During my research for my upcoming Santorini trip, one question kept surfacing: is renting a car worth it? After extensive investigation, I’ve concluded that having your own vehicle on this stunning but challenging island can transform your experience—offering freedom, convenience, and access to hidden gems that tour buses simply don’t reach.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about renting and driving a car in Santorini—from choosing the right vehicle and rental company to navigating the island’s unique road conditions and finding parking in popular areas. Whether you’re considering a compact car, ATV, or scooter, this guide will help you make the best choice for your Santorini adventure.
Is Renting a Car in Santorini Worth It?
Based on my research, here’s a balanced assessment of whether renting a car in Santorini makes sense for your trip:
Advantages of Renting a Car
Freedom and Flexibility:
- Create your own schedule without relying on bus timetables
- Visit multiple destinations in a single day efficiently
- Adjust plans spontaneously based on weather or mood
- Explore early morning or evening locations when buses are limited
Access to Remote Locations:
- Reach secluded beaches like Kolumbo or Vlychada with ease
- Visit traditional villages in Santorini like Megalochori and Emporio
- Discover viewpoints off the tourist trail
- Access hidden gems in Santorini that tour buses don’t visit
Convenience:
- Transport luggage easily between accommodations
- Carry beach equipment, water, and supplies for day trips
- Air conditioning during hot summer months
- Shelter during occasional rain or strong winds
Cost-Effectiveness for Groups:
- More economical than taxis for families or groups of 3+
- Cheaper than multiple bus tickets for those visiting many sites daily
Disadvantages of Car Rental
Parking Challenges:
- Very limited parking in Oia and Fira, especially during high season
- Some attractions have small parking areas that fill quickly
- Potential for parking tickets if rules aren’t followed
Narrow Roads and Traffic:
- Extremely narrow passages in villages and caldera areas
- Busy traffic during peak season (July-August)
- Limited passing space on some mountain roads
- Buses have priority on narrow sections
Driving Stress:
- Navigation can be challenging with limited signage
- Local driving habits may be different from what you’re accustomed to
- One-way systems in towns can be confusing
Cost Consideration:
- Daily rental fees plus fuel and potential parking fees
- Insurance costs can add up
- Not cost-effective for very short stays or if staying only in one location
Who Should Rent a Car in Santorini?
Based on my research, renting a car is particularly beneficial for:
- Families with children (easier transport of strollers, supplies, tired kids)
- Photographers seeking sunrise/sunset locations outside bus schedules
- Visitors staying outside major towns where bus service is limited
- Those planning to visit multiple beaches during their stay
- Travelers with mobility issues who need door-to-door transportation
According to the Santorini Tourism Board, approximately 60% of visitors rent some form of vehicle during their stay, with cars being the most popular choice for families and couples.
Best Types of Vehicles for Santorini
Santorini offers several vehicle options, each with distinct advantages depending on your needs:
Compact Cars
Ideal for: Families, couples, comfort-seekers, longer stays
Advantages:
- Air conditioning (essential in summer)
- Storage space for luggage and purchases
- Protection from sun, wind, and occasional rain
- Suitable for all roads on the island
- Most comfortable for longer drives
Disadvantages:
- More challenging to park in congested areas
- Harder to navigate through the narrowest village streets
- Higher rental cost than smaller vehicles
Recommended models: Fiat Panda, Hyundai i10, Toyota Aygo
For the best compact car rental deals, I found Localrent offers excellent rates with local agencies and free cancellation policies.
ATVs (Quad Bikes)
Ideal for: Couples, solo travelers, adventure seekers
Advantages:
- Fun, open-air experience
- Easier parking in tight spaces
- Good visibility for sightseeing
- More stable than scooters on uneven roads
- Storage box for small items
Disadvantages:
- Limited protection from sun/wind/dust
- Less comfortable for longer journeys
- Not suitable for luggage transport
- Less powerful on steep hills when carrying two people
- Higher accident rate than cars
Important safety note: According to local authorities, ATVs have the highest accident rate among rental vehicles in Santorini. Always wear a helmet and drive cautiously.
