Car Rental in Greece for Indian Travelers

Exploring Greece with a rental car is an excellent way to discover its iconic archaeological sites, breathtaking islands, and scenic landscapes at your own pace.
If you're traveling from India, you might be wondering:

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Greece?
What kind of insurance should I purchase for my rental?
What are the estimated rental costs in Greece?
Can I rent a car for one-way journeys across Greece?
Are there any major driving rule differences between India and Greece?

This guide is tailored for Indian travelers, shedding light on these key queries with practical advice to make your journey seamless. Additionally, you’ll find tips on how to save money, navigate roads, and maximize your travel experience while driving in Greece.

Can Indian Citizens Drive in Iceland?

Yes, Indian travelers can rent and drive cars in Iceland when they meet the licence, document, payment, and age requirements summarized below.

Form of ID:
For foreign renters: a valid passport is required at pick-up.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
Notes: The main and any additional drivers must present a full, original physical driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 1 year (some vehicles may require 3 years). An IDP is only a translation and must be shown together with your original Indian driving licence.
Accepted cards:
Payment must be made with physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Visa and MasterCard are accepted by all offers; many offers also accept AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, and in some cases UnionPay credit cards. Some rentals additionally accept Visa or MasterCard debit cards (and in limited cases UnionPay debit) for deposit or payment, but a qualifying credit card may still be required for the security hold. Two cards are generally not required.
Age requirements:
Across offers, the typical minimum age ranges between 18–25 and the maximum between 69–99, depending on vehicle and supplier. Many rentals allow drivers from around 20–21 years old up to about 75–80 or more. Young driver surcharges often apply roughly from ages 18–25 (e.g., about US$5.89–17.69 per day, sometimes with a maximum cap per rental). Some suppliers also charge an additional fee for senior drivers, commonly starting around 70–73 years old, with daily fees that may be capped over the rental. Exact applicable range and surcharge depend on the specific car and rental company selected.

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Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore the options available for car rentals in Greece, including internationally recognized brands and local providers offering unique services.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
268
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Extensive international network
- Flexible rental options
- Customer loyalty programs
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Best for
Travelers seeking flexible and reliable car rental services
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
307
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Large network of locations worldwide
- Wide selection of cars including SUVs and vans
- Avis Preferred loyalty program for faster service
- Access to exclusive deals and discounts
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
262
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Centauro
global
8.5
Locations:
52
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Excellent customer service
- Multiple locations across the country
- Online booking discounts
- Comprehensive insurance options
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
156
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- No hidden fees
- Quick pick-up and drop-off process
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Flexible rental options
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
OK Mobility
global
8.5
Locations:
51
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
- Wide variety of vehicle types, including economy and luxury
Best for
Travelers seeking budget-friendly and reliable rental options
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
180
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient locations
- Easy online booking system
Best for
Travelers seeking quality and affordability

VOLTA 4u
local
8.5
Locations:
82
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
- Wide selection of vehicles including hybrids
- Competitive pricing and deals
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and environmentally aware customers
Avance
local
8.5
Locations:
95
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized service
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental terms
- Local knowledge and expertise
Best for
Travelers seeking local service and luxury options
Record Go
local
8.5
Locations:
21
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- No hidden fees
- Convenient locations
- Personalized customer support
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families

Recommendations for Indian Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You prefer well-established companies.
Looking for extensive coverage throughout Greece.
Require round-the-clock customer support.
Need a seamless rental experience for business or leisure.

Choose Local Brands If:

Desire more affordable rental options.
Plan to stay within urban areas or popular tourist destinations.
Interested in unique or specialized vehicle types.
Comfortable navigating local services and platforms.

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your journey in Greece more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Greece
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and manual cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Indian insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Peloponnese, Meteora, Santorini
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Mykonos, Crete, Corfu

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Greece?

Greece is known for its stunning islands, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities. Whether you are visiting Athens, Santorini, or Crete, renting a car ensures you explore the country's beauty efficiently.

What Insurance Do I Need for Car Rental in Greece?

Driving in Greece requires at least basic insurance by law, but additional coverage is highly recommended to ensure a stress-free experience. Insurance policies and inclusions can vary, so understanding your coverage options is crucial. Comprehensive protection minimizes financial risks in case of accidents, theft, or unforeseen events.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Provides coverage for damages to the rental car caused by collision or theft.
₹1,230-2,050/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Covers expenses related to theft of the rental vehicle.
₹410-650/day
Essential
Third Party Liability Insurance
Covers damages or injury caused to other vehicles, property, or individuals.
Usually included in rental price
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Provides coverage for personal medical expenses and injury.
₹410-820/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Greece. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$7,669.18

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$7,669.18

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Greece?

