Explore the authentic heart of Crete with your own wheels — book online with Speed Rent a Car
Speed Rent a Car connects you with trusted local car rental companies in Zaros, Crete
Zaros is a picturesque mountain village in central Crete, famous for its natural springs, Lake Votomos, and proximity to ancient Minoan sites. When you rent a car in Zaros, you unlock the freedom to explore the rugged landscapes of the Psiloritis mountain range, visit traditional villages, and discover hidden gorges at your own pace. Speed Rent a Car offers car hire in Zaros with no deposit required — making it easier for travellers to book online without the need for a credit card hold.
Our platform aggregates offers from reputable local car rental providers, allowing you to compare prices, vehicle types, and rental terms in one place. Whether you need a compact car for solo travel, a 4x4 for mountain exploration, or a minivan for family trips, we help you find the right vehicle. All rental agreements are concluded directly with the car hire company, and full payment terms are outlined in your booking voucher.
Zaros serves as an excellent base for exploring central Crete. Within a short drive, you can reach Heraklion, the archaeological sites of Phaistos and Gortyna, the beaches of Matala, and the stunning Rouvas Gorge. Having your own car hire in Zaros means you're not limited by bus schedules — you can create your own itinerary and experience the authentic side of Crete.
Speed Rent a Car offers car rental options in Zaros with no deposit required at pickup. This means you can book your vehicle online, pay the advance amount by card, and collect your car without having funds blocked on your credit card.
Not all vehicles or rental companies offer no-deposit terms — availability depends on the specific car and provider. When you search for car hire in Zaros through our platform, you can filter results to show only no-deposit options. This is particularly useful for travellers who prefer cash-friendly rentals or do not have a credit card with a high limit.
The rental agreement is concluded directly with the local car hire company. All terms, including payment methods for the remaining balance and any optional extras, are confirmed in your booking voucher. If you have questions about deposit requirements or payment options, contact details for the rental provider are included in your confirmation.
Zaros is more than just a stopover — it's a destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking to experience traditional Cretan life away from the tourist crowds.
Drive to Psiloritis trails, Rouvas Gorge, and remote villages
Visit Lake Votomos and the famous Zaros mineral water sources
Short drives to Phaistos, Gortyna, and Minoan ruins
Book online with no credit card hold required
Before you collect your car hire in Zaros, it's useful to know the basic requirements and local driving conditions. Here's what you need:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 21 years (some companies require 25+ for certain vehicles) |
| Driving Licence | Valid national licence (EU) or International Driving Permit (non-EU recommended) |
| Driving Side | Right-hand side (same as most of Europe) |
| Speed Limits | 50 km/h urban, 90 km/h secondary roads, 130 km/h motorways |
| Fuel Types | Petrol (βενζίνη) and Diesel (πετρέλαιο) available in Zaros and nearby towns |
| Currency | Euro (€) |
| Nearest Airport | Heraklion International Airport (HER) — 45 km (40 min drive) |
The roads around Zaros range from well-maintained provincial routes to narrow mountain roads. The main road connecting Zaros to Heraklion is in good condition, but if you plan to explore gorges, monasteries, or remote villages, be prepared for winding, steep roads. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for off-road trails or during winter months when mountain roads may be challenging.
Parking in Zaros village is generally free and easy to find. However, during peak summer months or local festivals, spaces near popular tavernas and Lake Votomos can fill up quickly. Always lock your car and avoid leaving valuables visible inside.
Speed Rent a Car offers a range of vehicle categories to suit different travel needs in Zaros and central Crete:
Fuel-efficient cars ideal for village roads and short trips to Heraklion or nearby beaches. Perfect for solo travellers or couples.
View Economy Cars →Recommended for mountain driving, gorge access, and off-road trails. Essential for exploring Psiloritis and remote monasteries.
View 4x4 Rentals →Spacious vehicles for families or groups. Comfortable for longer trips around Crete with luggage and hiking gear.
View Minivans →Premium models for those who want extra comfort and style. Suitable for exploring Crete in elegance.
View Luxury Cars →Not sure which car type to choose? Our booking widget allows you to compare all available vehicles for your dates in Zaros. Each listing shows vehicle specifications, rental terms, and whether no-deposit options are available. Remember that rental agreements are concluded directly with the car hire company, and all terms are confirmed in your voucher.
With your car rental in Zaros, you can easily access some of Crete's most authentic attractions:
A beautiful artificial lake surrounded by lush vegetation, fed by natural springs. Popular for picnics, short walks, and taverna visits. Free parking available near the lake.
A stunning hiking trail through a protected forest. The gorge offers shade, streams, and scenic views. Park at the trailhead and hike for 2-3 hours (one way). A 4x4 is recommended for the access road.
One of Crete's major Minoan palaces. The site offers panoramic views over the Messara Plain. Well-maintained road from Zaros. Parking available on-site.
Ancient Roman and Byzantine ruins, including the famous Law Code of Gortyna. Easy access by car, with parking near the entrance.
Famous for its caves and 1960s hippie culture. A scenic drive through olive groves and hills. Beach parking available (may be paid in summer).
Crete's capital city, home to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace. The drive follows a good-quality provincial road. For car rental at Heraklion Airport, visit our Heraklion Airport car hire page.
Booking your car rental in Zaros with Speed Rent a Car is straightforward:
Enter your pickup and return dates in the booking widget above. Browse all available car hire options in Zaros, comparing prices, vehicle types, and rental terms.
Choose the vehicle that suits your needs. Filter by no-deposit availability if you prefer cash-friendly options. Review the rental terms and any optional extras offered by the provider.
Pay the advance amount online by card (cash payment is not accepted for online bookings). You will receive a voucher with full rental details, including pickup instructions and contact details for the car hire company.
Once your booking is confirmed, the rental agreement is concluded between you and the local car rental provider. The voucher contains all necessary information, including how to pay the remaining balance (if applicable), pickup location in Zaros, and emergency contact details. Most providers in Zaros offer flexible pickup times — confirm your exact arrival time with the company before travelling.
Yes — Speed Rent a Car offers car hire options in Zaros with no deposit required at pickup. Not all vehicles or providers offer this, so use the booking widget to filter for no-deposit cars. The rental agreement is concluded directly with the car hire company, and full payment terms are in your booking voucher.
You need a valid driving licence (EU licence is sufficient; non-EU travellers should carry an International Driving Permit), a passport or ID card, and a payment method (credit or debit card accepted by most providers). The minimum age is typically 21 years, though some companies require drivers to be 25+ for certain vehicle types.
Pickup locations in Zaros vary by provider. Some companies have offices in the village centre, while others may arrange delivery to your accommodation. Full pickup instructions, including address and contact details, are provided in your booking voucher after you complete your reservation.
A 4x4 is not required for the main roads around Zaros, but it is highly recommended if you plan to explore mountain trails, access remote monasteries, or visit Rouvas Gorge and other off-road areas. In winter or after heavy rain, a 4x4 provides extra safety on steep, unpaved roads. For 4x4 options, see our 4x4 rental page.
Online booking requires an advance payment by card. However, many car hire companies in Zaros accept cash for the remaining balance at pickup. Check the payment terms in your booking voucher or contact the rental provider directly using the details in your confirmation email.
Fuel prices in Greece vary, but as of 2025, expect to pay approximately €1.70–€1.90 per litre for petrol and €1.50–€1.70 for diesel. Zaros has limited fuel stations, so fill up before heading into mountain areas. The nearest major stations are along the Heraklion–Zaros road.
Book your car rental in Zaros today — no deposit required on selected vehicles