Heraklion Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Heraklion

Renting a car in Heraklion offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Historical Museum of Crete, all located within the area. This convenience is particularly appealing for those who enjoy cultural experiences and wish to delve into the rich history of Crete.

In addition to the local sites, a rented car allows for effortless day trips to nearby destinations like Malevizi, just 6 km away, where you can relax at Agia Pelagia Beach or explore more historical sites. Ammoudara, located 4 km from Heraklion, is also easily accessible and offers beautiful beaches and local attractions. Families will appreciate the space for luggage and the ability to manage travel plans without the constraints of public transport. Overall, having a rental car enhances your experience in Heraklion, making it simpler to discover both the cultural and outdoor delights of the region.

Most popular car rentals in Heraklion

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for up to 5 travellers, providing ample space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for an affordable yet practical vehicle. With its compact size, it's easy to navigate through Heraklion's streets while enjoying the flexibility of exploring at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers room for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who require extra space for luggage or who prefer a higher driving position. The Midsize SUV provides comfort and versatility, making it an excellent choice for those planning to explore the area around Heraklion.
• Compact: The Compact car is another popular option, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle type is perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families alike, offering a balance of comfort and efficiency. With its nimble handling, the Compact car allows for easy manoeuvring in urban settings while still providing sufficient room for your luggage.

Top rated car suppliers in Heraklion

• Budget: With 2 rental locations in the area of Heraklion, Budget provides travellers with great flexibility and convenience. They are particularly popular for their Economy and Mini vehicles, making them an excellent choice for those seeking affordable and compact options for navigating the city and its surroundings. Renting from Budget allows you to explore at your own pace while managing your luggage with ease.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Located in Heraklion, Alamo Rent A Car is a preferred choice for those looking for spacious vehicles. Their Midsize SUVs and Fullsize Vans are well-suited for families or groups, offering comfort and ample room for passengers and luggage. Alamo's single location ensures a straightforward rental process, allowing you to hit the road quickly and start your adventure.
• Avis: Avis operates a rental location in Heraklion, providing easy access for travellers. Known for their Economy and Mini car options, Avis is perfect for those wanting a budget-friendly vehicle without sacrificing quality. Their convenient location makes it simple for you to pick up your rental and begin exploring the beautiful sights and attractions of the area.

Where to stay in and around Heraklion

• Malevizi: Located 6 km from Heraklion, Malevizi is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a blend of beach, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. It boasts popular attractions such as Agia Pelagia Beach and Ammoudara Beach, both ideal for beach holidays. For culture enthusiasts, the Historical Museum of Crete is worth exploring. Additionally, Malevizi offers various food and drink options, including local wineries and pubs, making it a vibrant spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Karteros: Situated within the Heraklion area, Karteros is perfect for those interested in beach activities and sports. Visitors can enjoy amenities like golf courses and spas. Key points of interest include the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, both significant cultural sites. Karteros also features a family-friendly beach and nearby bars for relaxation, making it a well-rounded destination for tourists looking to combine leisure and cultural exploration.
• Nea Alikarnassos: This neighbourhood around Heraklion is an ideal base for visitors interested in beach outings and cultural experiences. Attractions like the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Historical Museum of Crete are easily accessible. Nea Alikarnassos also offers a vibrant atmosphere with shopping, dining, and bar options nearby. The local marina and dock port enhance the area’s charm, making it a great spot for those wanting to enjoy both relaxation and local culture.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Heraklion

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary with demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and simpler to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for collecting your rental car at airports, though the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you steer clear of unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Heraklion

The best value period to rent a car in and around Heraklion is February, when prices are low and demand is also low. January and May can also offer reasonable prices with average demand. As the summer months approach, however, July and August become the most expensive times, characterised by high demand and rates. September continues the trend of high prices and demand, making it less ideal for budget-conscious travellers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Low
February	54.1°F (12.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
March	56.3°F (13.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
April	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	68.4°F (20.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Low
June	74.8°F (23.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	78.8°F (26.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	High
August	78.8°F (26.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	High
September	75.4°F (24.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	High
October	68.9°F (20.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	56.8°F (13.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average