Santorini Airport Car Rental
The See Greece guide to Santorini Airport car rental covers car hire companies like Hertz, Sixt, and Avance, including contact numbers & booking tips.
Island Freedom: A Guide to Car Rental at Santorini Airport
Touching down at Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR) in the Cyclades is the start of a dream getaway, but your first logistical hurdle is often how to reach your hotel. While Santorini is famous for its blue-domed churches and caldera views, its transportation infrastructure can be a challenge. This is why renting a car directly at the airport is the most popular choice for savvy travelers.
Why choose an airport rental over one elsewhere? Santorini’s main towns, Fira and Oia, are pedestrian-heavy with extremely narrow, winding streets where parking is nearly impossible. By picking up your car at the airport—located on the flatter, eastern side of the island—you avoid the stress of driving through crowded village centers immediately after your flight.
Furthermore, taxis on the island are famously limited; during peak season, wait times can exceed an hour. Having your own vehicle ready at the terminal means you can bypass the queues and start exploring the island’s hidden beaches and wineries the moment you land.
Car Rental Companies with On-Site Airport Offices
For the ultimate convenience, several major international and local brands operate desks inside the Arrivals Hall of the recently refurbished terminal. This on-site access means you can sign your paperwork and walk just a few meters to the dedicated rental parking lot.
1. Hertz
As a global powerhouse and the largest car rental company in the world by many metrics, Hertz has a significant presence in Santorini. Their local operations are managed by Autohellas, providing them with one of the most modern and reliable fleets on the island.
• Telephone: +30 22860 33670
2. Avis
Avis is one of the Big Three rental agencies globally and was the first to establish airport-based car rentals. In Santorini, they offer a premium service and are well-regarded for their efficiency, making them a top choice for those who value brand reliability.
• Telephone: +30 22860 33887
3. Sixt
This German-born giant is the second-largest rental provider in Europe. Sixt is known for its orange branding and a fleet that skews toward premium and luxury models. If you’re looking to cruise the island in a high-end convertible or a stylish SUV, Sixt is often the go-to.
• Telephone: +30 22860 34102
4. Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car is a massive global brand, often cited as the largest in the U.S. and a top competitor worldwide. They are famous for their customer service-centric approach and offer a wide range of vehicles, from economy hatchbacks to family-sized vans.
• Telephone: +30 22860 34251
5. Budget
Operating as a value-focused sister company to Avis, Budget is a global leader in the affordable rental segment. They provide a cost-effective way to get on the road without sacrificing the security of booking with a massive international corporation.
• Telephone: +30 22860 33887
6. Europcar
Europe’s leading car rental company, Europcar, has been a staple in the industry since 1949. They offer a diverse fleet and are a particularly strong choice for travelers arriving from other European destinations who are already members of their loyalty programs.
• Telephone: +30 22860 33670
7. Avance
Avance is a major Greek success story, serving as the largest independent car rental company in the country. They offer a competitive local alternative to the global giants, often providing excellent localized knowledge and a personal touch.
• Telephone: +30 22860 33808
8. Suntime
Suntime is a well-established local provider that has earned its spot inside the terminal alongside the international giants. Choosing a local operator like Suntime can often yield more flexible terms and a fleet perfectly suited for the island’s unique terrain.
• Telephone: +30 22860 27147
Essential Tips for Car Rental in Santorini
Renting a car on a small island requires a slightly different approach than on the mainland. To ensure a stress-free experience, keep these pointers in mind:
• Book Well in Advance: It is nearly always better to secure your Santorini Airport car rental ahead of time. This not only saves you precious vacation time upon arrival but also guarantees that a car will be available for you.
• Seasonal Scarcity: During the busy summer months, the island’s total car inventory can actually sell out. If you wait until you land to find a car, you may find that no company has vehicles left.
• Cost Efficiency: Renting on the spur of the moment is almost always more expensive. You will get much better rates by booking your rental car online or over the phone before you travel.
• Check the Hours: It is important to remember that not all airport offices are open 24 hours. Many operate according to flight schedules, but if your flight is delayed or you arrive very late, there may be extra charges to pick up or drop off your car outside of normal office hours. Always confirm the “\out-of-hours policy before finalizing your booking.
With your own set of wheels, the entire island—from the lighthouse at Akrotiri to the black sands of Perissa—is yours to explore.
Santorini Guides and Maps
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