Scooters and Motorcycles
Ideal for: Solo travelers, experienced riders, budget travelers
Advantages:
- Lowest rental cost
- Easiest parking even in congested areas
- Nimble navigation through traffic
- Fuel efficiency
- Fun factor for experienced riders
Disadvantages:
- Requires previous experience (not for beginners)
- No protection from elements
- Very limited storage capacity
- Less stability on gravel or sand patches
- Not suitable for families
License requirement: Valid motorcycle license required for 50cc and above.
Buggies/Dune Buggies
Ideal for: Couples seeking something unique, adventure travelers
Advantages:
- Open-air experience with some sun protection
- Fun, distinctive vehicle
- Better stability than ATVs
- Eye-catching for photos
- Good for rough roads
Disadvantages:
- Expensive rental rates
- Limited availability (book in advance)
- Not practical for luggage transport
- Noisy operation
- Limited storage space
For ATV, scooter, or buggy rentals, GetRentaCar offers a wide selection with transparent pricing.
Comparison Table: Vehicle Types for Santorini
| Vehicle Type | Cost/Day | Best For | Parking Ease | Comfort | Storage | Weather Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact Car | €40-70 | Families, Comfort | Moderate | High | Excellent | Excellent |
| ATV/Quad | €35-50 | Couples, Adventure | Good | Moderate | Limited | Poor |
| Scooter | €20-35 | Solo, Budget | Excellent | Low | Very Limited | None |
| Buggy | €55-85 | Couples, Unique Experience | Good | Moderate | Limited | Partial |
Rental Costs and What to Expect
Understanding the true cost of renting a vehicle in Santorini will help you budget appropriately:
Car Rental Costs
Base Rental Rates (2025 prices):
- Economy/Compact Cars (Fiat Panda, Toyota Aygo): €40-50/day in low season, €55-75/day in high season
- Mid-size Cars (Hyundai i20, Opel Corsa): €50-65/day in low season, €70-90/day in high season
- SUVs/Larger Vehicles: €75-105/day in low season, €95-135/day in high season
- Convertibles: €85-125/day in low season, €105-155/day in high season
Typical Inclusions:
- Basic insurance (usually with high excess/deductible)
- Unlimited mileage
- 24-hour roadside assistance
- Free cancellation (with advance notice)
- Second driver (with some companies)
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Insurance reduction: €12-18/day to lower excess/deductible
- Full coverage insurance: €18-28/day for zero excess
- Additional drivers: €6-12/day per extra driver (if not included)
- GPS rental: €6-12/day (though Google Maps works well)
- Child seats: €6-12/day
- Young driver surcharge: €12-22/day (for drivers under 25)
- Fuel: Plan for €35-55 total for a week of island exploration
For the best car rental rates with transparent pricing, I recommend checking AutoEurope which compares multiple providers.
ATV and Scooter Rental Costs
Base Rental Rates (2025 prices):
- 50cc Scooter: €18-23/day in low season, €28-33/day in high season
- 125cc Scooter: €23-33/day in low season, €33-43/day in high season
- Basic ATV (50cc-125cc): €33-43/day in low season, €43-53/day in high season
- Premium ATV (200cc-300cc): €48-63/day in low season, €63-83/day in high season
- Buggy/Dune Buggy: €55-75/day in low season, €75-105/day in high season
Typical Inclusions:
- Basic insurance (often with high excess)
- Helmet(s)
- Basic orientation/instructions
- Unlimited mileage
Additional Costs:
- Insurance reduction: €6-12/day
- Fuel: ATVs and scooters are fuel-efficient (€18-28 for a week)
- Storage box (for scooters): €4-6/day if not included
Rental Duration Discounts
Most rental companies offer significant discounts for longer rentals:
- 3-4 day rentals: 5-10% discount
- 5-6 day rentals: 10-15% discount
- Weekly rentals: 15-25% discount
- Monthly rentals: 30-40% discount
Seasonal Price Variations
Santorini has dramatic seasonal price differences:
- Low Season (November-March): Lowest prices, limited availability
- Shoulder Season (April-May, October): Moderate prices, good availability
- High Season (June-September): Highest prices, advance booking essential
- Peak Season (July-August): Premium pricing, very limited availability without advance booking
For the best rates, I found that booking 2-3 months in advance through Localrent can save 15-30% compared to walk-up rates.
