Greece is a destination where a hire car transforms the experience. The mainland has hidden monasteries, gorges and Byzantine villages that reward those who venture off the tourist trail. On the islands — particularly Crete and Rhodes — a car is practically essential.

Best locations for car hire in Greece

  • Heraklion, Crete (HER) — the largest Greek island, with dramatic gorges, Minoan ruins and beautiful beach roads.
  • Athens (ATH) — mainland exploration: the Peloponnese, Meteora, Delphi.
  • Rhodes Town — the island of Rhodes is perfect for a circular driving tour.
  • Thessaloniki (SKG) — Northern Greece, Mount Olympus, Halkidiki.

Driving in Greece: key things to know

  • Drive on the right. Speed limits: 130 km/h motorway, 90 km/h rural roads, 50 km/h urban.
  • Roads in mountainous and island areas can be narrow and poorly surfaced — take extra care.
  • Check your hire car insurance cover for gravel/dirt roads — some policies exclude damage on unpaved surfaces.
  • Parking in Athens city centre is limited — consider dropping the car while you're in the city and collecting it for your road trip.
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