Compare rental cars in Greece
Your licence
The Government of Canada says tourists can drive in Greece with a valid Canadian licence. Rental companies can be stricter: Hertz Greece accepts International Driving Permits for non-EU drivers, and Avis Greece asks drivers from many non-EU countries to carry one. Getting an IDP before you go avoids problems at the counter.
Avis Greece rents to drivers aged 21 and up, and licences must be at least 12 months old. Drivers under 25 pay €10 plus VAT a day (charged for a maximum of 10 days). Hertz Greece also rents from age 21 on standard cars with a credit card, and requires a licence held for at least 1 year.
Only CAA issues International Driving Permits in Canada. It costs $32 including tax, lasts one year, and is only valid with your Canadian licence.
Insurance: what to check
- You must have valid insurance coverage to drive in Greece.
- Hertz Greece includes third-party liability cover for death, injury and property damage for authorized drivers. Avis Greece also includes third-party liability, and offers collision, theft and Super Cover options to reduce the excess.
- Taking a Hertz car on a ferry needs written approval from Hertz and its Ferry Boat Cover (€20 a day, maximum €60 a rental). Without them, you are liable for all damage during the ferry trip.
Roads, tolls and parking
- Expect heavy traffic in cities and difficult terrain in rural areas. Fatal accidents are common because of speeding and reckless driving.
- Hertz cars cannot be driven or dropped off outside Greece. Ferry use between the mainland and islands needs written approval and ferry cover, so ask before you book an island trip.
- Ferries between the mainland and islands meet European safety standards, but wind and weather often cause cancellations or delays. Reconfirm your sailing before you go to the port.
Staying safe on the road
- Drivers often speed and are reckless, and speeding motorbikes do not always yield to pedestrians or bicycles.
- Accidents involving tourists renting motorbikes, scooters or mopeds are common, especially on the islands. A helmet is mandatory for drivers and passengers. Inspect the equipment before renting it.
- You pay all fines for traffic violations during the rental. Hertz Greece adds a €30 non-refundable fine administration fee for any Greek violation.
Find a rental car in Greece
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Common questions
Do Canadians need an International Driving Permit in Greece?
The Government of Canada says a valid Canadian licence is accepted. Hertz Greece accepts IDPs for non-EU drivers, and Avis Greece asks many non-EU drivers to carry one, so get an IDP to be safe.
Can I take a rental car on a ferry to a Greek island?
Only with written approval. Hertz Greece requires its approval plus Ferry Boat Cover (€20 a day, maximum €60), or you are liable for any damage.
How old do I have to be to rent a car in Greece?
21 at Avis and Hertz for standard cars. Avis charges drivers under 25 €10 plus VAT a day (up to 10 days).
Is it safe to rent a scooter in Greece?
Tourist accidents on rented scooters and mopeds are common, especially on the islands. A helmet is mandatory.
Sources
Checked October 1, 2026. Prices, rules and fees change, so confirm before you travel.