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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.