Have you always dreamed of a road trip to Greece? Then follow our guide to renting a car in Athens!
Athens, the capital of Greece, is the center of the country’s economic, political and cultural life. Covering an area of almost 132,049 km², come and discover ancient Greek cultures dating back over 3,000 years. It’s enough to leave you speechless, but also hungry! The capital has a rich history, but also a rich and varied Mediterranean cuisine. So, if you want to discover it, why not rent a car in Athens for your stay?
It’s probably the quickest and easiest way to visit the city. Do you need more information about renting a car here? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered, and this article is sure to help.
Where to rent a car in Athens
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At the airport
At the airport, several Athens car rental desks await you. From the airport, it takes just 25 minutes to reach the city center via the A6 motorway. However, to avoid worries or long waits on arrival, we recommend you book online via Rentalcars.
In the city center
You may have taken the metro, cab or bus from the airport to the center of Athens. In the city center, there are a number of companies waiting to welcome you. You’ll find Capital rent a car, Acropolis rent a car and Europcar.
However, it’s best to rent your car at the airport or online. That way, you won’t get lost in this big city and have to walk for too long.
Athens by car: some road trip ideas
What could be better than renting a car in Athens to discover the city’s secrets? Feel free to move around and discover its elegant beauty at your own pace! Not sure where to start? If so, here are a few road trip ideas we recommend for an unforgettable experience.
2-4 day itinerary in Athens
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- The must-sees of your trip: theAcropolis and the Parthenon. Perched on a hill, the site is visible from every corner of the capital. The Acropolis plunges visitors back into the history of ancient Greece, housing the largest number of remains from that era. An unforgettable experience facing the citadel and the temple dedicated to Athena;
- Monastiraki flea market: on Sunday mornings, treat yourself to a stroll around Avissynias Square. This is where the market is located: trinkets, books, paintings and clothes, come and find your rare pearl! We recommend continuing your stroll along Athinas Street to Psiri. Here you’ll find vintage boutiques and galleries hidden among the secret alleyways;
- The National Archaeological Museum of Athens: also a must-see, this museum exhibits the finest works of Antiquity, including one of the world’s largest collections of sculptures. It houses some 12,000 pieces, from the Bronze Age, through the Golden Age of Ancient Greece, to the Cycladic and Classical periods. In short, a must-see treasure trove;
- You can’t visit Athens without sunbathing on its beaches! While they may not be Greece’s most beautiful postcards, they are the perfect solution to the local heat. To discover them, head south of the city. Votsalakia, Alimos, Glyfada, Voula, Kavouri, Vouliagmeni, Kokkino Limanaki or Varkiza, the choice of beaches is wide.
7-day itinerary in Athens
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- Have you already visited the above-mentioned places? Then another place of rest and contemplation awaits you near the beaches of Athens: Lake Vouliagmeni. It’s a picture-postcard experience! Between its rocks and the green clarity of its tepid waters, you’ll experience a moment of relaxation like never before… You should also know that this lake is known for its therapeutic virtues. Sailing, kitesurfing, kayaking, yoga and massage are also on offer. An invigorating and unforgettable excursion for the whole family;
- Return to the very center of the city and discover Lycabetta. Mythology has it that this hill was inadvertently set down by Athena. In fact, she was surprised by two crows announcing a bad omen. As a result, she is said to have dropped her rock, which was destined to fortify the Acropolis. Accessible on foot, allow yourself a 30-minute stroll through the greenery and admire the incredible view over the city! And for those who love places of worship, the Lycabette is home to the small chapel of St. George on its summit;
- The Olympiion, or Temple of Zeus, himself God of heaven and lightning, is a final must-see on this itinerary. Built with the fortune amassed after the war against the city of Elide(Pisa), it is located in the ancient sanctuary of Olympia. Its architecture features scenes from Greek mythology, such as the twelve labors of Hercules, as well as numerous statues. In particular, the chryselephantine statue of Zeus is a must-see in Athens.
Itinerary for two weeks or more
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The list cannot be exhaustive, so rich is the city’s culture, but here are two other pleasures to add to the itineraries mentioned above:
- The first is the Panathenaeum Olympic Stadium. Its history began over 2,500 years ago. It was the scene of numerous gladiatorial battles, poetry competitions, chariot races and pentathlon events. It used to hold up to 70,000 people, just 10,000 less than the Stade de France. Today, it hosts the capital’s cultural and sporting events, continuing to write its history through the ages;
- So you’ll always find places to visit in this magnificent city full of history. But walking around will undoubtedly whet your appetite. That’s why we also recommend sampling the delights of the local cuisine. Olive oil, wines, mushrooms, pasta and cheeses are all specialities.
How to compare and book your car hire in Athens online?
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Do you now know your itinerary? Then all you need to do is rent a car to visit Athens. Looking for the best value for your money? Visit a car rental price comparison service such as Rentalcars.
First, choose the dates and type of vehicle you want. Then search for the most suitable offer among the many online car rental companies.
How much does a rental car in Athens cost?
Per day
Car rental companies in Athens generally adjust their prices according to the category of the vehicle. Whether you wish to rent at the airport and return the vehicle elsewhere in the city will not affect the rate. Please allow between €20 and €30 per day for your rental.
Per week
Expect to pay between €40 and €50 for small vehicles. Otherwise, expect to pay between €60 and €80 for city cars and compact cars.
Driving in Athens: traffic rules you need to know
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- Speed limits remain broadly the same as in France: 50 km/h in city centers and 70 to 90 km/h in built-up areas, depending on signage. In addition, the speed limit is 110 km/h on expressways and 120 km/h on freeways;
- Please note: you may be fined if you park less than 12 metres from a bus stop. The same applies if you park less than 5 meters from a crosswalk or a fire hydrant;
- For roundabouts, priority is given to the person entering the roundabout and not to the person already on the roundabout;
- Take care when driving: marble is embedded in the tar, making the ground more slippery.
Our tips for your car rental in Athens
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Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your car rental in Athens. But first, please note the following important points:
- The addition of a comprehensive warranty is recommended in most cases;
- Always check the insurance conditions of the vehicle you are renting;
- Never sign a contract written in a language you do not understand;
- Make sure you have unlimited mileage for a completely free itinerary;
- Rent a car in Athens in advance to ensure a hassle-free trip.
Renting a car in Athens: what conditions need to be met?
To rent a car in Athens, you need to be at least 21 years old, and have held your driving license for at least a year and a half. What’s more, some companies may refuse to rent to anyone over 70.
Are you from Europe? Your driving license is all you need to rent a car in Athens. Otherwise, you’ll need an international driving license. Be aware that each company may have its own rules, so it’s up to you to check your eligibility.
Limited or unlimited mileage?
Given the number of monuments to visit, we strongly advise you to take the unlimited kilometers option. Unless you’re only staying for a weekend, of course.
Do I need insurance to rent a car in Athens?
Always take out insurance when you rent a car in Athens. This will protect you in the event of damage, theft, etc.
Parking in Athens
Prefer private parking lots. Street parking spaces are rare and often limited. So it’s best to park in private parking lots, which cost €5 per half-day.
What is the most practical category of car for visiting Athens?
There’s no need for an off-roader, as you’ll be staying in the city. Take a small city car when you rent a car in Athens. This will save you a lot of parking trouble.