Plan ahead and follow these tips to make your car rental in Greece both affordable and convenient. Timing, policy awareness, and smart booking choices play critical roles.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Reserve your car at least 4-6 weeks in advance to secure the best rates and a wider range of vehicles.
Save up to 35%
Use Comparison Platforms
Use reliable comparison websites and apps to find the most competitive prices for car rentals in Greece.
Save up to 30%
Opt for Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Select rental companies that offer a full-to-full fuel policy to avoid hidden fuel charges.
Save ₹1,600-₹3,300
Avoid Airport Pickups
Renting a car from a location outside the airport can be significantly cheaper than airport rental counters.
Save ₹2,000-₹5,000
Check Insurance Options
Compare rental insurance options; sometimes, your credit card or travel insurance may cover rental car insurance.
Save ₹1,200-₹2,500

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Greece.

Hidden Fees
Watch out for extra charges that aren't included in the base price.
- Additional driver fees
- Young driver surcharges (under 23)
- One-way rental charges
- Extra charges for border crossing to neighboring countries
- Fees for returning the car at a different location
Insurance Coverage
Ensure you understand the insurance terms and conditions offered.
- Check for Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) inclusions
- Verify if theft protection is included
- Inspect the deductible amount
- Consider third-party insurance options
- Understand exclusions like tire and undercarriage damage
Fuel Policies
Different fuel policies can affect costs and return requirements.
- Full-to-full policies are typically more economical
- Prepaid fuel options might cost extra
- Keep receipts as proof of refueling
- Find gas stations near your return location
- Ensure the fuel gauge matches the agreement
Vehicle Condition
Inspect the car thoroughly before accepting it.
- Document any existing scratches, dents, or damage
- Check the tires and fluid levels
- Test the lights, wipers, and air conditioning
- Keep a copy of the inspection form
- Take pictures for your records
Rental Agreement Terms
Reading the rental agreement can prevent misunderstandings.
- Understand mileage limits
- Check cross-border travel permissions
- Review cancellation policies
- Ensure clarity on deposit and refund processes
- Be aware of the grace period for late returns
Pickup and Return Timing
Timing can significantly influence your experience.
- Check for extra charges for after-hours service
- Account for potential delays at airports
- Allow enough time for drop-off inspections
- Be aware of potential penalties for early or late returns
- Plan for local traffic conditions

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

What Are The Differences Between Indian and Greek Traffic Rules

Indian and Greek traffic rules differ in road priorities, signage formats, alcohol tolerance, and driving etiquette.

Road Priorities
GR
Vehicles coming from the right have priority
IN
Vehicles in the main flow usually have priority
Speed Limits
GR
Expressways: 130 km/h, Urban: 50 km/h
IN
Expressways: 120 km/h, Urban: 50 km/h
Alcohol Limits
GR
0.05% BAC for regular drivers
IN
0.03% BAC for regular drivers
Roundabouts
GR
Vehicles inside the roundabout have priority
IN
Entering vehicles may have priority unless indicated otherwise
Mobile Phone Use
GR
Hands-free use is allowed
IN
Hands-free use is allowed
Seatbelt Laws
GR
Mandatory for all occupants
IN
Mandatory for all occupants
Parking Rules
GR
Park in direction of traffic
IN
Similar parking rules apply
Remember
- • Always carry your International Driving Permit (IDP) when driving in Greece.
- • Be mindful of local signage, which may differ in style or format.
- • Keep an emergency contact number accessible during your travel.
- • Ensure your rental car has all required documents and insurance.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from India renting a car in Greece

Can I rent a car in Greece with an Indian driving license?

Yes, but you must also hold a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your Indian driving license. An Indian license alone is not sufficient to legally drive or rent a car in Greece.

Is the International Driving Permit (IDP) mandatory for driving in Greece?

Yes, the IDP is a legal requirement for all non-EU license holders, including Indian citizens. Rental companies and Greek police will require you to present it alongside your original license.

How can I obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in India?

You can apply for an IDP through authorized organizations like the Western India Automobile Association (WIAA) or the Automobile Association of India (AAI). You'll need your valid Indian license, passport, visa, flight tickets, passport-sized photos, and a completed application form.

What is the minimum age requirement for renting a car in Greece?

Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers aged 21-24 may have to pay a young driver surcharge. Certain car categories may require drivers to be 25 or older.

Is there a minimum driving experience required to rent a car in Greece?

Yes, most companies require at least one year of driving experience. For premium or luxury cars, the requirement may be two or three years.

Do I need a credit card to rent a car?

Yes, an international credit card in the main driver's name is mandatory for payment and security deposit purposes. Debit cards, prepaid cards, or cards in another person’s name are usually not accepted.

What documents should I carry when driving in Greece?

Always carry your original Indian driving license, your IDP, your passport, and the car rental contract when driving in Greece.

How long is my IDP valid for?

An IDP is typically valid for one year from the date of issue, provided your Indian license remains valid during that period.

What if there is a second driver—what documents are required?

Any additional driver must be present at pick-up and provide the same documents as the main driver: a valid national license and an IDP. Rental companies also charge an extra driver fee.

My Indian license is in English. Do I still need an IDP?

Yes, the IDP is a legal requirement, not just a translation. Without it, you may be refused a rental and risk invalidating your insurance.

How far in advance should I book a rental car for Greece?

It's best to book at least 1-3 months in advance, especially for travel during peak season (June to September) or if you need an automatic car.

Which platform should I use to book a rental car in Greece?

I recommend using QEEQ, a global car rental comparison platform. QEEQ offers transparent pricing, clear package options, and multilingual customer support.

What are the benefits of booking via QEEQ?

QEEQ allows you to compare prices across major global and local suppliers, provides clear information on inclusions and exclusions, often has more affordable insurance options, and offers support in multiple languages.

Should I rent a manual or automatic car in Greece?

Manual cars are more common and cheaper, but if you’re not comfortable with manual transmission or plan to drive in hilly or narrow areas, choose an automatic. Automatics are less common and more expensive, so book them early.

How do I choose the right car type for different destinations in Greece?

For islands like Santorini or Mykonos, choose a small car for narrow roads and parking ease. For the mainland or long-distance travel, a compact or mid-size sedan/SUV is suitable. Avoid driving in Athens city center.

Are local car rental companies in Greece safe to book with if their prices are very low?

Low-priced local companies may pose risks such as poor vehicle condition or unclear insurance terms. Booking through QEEQ helps ensure a minimum level of reliability even with local suppliers.

Can I rent a convertible in Greece?

Yes, convertibles are available and provide a great experience on scenic routes or islands, but they are more expensive, have limited luggage space, and need to be booked early.

Can I request a diesel vehicle?

You can express a preference for a diesel car during booking, but it's not guaranteed. Diesel is usually cheaper than petrol in Europe, but rental rates for diesel cars may be slightly higher.

Can I take my rental car on a ferry to another Greek island?

Most companies do not allow or strictly limit taking rental cars on ferries. If permitted, you may need extra insurance, and damages during ferry transport are often not covered. It's best to rent separately on each island.

What does 'or similar' mean in car rental listings?

'Or similar' means you’ll get a car of the same category, size, and features as the one shown during booking, not necessarily the exact make and model.

What is included in the total car rental cost besides the daily rate?

The total usually includes the rental fee, basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), unlimited mileage (often), and local taxes (like VAT).

What are common extra or hidden fees when renting a car in Greece?

Potential extras include young driver fees, additional driver fees, GPS or child seat rental, airport surcharges, one-way fees, and high refueling charges if you don’t follow the fuel policy.

What is a security deposit, and how much should I expect?

A security deposit is an amount blocked on your credit card to cover damages or extra charges, ranging from €500 to €2,000 depending on the car and insurance. It’s released after safe car return.

Is basic insurance (CDW) enough? What does it cover?

Basic CDW reduces your liability for damage but leaves you with a high excess (deductible), usually €800-€2,000. It doesn't cover all types of damage.

What is an insurance excess/deductible?

The excess is the maximum amount you must pay out of pocket for damages before insurance covers the rest. For example, if the excess is €1,000 and repairs cost €3,000, you pay €1,000.

Should I buy full insurance coverage (Full Coverage/Super CDW)?

Full insurance is highly recommended. It reduces your excess to zero, so you don’t pay anything in case of damage, giving you peace of mind.

Where is it cheaper to buy full insurance—at the rental desk or through a booking platform?

It’s usually cheaper to buy full insurance via booking platforms like QEEQ than at the rental counter. With third-party insurance, you may have to pay damages upfront and claim reimbursement.

