Rent a car at Heraklion or Chania airports in Crete with no deposit. Compare all rental companies, get the best price, and enjoy free cancellation.
Crete, Greece's largest island, is served by two international airports: Heraklion Airport (HER) and Chania Airport (CHQ). Both terminals offer excellent car rental facilities, making it easy to start your journey the moment you land. Speed Rent a Car connects you with all major car hire companies in Crete, allowing you to compare prices and book a vehicle with no deposit required.
Picking up your rental car directly at Heraklion or Chania airport saves time and offers immediate freedom to explore Crete. The island's highlights — from the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion to the stunning Samaria Gorge near Chania — are best reached by car. Public transport is limited outside major cities, and taxis can be expensive for longer distances.
With car hire in Crete, you control your itinerary. Drive the scenic coastal roads, discover hidden beaches like Balos and Elafonissi, and visit mountain villages at your own pace. Both airports have well-maintained rental facilities with a wide choice of vehicles, from economy cars to 4x4 rentals suitable for Crete's rugged interior.
Speed Rent a Car offers car hire options at both Heraklion and Chania airports with no deposit required. This means you can rent a car in Crete without blocking funds on your credit card — ideal for travellers who prefer cash-friendly solutions or have limited credit card availability. The rental agreement is concluded directly with the local car hire company, and all terms are detailed in your booking voucher.
Not all vehicles may be available without a deposit, as some premium or larger models require a security guarantee. However, you'll find a good selection of economy cars, compact vehicles, and family options that can be rented with no deposit at Crete airports. Check availability when booking online through Speed Rent a Car.
Heraklion International Airport "Nikos Kazantzakis" (IATA: HER) is the main gateway to Crete, handling over 8 million passengers annually. The airport is modern, efficient, and extremely busy during summer months (June–September). Car rental companies in Crete have desks in the arrivals hall immediately after customs and baggage claim.
Heraklion Airport has a single terminal building. Upon arrival, you'll pass through passport control (if arriving from outside Schengen) and collect your luggage. The arrivals hall is directly ahead, and car hire desks line the right-hand wall. Major companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Sixt operate here, alongside local Cretan rental firms.
During peak season, queues can be long. If you've pre-booked with Speed Rent a Car, your voucher will specify which desk to visit. Some companies have their cars in the airport car park (5-minute walk), while others operate from nearby off-site locations with free shuttle buses. The voucher includes exact pickup instructions and contact details.
After collecting your luggage, proceed to the rental desk shown in your voucher. Present your booking confirmation, driving licence (held for at least 12 months), passport, and payment card. The staff will verify your details, explain the rental terms, and provide the vehicle keys and paperwork. Inspect the car for any existing damage and ensure it's recorded in the rental agreement before driving off.
Fuel policy is typically full-to-full: you receive the car with a full tank and return it full. Petrol stations are available near the airport and along the main highways. If you're renting without a deposit through Speed Rent a Car, confirm payment terms at the desk — some companies accept cash for the rental balance, while others require a card.
Exit the airport and follow signs to the New National Road (E75 motorway). This modern highway connects Heraklion to Chania in the west and Agios Nikolaos in the east. To reach Heraklion city centre, take the exit marked "Heraklion" — it's about 10 minutes' drive. For southern Crete (Matala, Agia Galini), head west on the E75, then take the southbound route near Tymbaki.
The road network around Heraklion is generally excellent, with clear signage in Greek and English. Parking in Heraklion city can be challenging; use public car parks or park outside the old town and walk in. If you're heading straight to a resort, most coastal routes are straightforward and scenic.
Chania International Airport "Ioannis Daskalogiannis" (IATA: CHQ) serves western Crete and is the second-busiest airport on the island. Located 14 km east of Chania town, it's a smaller, more relaxed terminal compared to Heraklion. Car hire companies at Chania Airport operate from desks in the arrivals area, and the rental process is quick and efficient.