Where to Rent: Top Companies Compared
Based on my research, here’s a comparison of the best vehicle rental options in Santorini:
Local Rental Agencies
Advantages:
- Often lower prices than international chains
- More flexible with pickup/drop-off times
- Personal service and local knowledge
- May offer free hotel delivery/pickup
- Often more negotiable on terms and prices
Recommended Local Companies:
- Tony’s Rentals (Fira): Excellent reputation, family-run
- Spiridakos Rent a Car (Multiple locations): Large fleet, good service
- Motor Inn (Fira, Airport): Reliable, good condition vehicles
- Santorini Holiday Cars (Fira, Airport): Competitive rates, good reviews
For comparing local rental agencies with verified reviews, Localrent specializes in connecting travelers with reputable local companies.
International Rental Chains
Advantages:
- Standardized service and policies
- Online booking with confirmed reservation
- Multiple pickup/drop-off locations
- Loyalty programs for frequent renters
- Often newer vehicle fleets
Available International Companies:
- Hertz (Airport, Fira)
- Avis/Budget (Airport, Fira)
- Sixt (Airport)
- Enterprise (Limited presence)
For comparing rates across multiple international providers, AutoEurope offers a comprehensive search platform.
ATV and Scooter Specialists
Advantages:
- Specialized knowledge of these vehicles
- Better maintained fleets
- More model options
- Often include proper safety briefings
Recommended Specialists:
- Santorini Moto Rent (Fira): Wide selection of ATVs and scooters
- Motor Club (Kamari): Quality vehicles, good service
- Moto Manos (Perissa): Well-maintained fleet, fair prices
For ATV and scooter rentals with transparent pricing, GetRentaCar offers a good selection.
Pickup Locations
The most convenient pickup locations in Santorini are:
Airport (JTR):
- Most convenient for those flying in
- Immediate mobility upon arrival
- Avoid transfer costs to accommodation
- Limited selection of companies
- Often higher prices than town locations
Fira (Main Town):
- Largest selection of rental companies
- Most competitive pricing
- Central location for those already on the island
- Easy to compare options in person
Other Locations:
- Many companies offer hotel delivery (sometimes free)
- Pickup available in Oia, Kamari, Perissa, and other towns
- Often requires advance booking
Booking Tips
Based on my research, here are key booking recommendations:
- Book 2-3 months in advance for high season (essential for July-August)
- Compare prices across multiple platforms (Localrent, AutoEurope, GetRentaCar)
- Look for free cancellation policies (plans can change)
- Check included insurance coverage carefully
- Read recent reviews focusing on vehicle condition and service
- Confirm pickup/drop-off hours match your flight times
- Request hotel delivery if available (often free with 3+ day rentals)
Driving in Santorini: What to Know
Santorini presents unique driving challenges that differ from other destinations. Here’s what to expect:
Road Conditions
Main Roads:
- Generally well-maintained asphalt
- Two-lane roads connecting major towns
- Some steep sections with switchbacks
- Limited shoulders or breakdown lanes
- Good signage on primary routes
Secondary Roads:
- Narrower with occasional potholes
- Some unpaved sections to beaches and viewpoints
- Limited passing opportunities
- Fewer road signs and markings
- Occasional loose gravel or sand
Village Streets:
- Extremely narrow in traditional villages
- Often one-way systems that can be confusing
- Limited signage
- Tight turns and blind corners
- Pedestrians often walking in roadways
Traffic Patterns
Seasonal Variations:
- Low Season: Minimal traffic, easy driving
- Shoulder Season: Moderate traffic, occasional congestion near attractions
- High Season: Heavy traffic, significant congestion in towns
- Peak Season: Very heavy traffic, potential gridlock in Oia and Fira
Daily Patterns:
- Morning (8-10am): Moderate as people start activities
