Athens Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Athens

Renting a car in Athens offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key cultural attractions such as the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Syntagma Square, all conveniently located within the city centre. This convenience is particularly beneficial for those travelling with luggage, as you can manage your belongings effortlessly while moving from one site to another.

A car also allows you to discover charming neighbourhoods like Plaka and the coastal city of Glyfada, where you can enjoy Glyfada's Second Beach along with the historical sites. For families or groups seeking a culture-themed experience, having a rental car ensures that everyone stays together while exploring the city’s rich history and outdoor offerings. The ability to travel without the constraints of public transport schedules makes your journey through Athens more enjoyable and personalised. Ultimately, renting a car enhances your sightseeing experience by providing easy access to both iconic landmarks and hidden gems throughout the Attica region.

Most popular car rentals in Athens

• Economy: The Economy car is a fantastic choice for those looking to explore Athens without the fuss. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and 2 medium suitcases, it is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. Its compact size makes navigating the bustling streets of Athens a breeze, allowing you to easily find parking and access various attractions while enjoying the flexibility of your travel plans.
• Midsize SUV: For travellers needing a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. It comfortably accommodates 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups. This car type offers the versatility to handle both urban driving and excursions into the surrounding areas of Attica, ensuring a comfortable ride with ample room for everyone and their luggage.
• Compact: The Compact car is another popular choice for those visiting Athens, providing a blend of efficiency and comfort. With the capacity for 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases, it suits solo travellers, couples, and families alike. This car type allows for easy manoeuvrability through the city, making it an ideal option for those who wish to make the most of their time exploring Athens while keeping luggage management straightforward.

Top rated car suppliers in Athens

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Athens, offering a single rental location within the city. Known for its efficient service, Alamo provides well-maintained vehicles and a user-friendly experience. The most booked cars from this supplier include the Midsize SUV and Economy options, catering to various travel needs. Customers often highlight the cleanliness of the cars and the hassle-free return process, making Alamo a reliable option for those looking to explore Athens.
• Sixt: With two rental locations in Athens, Sixt is favoured by many visitors for its convenient accessibility and diverse fleet. The Economy and Compact cars are the most popular choices among Sixt customers, appealing to those who seek affordability without compromising on quality. Sixt is praised for its professional service and well-kept vehicles, ensuring a pleasant rental experience. Their strong presence in the city makes them a solid option for travellers wanting to navigate Athens at their leisure.
• Budget: Budget boasts two rental locations in Athens, making it an accessible choice for tourists. Known for competitive pricing, Budget primarily offers Economy and Standard SUV vehicles that suit a variety of travel styles. Customers appreciate the straightforward rental process and the availability of well-maintained cars. This supplier is a great option for those looking to maximise their budget while enjoying the freedom of exploring Athens and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Athens

• Athens City Centre: The Athens City Centre is a vibrant neighbourhood that offers a rich blend of culture and city experiences. It is home to iconic attractions such as the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and the Parthenon, all of which are within easy reach. Visitors can enjoy shopping in bustling markets and dining at various cafes and restaurants. The area is particularly lively, making it an excellent choice for those who wish to immerse themselves in the historic and cultural essence of Athens.
• Plaka: Plaka is another charming neighbourhood known for its cultural and outdoor experiences. Nestled near historical landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, Plaka offers a unique blend of shopping and dining options, including quaint cafes and lively bars. This picturesque area is ideal for leisurely strolls, allowing visitors to soak up the rich history and architecture while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere that surrounds them.
• Glyfada: Glyfada provides a refreshing escape with its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Known for attractions such as Glyfada's Second Beach, this city offers a perfect mix of beachside relaxation and urban experiences. Visitors can explore shopping areas and indulge in dining at local restaurants and cafes. Glyfada is particularly popular during the summer months, making it an ideal destination for those seeking sun, sea, and a vibrant city vibe.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a greater selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means 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 refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but it could be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide you with peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning lengthy road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Athens

The best value period to rent a car in and around Athens is March, when prices are moderately low and demand is average. The months of February and April also offer good options, with low demand and similar pricing. As the summer approaches, prices tend to rise, particularly in July and August, when demand peaks and costs can be moderately high. Following this busy season, September sees prices return to average levels with continued high demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.