Heraklion Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Heraklion

Renting a car in Heraklion provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for those interested in culture, as you can easily visit significant sites like the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, both located within the area. With a rental car, managing luggage becomes hassle-free, allowing you to enjoy your sightseeing without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Additionally, a car makes it convenient to visit nearby destinations such as Malevizi, located 6 km away, where you can unwind at Agia Pelagia Beach or Ammoudara, just 4 km from Heraklion, known for its beautiful beach and the Historical Museum of Crete. Families and outdoor enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the added space and comfort that a rental car offers, enabling easy trips to various cultural and outdoor experiences in the region. Overall, having your own vehicle ensures that you can explore Heraklion and its surrounding areas with ease and comfort.

Most popular car rentals in Heraklion

• Economy: This car type accommodates 5 travellers and can handle up to 2 medium suitcases. The Economy car is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for a cost-effective option. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through Heraklion’s bustling streets while providing the freedom to explore attractions at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a comfortable ride with ample room for luggage, making it great for those planning extended trips or carrying extra gear. Its robust design is well-suited for both city driving and adventures in the surrounding areas.
• Compact: The Compact car type is a versatile choice that accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking a balance between comfort and efficiency. Compact cars are easy to park, making them an excellent choice for navigating the busy streets of Heraklion while ensuring you have enough space for your belongings.

Top rated car suppliers in Heraklion

• Budget: Budget has established itself as a reliable choice for car rentals in Heraklion with 2 convenient rental locations in the area. Known for its friendly service, Budget boasts an overall rating of 7.6 out of 10. The most popular vehicles among travellers are the Economy and Mini cars, making it an excellent option for those seeking efficient and economical transportation to explore the beautiful attractions of Heraklion at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise offers a solid car rental experience with 1 location in Heraklion. Customers appreciate its great selection of vehicles, particularly the Midsize SUV and Economy options, allowing for flexibility in travel plans. The supplier is recognized for its exceptional customer service, making it a preferred choice for many travellers looking to enjoy a hassle-free journey around Crete.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car, with 1 rental location in Heraklion, is another popular option among tourists. Known for its well-maintained vehicles, Alamo's offerings include Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, catering to various preferences. Travellers often commend Alamo for its attentive service, ensuring a pleasant rental experience that enhances their exploration of the stunning sights in and around Heraklion.

Where to stay in and around Heraklion

• Malevizi: Located 6 km away from Heraklion, Malevizi offers a rich blend of beach, outdoor, and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy activities at nearby Agia Pelagia Beach and Ammoudara Beach, both perfect for a beach holiday. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the Historical Museum of Crete, and family-friendly attractions include local marinas and water parks. Malevizi also features various dining options, including wineries and pubs, making it a wonderful spot for relaxing after a day of exploration.
• Karteros: Situated in the vicinity of Heraklion, Karteros is an ideal destination for those seeking beach, outdoor, and sports experiences. Notable attractions include the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, both enriching stops for culture lovers. The area boasts inviting beaches and family-friendly marinas, along with local spas and golf courses. For refreshments, Karteros offers nearby bars, providing a perfect place to unwind after a day of activities.
• Nea Alikarnassos: This neighborhood, located around Heraklion, is perfect for visitors looking for beach, outdoor, and cultural experiences. Key attractions include the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Historical Museum of Crete, both great for those interested in history and culture. With easy access to local beaches and a bustling marina, Nea Alikarnassos also features dining options, bars, and coffee shops, creating a vibrant atmosphere for tourists to enjoy.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Heraklion

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're seeking an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to book your car well ahead of your trip. By reserving early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and ensure better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means 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 fuel options, which can also be acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the added cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides added peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 and around Heraklion

The best value period to rent a car in and around Heraklion is March, when prices are moderately low and demand is low. This is closely followed by January and February, which also offer low demand and moderate pricing. April through June see steady prices and average demand, making them decent options as well. In contrast, August is the most expensive month, with high demand and moderately high prices, while July experiences the highest demand of the year.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	54.1°F (12.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
March	56.3°F (13.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
April	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	68.4°F (20.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	74.8°F (23.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	78.8°F (26.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Moderately High
August	78.8°F (26.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Moderately High
September	75.4°F (24.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Moderately High
October	68.9°F (20.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	56.8°F (13.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average