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Top destinations to rent a car in Crete

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Rethymno

Rethymno

What you need to know for your Crete car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Crete

Renting a car in Crete is a popular choice for tourists seeking the freedom to explore the region at their own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, allowing you to visit a variety of attractions without being tied to public transportation schedules. For beach enthusiasts, destinations like Balos Beach and the stunning Balos Lagoon offer breathtaking scenery and outdoor experiences. If you prefer historical sites, the Old Venetian Harbor is a must-see, combining beach and scenic views. Additionally, you can easily access popular cities such as Hersonissos, known for Malia Beach and the Crete Golf Club, or Chania, which boasts beautiful spots like Golden Beach and Seitan Limania Beach. Rethymno is another city worth visiting, featuring attractions like the Rethymnon Town Hall and Rimondi Fountain. A rental car enhances your ability to enjoy these diverse experiences, making it an ideal option for those interested in outdoor activities, beach relaxation, and sightseeing in beautiful Crete.

Most popular car rentals in Crete

  • Economy: This car type accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. The Economy option is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families who want to explore Crete without breaking the bank. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through narrow streets and find parking, allowing you to enjoy the freedom of discovering attractions at your own pace.
  • Compact: Similar to the Economy car, the Compact option also accommodates 5 travelers but offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it a great choice for solo travelers, couples, or families who need a bit more luggage capacity. The Compact car is versatile and practical, making it easy to maneuver through busy areas while providing ample room for your travel essentials.
  • Midsize SUV: This car type is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. The Midsize SUV offers more room and comfort, making it a suitable choice for those who prioritize both space and comfort during their travels. With its larger interior, it provides an enjoyable ride for longer journeys across Crete.

Where to stay in Crete

  • Hersonissos: A vibrant city perfect for family experiences, Hersonissos offers access to stunning beaches like Malia Beach and Stalis Beach, both suitable for a relaxing vacation. Enjoy the local outdoor activities, including a water park and the Crete Golf Club. The marina is nearby for leisurely strolls, and you can explore various food and drink options, including local wineries and pubs.
  • Chania: Known for its rich culture and beautiful beaches, Chania is a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in local traditions. Key attractions include Golden Beach, Marathi Beach, and Seitan Limania Beach, all ideal for beach vacations. The public market offers a taste of local life, while nearby wineries and pubs provide delightful dining experiences.
  • Rethymno: If you're seeking adventure, Rethymno is the place to be. With activities ranging from karting to various outdoor adventures, this city is packed with excitement. Notable attractions include the historic Rethymnon Town Hall and the picturesque Rimondi Fountain. Town Beach is another highlight, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the coastal scenery. Restaurants and wineries in the area complement the adventurous spirit of Rethymno.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Crete

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car to save on costs, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your journey. By booking in advance, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded spaces. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also impact renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Crete

The best time to rent a car in Crete is February, which offers the lowest prices and demand. This month is often followed closely by January, where rates remain quite low. As spring approaches, prices and demand begin to stabilize in March and April, both of which reflect average conditions. However, from June through August, prices tend to rise, with August being the most expensive month due to high demand. July also sees elevated rental rates with busy demand levels.

Find Crete Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Crete car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Crete, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Crete offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Crete car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Crete to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Crete airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Crete rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Crete airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Crete?
You can find cheap car rentals in Crete from $11 a day with Carwiz's mini 4-5 door cars. The cheapest car rentals for exploring Crete start from around $14 a day, picked up at the region's main gateway, Santorini Airport (JTR). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Rethymno, where rates start from $11 a day, and Hersonissos, also from $11 a day. Suppliers such as Budget, Europcar, and Sixt operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Crete.
What are the best car rentals in Crete?
Car rentals across Crete offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Budget, Europcar, and Sixt, broadly available in the region's main cities — Chania, Rethymno, and Hersonissos. The most common car classes include:
  • Mini 4-5 door
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Compact crossover
These options cater to various needs, whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Crete.

What are the best car rental companies in Crete?
For car rentals across Crete, well-rated providers like Budget, Europcar, and Sixt offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Chania, Rethymno, and Hersonissos. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Santorini Airport (JTR) for exploring Crete?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Santorini Airport (JTR) for exploring Crete. Providers including Budget, Europcar, and Sixt operate at the airport, with rates from around $14 a day. JTR is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Chania to Rethymno.
Can I rent a car one-way in Crete?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Crete — pick up in one city, such as Chania, and drop-off in another, like Rethymno, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $19 a day. Providers like Budget and Europcar offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Crete?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Crete, including in Chania and Rethymno. Sixt offers electric vehicles from $11 a day, and Europcar provides hybrid options from $15 a day. EVs and hybrids can help keep fuel costs low, and charging is becoming more widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Crete?
For luxury car rentals across Crete, Budget offers midsize elite SUVs from $37 a day (and compact elite crossovers from $49 a day), while Sixt and Avis also add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Chania and Rethymno. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Crete.
What are the best car rentals in Crete for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Crete, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Chania to Rethymno:
  • Budget: midsize SUV from $20 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Sixt: fullsize SUV from $23 a day — seats up to 6 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
  • Avis: standard SUV from $47 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 4 large suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Crete.

What are the best car rentals in Crete for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Crete for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Chania and Rethymno:
  • Economy car, from $15 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $21 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Crete.

What are the best car rentals in Crete for couples?
The best car rentals in Crete for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Chania and Rethymno:
  • Midsize SUV, from $20 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact crossover, from $26 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a mini elite convertible from Europcar, from $17 a day — fits up to 2 large suitcases — for scenic drives around Crete. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Crete.

What are the closest airports to Crete for car rental pick-up?
Several airports offer car rental pick-up for exploring Crete, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Santorini Airport (JTR)
  • Heraklion International Airport (HER)
  • Chania International Airport (CHQ)
These airports provide convenient access to various parts of the island, including cities like Chania, Rethymno, and Hersonissos. Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Crete by rental car?
From Crete, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. While exploring Crete's cities like Chania and Rethymno is a must, a rental car also allows you to explore other nearby islands. You can also add activities such as the 'Santorini Classic Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Drinks and Transfers' to your itinerary. Having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Crete.
Which side of the road do you drive on in Crete?
In Crete, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Crete?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Crete. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Crete?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Crete?
Budget car rental in Crete can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Crete?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Crete. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Crete car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Crete?
To rent a car in Crete, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Crete car rental?
If you need to cancel your Crete car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

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SUV, Full Size, Economy
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