Best value car hire from top brands
Key facts for hiring a car in Crete
Averages temperatures
Coldest month: January (11°C)
Warmest month: July (26°C)
Car hire locations
There are 23 car hire locations and the most popular one is Heraklion Airport.
Not to be missed
The traditional village of Archanes.
Time difference
GMT + 2
Currency
Euro (EUR, €)
Hire a car in Crete
The biggest Greek island, Crete could be mistaken as its own country.
It basks in sunlight almost all year round and although its tourist resorts are heavily populated, you can still wander off the beaten path into its varied landscape for some solitude.
Crete’s atmosphere will stimulate your senses, with its spirited culture, and all the olive oil, herbs, honey and wine you’d ever wish for.
Car rental in Crete – the numbers
Frequently asked questions
Q. What is the most popular rental length in Crete?
A. Eight to nine days.
Q. When is the most popular time to rent a car in Crete?
A. August.
Q. What’s the best value car hire brand in Crete?
A. Green Motion is the cheapest car rental brand in Crete, offering cars from just £8 per day.
*Based on easyCar real booking data.
Fast facts
Cheapest month / most expensive monthAverage cost per day of car hire in Crete
| January | £9.90 |
| August | £31.10 |
Car typeAverage cost per day of car hire in Crete
| Mini | £19.80 |
| Economy | £22.40 |
| Compact | £29.20 |
Step into the past
Knossos
Once the capital of the ancient Minoan empire, the ruins here are some of the oldest in Greece. The site is a relic of Greek mythology, home to the legend of King Minos and the Minotaur. Upon entering what remains of the palace, you will understand why the myth was born here.
The site is a complex labyrinth or halls, stairways, royal apartments, suits and rooms. Many of the original colours of the intricate frescoes also still remain.
Given its famous history, this is one of the most popular sites on the island. And it gets busy (very busy) in the summertime. Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to visit. Arrive early for shorter queues. Bring a hat and lots of sunscreen, as much of the site is not covered.
For true history buffs, combine your visit with a tour around the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion for a full experience.
Festivals
The Chestnut Festival
At the end of October in Élos and Prásses, the villages celebrate the local chestnut harvest by packing into village squares, dancing,drinking and eating the finely roasted nut.
Carnival
This three-week pre-Lent celebration is held in villages throughout the island. In its final week, a series of grand street parades take place, the largest of which is held in Rethymnon.
Matala Beach Festival
Every June, this international festival is a throwback to the 1960s and 70s, when hippies famously made Matala their retreat. You can expect lots of music, art and literature from the era as well as peace loving vibes.
Foodie’s delight
The island’s offerings
Crete’s year-round fertile lands and climate lends itself to a variety of heavenly local produce.You can taste the sun on the skin of fresh fruits and vegetables as you sit by the sea, digging into a heartwarming meal.
For a fully indulgent food experience though, taking part in any number of the islands food tours is a must. From artisan cheese workshops and tasting, to winery tours and local cooking classes, there will always be something to tickle your tastebuds and fill your gastronomic needs.
Olive oil is an art form here, which is why it’s known as the best in the world. You can learn about every stage of its making – harvesting to bottling. So next time you toss some olive oil into a pan, you’ll fully appreciate its flavour.
Honey is another national product of the island. Visit beekeepers and honey makers to find out the significance of the sweet stuff, for the ecosystem as well as Greek cooking.
Book your car hire now
Book by phone
+44 203 3186 960
The road trip of ancient ruins
Heraklion Airport N. Kazantzakis
HERThe only airport on the island, IBZ serves both Ibiza and Formentera.
Car hire pick up point
Kato Zakros – 171km
The Minoan administrative and commercial centre for the area.
Palace of Phaistos – 189km
The second-largest palace on Crete after Knossos.
Fortezza Fortress of Rethymnon – 72km
Originally built by the Venetians during the 16th century
Aptera – 48km
Was once an important trading post in Crete but destroyed by an earthquake in 365 AD.