Car Rental in Greece for Spanish Travelers

Embarking on a trip from Spain to Greece and planning to rent a car can be thrilling, but there might be some uncertainties along the way.
If you're a traveler from Spain, this guide will help answer:

Is my Spanish driver's license valid in Greece?
What type of car insurance should I consider?
What are the typical rental costs in Greece?
Can I conveniently book a one-way rental?
Which driving regulations in Greece differ from Spain?

This guide is designed to provide clear and concise information to ease your car rental experience in Greece. An overview table summarizing critical details is included for quick reference.

Can Spanish Citizens Drive in Greece?

Yes, Spanish travelers can legally drive in Greece with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• EU/EEA Driving License
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, and UnionPay.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 18 and 99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur an additional fee of US$ 14.15 per day.

Ready to Rent?

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

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore options from well-known international chains or reliable local operators for your travel to Greece.

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:
179
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:
78
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 Spanish Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

Need comprehensive coverage across Greece
Prefer assured service standards and support
Looking for well-maintained vehicle fleets
Require multilingual customer assistance

Choose Local Brands If:

Seeking budget-friendly rental options
Focusing on specific cities or regions
Interested in unique or specialized vehicle choices
Comfortable with limited service availability

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your travel 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 USA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most Greek drivers prefer manual transmission for local trips
- 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 Spanish 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, Patras
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Peloponnese, Meteora, Delphi
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Santorini, Crete, Rhodes

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.

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No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Greece?

Greece offers a variety of captivating destinations, from historic sites in Athens to scenic coastal towns like Santorini and Crete. Rental cars provide travelers the flexibility to explore these unique locations at their own pace.

What Insurance Do I Need?

To legally and safely drive in Greece, travelers from Spain need to ensure they have adequate car rental insurance. Insurance regulations and coverage can vary, so it's important to choose the appropriate options to avoid unexpected costs.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Provides coverage for damage to the rental vehicle in case of a collision or accident.
€14-22/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Offers protection against theft of the rental vehicle.
€5-10/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers damages or injuries caused to others or their property.
Included in most rentals
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses in case of injuries to the driver or passengers.
€4-8/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

$0.00 - $7,668.36

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $7,668.36

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 Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Smart booking strategies can help Spanish travelers save significantly when renting a car in Greece. Consider these tips to make your trip economical and hassle-free.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book in Advance
Secure your rental car at least 3-6 weeks before your travel date to ensure better rates and availability.
Potential savings: up to 35%
Compare Rental Agencies
Use platforms like QEEQ or AutoEurope to compare options and find the most economical deal tailored for Spanish travelers visiting Greece.
Potential savings: up to 20%
Choose Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Opt for rental companies offering full-to-full fuel policy to manage fuel costs effectively by refueling at reasonably priced gas stations.
Potential savings: €15-30
Select Economy Cars
Rent an economy or compact car to save on rental costs and fuel expenses, especially for city driving in Greece.
Potential savings: up to €50 per rental

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 as a traveler from Spain.

Hidden Fees
Be aware of additional charges that may not be included in the initial rental price.
- Charges for picking up at the airport
- Young driver surcharges for those under 25
- Fees for adding additional drivers
- Costs for optional equipment like child seats or navigation systems
- Payment for crossing borders to neighboring countries
Insurance Requirements
Understand the insurance coverages offered and ensure you're adequately protected.
- Rental agencies often propose additional insurance coverage
- Check if your personal travel insurance includes rental car coverage
- Some credit cards might provide rental insurance
- Understand liability limits and coverage details
Fuel Policies
Rental companies may have strict rules regarding fuel levels.
- Full-to-full policies are usually the most economical
- Verify the fuel level when picking up the car
- Returning the car with less fuel may incur penalties
Vehicle Condition Inspection
Inspect the car thoroughly before driving away.
- Check for any visible damage such as scratches or dents
- Ensure that all lights and electronics are functioning
- Document the car's condition with photos
Contract Terms
Carefully review the rental agreement to understand the terms.
- Confirm mileage limits, if any
- Understand policies for late returns
- Know the fees for modifying or canceling the reservation
Operating Hours
Plan your rental based on the agency's opening and closing times.
- Picking up the car outside of business hours may incur extra fees
- Returning the car late may result in additional charges

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 Spanish and Greek Traffic Rules

Spain and Greece share some common traffic rules, but there are notable differences such as toll road systems, helmet laws, and parking regulations.

