Santorini Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santorini

Renting a car in Santorini provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful city at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal option for visitors seeking cultural, beach, or outdoor experiences. You can easily visit key attractions like the Castle of Oia, perfect for a romantic outing, or take in stunning views at the Oia Blue Dome Church Viewpoint, both located in the area of Santorini. Additionally, you can explore the fascinating Ancient Thira archaeological site, also situated nearby. A rental car allows you to travel seamlessly between popular destinations such as Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli, each offering unique sites like the Museum of Prehistoric Thira and Skaros Rock. This convenience is especially beneficial for families or groups, as you can store your beach gear or shopping finds in the trunk without hassle. By renting a car, you can unlock the full potential of your Santorini adventure while enjoying the diverse attractions this stunning city has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Santorini

• Mini: Ideal for solo travellers or couples, the Mini car accommodates up to 4 travellers with space for 2 small suitcases. This option is perfect for navigating the narrow streets of Santorini and allows for easy parking, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the island comfortably and efficiently.
• Economy: The Economy car is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 travellers with room for 2 medium suitcases. This versatile option provides a balance of space and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice among those wishing to discover the scenic attractions of Santorini at their leisure.
• Compact: For those needing a bit more space, the Compact car is a great option, accommodating up to 5 travellers with capacity for 3 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for families or groups, offering added comfort while maintaining the agility needed for navigating Santorini's winding roads and parking in tight spots.

Top rated car suppliers in Santorini

• Sixt: Sixt has one rental location in Santorini, providing a convenient option for travellers seeking to explore the island. Known for its well-maintained vehicles, Sixt specializes in Mini and Economy cars, making it an ideal choice for those looking for compact and fuel-efficient options. Travellers appreciate the flexibility that comes with renting from Sixt, allowing them to discover Santorini’s stunning attractions at their own pace.
• Budget: With two rental locations in Santorini, Budget offers excellent accessibility for visitors. This supplier is popular among travellers for its competitive pricing and a solid selection of Mini and Economy vehicles. Budget makes it easy to manage your luggage and itinerary while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Santorini. Many customers find Budget to be a reliable option for their car rental needs during their stay.
• Europcar: Europcar operates one rental location in Santorini, providing a straightforward and efficient car rental experience. Like the other suppliers, Europcar focuses on Mini and Economy cars, catering to those who prefer compact vehicles for navigating the island. Customers often highlight Europcar's commitment to maintaining clean and well-kept vehicles, making it a favoured choice for travellers seeking a hassle-free rental experience.

Where to stay in Santorini

• Oia: Oia is a charming village known for its rich culture and romantic ambiance. It offers stunning views of the Santorini Caldera and the symbolic Oia Blue Dome Church Viewpoint. Visitors can explore the historic Castle of Oia, ideal for cultural enthusiasts. Outdoor activities, such as hiking trails, are easily accessible, along with shopping areas and various dining options, including local wineries. Oia is particularly enchanting during the sunset season, making it a popular spot for couples seeking a picturesque getaway.
• Fira: Fira is the vibrant capital of Santorini, perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Key attractions include the Museum of Prehistoric Thira for history buffs and the Santorini Caldera for breathtaking scenery. The village also features family-friendly beaches and a water park for fun in the sun. With numerous restaurants and wineries nearby, Fira offers a lively atmosphere for travellers to enjoy. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when outdoor activities are in full swing.
• Imerovigli: Imerovigli is known for its stunning views and tranquil environment, making it ideal for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore Skaros Rock, a natural landmark that offers scenic vistas, or relax by the nearby beaches. The area is also home to the Santorini Caldera, providing picturesque backdrops for memorable photos. With a selection of excellent restaurants and wineries in the vicinity, Imerovigli is a peaceful retreat for those seeking a serene stay in Santorini. The pleasant climate during spring and autumn enhances the experience.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, make use of the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary according to demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to 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 best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be convenient. Just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides you with peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra costs.
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 Santorini

The best value period to rent a car in Santorini is January and February, when both prices and demand are low. March and April also offer moderate pricing with average demand, making them decent shoulder months. As summer approaches, demand and prices increase, particularly in May, which is the peak month for rentals. The most expensive period is August, when demand is high and prices can rise accordingly. September also sees high demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
March	58.3°F (14.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	61.7°F (16.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	67.1°F (19.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
June	73.4°F (23.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	77.2°F (25.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
August	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Moderately High
September	75.4°F (24.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Moderately High
October	70.2°F (21.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
December	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average