This guide will address all these queries in detail, so you're prepared for an enjoyable and safe road trip in Greece. Don't miss the summary table at the end for a quick overview of essentials.
Yes, French travelers can rent and drive a car in Greece if they meet the age, ID, licence, and payment card requirements described below.
Form of ID:
A valid passport of the main driver is required at pick-up.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• EU/EEA Driving License (French national licences are accepted across the EU/EEA, as well as in Switzerland and the United Kingdom).
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required for payment and deposit. Accepted cards include Visa and MasterCard.
Age requirements:
The permitted driving age ranges from 21 to 85 years old. Some vehicle categories may require drivers to be at least 25 years old.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Travelers from France to Greece can choose between global car rental chains or local providers, each suited to diverse travel needs and preferences.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
Europcar
Locations:
268Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking flexible and reliable car rental services
Avis
Locations:
307Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
Locations:
262Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Centauro
Locations:
52Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Alamo
Locations:
156Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
OK Mobility
Locations:
51Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking budget-friendly and reliable rental options
SIXT
Locations:
179Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking quality and affordability
VOLTA 4u
Locations:
78Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and environmentally aware customers
Avance
Locations:
95Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking local service and luxury options
Record Go
Locations:
21Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and familiesChoosing the right rental car can make your journey 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.
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
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
Most French drivers prefer automatic for Greece
Consider your comfort level with local roads and traffic conditions
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 French insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
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
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Best for long road trips and exploring islands
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
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
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Athens, Thessaloniki, HeraklionMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Peloponnese, Crete, ThessalyConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
The USA offers diverse iconic routes and popular city loops that suit different travel styles. You can also choose one-way rentals to explore more efficiently.
To legally and safely drive in Greece, you'll need adequate car rental insurance. Insurance coverage varies by rental company, so it's essential to choose the right options for comprehensive protection. This guide outlines the essential and optional insurance types for travelers from France.
Covers damages to the rental car due to collision or theft, ensuring you're not liable for the full cost.
Provides coverage against theft of the rental vehicle, reducing liability significantly.
Covers damages and injuries caused to third parties and their property during the rental period.
Offers coverage for medical expenses for you and your passengers in case of an accident.
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.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Make the most of your car rental experience by following these practical tips. Booking smartly and being informed can help you save significantly.
Essential considerations and tips for travelers from France renting a car in Greece.
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.
France and Greece have distinct traffic regulations; understanding these differences and similarities is crucial for safe driving during your visit.
Priority at Intersections
Priority is given to vehicles coming from the right unless otherwise indicated.
Priority is commonly given to vehicles on the main road.
Speed Limits
Urban areas: 50 km/h; rural areas: 90 km/h; highways: 130 km/h.
Urban areas: 50 km/h; rural areas: 80 km/h; highways: 110 km/h.
Alcohol Limits
Blood alcohol content limit is 0.05%.
Blood alcohol content limit is 0.08%.
Mobile Phone Usage
Hands-free devices are permitted; holding a phone while driving is prohibited.
Hands-free devices are required; phone usage without hands-free is penalized.
Seatbelt Rules
Mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle.
Mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle.
Parking Regulations
Parking is regulated; pay attention to signage and curb markings.
Similar parking rules with emphasis on designated areas and times.
