Rent a Car in Athens

Renting a car in Athens gives you the ultimate freedom to plan your itinerary your way. While Athens’ public transportation system is functional, it can be limiting — and relying on taxis can quickly become costly. With a rental car, you can explore both the bustling capital and the beautiful surrounding regions at your own pace. From economy cars to luxury models, countless car hire companies in Athens offer great deals and flexible rental options.

Do You Need a Car in Athens?

Driving in downtown Athens can be challenging due to heavy traffic and limited parking, especially during rush hours. However, renting a car is ideal for travelers planning to explore beyond the city center. Suburban Athens and nearby destinations like Korinthos, Sounio, Mount Parnitha, and Nafplio are easily accessible by car and worth the trip.

  • Rush Hours: 07:30–09:30 and 14:30–17:00 (expect dense traffic in the city center).
  • Road Signs: All are written in English as well as Greek, though some may be poorly positioned.
  • Driving Tip: Pay close attention to pedestrians and motorbikes — they don’t always follow traffic rules.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Athens?

Rental prices depend on the car type, rental duration, and season. On average:

  • Standard car: €25 per day
  • At Athens Airport: €27–€30 per day

Tip: Choose a small economy car to save on fuel and increase your chances of finding parking in the city.

How to Find a Cheap Car Rental in Athens

Follow these steps to get the best rates on your Athens car hire:

  1. Compare prices: Check both international and local rental agencies before booking.
  2. Read reviews: If you find a good deal from a local company, verify its credibility online.
  3. Book early: Prices are usually lower when you reserve in advance.
  4. Adjust your dates: Slight date changes can affect rates — flexibility can help you save.
  5. Avoid airport pickup: Rentals from the airport tend to be slightly more expensive.

Useful Info: Adding extra drivers increases the total cost, so keep the rental under one driver if possible.

Is Rental Car Insurance Worth It?

Insurance is essential for peace of mind, but you might already have coverage:

  • Check if your personal car insurance or credit card includes rental protection.
  • If not, purchase insurance directly from the rental company.
  • In case of an accident, never leave the scene. Always fill out an incident form and call the police at 100 or emergency services at 112.

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Athens Airport Car Rental

Although Athens airport taxis are convenient, nothing beats the independence of a rental car. With your own vehicle, you can visit historic sites, coastal towns, and hidden gems outside Athens without relying on timetables. Renting from El. Venizelos Airport is easy and fast — car rental offices are located within the Arrivals area of the terminal.

Car Rental Companies at Athens Airport

The following car hire companies operate directly at Athens International Airport (ATH) — most are open 24/7:

  • Avance
  • Hertz
  • Enterprise
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Sixt

While many agencies have cars parked just outside the terminal, others use shuttle buses to transport customers to nearby parking lots.

Optimize Your Athens Car Rental Experience

  • Parking: Street parking in the city center is rare and expensive. Look for secure parking lots or park outside the center and use public transport.
  • Alcohol Limit: 0.05%. Police regularly conduct breath tests.
  • Mobile Use: Handheld phone use is prohibited. Use a Bluetooth or car kit instead.
  • Tolls: Expect toll booths on major roads — fees are generally affordable.
  • Driving Style: Greek drivers can be unpredictable — stay alert and follow traffic rules at all times.

Tip: For maximum flexibility, rent your car directly from Athens Airport and return it before departure. Compare offers from different agencies in advance to secure the best deal.