Arriving at the airport is a great moment to start your journey through Greece. Renting a car at Eleftherios Venizelos Airport (ATH) in Athens gives you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. This article will help you understand the car pick-up procedure, possible costs, and driving features in Greece.
Most car rental companies have their desks directly in the airport arrival area. They are usually located in the main terminal, near the exits to the baggage claim area. You will see representatives of companies such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, Sixt and others. Some companies may offer shuttle services to remote parking lots where the cars are located.
The choice of cars for rent in Athens is quite wide. Here are some popular options:
| Car class | Approximate cost per day (EUR) |
| Economy | 20 – 35 |
| Compact | 30 – 50 |
| Mid-size | 40 – 65 |
| SUV | 60 – 100+ |
| Premium | 100+ |
Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and car availability.
To rent a car, you will need:
The minimum driver's age is usually 21 years old, but some companies may set higher requirements. Young drivers may be subject to an additional fee. The deposit is blocked on your credit card and returned after the car is returned undamaged.
When renting a car, you will be offered various types of insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car in the event of an accident. Theft insurance protects against car loss. Pay attention to the amount of the deductible (excess) – this is the amount you will have to pay yourself in case of damage or theft. You can reduce the deductible by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the rental cost. Read the insurance terms carefully before signing the contract.
In Greece, traffic is on the right. Tolls are required on highways – cash and credit cards are accepted at toll booths. Parking in cities can be problematic, especially in the center of Athens. Pay attention to signs and parking rules to avoid fines. The speed limit on highways is usually 130 km/h, and in cities – 50 km/h.
If your driver's license is not in Latin characters, an international driver's license may be required.
Usually 21 years old, but some companies may set higher requirements.
This is the amount you will pay yourself in case of damage or theft of the car.
Most companies require a credit card for the deposit, but payment for the rental itself may be possible in cash.
Immediately notify the car rental company and the police. Obtain a copy of the police report.
There are toll booths on highways where cash and credit cards are accepted.
Parking in the center of Athens can be problematic, so plan ahead.
Be sure to carefully inspect the car for damage and record it in the acceptance-transfer act.
CDW covers damage to the car in the event of an accident.
Usually this is not possible, as insurance is mandatory.
The deposit is returned to your credit card after the car is returned undamaged.