Chania Airport has one terminal. After baggage collection, you enter the arrivals hall where car rental desks are clearly visible. Major brands and local companies are represented here. Some firms have cars parked directly at the terminal, while others provide a short shuttle to nearby lots. Your Speed Rent a Car voucher will specify the exact pickup location and any shuttle arrangements.
Chania Airport is quieter than Heraklion, so queues are shorter even in summer. However, it's still advisable to pre-book your car to ensure availability and the best price. Walk-in rates at the airport can be significantly higher, especially during peak weeks in July and August.
Present your voucher, driving licence (valid for at least one year), passport, and payment method at the designated desk. The rental agent will complete the paperwork, explain insurance coverage, and hand over the keys. Conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle in the company representative's presence. Note any scratches, dents, or existing damage in the rental contract to avoid disputes on return.
Fuel policy is typically full-to-full. Petrol stations are available near the airport and along the main coastal road. If you've booked a no deposit car rental, confirm the payment method for the balance — cash is often accepted, but some companies prefer cards for final settlement.
Exit the airport and join the New National Road (E75) heading west towards Chania or east towards Rethymno and Heraklion. Chania town centre is about 20 minutes' drive west. The route is well-signposted and straightforward. If you're staying in western Crete (Kissamos, Balos, Elafonissi), head further west on the E75, then take regional roads south or north depending on your destination.
Parking in Chania old town is limited. Use the public car park near the Venetian Harbour or park on the outskirts and walk. The west coast of Crete offers stunning drives, including the route to Balos Lagoon (requires a 4x4 or sturdy car for the final unpaved section). If you're heading to Samaria Gorge, the drive from Chania takes about 45 minutes to the Omalos Plateau trailhead.
Booking and collecting a rental car at Heraklion or Chania airport is straightforward if you follow these steps. Speed Rent a Car makes the process simple by comparing all available options and providing instant confirmation.
Enter your arrival airport (Heraklion or Chania), dates, and times in the booking widget above. Speed Rent a Car will display all available vehicles from local rental companies, including no deposit options.
Select the vehicle that suits your needs — economy, compact, family car, or 4x4. Filter by "no deposit" if you prefer not to block funds on your card. Review the rental terms, insurance coverage, and fuel policy before booking.
Provide your details and pay the advance online by card. You'll receive a confirmation voucher by email with the rental company name, desk location at the airport, and pickup instructions. Print or save the voucher on your phone.
On arrival at Heraklion or Chania airport, collect your luggage and proceed to the rental desk specified in your voucher. Present your booking confirmation, driving licence (held for at least 12 months), passport, and payment card (even for no deposit rentals, a card may be required for identification). The agent will explain the rental terms, check your documents, and hand over the keys.
Inspect the car before leaving the lot. Check for scratches, dents, tyre condition, and fuel level. Ensure all damage is documented in the rental agreement. Test lights, wipers, and air conditioning. If anything is unclear, ask the staff before driving off. Take photos of the car from all angles as additional proof of its condition at pickup.
Drive carefully and observe Greek traffic rules. Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on secondary roads, 130 km/h on motorways. Seat belts are mandatory, and mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless hands-free. If you have any issues or questions during the rental, contact the car hire company using the phone number in your voucher.
Return the vehicle to the same airport location (Heraklion or Chania) at the agreed time. Refuel before arrival — fuel policy is typically full-to-full. Park in the designated rental return area, lock the car, and return the keys to the desk. Allow extra time if returning during busy periods, as staff may inspect the vehicle before releasing you.