Toll Roads
GR
Toll roads are common, payment often required at toll booths
ES
Toll roads exist, but electronic toll systems are prevalent
Helmet Laws
GR
Mandatory for all riders
ES
Mandatory only on high-speed roads
Parking Restrictions
GR
Strict regulations, illegal parking can lead to fines
ES
Less strict, but specific zones have rules
Speed Limits
GR
Urban areas: 50 km/h; Highways: 120 km/h
ES
Urban areas: 50 km/h; Highways: 130 km/h
Seatbelt Laws
GR
Mandatory for all occupants
ES
Mandatory for all occupants
Mobile Phone Use
GR
Hands-free devices only
ES
Hands-free devices only
Remember
- • Ensure your rental car has the necessary vignettes for toll roads in Greece.
- • Be aware of local parking zones to avoid fines.
- • Always carry your driving documentation, including insurance papers.
- • Be cautious on mountainous roads, especially in rural Greece.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Spain renting a car in Greece

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a Spanish citizen?

No. The Spanish driving licence is fully valid in Greece as it is an EU licence. You do not need an International Driving Permit.

What exact documents will they ask for when I pick up the car?

You must present: 1) your valid Spanish driving licence, 2) your ID card or passport, and 3) a credit card (not debit) in the name of the main driver.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Greece? Are there surcharges for young or senior drivers?

In general, the minimum age is 21 or 23, depending on the company. Drivers under 25 pay a ‘young driver fee’. Some rentals also charge a surcharge for drivers over 70 or 75.

Can someone else drive the rental car?

Yes, but they must be listed as an ‘additional driver’ in the contract from the start, which implies a daily extra cost. If an undeclared driver is at the wheel and there is an accident, the insurance becomes invalid.

Do they accept the Spanish digital driving licence (miDGT app)?

No. You must carry the physical licence. Most rental companies in Greece do not accept the digital version and may refuse to rent you the car.

What type of car do you recommend for two people in the Cyclades Islands?

A mini or economy car (e.g. Fiat Panda, Hyundai i10), ideal for narrow streets and parking in tourist towns where space is limited.

And for a family of four travelling around the Peloponnese?

A compact or intermediate car is best (e.g. Opel Astra, VW Golf) for luggage space and comfort on motorways and mountain roads.

Where and how is it best to book the car?

The most advisable option is to use an online comparison site. Use an all-in-one platform such as QEEQ to compare and book. This way you can easily see insurance options, fuel policies and prices.

I’ve seen very cheap offers; is there a catch?

Yes. They are usually basic rates with a very high excess. At the counter they will try to sell you expensive insurance to reduce that excess.

Can I pick up the car in one place and return it in another (one-way)?

Yes, it’s possible, but there is almost always a high one-way fee, especially between islands or very distant locations. Consider whether it’s worth it.

What is the ‘excess’ in the insurance?

It is the maximum amount you would pay out of your own pocket in case of damage. Example: if the excess is €1,000 and the damage is €3,000, you pay the first €1,000 and the insurance covers the rest.

What does CDW insurance actually cover?

CDW reduces your liability down to the excess, but it does not cover tyres, windows, underbody, roof or keys. It is not full insurance.

They offer me SCDW or FDW insurance at the counter. Do I need it?

SCDW/FDW eliminates or greatly reduces the excess. It is expensive, but it gives peace of mind. One tip: platforms like QEEQ offer full coverage at lower prices; in that case, you pay first and then claim reimbursement.

Why do I need a credit card and not a debit card?

The company blocks the excess as a security deposit on the credit card, not on a debit card. Without a valid credit card in your name, they will not hand over the car.

What other hidden costs might appear?

Watch out for: out-of-hours fees, airport surcharge, fuel charges if you don’t return the tank at the same level, and administrative fees for fines.

Can I pay in euros without any problem in Greece?

Yes, Greece is in the Eurozone. You won’t have currency exchange costs.

What should I do when I arrive at the rental counter?

Have all your documents and the booking voucher ready. Read the contract before signing and check for any extra charges that may have been added.

The employee insists that I buy their additional insurance. What should I do?

This is a common tactic. If you already have sufficient coverage (for example through QEEQ), politely say that you don’t need it and stand your ground.

What inspection should I carry out before driving off with the car?

Record a video and take detailed photos of the whole car, noting scratches and damage. Make sure everything is recorded in the damage report before signing.

Which fuel policy is best?

The ‘Full-to-Full’ policy: you pick up and return the car with a full tank. It is the fairest option. Avoid ‘Full-to-Empty’ policies.

What should I do if the car I’m given is not the one I booked?

They must give you a car of the same category or higher, never lower. If they give you a lower category, complain or request a partial refund.

Should I check anything else on the car when I collect it?

Yes. Check the air conditioning, windscreen wipers, tyre pressure and that there is a reflective vest and warning triangles in the car.

