Frequently Asked Questions

Speed Rent a Car is an intermediary platform that connects travellers with trusted local car rental companies across Greece. When you book through our website, you are comparing offers from multiple providers and selecting the best option for your trip. The rental agreement is concluded directly between you and the chosen car hire company. We make the process simple by offering instant online booking, transparent pricing, and dedicated customer support.

No deposit car rental means you can hire a vehicle without having a hold placed on your credit card. Normally, rental companies block €500–€1500 as a security deposit, which is released after you return the car. With our no deposit options, this hold is waived. The rental agreement is still concluded with the local company, and full terms are provided in your booking voucher. Not all vehicles qualify — availability depends on the rental company's policies.

Yes — some car rental companies in Greece accept debit cards or allow cash payment for certain vehicle types. Speed Rent a Car filters options that do not require a credit card. However, availability may be limited, and some rental providers still prefer credit cards for premium or larger vehicles. Always check the payment terms during booking and in your voucher.

The rental price shown on Speed Rent a Car typically includes basic insurance (CDW/TP), unlimited mileage, and standard terms. Additional items such as GPS, child seats, extra drivers, or full insurance coverage may cost extra. All inclusions are clearly listed during the booking process and in your confirmation voucher. Check the vehicle details carefully before completing your reservation.

Most car rental companies in Greece require a minimum rental period of 24 hours (one day). Some locations, especially during peak season (June–September), may require longer minimum rentals such as 2–3 days. You can select your preferred dates when booking through Speed Rent a Car, and the system will show only available options for your chosen period.

Cancellation and modification policies vary by rental company. Many providers offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, while others may charge a fee. Speed Rent a Car displays the cancellation terms during booking. If you need to cancel or change your reservation, contact the rental company directly using the details in your voucher. Refunds are processed by the car hire company, not by Speed Rent a Car.

Booking is simple: enter your pickup location, dates, and times in the search form above. Browse available vehicles, compare prices, and select the car that suits your needs. Review the rental terms, add any extras (GPS, child seat), and complete the booking online. You'll receive a confirmation voucher via email with all details, including the rental company's contact information and pickup instructions.

When you book through Speed Rent a Car, you pay an advance online by credit or debit card. The remaining balance is paid directly to the rental company when you collect the vehicle. Payment methods for the remaining amount vary by provider — most accept credit cards, and some accept debit cards or cash. Check the payment terms in your voucher before arrival.

Speed Rent a Car accepts online payment by credit or debit card for the advance. The rental company may accept credit cards, debit cards, or cash for the balance and deposit (if applicable). Payment options depend on the vehicle and rental provider. Always confirm accepted methods in your booking voucher to avoid surprises at pickup.

Yes — immediately after completing your booking, you will receive a confirmation email with a detailed voucher. The voucher includes your reservation number, rental company details, pickup instructions, vehicle information, and payment terms. Keep this voucher with you (printed or on your phone) — you will need to present it when collecting your car in Greece.

Yes — you can book a car for another person. The main driver must meet all age and licence requirements set by the rental company. Ensure the driver's name matches the documents presented at pickup. If you are paying but not driving, inform the rental company in advance. Additional driver fees may apply if more than one person will drive the vehicle.

No — Speed Rent a Car displays transparent pricing. All mandatory fees are included in the quote. Optional extras (GPS, child seats, additional drivers) are clearly listed with their costs. The rental company may charge for fuel, late returns, or damage, but these are standard terms disclosed in your voucher. Always read the rental conditions before confirming your booking.

To rent a car in Greece, you need: a valid driver's licence held for at least 12 months, a credit or debit card in the main driver's name, and a valid ID or passport. EU licence holders do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Non-EU drivers are advised to carry an IDP alongside their national licence. All documents must be presented at pickup.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required if you hold a valid EU driver's licence. Non-EU licence holders should obtain an IDP in their home country before travelling to Greece. The IDP must be used together with your original licence — it does not replace it. Some rental companies may refuse to hire a car without an IDP for non-EU drivers.

The minimum age to rent a car in Greece is 21 years old. Some rental companies require drivers to be 25+ for certain vehicle categories such as luxury cars, 4x4 rentals, or minivans. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge. Age requirements are specified during the booking process on Speed Rent a Car.

