Como turista mexicano que visita Grecia por primera vez, ¿con cuánta antelación debo reservar mi coche de alquiler?
I strongly recommend booking at least 2 to 3 months in advance, especially if you’re traveling in high season (June to September). Using a comparison and booking platform like QEEQ is ideal, as it allows you to compare prices from multiple providers, secure lower rates, and guarantee the availability of the car type you want, avoiding last‑minute surprises.
¿Es mejor reservar el coche desde México por internet o esperar a llegar a Grecia?
Definitely book from Mexico. Online rates are almost always cheaper than the prices you’ll find directly at the airport counter. Platforms like QEEQ give you a full view of the market, exclusive promotions, and the peace of mind of having everything confirmed before your long flight.
¿Qué tipo de coche me recomienda para las carreteras griegas?
For driving in cities and especially on the islands, a small or compact car (Mini or Economy category) is your best ally. Streets can be very narrow. If you plan to explore the mainland with more luggage or with family, a compact sedan or a small SUV will be more comfortable.
¿Debería elegir un coche con transmisión manual o automática?
Most of the more economical rental cars in Greece have manual transmission. Automatics are less common and significantly more expensive. If you don’t feel 100% comfortable driving a manual, especially on hills, pay the extra for an automatic. You can easily filter this option on QEEQ when you search.
Vamos a visitar varias islas. ¿Es buena idea llevar el coche de alquiler en los ferris?
Generally, it’s not the best option. Most rental companies prohibit or do not cover ferry transportation of the vehicle under their insurance. In addition, the ferry ticket for the car can be expensive. The most efficient strategy is to rent a separate car on each large island you visit.
¿Necesito un GPS? ¿O puedo usar mi celular con un plan de datos?
You can use apps like Google Maps or Waze on your phone; they work very well. Consider buying an eSIM with data for Europe before you travel. However, if you prefer not to use your phone, you can add a standalone GPS device to your booking, although it will have an additional daily cost.
Viajamos con niños. ¿Cómo funciona el alquiler de sillas para bebé o niño?
Child seats are required by law in Greece for children up to 12 years old or shorter than 1.35 meters. You must request them when you make your online booking (on QEEQ you can add them as an extra). They have a daily cost. Carefully check the seat when you pick up the car to make sure it’s in good condition.
¿Qué es un alquiler "one-way" (solo ida) y es recomendable en Grecia?
A “one-way” rental means you pick up the car in one city (e.g., Athens) and return it in another (e.g., Thessaloniki). It is very useful for linear itineraries. Keep in mind that it almost always involves a considerable additional one‑way fee, but it can be worth it for the convenience.
Después de un vuelo tan largo desde México, ¿es seguro conducir inmediatamente al llegar?
This is a very important consideration. A flight from Mexico City or Cancun is exhausting. I suggest spending the first night near Athens airport to rest and adapt. Driving with jet lag is dangerous. Plan your itinerary so you pick up the car the next day, once you’re rested.
¿Mi Licencia de Conducir mexicana es válida para alquilar un coche en Grecia?
Although your Mexican driver’s license is valid, Greek law requires that licenses from non‑EU countries be accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP).
¿Es realmente obligatorio el Permiso Internacional de Conducir (PIC/IDP) o es solo una recomendación?
It is legally mandatory. The rental company might allow you to rent without it, but if the police stop you or, worse, if you have an accident, your insurance could be invalidated and you could face severe fines. Don’t take the risk.
¿Dónde puedo obtener el Permiso Internacional de Conducir (PIC) en México?
In Mexico, the IDP is issued by the Asociación Mexicana Automovilística (AMA) or the Automóvil Club de México (ANA). You must apply in person or online before your trip. It’s a simple process but requires some planning.
¿Qué documentos exactos debo presentar en el mostrador de alquiler?
You will need to present the following 4 documents: 1) Your valid passport. 2) Your valid Mexican driver’s license. 3) Your valid International Driving Permit (IDP). 4) A credit card in the name of the main driver.
¿Cuál es la edad mínima para alquilar un coche en Grecia?
The minimum age is usually 21, although some companies raise it to 23 or even 25 for certain vehicle categories. Drivers under 25 almost always have to pay a daily “young driver fee”.
¿Hay una edad máxima para alquilar?
Yes, some companies set a maximum age, generally between 70 and 75 years. If you or one of the drivers is above this age, check the specific policies of each company before booking, or contact QEEQ customer service so they can help you find a suitable provider.
El nombre en mi tarjeta de crédito tiene mi segundo apellido, pero mi licencia no. ¿Es un problema?