What are the general speed limits in Greece?

50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h on standard roads and 110–130 km/h on motorways. Pay attention to local signs.

What is the Greek driving style like?

More flexible than in Spain. It is common for slower cars to move over to the right (hard shoulder) to let faster cars pass. Adapt with caution.

How does parking work in cities and towns?

Blue lines: paid parking; white lines: free; yellow lines: no parking. Look for municipal car parks in tourist towns, as parking in the centre is usually very difficult.

Are there many toll motorways? How do you pay?

The main motorways on the mainland are toll roads and you pay in cash or by card at toll booths. There are no tolls on the islands.

What condition are the roads in Greece in?

The motorways are modern, but in rural areas and on the islands roads can be narrow, winding and sometimes have potholes or poor lighting. Drive carefully, especially at night.

Any other important traffic rules I should know?

Seat belts are compulsory for everyone. Alcohol limit: 0.05%. It is forbidden to use a mobile phone without a hands-free system.

Are there many speed cameras in Greece?

Yes, both fixed and mobile, especially on motorways and at city entrances. Always respect the speed limits.

What should I do if I see animals on the road?

This is common in rural areas (goats, sheep, cows). Reduce your speed and wait for them to move away without honking aggressively.

Can I take my rental car on a ferry between islands?

Normally no. Most rental contracts prohibit this and the insurance becomes invalid. If you do it without permission, you assume all the risk.

How can I visit several islands if I can’t take the car on the ferry?

Return the car at the port/airport of the island you are leaving and rent a new one on the next island. This is safer and avoids financial risks.

Do I need a car in Santorini and Mykonos?

It depends. For short stays you can use buses, taxis or transfers. But a small car (or scooter/quad) gives you more freedom to explore beaches and less touristy villages.

In Crete, is it essential to rent a car?

Yes, it is essential. It is a large island and you need a car to get around and discover beaches, gorges and charming towns.

Is it advisable to rent a car to visit the Meteora monasteries?

Yes. It makes it easier to visit the six monasteries, stop at viewpoints and explore the area at your own pace without depending on buses.

Can I drive to Balos beach (Crete)? Any issues?

The dirt track is not covered by most insurances, even ‘full insurance’. If there is any damage, you pay the full cost. It is risky.

What should I do when returning the car?

Return it with the agreed fuel level (take a photo of the gauge), wait for them to inspect it with you and ask for a signed check-in report showing no damage.

What if the employee spots a scratch I didn’t cause?

Show the photos/videos you took when you collected the car. If you have no proof, they will probably charge you for the damage.

How long does it take for the deposit on the credit card to be released?

It can take from a few days up to 3–4 weeks, depending on the company and the bank. If it’s not released after a month, contact the rental company and then your bank.

What should I do if I have an accident or a breakdown with the car?

Safety comes first. Then call the company’s roadside assistance number (on the contract or a sticker in the car) and follow their instructions. Do not call a tow truck on your own.

What happens if I receive a traffic fine months later?

The rental company will receive the fine, pay it and charge it to your card along with an administrative fee (€30–€50).

I’ve received an unexpected charge after returning the car. How can I make a complaint?

Contact the company’s customer service (or QEEQ if you booked there) in writing, attaching the contract, return report and bank statement.

Is it better to rent a child seat or bring my own from Spain?

Renting one there is expensive and sometimes the seats are not in good condition. If your airline allows you to check it in for free, bringing your own is usually safer and more economical.

What should I do if I lose the rental car keys?

Contact the company immediately. Losing the keys usually carries a high cost and is not covered by basic insurance.

Can I drive the rental car into neighbouring countries?

This is generally not allowed without prior authorisation and may involve an extra fee or additional insurance. Always check before booking.

Are there any restrictions on driving on unpaved roads in Greece?

Yes. Most insurances exclude damage on unpaved roads. Always check the terms and conditions before venturing onto dirt tracks.

Any final tips for Spaniards who are going to drive in Greece?

Relax and adapt to the local pace. Be predictable, not aggressive, and enjoy the freedom of exploring Greece by car. Have a great trip (Καλό ταξίδι)!

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Greece for Spanish Travelers

Embarking on a trip from Spain to Greece and planning to rent a car can be thrilling, but there might be some uncertainties along the way. If you're a traveler from Spain, this guide will help answer:

Can Spanish Citizens Drive in Greece?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Spanish 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?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

What Are The Differences Between Spanish and Greek Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Embarking on a trip from Spain to Greece and planning to rent a car can be thrilling, but there might be some uncertainties along the way.
If you're a traveler from Spain, this guide will help answer: