Thessaloniki Airport Car Rental
Plan your Thessaloniki trip with our guide to Thessaloniki Airport car rental with contact info for Hertz, Avis, Sixt & other car hire companies.
Navigating Your Journey: The Ultimate Guide to Thessaloniki Airport Car Rental
Thessaloniki is a city that begs to be explored. From the iconic White Tower and the bustling waterfront to the historic Upper Town (Ano Poli), there is no shortage of sights within the city limits. However, the true magic of this region often lies just beyond the urban sprawl.
Whether you’re planning a sun-soaked pilgrimage to the crystal-clear beaches of Halkidiki, a trek through the majestic landscapes of Mount Olympus, or a visit to the royal tombs of Vergina, a car is your ticket to freedom.
While you can rent a vehicle in the city center, picking up your car directly at Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) is almost always the better choice. First, it eliminates the stress of navigating public transport or expensive taxis with heavy luggage immediately after a flight. Second, the airport serves as a gateway that bypasses the dense city traffic, allowing you to hit the open road immediately. The airport is about a 45-minute drive south-east of the city centre, about halfway to Halkidiki.
Perhaps most importantly, the airport branches typically house the largest fleets, giving you a wider selection of vehicles—from compact economy cars to rugged SUVs—than smaller downtown offices.
Car Rental Companies at Thessaloniki Airport Terminal
The following companies maintain dedicated desks inside the arrivals hall on the ground level. Having an “on-site” presence means you can walk straight from baggage claim to the rental counter without needing a shuttle bus.
Hertz & Thrifty
Hertz is often cited as the world’s most famous car rental brand and holds the title of the #1 most visited rental website in Greece. In the Greek market, Hertz is operated by Autohellas, the largest car rental and leasing group in the country. With decades of history and a massive fleet of over 50,000 vehicles nationwide, they offer premium service and a vast range of vehicle categories. Thrifty, its sister brand, often provides a more budget-friendly alternative while utilizing the same high-standard fleet.
• Phone: +30 2310 473952
Avis & Budget
Avis is the world’s second-largest vehicle rental group and has been a dominant force in Greece for over 60 years. In 2025, Avis was recognized by the World Travel Awards as Greece’s Leading Car Rental Company. Their airport office is a “dual-brand” counter, meaning you can also access Budget Rent A Car here. Budget is globally renowned for offering great value for money without sacrificing the reliability associated with the larger Avis corporate umbrella.
• Phone: +30 2310 473858
Enterprise, Alamo & National
Enterprise Holdings is the largest car rental company in the world by revenue and fleet size. At Thessaloniki Airport, their desk serves three distinct brands: Enterprise (focused on premium service), Alamo (popular with leisure travelers), and National (targeted at corporate clients). Because of their global scale, they often feature some of the most modern vehicles on the market and offer highly streamlined check-in processes.
• Phone: +30 2314 400387 / +30 2314 400388
Sixt
Sixt is Germany’s leading car rental provider and has expanded rapidly to become the fifth-largest player globally. Known for its “orange” branding and a focus on premium and luxury vehicles (often featuring BMWs and Audis), Sixt at SKG is highly rated for its professional staff and high-tech fleet. They are a great choice if you are looking for a car that offers a bit more comfort and performance for longer drives.
• Phone: +30 2310 476508
Avance
If you prefer to support a homegrown powerhouse, Avance is the largest 100% Greek-owned car rental company. Having been established for over 30 years, they have grown from a small local agency into a national leader with presence at every major Greek airport. They are often praised for their competitive pricing and “local expertise,” making them a favorite for travelers who want a reliable, local touch.
• Phone: +30 2310 489296
Pro Tips for a Smooth Car Rental Experience
To ensure your trip to Northern Greece starts on the right foot, keep these essential pieces of advice in mind:
1. Book in Advance
It is almost always better to book your Thessaloniki Airport car rental well before you fly. This is not just about saving time at the counter; it is about guaranteeing a vehicle. During peak tourist seasons—like July and August—demand is so high that many companies may run out of cars entirely. Furthermore, “walk-in” rentals are significantly more expensive than rates secured online or over the phone in advance.
2. Watch the Clock
While the airport terminal is open 24/7, the rental desks are not. Most offices operate from early morning until late evening (typically 07:30 to 23:00). If your flight arrives in the middle of the night or departs at dawn, you must check the office hours before booking. Many companies offer “after-hours” pick-up or drop-off, but these almost always come with an extra surcharge that can catch you off guard if you haven’t budgeted for it.
3. Read the Fine Print
Before confirming your booking, check the specific requirements for driver’s licenses and insurance. While major international brands are usually flexible, some local agencies might require an International Driving Permit for non-EU license holders. Always verify the fuel policy—most companies at SKG use “Full-to-Full,” meaning you pick up a full tank and must return it full to avoid high refueling fees.
Thessaloniki and the surrounding region of Macedonia offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Mediterranean. By securing your car at the airport, you’re not just renting a vehicle; you’re buying the freedom to discover Greece at your own pace.
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