To rent a car at Heraklion or Chania airport in Crete, you must present the following documents at the rental desk:
| Document | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Driving Licence | Valid licence held for at least 12 months. EU licences accepted. Non-EU drivers may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) — check with the rental company. |
| Passport or ID | Valid government-issued ID required for identity verification. |
| Booking Voucher | Confirmation from Speed Rent a Car with rental details and company contact info. |
| Payment Card | Credit or debit card for payment and potential deposit (if applicable). Some no deposit rentals accept cash, but a card may still be required for ID. |
Minimum driver age in Greece is typically 21 years, though some companies require 23 or 25 for certain vehicle categories (e.g., luxury cars, large SUVs). Drivers under 25 may pay a young driver surcharge. Maximum age limits are rare but check the terms in your voucher if you're over 70.
An IDP is not mandatory for EU licence holders renting a car in Crete. However, non-EU drivers (e.g., from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia) are advised to carry an IDP alongside their national licence, especially if the licence is not in Latin script. The IDP is a translation, not a standalone document — you must present both the IDP and your original licence at the rental desk.
Renting a car at Heraklion or Chania airport with no deposit means you don't need to block a security amount on your credit card. This is particularly useful if you have limited credit availability, prefer to pay in cash, or simply want to avoid the hassle of a deposit hold.
Speed Rent a Car connects you with rental companies in Crete that offer no deposit options. The rental agreement is concluded directly between you and the car hire company. When you book, you pay an advance online by card. At the airport desk, you settle the remaining balance according to the payment terms in your voucher — some companies accept cash, others prefer cards.
Not all vehicles are available without deposit — premium cars, large SUVs, and luxury models may require a security guarantee. Check availability filters when booking.
The absence of a deposit does not mean no liability. You are still responsible for the vehicle and any damage during the rental period. Full terms, including insurance coverage and excess amounts, are detailed in your booking confirmation and the rental contract at pickup.
Driving in Crete is generally straightforward, with well-maintained main roads and clear signage in Greek and English. However, it's important to understand local rules and conditions before setting off from the airport.
The New National Road (E75) is the main highway connecting Heraklion, Rethymno, and Chania. It's a modern motorway with good surfaces and clear signage. Secondary roads in Crete vary — coastal routes are generally excellent, while mountain roads can be narrow, winding, and steep. Drive cautiously in rural areas, especially at night when lighting is poor and animals may wander onto the road.
Road signs are in Greek and English. GPS navigation is reliable, but download offline maps in case of signal loss in remote areas. Major towns and tourist sites are well signposted. If you're visiting off-the-beaten-path locations like mountain villages or secluded beaches, expect narrower roads and occasional unpaved sections.
Petrol and diesel are widely available in Crete. Fuel prices are displayed per litre in euros. Most stations offer both petrol (βενζίνη) and diesel (πετρέλαιο). Payment is typically by cash or card. Stations are common along highways and in towns, but less frequent in remote mountain areas — fill up before heading into the interior.
Rental cars usually operate on a full-to-full fuel policy: you receive the car with a full tank and return it full. Keep your final fuel receipt as proof of refuelling. Some companies charge a refuelling fee if you return the car empty, which is always more expensive than filling it yourself.
Parking in Heraklion and Chania old towns can be challenging. Use designated car parks (paid) or park on the outskirts and walk. Blue lines indicate paid parking zones; white lines are free but often hard to find. Parking on yellow lines is prohibited. In resorts and villages, parking is usually easier and often free near beaches and attractions.
Always lock your car and avoid leaving valuables visible inside. Tourist areas can attract opportunistic theft. If you're visiting archaeological sites like Knossos or natural attractions like Samaria Gorge, designated parking areas are available (usually with a small fee).
Heraklion and Chania airports offer a wide range of vehicles to suit all budgets and travel needs. Here's what you can expect when renting a car in Crete:
Small, fuel-efficient vehicles perfect for couples or solo travellers. Examples: Fiat Panda, Hyundai i10. Ideal for city driving and coastal routes.
View All Car Types →Comfortable mid-size cars for families or groups. Examples: Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Corolla. Suitable for touring the island with luggage.
View All Car Types →Rugged vehicles for exploring Crete's interior and unpaved roads. Examples: Dacia Duster, Suzuki Vitara. Recommended for mountain villages and remote beaches.
