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Finding a car rental in Athens is easier with Road Genius. Compare prices from dozens of suppliers all around Greece with no booking fees. Choose car rental at Athens Airport, the city center or Piraeus Port and set off for Delphi, Nafplio or Cape Sounion. Compare total prices including insurance and book early for summer for lower rates and more choice.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
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| Athens Airport (ATH) |
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| City Center (Syngrou Ave) |
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| Piraeus Port |
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On average, car rentals in Athens cost around €73 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from €19 per day.
Compare pickup spots: City center pickups avoid the ~13% airport surcharge and you won’t pay for days you don’t need while in Athens. Factor in metro or taxi costs from ATH.
Book to match demand: For Athens peak season (July–August) or Friday/Saturday arrivals, reserve 2-3 months ahead. Off-season, compare multiple dates and locations as prices can be softer midweek.
Go smaller and manual: Compact cars are cheaper and easier to park in Athens. Manual transmission typically saves €5-10 per day.
Leverage pricing quirks: A 7-day rate can beat 5-6 days. Returning to the same location usually avoids one-way fees.
Cut running costs: Refuel away from motorways. For city visits, use Park & Ride at Katehaki, Ethniki Amyna or Eleonas to avoid €15-20 parking fees. Street parking in white zones is free on Sundays and national holidays.
Match pickup to your plan: Arriving by ferry? Piraeus pickup can save a city transfer. Staying in Athens first? Start your rental the day you leave the city.
City Parking Zones:
White lines: Visitor paid parking (Mon-Fri 9:00-21:00, Sat 9:00-16:00)
Yellow lines: No parking (taxis, deliveries, or designated uses)
Parking Payment:
Parking Alternatives:
Athens Traffic Ring (Daktylios):
Rent a car to easily:
Delphi – ruins, museum
Nafplio – harbor, Palamidi Fortress
Cape Sounion – Temple of Poseidon
Athens Riviera – beaches, marinas
Is it a good idea to drive in central Athens? You might find driving in central Athens tricky because of the heavy traffic, few parking spots and the odd-even number plate system (Daktylios). We find that using public transport like the metro, tram or bus is often an easier way to get around the city center. A rental car is great for trips outside the city.
Where can I find cheap parking in Athens? You can find the cheapest parking in municipal parking lots near metro stations, paid street spots (marked by white lines) for short stays and private parking lots that have daily rates of around €15-20. In some areas outside the traffic ring, you can find free street parking, especially on weekends and in the evenings.
How strictly do police enforce the Athens traffic ring (Daktylios)? Police are enforcing it more strictly these days. If you drive in the ring when you're not supposed to, you can get a fine of €100 or more. Drivers of rental cars must follow the same rules as locals, depending on their license plate number.
What's the best way to get around Athens by car? We really recommend you use a GPS or a smartphone app that has offline maps. You'll find that major landmarks have clear signs, but the local street names can be tricky. Apps like Google Maps that show live traffic are very helpful for avoiding busy roads.
How much time should I leave for returning a rental car at Athens Airport? You should plan for at least 30 minutes to drop the car off during normal hours. At busy times, give yourself 45 to 60 minutes. You should also add extra time for refueling near the airport and for possible traffic jams on the Attiki Odos, especially during the morning and evening rush.
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