Yes — foreign driver's licences are accepted in Greece. EU licence holders can drive without additional permits. Non-EU drivers should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their national licence. Your licence must be valid and held for at least 12 months. If your licence is not in Latin script (e.g., Arabic, Cyrillic), an IDP is strongly recommended.

Yes — most rental companies in Greece allow additional drivers for an extra fee. The additional driver must meet the same age and licence requirements as the main driver and present their documents at pickup. Adding a driver ensures they are covered by insurance if they need to take the wheel. You can request this option during booking or at the rental desk.

Most car rentals in Greece include basic insurance: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP). These cover major damage or theft but usually have an excess (deductible) — the amount you are responsible for in case of damage. The excess varies by vehicle and rental company. Full insurance (zero excess) is available as an optional upgrade, which we recommend for complete peace of mind.

Additional insurance (full coverage or zero excess) is optional but highly recommended. It eliminates your financial responsibility in case of damage, theft, or accidents. Basic CDW/TP insurance has an excess of €500–€1500, which you must pay if something happens. Full insurance is available during booking or at the rental desk. Compare the cost versus potential out-of-pocket expenses before deciding.

If the car is damaged during your rental period, you must inform the rental company immediately. Document the damage with photos and complete an incident report. If you have basic insurance (CDW), you will pay the excess amount. Full insurance (zero excess) covers all costs. Never leave the scene of an accident without notifying police and the rental company — failure to report may void your insurance coverage.

Insurance coverage varies by rental company and vehicle type. Most standard cars are covered for paved roads on all Greek islands accessible by bridge or ferry. Unpaved roads, mountain tracks, and off-road driving may not be covered by insurance. If you plan to explore remote areas, book a 4x4 rental and confirm with the rental company that off-road driving is permitted under your agreement.

Basic insurance (CDW) usually does NOT cover glass, tyres, undercarriage, or roof damage. These are considered driver responsibility unless you purchase full insurance or a specific add-on. Greece has many gravel roads and narrow village streets where tyre or undercarriage damage can occur. Drive carefully and consider upgrading to full coverage if you plan to explore rural areas.

You can pick up your rental car at major airports, city centres, and popular tourist locations across Greece. Speed Rent a Car offers pickup at Athens Airport, Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Santorini, and many other destinations. Some rental companies also offer hotel delivery for an additional fee. Select your preferred pickup location when booking.

Yes — airport pickup is available at all major Greek airports including Athens (ATH), Heraklion (HER), Rhodes (RHO), Corfu (CFU), Thessaloniki (SKG), and Mykonos (JMK). Some rental desks are located inside the terminal, while others operate from nearby offices with free shuttle service. Your voucher will include exact pickup instructions and the rental company's contact number.

If your flight is delayed, contact the rental company as soon as possible using the phone number in your voucher. Most providers monitor flight arrivals and adjust your pickup time automatically. However, if you miss your scheduled pickup window without notice, the rental company may cancel your reservation. Always keep your voucher accessible and inform the provider of any changes to your arrival time.

Yes — one-way rentals are available in Greece. You can pick up the car in one location (e.g., Athens) and drop it off in another (e.g., Chania). A one-way fee usually applies, which varies based on distance and rental company. One-way rentals are ideal for island-hopping itineraries. Check availability and fees during the booking process on Speed Rent a Car.

Before driving away, inspect the car thoroughly: check for scratches, dents, and tyre condition. Take photos or videos of any existing damage and ensure it is documented in the rental agreement. Verify that the fuel tank is full and check the fuel policy (full-to-full is standard). Test the lights, brakes, and air conditioning. Confirm the rental company's 24-hour contact number in case of emergency.

Most car rentals in Greece operate on a full-to-full fuel policy: you receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. If you return the car with less fuel, the rental company will charge a refuelling fee (often higher than pump prices). Always refuel near the drop-off location and keep the receipt as proof. Check your rental agreement for the exact fuel policy.

Drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on secondary roads, 130 km/h on motorways. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Mobile phone use is prohibited without hands-free. Blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.02% for drivers with less than 2 years' experience). Children under 12 must sit in the back seat with appropriate child restraints.

Main highways and motorways in Greece are well-maintained and safe. Rural and island roads can be narrow, winding, and poorly lit. Mountain roads may have steep drops without guardrails. Drive cautiously in villages where streets are often very narrow. Watch for motorbikes and scooters, which are common in tourist areas. Always follow speed limits and drive defensively.

Yes — many motorways in Greece are toll roads. Tolls are paid at toll booths with cash or card. The Athens–Thessaloniki motorway (Egnatia Odos) is the main toll route. Toll fees depend on distance travelled and vehicle type. Keep small change (coins and notes) for toll payments. Some rental companies provide electronic toll devices — check your rental agreement or ask at pickup.

Yes — you can take your rental car on ferries to Greek islands such as Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu. You must inform the rental company in advance and check if cross-island travel is permitted in your agreement. Ferry tickets for vehicles must be booked separately. Ensure your insurance covers inter-island travel. Some rental companies restrict ferry use for certain vehicle types.

Petrol stations are widely available in cities and along major highways. In rural areas and small islands, stations may be less frequent. Fuel types: petrol (βενζίνη) and diesel (πετρέλαιο). Most stations are self-service. Prices are displayed per litre. Fuel is cheaper at supermarket-owned stations. Always fill up before driving to remote areas or islands where petrol stations may be scarce.

Parking varies by location. Large cities like Athens and Thessaloniki have limited street parking — use paid parking lots or garages. Island towns often have free parking outside the old centre. Blue-marked zones require payment (parking meters or pay-and-display). White lines indicate free parking. Never park in yellow-marked zones (reserved for residents) or block narrow streets. Hotels often provide parking for guests.

Speed Rent a Car offers a wide range of vehicles: economy cars for budget travellers, compact and mid-size cars for families, 4x4 rentals for mountain and off-road driving, luxury cars for premium comfort, and minivans for large groups. Vehicle availability depends on location and season. Book early during peak summer months (June–September) to secure your preferred car type.

Yes — automatic transmission cars are available in Greece, but they are less common than manual vehicles. Automatics are more expensive to rent. If you need an automatic, specify this when booking and confirm availability with the rental company. During peak season, automatic cars may sell out quickly. Book well in advance to guarantee an automatic transmission vehicle.

For city driving and paved roads, a compact or economy car is ideal. For mountain roads, remote villages, or unpaved tracks, a 4x4 rental is recommended. Families with children should consider mid-size cars or minivans. If visiting islands with narrow streets (Santorini, Mykonos), choose a small car for easier parking and manoeuvring. Match your car type to your itinerary.

Yes — child seats and GPS navigation are available as optional extras. Add them during the booking process or request them at pickup. Child seats are mandatory in Greece for children under 12 years old or shorter than 1.35 metres. GPS devices cost €5–€10 per day. Alternatively, use a smartphone with offline maps. Always confirm availability of extras in your booking voucher.

Electric and hybrid cars are available at select locations in Greece, primarily in Athens and other major cities. Charging infrastructure is improving but still limited on islands and rural areas. If you rent an electric vehicle, plan your routes around available charging stations. Hybrid cars are a safer choice for long-distance travel. Check availability during booking on Speed Rent a Car.

If you experience any issues with your rental car (breakdown, accident, flat tyre), contact the rental company immediately using the emergency number in your voucher. Do not attempt repairs yourself. The rental company will arrange roadside assistance or a replacement vehicle. Document any incidents with photos and complete an accident report if necessary. Keep all receipts for potential reimbursement.

For rental-related questions, contact the rental company directly using the phone number in your booking voucher. For booking issues, modifications, or cancellations, reach out to Speed Rent a Car via our contact page. In case of emergency (accident, breakdown), call the rental company's 24-hour assistance line. Always keep your voucher accessible with all contact details.

If you return the car late, you may be charged for an additional rental day or a late return fee. Contact the rental company as soon as you know you will be delayed. Most providers allow a 30-60 minute grace period. Beyond that, fees apply. If you need to extend your rental, request an extension before the original return time — it is usually cheaper than late return penalties.

Yes — contact the rental company before your scheduled drop-off time to request an extension. Extensions are subject to vehicle availability and may be charged at the daily rate or a special extension fee. It is easier and cheaper to extend your rental in advance rather than returning late. If you know you need extra days, inform the rental company as early as possible.

Yes — most car rentals in Greece include roadside assistance. If you experience a breakdown, flat tyre, or mechanical issue, call the rental company's emergency number (provided in your voucher). Assistance is typically free, but you may be charged for damage caused by driver negligence (e.g., driving with low oil). Always follow the rental company's procedures for breakdowns and accidents.