- Midday (12-3pm): Lighter as people at beaches/lunch
- Late Afternoon (4-7pm): Heaviest, especially in Oia before sunset
- Evening (after 9pm): Moderate around dinner areas
Driving Challenges
Unique Challenges:
- Tour Buses: Large buses have priority on narrow roads
- Donkeys: Present on some roads, especially near Fira
- Pedestrians: Often walking on roadways without sidewalks
- Scooters/ATVs: May weave through traffic unpredictably
- Limited Guardrails: Some cliff-side roads have minimal protection
- Sun Glare: Can be intense, especially during sunset drives toward Oia
Navigation Tips
Finding Your Way:
- Google Maps works well but occasionally routes through unnecessarily narrow streets
- Download offline maps before arrival (cell service can be spotty)
- Major attractions are well-signed
- Physical map as backup is recommended
- Ask locals for shortcuts and parking tips
Road Signs:
- Standard European blue and white signs
- Greek and English on most major signs
- Brown signs indicate cultural/historical sites
- Yellow signs indicate temporary conditions
Driving Rules and Etiquette
Basic Rules:
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Seatbelts mandatory for all passengers
- Helmets required for ATV and scooter riders
- No cell phone use while driving
- Headlights recommended even during daytime
Speed Limits:
- Towns/Villages: 50 km/h (31 mph)
- Open Roads: 80 km/h (50 mph)
- Limited enforcement but respect limits for safety
Local Driving Customs:
- Flash headlights to indicate yielding right of way
- Honking is common as a warning on blind corners
- Locals may drive closer to center line than you’re used to
- Scooters and motorcycles often overtake on either side
Parking Tips for Popular Destinations
Finding parking can be one of the biggest challenges when driving in Santorini. Here’s what to know:
Oia
Parking Situation: Very challenging, especially before sunset
- Main Parking Area: Large lot at entrance to town (often full by mid-afternoon in high season)
- Secondary Parking: Small lots along the main road approaching Oia
- Street Parking: Limited and often restricted
- Parking Fee: Free in public lots, but private lots charge €6-12
Best Strategy:
- Arrive before 4pm or after 8pm to find spaces
- Be prepared to walk 10-15 minutes from parking to town center
- Consider parking at Baxedes or Ammoudi and taking the bus up for sunset visits
Fira
Parking Situation: Difficult but more options than Oia
- Main Parking: Large public lot near the bus station (paid, €6-12/day)
- Hospital Parking: Free lot near the hospital (10-minute walk to center)
- Street Parking: Available on outskirts, pay attention to restrictions
- Private Lots: Several available at €4-6/hour
Best Strategy:
- Arrive before 10am for best availability
- Willing to pay for convenience in central lots
- Park at the southern edge of town and walk in
Kamari and Perissa Beaches
Parking Situation: Generally good
- Beach Parking: Multiple free lots near the beaches
- Street Parking: Abundant except at peak times (1-4pm)
- Restaurant Parking: Many establishments have dedicated lots for customers
Best Strategy:
- Arrive before noon for closest spots
- Be willing to walk 5-10 minutes during peak times
- Some beach bars offer free parking with minimum purchase
Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Parking Situation: Well-organized
- Official Lot: Large parking area at the entrance (€4)
- Overflow Parking: Available during peak season
- Rarely full except during cruise ship days
Red Beach
Parking Situation: Limited
- Small Lot: At the trailhead to Red Beach (free)
- Overflow: Along the access road
- Often full by midday in high season
Best Strategy:
- Visit early morning or late afternoon
- Consider parking at Akrotiri village and walking (20 minutes)
Ancient Thera
Parking Situation: Limited but adequate
- Summit Parking: Small lot at the top (free)
- Base Parking: Larger lot at the base of the access road
- Can fill during midday in high season
Best Strategy:
