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Cheapest Car Rental 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 rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Athens?
Athens, the historical heart of Greece, offers a blend of ancient wonders and modern attractions. While the city has a decent public transportation system, renting a car provides unparalleled flexibility and convenience, especially for exploring the wider Attica region.
Explore Ancient Sites at Your Own Pace. With a rental car, you can easily access historical sites like the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, and Ancient Corinth without being tied to bus schedules or tour groups.
Discover Hidden Gems Beyond the City. A car allows you to venture beyond the city limits and explore picturesque coastal towns, mountain villages, and scenic drives that public transportation doesn't reach.
Enjoy Comfort and Convenience. Traveling with family or carrying luggage becomes much easier with a rental car, providing a comfortable and hassle-free way to get around.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Athens
Before renting a car in Athens, familiarize yourself with the essential terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Understanding these rules will help you avoid unexpected charges and fully enjoy your trip.
Area
412 square kilometers (159 square miles)
Population
Approximately 665,000 residents
Time Zone
EET (Eastern European Time), UTC+2 (UTC+3 during summer)
Ideal for
Sightseeing and regional exploration
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 3:30 PM – 6:30 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 a higher minimum age (e.g., 23 or 25) for certain vehicle categories. Drivers under 25 may also be subject to a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. EU citizens can use their national license. Non-EU citizens may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their national license, especially if the license is not in English or Greek. Always carry your passport or ID card.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic rental rates usually include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), and Third-Party Liability insurance. However, these may have high deductibles. You can purchase additional coverage to reduce or eliminate the deductible. A security deposit is typically held on your credit card and refunded upon safe return of the car.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMost rentals offer unlimited mileage, allowing you to explore without worrying about extra charges. Fuel policies vary; some require you to return the car with a full tank (full-to-full), while others may have different arrangements. Always check the fuel policy to avoid extra fees.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, out-of-hours pick-up or drop-off, one-way rentals, or optional extras like GPS navigation systems or child seats. Always clarify these fees when booking.
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 £9.50 / $12 / €11 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (July to August): Experiences high demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to March): Often provides discounts due to lower tourist volumes
*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?
Booking a car in Athens involves a few straightforward steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs. By following these steps, you can avoid surprises and enjoy a smooth rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites like Rentcars.com to check prices from multiple rental companies. Look for deals and discounts to save money.
2. Choose the Right Car - Consider your needs. For city driving, an economy car is ideal. For longer trips or more passengers, consider a larger vehicle or SUV.
3. Check Rental Terms - Read the fine print regarding mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies. Understand what's included in the price and what's extra.
4. Book in Advance - Book your car well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. Early booking often results in better prices and vehicle availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Have your driver’s license, passport, and credit card ready when you pick up the car. Inspect the vehicle for any existing damage and document it before driving off.
General Information About Athens
Athens is a vibrant city with a mix of ancient history and modern life. Exploring it by car requires some awareness of local traffic conditions and regulations, especially if you plan to venture beyond the city center.
As the capital of Greece, Athens offers numerous historical sites, cultural experiences, and beautiful coastal areas. While the city has public transport, a car provides flexibility for exploring attractions further afield. Driving in Athens can be challenging due to narrow streets, heavy traffic, and limited parking.
Top Attractions to Discover
The Acropolis
An ancient citadel located on a high rocky outcrop above the city of Athens and containing the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon.
Ancient Agora
The best-known example of an ancient Greek agora, located to the northwest of the Acropolis. A place of gathering.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
A colossal ruined temple in the centre of the Greek capital Athens that was dedicated to Zeus, king of the Olympian gods.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use services like ParkAround or Athens Parking for secure parking options across the city.
On-Street Parking
Limited metered parking is available but can be difficult to find, especially in central areas. Look for blue and white signs.
Park & Ride
Consider parking outside the city center and using the metro to avoid congestion.
Gas Stations in Athens
Availability
Gas stations are readily available on the outskirts of Athens, but less common in the city center.
Major Brands
Look for Shell, BP, EKO, and Aegean along major roads and highways.
Payment
Most stations accept credit cards and cash.
Useful Tips for Visiting Athens
Use Public Transport
Consider using the metro and buses for getting around the city center to avoid traffic and parking issues.
Watch for Motorbikes
Be aware of motorbikes, which often weave through traffic.
Plan for Traffic
Avoid driving during rush hours (7:30 AM - 9:30 AM and 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM) when roads are heavily congested.
Learn Basic Greek Phrases
Knowing a few Greek phrases can be helpful, especially in more rural areas.
Key Transportation Hubs in Athens
Major Bus Stations
Ktel Kifissos Bus Station
The largest intercity bus terminal in Athens, providing routes to the Peloponnese and western Greece.
Ktel Liosion Bus Station
Serves destinations in central and northern Greece.
Railway Stations
Athens Central Station (Larissa Station)
The main railway station in Athens, connecting to major cities in Greece and international destinations.
Airports
Athens International Airport (ATH)
Located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) east of Athens, it is the primary airport serving the city.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Athens?
Renting a car in Greece is generally straightforward, but you'll need to meet specific requirements before you can hit the road. Here’s what you typically need.
A valid driver’s license is required. EU citizens can use their national license. Non-EU citizens may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English or Greek.
The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21, but some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain vehicle types. Young drivers may be subject to additional fees.
A valid credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies may only accept credit cards.
A passport or other form of government-issued identification may be required, especially for international renters.
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Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Athens as
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.
Pretty chill, actually.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 28.08.2024
Sun-drenched history, easy driving; unforgettable Athens!
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 27.03.2025
Pretty good, actually.
Kai Peterson
Reviewed: 14.10.2024
Pretty relaxed vibe
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 25.10.2024
Exploring Athens for the first time was a blast! Having a car was super convenient, although the crowds at the Acropolis were a bit overwhelming. Definitely worth the trip though!
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 18.10.2024
Athens was amazing! A whirlwind weekend, but having a car made exploring so easy. Ancient sites and delicious food – highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 10.07.2025