Athens Airport Car Rental
Plan your trip with our guide to car rentals at Athens Airport, compare top companies like Hertz, Avis, & Avance, find contact info & get expert booking tips.
Your Ultimate Guide to Athens Airport Car Rental
Arriving at Athens International Airport (AIA) “Eleftherios Venizelos” is the beginning of an unforgettable Greek adventure. Whether you are heading north to Macedonia or planning a road trip through the Peloponnese, how you choose to travel matters.
Why pick up your keys at the airport rather than in the city center? First, it eliminates the hassle of navigating heavy luggage through crowded metro stations or negotiating taxi fares. Second, driving in central Athens can be notoriously chaotic; by starting at the airport—located about 33km east of the city—you gain immediate access to the modern Attiki Odos motorway, allowing you to bypass the dense urban congestion and get comfortable with your vehicle on open roads. Most importantly, it gives you the freedom to start your itinerary on your own terms the moment you land.
Car Rental Companies with On-Site Airport Offices
For maximum convenience, you’ll want to book with a company that has a desk located directly within the Arrivals Level of the Main Terminal Building. This allows you to walk straight from baggage claim to the counter without waiting for shuttle buses.
Here are the providers currently operating offices inside the Athens Airport terminal:
1. Avis
As one of the world’s most recognized rental brands and the first to operate at airports globally, Avis maintains a strong presence in Greece. Their Athens airport office is known for a premium fleet and professional service.
• Telephone: +30 210 3530578-9
2. Hertz
Hertz is frequently ranked as the largest car rental company globally by sales. In Greece, Hertz is operated by Autohellas, making it a powerhouse with one of the most extensive networks in the country. They offer everything from compact city cars to luxury SUVs.
• Telephone: +30 210 3534900
3. Sixt
A family-owned German giant, Sixt has grown to become the second-largest car rental provider in Europe. They are famous for their high-end fleet, often stocking a higher percentage of BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz models than their competitors.
• Telephone: +30 210 3530556
4. Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car is the largest car rental company in the United States and, by many metrics, the largest in the world by fleet size. Known for their “We’ll Pick You Up” philosophy, their airport branch focuses on efficiency and a diverse range of vehicles to suit all budgets.
• Telephone: +30 210 3533323-4
5. Budget
As the name suggests, Budget is a global leader in the value segment of the market. Founded in 1958, it is a sister company to Avis and provides a more cost-conscious alternative while still maintaining the high standards of a major international brand.
• Telephone: +30 210 3530553
6. Europcar
Europe’s leading car rental company, Europcar has a massive footprint across the continent. Established in Paris in 1949, they pride themselves on sustainability and a massive variety of rental options, ranging from economy hatches to large passenger vans.
• Telephone: +30 210 3530413
7. Avance
While the names above are global giants, Avance is an estalished local Greek company. Founded in 1992, they have grown to become the largest independent car rental company in Greece. They are an excellent choice for travelers who want to support local business while still receiving international-standard service.
• Telephone: +30 210 3533088
8. Thrifty
Thrifty is a well-known international brand that operates under the Hertz umbrella. It’s positioned as a mid-tier, value-focused provider. In Athens, you will often find their counter serviced alongside Hertz, offering a streamlined experience for those seeking a reliable, no-frills vehicle.
• Telephone: +30 211 1030650
Pro Tips for a Smooth Rental Experience
Securing your vehicle is straightforward, but a little preparation goes a long way. To ensure you get the best deal and the smoothest start to your holiday, keep these essential tips in mind:
• Book in Advance: It is nearly always advantageous to reserve your Athens Airport car rental well ahead of your arrival. Doing so saves you significant time at the counter and guarantees that a vehicle will actually be waiting for you.
• Avoid the “Spur of the Moment” Trap: During peak tourist seasons, such as July and August, rental companies may sell out entirely. Even if they have cars available, renting on the spot is almost always significantly more expensive than the rates you find when booking online or over the phone in advance.
• Watch the Clock: While many airport offices operate 24 hours a day, not all of them do. It’s vital to check the specific operating hours of your chosen provider before booking. Be aware that picking up or dropping off a vehicle outside of normal office hours (usually very late at night or in the early hours of the morning) often incurs an extra out-of-hours fee.
• Read the Fine Print: Always check the specific terms and conditions for your rental, especially regarding insurance and fuel policies, to avoid any surprises at the desk.
Renting a car at Athens Airport is the gateway to exploring the wonders of Greece with total autonomy. By choosing an on-site provider and booking ahead, you’ll be on the road to anywhere in the country in no time.
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