- Visit first thing in morning or late afternoon
- Smaller vehicles have advantage on the narrow access road
General Parking Tips
- Avoid Yellow Lines: Indicates no parking
- Blue Lines: Designated parking areas (sometimes time-limited)
- White Lines: Free parking where marked
- Look for P Signs: Official parking areas
- Never Block Driveways: Strictly enforced with towing
- Take Photos of where you parked (easy to get lost in similar-looking areas)
- Consider Radical Storage for luggage if you’re between accommodations
Gas Stations and Fuel Tips
Understanding the fuel situation will help you plan your Santorini driving experience:
Gas Station Locations
Santorini has a limited number of gas stations, primarily located along the main roads:
Fira Area:
- Two stations on the main road near Fira
- One station on the road toward the airport
Messaria:
- One station on the main road
Emporio:
- One station at the village entrance
Perissa/Perivolos:
- One station near Perivolos beach
Kamari:
- One station on the main road
Important Note: No gas stations in Oia or the northern part of the island
Fuel Types and Costs
Available Fuel Types:
- Unleaded 95 (most common for rental cars)
- Unleaded 98 (premium, not usually necessary)
- Diesel (for some larger vehicles)
Approximate Costs (2025):
- Unleaded 95: €2.10-2.30 per liter
- Unleaded 98: €2.25-2.45 per liter
- Diesel: €1.90-2.10 per liter
Payment Methods:
- Cash (euros)
- Major credit cards
- Some stations close during afternoon siesta (2-5pm)
Fuel Efficiency and Range
Typical Fuel Consumption:
- Compact Cars: 5-7 liters/100km
- ATVs: 3-5 liters/100km
- Scooters: 2-3 liters/100km
Approximate Range on Full Tank:
- Compact Cars: 500-700km
- ATVs: 100-150km
- Scooters: 150-200km
Island Context:
- Santorini is only about 18km long
- Complete circuit of the island is approximately 70km
- Most visitors drive 20-40km per day
Fueling Tips
- Fill up when tank reaches half (especially if exploring remote areas)
- Keep receipt as proof of refueling (rental return requirement)
- Check operating hours (some close during siesta)
- Return rental with same fuel level as received (usually full)
- Take photos of fuel gauge at pickup and before return
Insurance and Documentation
Understanding insurance options and required documentation is crucial for a worry-free rental experience:
Required Documents
For Car Rental:
- Valid driver’s license from your home country
- International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU licenses
- Passport
- Credit card in the main driver’s name
- Return flight/ferry information (often requested)
For ATV/Scooter Rental:
- All of the above
- Motorcycle endorsement on license for 50cc and above
- Previous riding experience (often asked about)
Insurance Options
Standard Included Insurance:
- Third-Party Liability: Covers damage to other vehicles/property (legally required)
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage to rental vehicle with excess/deductible
- Theft Protection: Covers vehicle theft with excess/deductible
Typical Excess/Deductible Amounts:
- Cars: €500-1,000
- ATVs/Scooters: €300-500
Additional Insurance Options:
- Super CDW: Reduces or eliminates excess (€12-18/day)
- Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical expenses (€6-8/day)
- Tire and Glass Coverage: Covers commonly excluded damages (€4-6/day)
- Roadside Assistance Plus: Enhanced breakdown coverage (€4-6/day)
Credit Card Insurance
Many premium credit cards offer rental car coverage:
- Typically secondary coverage (pays what your regular insurance doesn’t)
- May not cover ATVs or scooters
- Usually requires declining rental company’s CDW
- Get written confirmation from your card company before relying on this
Travel Insurance
Consider comprehensive travel insurance that includes:
- Medical coverage for accidents
- Personal liability coverage
- Potential coverage for rental excess
For reliable travel insurance options, research providers like World Nomads or SafetyWing.