Generally, it is not a problem as long as the first name and first surname match perfectly. However, to avoid any issues, it’s best if the names on all your documents (passport, license, IDP, credit card) are as consistent as possible.
¿Podemos registrar a un conductor adicional? ¿Qué necesita?
Yes, it’s highly recommended if you plan to drive long distances. The additional driver must be present when you pick up the car and must present exactly the same documents as the main driver (passport, valid driver’s license, and IDP). A daily fee will be charged for each additional driver.
¿Cuánto cuesta aproximadamente alquilar un coche pequeño en Grecia?
Prices vary greatly depending on the season. In low season, you can find deals from €25–35 per day. In high season (summer), expect to pay between €50–80 or more per day for an economy car. Booking in advance on QEEQ will help you get the best rates.
¿Qué es el "deducible" o "franquicia" (excess) en el seguro del coche?
The deductible (or excess) is the maximum amount of money you are responsible for in case of damage to or theft of the vehicle. For example, if the deductible is €1,000 and the damage is €3,000, you pay the first €1,000 and the insurance covers the rest.
¿Qué cubre el seguro básico incluido (CDW - Collision Damage Waiver)?
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is basic coverage that limits your financial liability to the deductible amount in case of damage to the rental car. It generally does not cover tires, windows, mirrors, the underbody, or the roof.
Me ofrecen un seguro "completo" o "SCDW". ¿Vale la pena?
Yes, for total peace of mind it is very worthwhile. This additional insurance (Super CDW) reduces your deductible to zero (or to a very small amount). This means that, in the event of a covered accident, you would not have to pay anything out of pocket. It is often the smartest option to avoid disputes over small scratches.
¿Puedo usar el seguro de mi tarjeta de crédito de México (Visa, Amex, etc.)?
Some premium credit cards offer rental car insurance. However, you must check the conditions carefully: you must pay the entire rental with that card and decline the rental company’s insurance. In case of an incident, you will have to pay first and then file a claim in Mexico. For simplicity, many people prefer local coverage or the insurance offered by QEEQ, which is usually easier to handle.
¿Qué es la Política de Combustible "Lleno/Lleno" (Full to Full)?
It is the most fair and common policy. You pick up the car with a full tank and must return it full as well. If you don’t, the rental company will charge you for the missing fuel at a much higher rate than a normal gas station, plus a service fee.
¿Necesito una tarjeta de crédito para alquilar o puedo usar una de débito?
You must have a credit card in the name of the main driver. Debit, prepaid cards, or cash are not accepted for the security deposit. The rental company will block an amount on your card as a guarantee (deposit).
¿De cuánto es el depósito de seguridad que bloquean en la tarjeta de crédito?
It varies depending on the company and the car category, but it generally ranges between €500 and €1,500. If you purchase full coverage (SCDW) that reduces the deductible to zero, the deposit is usually much lower (sometimes only the cost of a tank of fuel).
¿Puedo pagar el alquiler en Pesos Mexicanos (MXN)?
No. The rental and the deposit will be processed in Euros (€). Your bank in Mexico will convert MXN to EUR according to its exchange rate on the day, possibly with an international transaction fee.
¿Existen costos ocultos que deba conocer?
Watch out for: airport fees, out‑of‑hours pick‑up or drop‑off fees, young/additional driver fees, the cost of extras (GPS, child seats), and administrative fees for handling traffic fines. When booking on QEEQ, the cost breakdown is usually very transparent from the start.
¿Qué debo hacer exactamente al llegar al mostrador de alquiler?
Have all your documents ready (passport, license, IDP, credit card, and your QEEQ booking voucher). Read the rental agreement carefully before signing, paying special attention to additional charges and the fuel policy. Don’t feel pressured.
Mi vuelo desde México se retrasó. ¿Perderé mi reserva?
If you know your flight will be delayed, it is crucial to contact the rental company or QEEQ customer service as soon as possible. Provide your flight number when making the booking; this helps the company track your arrival. Most have a grace period, but if you don’t inform them, they might cancel your reservation.
Antes de irme con el coche, ¿qué debo inspeccionar?
Carry out a thorough inspection of the exterior and interior: look for and point out any scratch, dent, or damage, no matter how small. Make sure it is recorded on the inspection form. Check the air conditioning, lights, wipers, fuel level, and tires. Take photos or videos as evidence.
¿Cómo sé si mi coche de alquiler usa gasolina (petrol) o diésel?
Ask the agent explicitly when you pick up the car. Often there is also a sticker inside the fuel cap. Putting in the wrong fuel can cause serious engine damage that is not covered by insurance.
