Car rental in Greece at the best price

Often referred to as the “Cradle of Western Civilisation” - Greece is a country with an abundance of mystique, history and classical charm. Located in southeast Europe and forming part of the European Union, you´ll be left speechless as you drive through white washed picturesque villages with your car rental from Greece. Greece isn´t just the home of classical mythology, but also the birthplace of democracy and the Ancient Olympic Games, having last hosted the modern equivalent of the Olympic Games in 2004.

With over 60 year’s industry experience, Auto Europe is well positioned to provide you with a great quotation, from a large selection of vehicles. Having built strong working relationships with many local, national and international car hire suppliers, has allowed us to gain a global reach and a reliable customer service. Along with our many special offers, we also provide luxury car hire and motorhome rentals. If you’re planning a visit to Greece, then contact one of our reservation agents to discuss your car rental requirements.

What are the most important driving rules in Greece?

Although the thought of driving in a foreign country can sometimes seem daunting, by doing so, will allow you to gain a whole different prospective on Greece, its landscapes, architecture and people. Often the reality is far less stressful than expected; especially if you keep in mind the following road rules and regulations:

• Vehicles drive on the right-hand side and overtake on the left
• Seatbelts are compulsory for the driver and passengers
• Children must use a suitable car seat
• Misusing the vehicle horn may result in a hefty fine. On spot fines do not exist, instead you’ll have up to ten days to pay
• Generally petrol stations close at 19:00 and on Sundays, in some major cities a self-service petrol station may be in operation
• Blood Alcohol legal limit for drivers holding a licence for less than two years is 0.2 mg/ml, for those with a licence over two years it is 0.5 mg/ml.

What to do in Greece

As one of the most popular global holiday destinations, it is unsurprising that Greece has much to see and do. From splendid cultural and historical venues, to vibrant and entertaining districts, this country will offer it all up to you. For those travelling with some time constraints, the following suggested places should be on your list to visit during your trip.

• The Acropolis of Athens: Overlooking the city of Athens and once home to Athena, the city’s patron goddess, The Acropolis is by far one of the most visited cultural sites in the country. The Acropolis encompasses the Parthenon, Propylaia, Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion – so make sure you take at least a day to explore it all. Likewise, the onsite Acropolis Museum is full of interesting artefacts and archaeological discoveries.


• Thessaloniki: Located on the Thermaic Gulf of the Aegean Sea, the port city Thessaloniki is a beautiful city full of Greek charm. Head towards the city’s popular White Tower and enjoy some nice views. Don’t forget to take some time out to also visit the Arch of Galerius and the majestic Hagia Sophia Church. As the day comes to a close, consider spending the evening in one of Aristotelous Square’s many cafes, restaurants and bars.


• Theatre of Epidaurus: Located in the city of Epidaurus, you’ll come across a splendid ancient theatre which is dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine. This ancient site is extremely well preserved and a great example of Greek engineering. This over 13,000 capacity theatre is also renowned for its excellent aesthetics and acoustics, occasionally dazzling its guests with wonderful theatrical performances.


• Greek town of Delphi: An ancient town located at the top of Mount Parnassus, it grew rich and popular due to its resident oracle. Long considered to be the world’s centre by ancient Greeks – with a stone monument known as Omphalos, to mark the exact spot - Delphi is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Whilst visiting make sure you also check out the Temple of Apollo Castalian Spring and the Athenian treasury.


• The Meteora Monasteries: Towering over the town of Kalambaka, the Meteora Monasteries are some of the biggest Eastern Orthodox Monasteries in existence. Located on a spectacular rock formation, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must visit for anyone interested in Greek culture. The rocks are known to have been inhabited as far back as 50,000 years ago, although the monasteries were built around the eleventh century.

Road trips with my car rental in Greece

As one of the world’s most popular destinations, Greece has plenty to offer its visitors. From numerous famous Greek islands, to historical cities, with a car rental from Greece you’ll be able to go where you want with minimum hassle. With so much to see and do, the following recommendations are not to be missed when planning your road trip.

• Santorini: With an estimated 1.5 million tourists annually, Santorini is a vibrant and beautiful place to spend your holiday. With beautiful cliffs, landscapes, coastal roads and white-washed quaint buildings, you’re sure to immerse yourself effortlessly into the Greek way of life. Bars, clubs, coffee houses and mouth-watering restaurants are just some of the venues you can expect.


• Mykonos: Known as one of the most glamorous Islands in Greece, Mykonos is especially popular amongst the rich and famous. Experience a beautiful way of life surrounded by glamour and high-class establishments. Spend a morning in one of its downtown coffee houses or a day shopping in some of its numerous stylish boutiques.


• Rhodes Town: One of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe, Rhodes Town is located on Rhode Island. The town itself is encircled by an impressive city wall, being divided into the old and new town. Spending time in the old town will allow you to wander through its alleyways and visit its museums. Whilst if you head towards the new town, you’ll be able to enjoy numerous bars, clubs and restaurants.