Damage Inspection Process
At Pickup:
- Thoroughly inspect vehicle before accepting
- Document all existing damage with photos (date/time stamped)
- Ensure all damage is noted on the rental agreement
- Check tire condition, lights, and fluid levels
At Return:
- Request inspection in your presence
- Take photos of vehicle condition upon return
- Get signed receipt confirming satisfactory return
- Keep all documentation for at least 30 days after return
Alternatives to Car Rental
If driving in Santorini doesn’t appeal to you, several alternatives exist:
Public Bus System (KTEL)
Advantages:
- Economical: €2.00-2.80 per journey
- Connects all major towns and attractions
- Frequent service on main routes (Fira-Oia, Fira-Kamari, Fira-Perissa)
- Air-conditioned modern buses
- No parking concerns
Disadvantages:
- Fixed schedules (less frequent in off-season)
- Can be very crowded in high season
- Limited service to some beaches and villages
- Last buses often depart by 10-11pm
- Difficult with large luggage
Best For: Budget travelers, those uncomfortable driving, short stays focused on main attractions
Check the KTEL Santorini website for current schedules.
Taxis
Advantages:
- Door-to-door service
- Available 24/7 (though limited at night)
- No driving stress
- Fixed rates between major destinations
- Air-conditioned comfort
Disadvantages:
- Limited number of taxis on the island
- Expensive for multiple journeys
- May be difficult to find during peak times
- Advance booking recommended for early/late transfers
Sample Fares:
- Airport to Fira: €22-28
- Fira to Oia: €28-35
- Fira to Perissa: €22-28
- Airport to Oia: €38-45
Best For: Airport transfers, evening dining, travelers who only need occasional transport
For reliable airport transfers with fixed rates, Welcome Pickups offers pre-booked services with English-speaking drivers.
Private Tours and Drivers
Advantages:
- Knowledgeable local guides
- Customized itineraries
- No navigation or parking stress
- Insider access to less-known spots
- Pickup/drop-off at your accommodation
Disadvantages:
- Most expensive option
- Requires advance booking
- Less spontaneity
- Set duration (typically 4-8 hours)
Approximate Costs:
- Half-day private tour: €160-260
- Full-day private tour: €260-420
- Private sunset tour: €160-220
Best For: First-time visitors wanting depth of information, luxury travelers, those with limited time
For private tours with local expertise, Tiqets offers a selection of highly-rated options.
Organized Day Tours
Advantages:
- Cost-effective way to see multiple attractions
- Transportation included
- Guide provides information
- Social opportunity to meet other travelers
- No planning required
Disadvantages:
- Fixed itineraries and schedules
- Limited time at each location
- Traveling with larger groups
- Less personal experience
Popular Tours:
- Island Highlights Tour: €50-70
- Volcano and Hot Springs Tour: €40-55
- Wine Tasting Tour: €125-160
- Sunset Tour: €55-75
Best For: Solo travelers, first-time visitors, those preferring structured experiences
For a wide selection of day tours and activities, Ektatraveling offers numerous options with online booking.
Combining Options
Many visitors opt for a mixed approach:
- Rent a car for 2-3 days of island exploration
- Use buses or taxis for evenings out
- Book a specialized tour for unique experiences (wine tour, cooking class)
- Walk within towns and villages
This combination often provides the best balance of convenience, cost, and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on common questions I’ve encountered in my research:
Do I need an International Driving Permit in Santorini?
Yes, if you have a non-EU license. Greek law requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) to accompany your regular driver’s license if it’s not issued by an EU country. While some rental companies may rent to you without one, police can issue fines if you’re stopped without an IDP. They’re typically easy to obtain in your home country before traveling.
