Compare prices and check availability for automatic car hire in Greece today. Choose the right size for your group and dates.
Why Automatic Cars Are Popular with UK Travellers
Automatic cars suit families and groups who want a relaxed holiday drive. They reduce stress in town centres and on busy island roads.
Many UK drivers prefer automatics for unfamiliar driving conditions and stop-start traffic on approaches to Athens and ferry ports.
What Types of Automatic Cars Are Available
Rental fleets in Greece offer a clear range of automatic cars. Choices range from compact city models to estate and SUV options.
- Economy automatic – best for city runs and short ferry crossings.
- Compact automatic – easier to park in narrow lanes and village centres.
- Family hatch/estate automatic – more luggage space for families or groups.
- Small SUV automatic – useful on Crete or Peloponnese routes with steeper roads.
- People carriers such as 7 Seater or 8 Seater automatics – for larger groups.
What to Expect When Renting an Automatic
Book early for summer months. Fleet of automatics is smaller than manuals in many offices. Expect a smaller choice on islands.
At Athens International Airport, most rental desks are on the Arrivals level of the main terminal. Collection is usually immediate from the arrivals hall.
Santorini and other islands often deliver cars outside the terminal or at the ferry port. Airport collection is quicker and reduces waits at busy village offices.
Tips for Driving Abroad — Practical Greece Advice
Carry your UK driving licence and check licence validity. You can drive in Greece with a UK licence for up to six months.
Greek roads are mostly well signed. Rural and island lanes can be narrow and steep. Drive to the road conditions and use low gears on descents.
- Observe the 0.05% blood alcohol limit in Greece. Random checks happen, especially on weekends.
- Always lock valuables and avoid leaving items on view in parked cars.
- Fuel stations close overnight in smaller towns. Plan fills before long island trips.
Popular pickup locations
– Athens International Airport (ATH) — largest fleet choice and easy motorway access.
– Thessaloniki (SKG) — northern gateway for business and mainland travel.
– Heraklion Crete (HER) — main Crete hub for family and island travel.
– Chania (CHQ) — west Crete access with strong summer demand.
– Rhodes (RHO) — big island option near resorts and ferry links.
– Corfu (CFU) — Ionian hub with coastal routes and good availability.
– Santorini (JTR) — airport pickup avoids narrow Fira roads and waits.
– Mykonos (JMK) — popular for nightlife and short transfers around the island.
– Kalamata (KLX) — Peloponnese access for road trips and beaches.
– Zakynthos (ZTH) — island base for coastal driving and family holidays.
How Much Does Automatic Car Hire Cost
Automatic cars typically cost more than manuals. Price gaps vary with season and location.
Expect higher rates in July and August, when island demand peaks. Book several months ahead for summer travel.
| Car Type | Typical Manual Cost | Typical Automatic Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | £18–£30 per day | £25–£40 per day |
| Compact / Hatch | £25–£40 per day | £35–£55 per day |
| Estate / Family | £40–£65 per day | £55–£85 per day |
| 7 Seater / 8 Seater | £70–£110 per day | £90–£140 per day |
The table shows typical daily ranges. Exact prices depend on pick-up location and booking lead time.
Automatic vs Manual — Key Differences
Choose automatic for ease in town and on steep island roads. Manuals are often cheaper and more common on local fleets.
| Feature | Automatic | Manual |
|---|---|---|
| Driving ease | Very easy in traffic and hills | Requires more attention on slopes |
| Availability | Less common on smaller islands | Plentiful and cheaper |
| Fuel | Often slightly higher consumption | Often more fuel efficient |
| Cost | Higher daily rental and insurance | Lower daily rate typically |
Takeaway. Automatics cut driver fatigue. Manuals can save money for long stays.
What Affects the Price
Several clear factors change the daily cost of an automatic car hire in Greece.
| Factor | Impact on Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Season | High in summer, lower off-season | July–August busiest months |
| Location | Airports and islands cost more | Island pickups have limited fleet |
| Car size | Larger cars cost more | 7 Seater and SUVs carry premium |
| Insurance and extras | Can add 10–30% to total | Excess reduction and GPS increase price |
Booking tip. Compare rates across pickup locations and dates. Check included insurance and mileage limits.
Final Advice Before Booking
Reserve automatics early for island or summer travel. Confirm collection desk and opening hours in advance.
Check fuel policy and excess amount in writing. Photograph vehicle on collection and return to avoid disputes.
For Athens arrivals, follow the signs to the Arrivals car rental area on the main terminal. More airport rental details are on the official Athens Airport site.
For driving rules and licence details consult the UK travel advice for Greece before you travel.
Quick Checklist Before You Go
- Confirm automatic transmission in your booking confirmation.
- Check driver age and extra driver fees.
- Note opening hours for island pickup points.
- Verify included mileage and fuel policy.
- Ensure insurance cover includes island ferries if needed.
Frequently asked questions — Automatic Car Hire Greece
- Can I drive in Greece with a UK licence?Yes. UK licences are valid for up to six months in Greece. Carry your photocard licence.
- Are automatic cars easy to find on islands?They are available but less common than manuals. Book early for summer weeks.
- Do I need an International Driving Permit?Most EU and UK licences are accepted. Check your rental company for specific rules.
- What is the drink driving limit?Greece enforces a 0.05% blood alcohol limit for standard drivers. Random testing is practiced.
- Where is it best to pick up an automatic?Athens International Airport and major island airports offer the widest automatic choices.
- Are there parking restrictions in island towns?Yes. Many centres have narrow streets and limited public parking. Use park-and-walk options.
- Will I save by choosing a manual?Often yes. Manuals usually have lower daily rates and greater availability.
- How far ahead should I book for summer?Book three to six months ahead for July and August to secure an automatic.
- Can I take a hire car on a ferry between islands?Yes. Check vehicle height and ferry operator rules before boarding. Some operators limit vehicle types.
