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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Heraklion (Crete Island)
Heraklion (Crete Island)
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Heraklion (Crete Island)
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Heraklion (Crete Island)
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Heraklion (Crete Island)
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Heraklion (Crete Island)?
Heraklion, Crete's vibrant capital, is a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning beaches, and picturesque villages. While public transport exists, renting a car provides the ultimate freedom to explore this diverse island at your own pace.
Uncover Hidden Gems. Crete is full of secluded beaches, charming tavernas, and historical sites not easily accessible by public transport. A rental car allows you to venture off the beaten path and discover these hidden gems.
Explore at Your Own Pace. With a car, you can create your own itinerary and spend as much or as little time as you like at each location. No need to rush to catch a bus or adhere to a tour schedule.
Convenience and Comfort. Especially if you're traveling with family or carrying luggage, a rental car offers unparalleled convenience and comfort. Enjoy the flexibility of storing your belongings and traveling in air-conditioned comfort.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Heraklion (Crete Island)
Before renting a car in Heraklion, be aware of the standard conditions. These usually include age requirements, license stipulations, insurance, deposit details, and fuel policies. Understanding these terms will ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
264.1 square kilometers (102 square miles)
Population
Approximately 177,064 residents
Time Zone
EET (Eastern European Time)
Ideal for
Long-term exploration
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 8 AM – 10 AM and 2 PM – 4 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may face additional surcharges. Check with the specific rental agency for their age policy.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is mandatory. EU citizens can use their national license. Non-EU citizens may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their original license.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is often included in the rental price, but consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). A security deposit is typically required and held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can vary, with unlimited options often available. Fuel policies usually require you to return the car with the same fuel level as when you picked it up.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, late returns, or optional extras like GPS navigation or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Heraklion (Crete Island) – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9 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 / $11 / €10 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (July to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (October to April): Often come with discounts
*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 Heraklion (Crete Island)?
Booking a rental car in Heraklion involves a few simple steps. Comparing prices, choosing the right car, and understanding rental terms are crucial. Booking early can also secure better rates, particularly during peak seasons. Always have your license, credit card, and ID ready when collecting the vehicle.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals based on your dates and car preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it's a compact car or a larger SUV.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and ensure vehicle availability by booking early, especially during the summer.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About Heraklion (Crete Island)
Heraklion is a captivating city, filled with historical landmarks and modern amenities. Exploring the city and surrounding areas is greatly enhanced by having a car, allowing you to navigate efficiently and discover hidden gems.
As the capital of Crete, Heraklion offers a vibrant mix of ancient history, stunning beaches, and lively culture. Driving within Heraklion requires an awareness of local traffic patterns. The city has a growing number of vehicles on the road, which can lead to congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Top Attractions to Discover
Knossos Palace
Explore the ancient Minoan palace, a must-see historical site.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Discover a wealth of Minoan artifacts and learn about Crete's rich history.
Crete Natural History Museum
Engage with the natural world through interactive exhibitions about Crete’s unique environment.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Look for public garages around the city center for secure parking.
On-Street Parking
Pay attention to parking regulations and time limits on on-street parking.
Municipal Parking Lots
Utilize the city's designated parking lots, usually located near major attractions.
Gas Stations in Heraklion
Shell
Find Shell stations throughout the city and on major roadways.
BP
Locate BP stations offering a range of fuel options and services.
EKO
Look for EKO stations providing reliable fuel and convenience services.
Useful Tips for Visiting Heraklion
Plan for Traffic Delays
Expect heavy traffic during rush hours, especially in and around the city center.
Watch for Motorbikes
Be aware of the many motorbikes and scooters on the road.
Use GPS Navigation
Employ a GPS or navigation app to find the most efficient routes.
Respect Local Driving Customs
Follow local driving customs and be courteous to other drivers.
Key Transportation Hubs in Heraklion
Major Bus Stations
Heraklion Central Bus Station
Serves local and regional destinations across Crete.
Railway Stations
Heraklion Railway Station
Connects to other towns and cities on Crete, although rail travel is limited.
Airports
Heraklion International Airport (HER)
Located about 5 km east of Heraklion, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Heraklion (Crete Island)?
Renting a car in Heraklion requires a few essential documents and meeting specific criteria. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to ensure a smooth rental process.
A valid driver's license is essential. EU citizens can use their national license. Non-EU citizens may require an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their original license.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Additional fees may apply for younger drivers.
A credit or debit card in the primary driver's name is needed for the security deposit.
A passport or other government-issued ID may be required, particularly for international renters.
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Our Customers Reviews
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Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Crete was amazing! Having a car made exploring so easy, from Heraklion's charming streets to the stunning beaches.
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 19.03.2025
Pretty good, really
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 24.08.2024
Pretty relaxed, overall
Olivia Davis
Reviewed: 08.06.2025
Heraklion was a fantastic first-time experience! Getting around with a rental car was effortless; we explored so much of the island. Beautiful beaches and ancient sites.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 22.09.2024
Quick Heraklion escape; loved the freedom, though the beaches felt crowded.
David Lee
Reviewed: 20.03.2025
Catching up with friends in Heraklion was brilliant! Exploring Crete by car was so convenient.
Benjamin Wilson
Reviewed: 22.02.2025
Pretty chill, really
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 11.09.2024