• Crete: A beautiful island with much to see and do, Crete and its capital city of Heraklion is one of the most popular Greek islands. Port Chania, along with the Venetian Old Town and Palm Beach of Vai are by far the most visited areas of the island. A vibrant place catering to all types of visitors, you’ll enjoy the wonderful food, hospitable people and pleasant nightlife on offer.
• Melisanni Cave: If you head towards Kefalonia Island, then after you have enjoyed the beautiful surroundings head towards Melisanni Cave and explore this majestic location. The external parts of the cave are surrounded by a lush forest, but it is when you venture inside that the real beauty presents itself - the cave opens up to wonderful crystal clear warm Mediterranean waters.

How old do I have to be to rent a car in Greece?

In order to rent a car in Greece you must be 21 years of age and have held a driving licence for over a year. Individual car hire suppliers may impose their own age limits and rules, it is therefore important to check beforehand. Often a younger driver fee will be charged upon picking up your vehicle. In addition, a senior driver fee may also be charged for anyone over the age of 75 years.

Do I need to pay tolls when driving my car hire in Greece?

Greek national roads and motorways are equipped with a toll system. Known locally as Ethniki Odos, drivers pay the distance travelled upon exiting. Tolls exist up and down the country, and on the motorway linking Athens city centre to its international airport. Crete contains the only non-tolled national road. Tolls aren’t majorly expensive but must be paid in cash – so having lots of change is recommended.

A Bit of History

Greece, often also referred to as Hellas or the Hellenic Republic, is located in southeast Europe along the Mediterranean Sea. The country has joint borders with Macedonia, Turkey, Bulgaria and Albania, and is considered to be on the cross roads of Europe, Asia and Africa. With a population of around 10.7 million, the capital city Athens is one of the country’s most populated cities.

Known as the birthplace of democracy, Greece has a long and complex history, with numerous battles against its arch rival Persia. Greek expansion gained great strides whilst under Alexander the Great - known throughout history as one of the world’s greatest military geniuses. At its height, the empire reached as far east as India and south into Egypt. It was however short lived and only lasted 11 years due to Alexander’s death.

In the fifth century, Greece came under Roman rule, but the Greek culture still continued to spread and flourish throughout the Mediterranean and Balkan regions. As the Holy Roman Empire became extremely large to manage, Emperor Constantine decided to divide the empire into two administrative halves. The western half had Rome as its capital, whilst the eastern half adopted Constantinople – modern day Istanbul - as its capital.

It was not until 1832 that Greece became independent from the Holy Roman Empire and formed the Kingdom of Greece, with its territory changing until 1947. During World War I Greece remained mainly neutral until July 1917 when it joined the allied forces. Greece was again on the allied side during World War II, being eventually invaded by Germany in April 1941. It gained its independence once the war was over, however a civil war erupted between the communists and western backed forces.

In 1967 the monarchy ended and Greece entered into a period of dictatorship up until 1974. In 1975 Greece became a democratic republic and eventually joined the European Union in 1981. In 2001 it also joined the Eurozone, changing its official currency to the Euro. Modern Greece has seen much turmoil and hardship from 2010 until 2018, receiving bailouts and seeing its economy shrike significantly.

What is the currency in Greece?

Greece joined the Eurozone in 2001 adopting the Euro as its new currency. If you are travelling from a country that does not use the Euro as its currency, then it is advisable to withdraw ample cash when the opportunity arises. Cash machines exist but in major tourist areas they tend to run out of money quickly. Some Greek islands may not even have cash-machines; therefore make sure you plan ahead.

What time zone is Greece in?

Mainland Greece, including all its islands are on Eastern European Time, this is GMT+2. Every last weekend in March until October the country observes daylight saving time, meaning the clocks change.

Which are the most common phrases in Greece?

Although English is often spoken, especially within tourist areas, for a friendlier and more fulfilling holiday, we would recommend learning the following basic Greek words.

Hello - Yassou
Good morning - Kalimera
Good afternoon - Kalispera
Good evening - Kalispera
Goodnight - kalinikta
Do you speak English? - Milas Anglika?
How much does it cost? - Poso kani?
Thank you - Efkharisto

Electricity - Do I need a power adapter in Greece?

The electricity voltage in Greece is 230V with a frequency of 50 H2. The F and C plug is wildly used throughout Greece so if you’re travelling from a country that uses a different plug type, you’ll need to buy an adequate adapter. Adapters in Greece can be purchased at major transport hubs, travel shops and some supermarkets.

Do I need a visa to travel to Greece?

If you are visiting from another European Union country, then a visa is not required. You must however have a valid ID or passport for the duration of your visit. If travelling from outside the EU, then we would strongly recommend consulting with your country’s embassy or consulate for up-to-date visa requirements.

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