Explore 4x4 Rentals →Premium cars and larger vehicles for comfort and space. Examples: BMW, Mercedes, 7-9 seater vans. Perfect for luxury travel or large groups.
Luxury Cars →Renting a car at Heraklion or Chania airport unlocks the full beauty of Crete. Here are must-visit destinations easily reached by car:
Crete's road network makes it easy to explore both coasts and the mountainous interior. With a rental car from Speed Rent a Car, you can visit multiple regions in one trip, from ancient ruins to secluded beaches, mountain villages, and coastal resorts.
Yes — Speed Rent a Car offers car hire options at both Heraklion and Chania airports with no deposit required. The rental agreement is concluded directly with the local car hire company, and full terms are in your booking voucher. Not all vehicles may be available without deposit — premium cars and large SUVs typically require a security guarantee.
Both airports offer excellent car rental facilities. Heraklion Airport (HER) is larger, busier, and ideal if you're visiting central or eastern Crete. Chania Airport (CHQ) is smaller, more relaxed, and better for western Crete. Choose based on your destination — both have good availability and competitive prices.
An IDP is not mandatory for EU licence holders. Non-EU drivers (UK, USA, Canada, Australia, etc.) are advised to carry an IDP alongside their national licence, especially if the licence is not in Latin script. Check with the rental company when booking.
Minimum age is typically 21 years, though some companies require 23 or 25 for certain vehicle types. Drivers under 25 may pay a young driver surcharge. Check age requirements in your booking confirmation before arrival.
Yes, one-way rentals between Heraklion and Chania airports are possible, but the rental company may charge a one-way fee. Check the terms when booking online through Speed Rent a Car. If you're doing a round trip, returning to the same airport avoids extra charges.
Yes, the main highways (E75) and coastal roads in Crete are modern, well-maintained, and safe. Secondary and mountain roads can be narrow and winding — drive carefully, especially at night. Road signs are in Greek and English. Follow local speed limits and traffic rules.
Real feedback from customers who rented cars at Crete airports
"Booked a car at Heraklion Airport with no deposit — super easy! The pickup was fast, the car was clean, and the price was the best I found online. Highly recommend Speed Rent a Car for Crete."
"We rented a 4x4 from Chania Airport to explore western Crete. The booking process was smooth, and the car was perfect for the mountain roads. No issues, great service. Will use again."
"First time renting a car in Greece, and it was stress-free. The no deposit option at Heraklion Airport saved us money upfront. The car was ready when we landed, and return was quick. Excellent!"
Petrol (95 octane) typically costs between €1.70–€1.90 per litre. Diesel is slightly cheaper at €1.50–€1.70 per litre. Prices vary by location — fuel is cheaper in towns than at motorway service stations. Pay in cash or card at the pump or inside the station.
There are no toll roads in Crete. The E75 motorway connecting Heraklion, Rethymno, and Chania is free to use. However, if you drive from Athens to Crete (via ferry from Piraeus), note that mainland motorways have tolls — irrelevant for airport pickups in Crete.
Parking in Crete's major towns (Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno) can be tight. Use public car parks (paid) or park outside the old town and walk. Blue lines indicate paid zones; white lines are free. Yellow lines mean no parking. At tourist sites and beaches, parking is usually free or subject to a small fee.
Basic insurance (CDW — Collision Damage Waiver) is typically included in your rental. This covers major damage but usually has an excess (the amount you pay in case of damage). The excess amount varies by car type and rental company. You can often reduce or waive the excess by purchasing additional insurance at booking or at the desk.
No deposit rentals may have different insurance terms — check your voucher for details. Even without a deposit, you remain liable for the vehicle during the rental period. Take photos at pickup and return to avoid disputes over damage.
Compare all rental companies at Heraklion and Chania airports. Find the best price, book in minutes, enjoy free cancellation.
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