1. Driver's License & International Driving Permit (IDP) Requirements
Holders of a valid driver's license issued by an EU/EEA member state, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, or Gibraltar can legally rent and drive a car in Greece without a separate International Driving Permit (IDP) under updated Greek traffic law, provided the license is in the Latin alphabet. However, some budget island rental desks still ask non-EU drivers for a 1949-convention IDP ($20 at AAA/CAA)—carrying one is inexpensive peace of mind.
2. Where You SHOULD (and Shouldn't) Rent a Car
- Never rent a car for central Athens: Parking is scarce, traffic is dense, and the historic center and Metro cover everything. Pick up your rental car on the day you leave Athens (either at Athens Airport or along Syngrou Avenue, which leads straight onto the coastal highway).
- Best places for a rental car: Crete, the Peloponnese, Delphi & Meteora, Cephalonia, Zakynthos, Corfu, and for 1–2 days exploring the mountain villages of Naxos or Paros.
3. Why a Compact Car Beats a Quad Bike (ATV) on the Islands
Renting a small hatchback (Fiat Panda / Toyota Aygo, €30–€48/day) costs virtually the same as a quad ATV, provides air conditioning, full airbags, enclosed luggage storage, and stability in strong crosswinds.