When I arrived in Athens, it was clear that the best way to experience not just the city but the surrounding historical treasures was by renting a car. Sure, the public transportation system is efficient, but there’s something about the freedom of driving through the city’s streets and taking spontaneous trips to the ancient ruins scattered around the region that felt like the ultimate way to explore this land of gods and myths.
This guide is the culmination of my personal experience driving around Athens, including the ins and outs of car rentals, the road conditions, tips for driving in Greece, and recommended routes that will take you beyond the usual tourist path. If you’re considering renting a car in Athens, this guide will help you navigate every aspect of your journey.
1. Why Rent a Car in Athens?
Athens is a city where ancient history and modernity collide in the most fascinating ways. While it’s possible to visit most of the key attractions within the city via public transportation, a car gives you the flexibility to explore areas beyond the immediate urban landscape. For me, the true charm of Greece lies not only in the ancient ruins of Athens but also in the smaller towns and archaeological sites that dot the countryside. Renting a car gave me access to these hidden gems without the constraints of bus schedules or crowded metro lines.
Driving allowed me to:
- Visit lesser-known archaeological sites such as Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon, situated along the scenic coastal drive.
- Take day trips to nearby historical locations like Delphi, Corinth, and Nafplio, which are difficult to reach by public transport.
- Discover Greece’s beaches, mountain villages, and wineries, many of which are far from the hustle and bustle of central Athens.
If you’re someone who enjoys the freedom of spontaneous adventures, renting a car is the way to go.
2. Choosing the Right Car Rental Company
When it came to selecting a car rental company in Athens, I was spoiled for choice. Major international companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar are all available, but I also found several reputable local options like AutoUnion and Kouros Car Rentals. Here are some things to consider when making your choice:
Price Comparison
The first thing I did was compare prices across different rental companies. I used popular comparison websites like Rentalcars.com and Kayak, but I also checked directly on the rental agencies’ websites, as they sometimes offer exclusive discounts. Prices fluctuate depending on the time of year, and in the summer months (high tourist season), rental costs can skyrocket. I booked my car during the fall season, which brought down the rental price significantly.
On average, you can expect to pay:
- €20-€40 per day for a small, economy vehicle
- €50-€70 per day for a mid-size car or SUV
- €80-€100 per day for a premium or luxury car
Picking the Right Car
Athens’ streets, especially in the older parts of the city like Plaka, are narrow and can be quite chaotic. I opted for a compact car, which made navigating these tight streets much easier. If you plan to drive out to more mountainous regions, though, consider renting a slightly more powerful vehicle, such as a small SUV. The road conditions outside of the city can be winding and steep.
Insurance and Coverage
The rental company will offer various insurance packages, and it’s worth taking the time to understand them. I opted for full coverage (including CDW – Collision Damage Waiver), which added some cost but gave me peace of mind, especially as a first-time driver in Greece. Many credit card companies also offer rental car insurance, so check with your provider to avoid paying for unnecessary coverage.
Booking in Advance
Since Athens is a popular tourist destination year-round, I strongly recommend booking your car rental in advance. I made my reservation about a month before my trip, which ensured I got the car I wanted at a reasonable price. During peak travel periods (like summer or Easter holidays), cars can be sold out, or prices can jump significantly.
3. Picking Up Your Rental Car
I arrived at Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) and picked up my car right from the airport terminal. Most major car rental companies have kiosks directly in the arrivals hall, making it convenient for travelers. If you’re staying in central Athens, many rental agencies also offer city-center pickups.
The process was relatively quick: after showing my driver’s license (you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license isn’t from an EU country), credit card, and passport, I signed the paperwork, and within 15 minutes, I was handed the keys to my car.
Driving Out of the Airport
Driving out of Athens Airport was straightforward. The airport is connected to the city via Attiki Odos (the A6 motorway), a modern toll road. Keep some change or a credit card handy for tolls, as there are several toll booths along this highway. Driving into the city took around 40 minutes, depending on traffic, and from there, I was ready to explore.