Is driving in Santorini difficult?
Moderately challenging. Santorini’s roads present several unique challenges: narrow passages, limited signage, steep terrain, and busy traffic during high season. However, main roads are well-maintained, and distances are short. If you’re comfortable driving in unfamiliar environments and can handle manual transmission (or request automatic), you should manage fine with cautious driving.
Can I drive from Santorini Airport to my hotel?
Yes, this is a popular option. Many rental companies have desks at the airport, and picking up your vehicle upon arrival is convenient. The airport is centrally located, with Fira about 15 minutes away and Oia about 25 minutes away. For seamless airport pickup, Localrent allows you to compare companies with airport locations.
Is it worth renting a car for just 2-3 days?
Often, yes. Many visitors find that renting for part of their stay offers a good balance. You might use buses or taxis while staying in busier areas like Fira or Oia, then rent a car for 2-3 days to explore beaches, villages, and viewpoints. This approach provides flexibility without the cost or parking challenges of a full-stay rental.
Are automatic transmission cars available?
Yes, but limited and more expensive. Most rental cars in Santorini have manual transmission. Automatic vehicles are available but typically cost €12-18 more per day and require advance reservation, especially in high season. If you require an automatic, book well in advance through AutoEurope which allows filtering by transmission type.
Can I take a rental car on the ferry to other islands?
Sometimes, with advance permission. Most local rental companies don’t allow their vehicles to leave Santorini. Some larger agencies permit inter-island travel with prior arrangement and additional insurance. If you plan to island-hop with a vehicle, specify this when booking and expect additional fees of €55-110.
Is it safe to drive at night in Santorini?
Generally yes, with caution. Main roads are lit, but secondary roads and village streets often have minimal lighting. Additional hazards at night include pedestrians walking along unlit roads, limited visibility on curves, and occasional stray animals. If driving at night, reduce speed and stay especially alert on unfamiliar routes.
Do I need a special license for an ATV/quad bike?
Technically, yes. Greek law requires a motorcycle license for ATVs over 50cc (which most rental ATVs are). However, enforcement varies, and many rental companies will rent to anyone with a standard driver’s license. Be aware that your travel insurance may not cover accidents if you don’t have the proper license type.
How strict is enforcement of parking regulations?
Variable but increasing. In previous years, parking enforcement was relatively relaxed outside major towns. Recently, as tourism has increased, enforcement has become more consistent, particularly in Oia, Fira, and at popular beaches. Parking tickets range from €45-85, and illegally parked vehicles may be towed in extreme cases.
What should I do in case of an accident?
- Ensure safety first – Check for injuries and move to a safe location
- Call emergency services if needed (112 is the European emergency number)
- Contact the rental company immediately using their emergency number
- Document everything with photos and notes
- Exchange information with any other involved parties
- File a police report for any significant damage or injuries
- Don’t admit fault or sign documents you don’t understand
Most rental companies provide an accident procedure sheet with their emergency contact information.
Final Thoughts
Through my research, I’ve found that renting a car in Santorini can significantly enhance your experience of this stunning island, providing the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems beyond the reach of public transportation. While driving presents some challenges, the island’s compact size and relatively straightforward main road network make it manageable for most confident drivers.
For my upcoming trip, I’m planning to rent a compact car for the majority of my stay, allowing me to visit the traditional villages in Santorini, explore multiple beaches at my own pace, and chase the perfect sunset spots without crowds. The convenience of having my own transportation outweighs the occasional parking challenges I expect to encounter.
Whether you choose a car for your entire stay, an ATV for a fun alternative, or a mix of transportation options, understanding the realities of driving in Santorini will help you make the most of your visit to this magical island.
Have you driven in Santorini? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
This guide is based on extensive research including local transportation resources, rental company information, and insights from frequent visitors. All information was current as of 2025.
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
