city.
Ancient Agora
The heart of ancient Athenian democracy, this historical site features temples, public buildings, and a museum.
Plaka District
A charming neighbourhood with narrow streets, traditional tavernas, and souvenir shops, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use parking garages for secure parking in central Athens. Look for signs indicating available spaces.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available but can be difficult to find. Pay attention to parking signs and time limits.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities located outside the city centre to avoid traffic congestion.
Gas Stations in Athens
Availability
Gas stations are readily available throughout Athens and along major highways.
Major Brands
You'll find well-known brands like Shell, BP, and EKO.
Refueling
Most gas stations are self-service, but assistance is usually available.
Useful Tips for Visiting Athens
Traffic Congestion
Expect heavy traffic during rush hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM).
Driving Etiquette
Be patient and cautious when driving in Athens, as drivers can be assertive.
Navigation
Use a GPS or navigation app to help navigate the city’s complex road system.
Payment
Carry cash for tolls and parking meters, as not all accept credit cards.
Key Transportation Hubs in Athens
Major Bus Stations
Kifissos Bus Station
The main bus station for long-distance routes, located to the west of Athens city centre.
Railway Stations
Athens Central Station (Larissis Station)
The primary railway station connecting Athens with other major Greek cities.
Airports
Athens International Airport (ATH)
Located approximately 20 kilometres (12 miles) east of Athens, serving domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Athens?
Renting a car in Athens requires a few essential documents and meeting certain conditions. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure a smooth rental process.
A valid driver’s licence is required. Non-EU citizens may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some charging extra fees for drivers under 25.
A credit or debit card in the driver’s name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or national ID card may be required for identification purposes.
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Athens 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.
Pretty good, actually
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 21.01.2025
Athens was incredible! Exploring with a car made it so easy to see everything. Highly recommend!
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 27.11.2024
Meh. Crowds were intense.
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 14.05.2025
Pretty relaxed, really
Olivia Brown
Reviewed: 28.11.2024
Really nice, easy
Isabelle Davis
Reviewed: 02.07.2025
Athens was lovely; renting a car made getting around with friends so simple. The Acropolis museum was a bit underwhelming, though.
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 06.07.2025
Pretty chill, tbh
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 07.07.2025