4. Driving in Athens: The Experience
Driving in Athens can be a challenge, especially for those not used to the local driving culture. Here are some things I learned quickly while navigating the city streets:
Traffic
Athens is notorious for its traffic, particularly during rush hours (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM). I found the streets around Syntagma Square and Monastiraki to be the most congested, with cars, taxis, motorbikes, and pedestrians all competing for space. I recommend planning your trips outside of these peak times to avoid getting stuck in gridlock.
Parking
Parking in Athens can be a nightmare, especially in the city center. On-street parking is limited and often requires a parking card, which can be purchased at kiosks. I found it easier to use one of the many private parking garages scattered throughout the city, which cost around €3-€5 per hour.
Some hotels also offer parking, so it’s worth checking when you make your reservation. I stayed at a hotel in Kolonaki, which had a partnership with a nearby parking garage, allowing me to park for free overnight.
Road Rules
- Drive on the right: Like most of Europe, driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
- Speed limits: The speed limit in urban areas is 50 km/h, while on motorways, it’s 120 km/h. Pay attention to road signs, as speed limits can change unexpectedly.
- Roundabouts: In Greece, cars already in the roundabout have the right of way, which is different from some other countries where entering traffic has priority.
- Seatbelts: Wearing seatbelts is mandatory for all passengers.
Greek Driving Culture
Greek drivers can be aggressive, and there’s a lot of honking. It took me a day or two to adjust to the fast-paced driving style. Don’t be surprised if cars switch lanes abruptly or park in unusual places. I learned to drive defensively and keep an eye out for motorbikes, which weave in and out of traffic constantly.
5. Best Day Trips by Car from Athens
Once I got used to the rhythm of driving in Athens, I set out on several memorable day trips to experience the beauty and history beyond the city limits. Here are a few of my favorite destinations that are easily accessible by car:
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion
One of my first trips was to Cape Sounion, located about 70 km southeast of Athens. The drive along the coastal Athenian Riviera was stunning, with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea. The Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff overlooking the water, is one of the most breathtaking ancient sites in Greece. I arrived just before sunset, which is the best time to visit, as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow on the temple’s marble columns.
Delphi
Driving to Delphi, the site of the famous oracle, took about two hours from Athens. The route was scenic, winding through the mountains and small towns. Delphi’s ruins, set against the backdrop of Mount Parnassus, are awe-inspiring. I spent the day wandering through the ancient temples and theater, learning about the rich mythology surrounding the site.
Nafplio
Another great day trip was to Nafplio, a charming seaside town about two hours southwest of Athens. With its Venetian architecture, narrow streets, and stunning views from the Palamidi Fortress, Nafplio was the perfect escape from the city. The drive there took me through the Peloponnese, with stops at the Corinth Canal and the ancient ruins of Mycenae.
6. Car Rental Alternatives: Hotels You Can Stay In Without a Car
While renting a car in Athens provides freedom, some travelers may prefer to stay in the city center and avoid the hassle of driving altogether. Here are a few centrally located hotels in Athens where you won’t need a car to explore the major attractions:
Electra Metropolis
This luxury hotel is situated just a short walk from Syntagma Square and the Plaka neighborhood. With a rooftop restaurant offering views of the Acropolis, Electra Metropolis is ideal for travelers who want to be in the heart of Athens. The nearby metro station provides easy access to other parts of the city, and the main attractions are within walking distance.
A for Athens
A chic boutique hotel located in Monastiraki, A for Athens offers modern rooms with views of the Acropolis. Its central location means you can easily explore the Monastiraki Flea Market, Ancient Agora, and other nearby attractions on foot. The metro station is just steps away, connecting you to the airport and Piraeus port.
Hotel Grande Bretagne
For those seeking luxury, the Hotel Grande Bretagne is one of Athens’ most prestigious hotels. Located on Syntagma Square, this historic hotel is a short walk from the National Garden, the Benaki Museum, and the Acropolis. Public transportation is easily accessible, but you may not need it given the hotel’s prime location.
Renting a car in Athens opened up a world of possibilities for me, allowing me to explore both the city and the stunning sites beyond. While driving in the city itself can be challenging, the freedom and flexibility it provided were well worth the effort. Whether you’re interested in taking a scenic coastal drive to ancient temples or heading out on a road trip to Greece’s most famous archaeological sites, a rental car will enhance your experience in this historic land.