El agente en el mostrador insiste mucho en que compre su seguro adicional, aunque yo ya tengo uno. ¿Qué hago?
This is a common sales tactic. If you are confident about your coverage, stand firm and politely decline. Say: “No, thank you, I am already fully covered.” Keep in mind that if you decline their insurance, they will probably require the highest security deposit.
¿Dónde se encuentran las oficinas de alquiler en el Aeropuerto Internacional de Atenas (ATH)?
Most major rental agencies have their counters directly in the arrivals terminal. Others, often cheaper, operate with a shuttle service (free minibus) that takes you to their offices located a few minutes from the airport. Your QEEQ voucher will clearly specify the location and instructions.
¿De qué lado de la carretera se conduce en Grecia?
In Greece you drive on the right‑hand side of the road and overtake on the left, just like in Mexico and the rest of continental Europe.
¿Cuáles son los límites de velocidad generales?
Unless otherwise indicated, the limits are: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, 110–130 km/h on motorways. Always pay attention to traffic signs, as limits can vary.
¿Las señales de tráfico están en inglés?
Most important signs (city names, tourist destinations, warnings) are in both Greek and English (Latin alphabet), especially in tourist areas and on motorways. You will not have problems finding your way.
¿Cómo funcionan las rotondas (glorietas) en Grecia?
The general rule is that vehicles already inside the roundabout have right of way. You must yield before entering.
¿Es difícil conducir en Atenas?
For a tourist, yes. Traffic is heavy and finding parking is complicated. My advice: explore the city on foot or by public transport, and pick up your car on the day you plan to leave the city.
¿Qué tan difícil es conducir en las islas griegas como Santorini o Mykonos?
It is challenging but manageable. Roads are very narrow, winding, with blind curves and often no shoulder. In summer they get crowded with other cars, motorbikes (ATVs), and tour buses. Drive slowly and carefully.
¿Hay muchas autopistas de peaje (casetas)? ¿Cómo se pagan?
The main motorways on the Greek mainland have tolls. You can pay in cash (Euros) or with a credit/debit card at the toll booths. Keep some cash on hand just in case.
¿Cómo funciona el estacionamiento? ¿Qué significan las líneas de colores?
Blue lines: paid parking (use a parking meter or app). White lines: free parking. Yellow lines: no parking. Never block driveways or park in prohibited areas.
¿Qué debo hacer si tengo un accidente o una avería?
1. Stay calm. 2. Make sure everyone is safe. 3. Place the warning triangles. 4. Call the European emergency number: 112. 5. Call your rental company’s roadside assistance number immediately (it will be in your contract and in the glove box). Do not try to repair the car yourself.
¿Cuál es el límite de alcohol en sangre para conducir?
The limit is 0.05%. It is stricter than in some parts of Mexico. The policy is almost zero tolerance. If you’re going to drink, don’t drive. Take a taxi or designate a driver.
¿Qué debo hacer al devolver el coche?
Plan to arrive with enough time, especially if you have a flight to catch. First, fill the fuel tank near the return location. Then go to the designated return area. An agent will inspect the car.
¿Debo limpiar el coche antes de devolverlo?
You’re not expected to wash it, but you should return it in a reasonable condition. If the interior is excessively dirty (sand, trash, stains), you may be charged a special cleaning fee.
¿Es importante que un agente revise el coche conmigo presente?
Yes, it’s crucial. Insist on having the final inspection done in your presence. Once the agent confirms that everything is in order, ask for a signed copy of the return report or a receipt stating that the car was returned without damage and with a full tank.
¿Qué pasa si devuelvo el coche fuera del horario de oficina?
Some locations have a key‑drop box system. However, this is risky, as you remain responsible for the vehicle until the office opens and an employee inspects it. If possible, avoid this option.
¿Cuándo me devolverán el depósito de seguridad de mi tarjeta de crédito?
The hold on your credit card is usually released between 7 and 15 business days after you return the car. This period allows the company to check for any traffic fines or outstanding charges.
¿Qué sucede si recibo una multa de tráfico (por exceso de velocidad o mal estacionamiento) y no me doy cuenta?
The fine will be sent to the rental company. They will pay it on your behalf and then charge you the amount of the fine PLUS an “administrative fee” (which may be €30–50) on the credit card you provided.
Tengo una disputa por un cargo de daños que considero injusto. ¿Qué puedo hacer?
Provide your evidence: the photos and videos you took when you picked up the car and the return report. Contact the rental company first. If you don’t get a satisfactory response and you booked through QEEQ, contact their customer service. They can mediate the dispute, which is a major advantage of not having booked directly.