Does my Indian credit card’s travel insurance cover car rental in Greece?

Most Indian credit card travel insurance does not cover rental cars in Greece, or coverage is very limited. Always check your policy details carefully.

What is Theft Protection (TP) in car rental insurance?

TP limits your financial liability if the rental car is stolen, subject to an excess. It’s often bundled with CDW.

What does basic CDW not cover?

CDW usually does not cover damage to tires, glass, windows, mirrors, roof, undercarriage, or keys. Full coverage is needed for these.

What side of the road do you drive on in Greece?

In Greece, you drive on the right-hand side of the road, with steering wheels on the left, which is the opposite of India.

What are the main traffic rules in Greece?

Key rules: Yield to vehicles already in a roundabout, obey right-of-way unless otherwise signed, follow speed limits (usually 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on rural roads, 110–130 km/h on highways), and always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.

How does Greek driving behavior compare to India?

Greek drivers are more orderly than in India but can be assertive and fast. Stick to your lane, avoid unnecessary horn use, and drive at your own pace.

What is the road condition like in Greece?

Highways are generally in good condition, but rural and island roads can be narrow, winding, and steep. Drive carefully, especially on islands.

Is it advisable to drive in Athens?

No. Athens has heavy traffic, complex road layouts, and scarce parking. Use public transport in the city and rent a car only when leaving Athens.

What are the specific challenges of driving on Greek islands like Santorini?

Expect very narrow roads, heavy tourist traffic, lots of scooters and ATVs, and limited parking. Rent the smallest car possible for convenience.

How are Greek highways tolled?

Greek motorways have toll booths at intervals. You can pay by cash (euros) or credit card at the booths.

Is parking easy in Greece? What should I know?

Parking is challenging in cities and tourist hotspots. Blue lines indicate paid parking, white lines are free (but often full), yellow lines mean no parking. Always check for signs to avoid fines or towing.

How do I refuel in Greece?

Most petrol stations offer full service. Tell the attendant 'Full' or specify the amount and fuel type (unleaded petrol or diesel). Always confirm your rental's fuel type.

What are the drink-driving laws in Greece?

Greece has strict drink-driving laws with a low allowable blood alcohol limit (0.05%). It's safest to avoid any alcohol when driving.

Can I use my mobile phone while driving?

Hand-held phone use is illegal while driving. Use hands-free or Bluetooth devices only.

What safety equipment must be present in the rental car?

Cars must be equipped with a warning triangle, first aid kit, and fire extinguisher. Rental cars should have these, but check at pick-up.

Are Greek road signs easy to understand?

Yes, Greece uses international traffic symbols, and most road signs display both Greek and English lettering.

Can I use Google Maps for navigation in Greece?

Yes, Google Maps and Waze work well in Greece. Download offline maps in advance in case of weak signal in remote areas.

Is it mandatory for all passengers to wear seat belts?

Yes, all passengers, both front and rear, must wear seat belts by law. Children must use appropriate child seats.

What should I check when picking up my rental car?

Inspect the car’s exterior for scratches or dents (photograph them), check tires and rims, test lights and AC, note the fuel level and mileage, and verify the spare wheel and tools are present.

What should I know about the fuel policy when returning the car?

Most rentals operate a 'full to full' policy—return the car with a full tank. Keep the fuel receipt as proof, or you may be charged extra.

What is the standard car return process?

Allow enough time for return, especially at airports. Have a staff member check the car in your presence and get a signed confirmation that the car was returned in good condition.

What should I do if I have an accident while driving in Greece?

Stay calm, move to a safe spot, check for injuries, call the European emergency number 112 and Greek traffic police (100), inform your rental company, gather the other party’s details, and photograph the scene.

What if the rental car breaks down (e.g., flat tire or won’t start)?

Pull over safely, switch on hazard lights, and call the 24-hour roadside assistance number provided by your rental company. Do not attempt repairs yourself.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Greece for Indian Travelers

Exploring Greece with a rental car is an excellent way to discover its iconic archaeological sites, breathtaking islands, and scenic landscapes at your own pace. If you're traveling from India, you might be wondering:

Can Indian Citizens Drive in Iceland?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Indian Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Greece?

What Insurance Do I Need for Car Rental in Greece?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Greece?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

What Are The Differences Between Indian and Greek Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Exploring Greece with a rental car is an excellent way to discover its iconic archaeological sites, breathtaking islands, and scenic landscapes at your own pace.
If you're traveling from India, you might be wondering: