Renting a car at Athens International Airport (ATH) is the most convenient way to explore mainland Greece, the Peloponnese, or the Athenian Riviera.
Most major rental desks are located in the Arrivals Hall (between Exit 3 and Exit 4), making pick-up very straightforward.
🚗 Major Rental Companies at ATH
You will find a mix of global brands and reputable local providers.
| Company | Location | Best For |
| Hertz / Thrifty | In-Terminal | Reliability & many locations across Greece. |
| Avis / Budget | In-Terminal | 24/7 service and competitive "all-inclusive" rates. |
| Sixt | In-Terminal | Premium fleet (BMW, Mercedes) and excellent service. |
| Enterprise / Alamo | In-Terminal | Quick digital check-in and friendly staff. |
| Athenscars | Shuttle Bus | Often the best "value for money" with newer cars. |
| Record Go / Goldcar | Shuttle Bus | Budget-conscious travelers (requires a short shuttle ride). |
💡 Key Things to Know for 2026
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International Driving Permit (IDP): If your license is from outside the EU (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia), you generally need an IDP alongside your original license.
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Transmission: Manual cars are the standard in Greece. If you need an automatic, book as far in advance as possible, as they are in high demand and cost more.
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Ferry Travel: If you plan to take the car to an island (like Crete or Mykonos), you must get written permission from the rental company. Most "standard" insurance does not cover the car while it is on a boat.
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Tolls: Most motorways leading out of Athens (like the Attiki Odos) are toll roads. Most rentals now come with a transponder, but keep some Euro coins or a card handy just in case.
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Age Limits: The minimum age is typically 21, but drivers under 25 often face a "Young Driver Surcharge."
🛡️ Recommendation: Insurance
Greek roads can be narrow and winding. It is highly recommended to opt for Full Damage Waiver (FDW) or "No Excess" insurance. This covers you for small scratches or dents, which are common when parking in busy areas like Athens or Nafplio.