Car Hire Crete – Rethymno | From €18/day | 365 Car Hire
Rethymno sits perfectly on Crete’s north coast, offering the best of both worlds — a charming old town and easy access to the island’s wildest landscapes. We work with trusted rental companies across the region to bring you competitive rates and reliable vehicles. Whether you’re landing at Car Hire Heraklion (Crete) or flying into Car Hire Chania (Crete), picking up your hire car gives you the freedom to explore Rethymno and beyond at your own pace.
Why Hire a Car in Crete – Rethymno?
Crete is Greece’s largest island, and Rethymno sits right in the middle of it all. Without a car, you’re stuck relying on buses that run on limited schedules — especially to mountain villages and hidden beaches. A hire car transforms your holiday from a standard beach trip into a proper Cretan adventure.
Imagine waking up in Rethymno’s old town, driving through olive groves by mid-morning, and eating fresh seafood at a quiet southern beach by lunch. That’s the kind of day only a car makes possible. Our suppliers offer everything from compact cars perfect for narrow village lanes to larger vehicles for families exploring the island together.
Planning a broader Greek adventure? After exploring Crete, you might head to other islands. We also cover Car Hire Mykonos and Car Hire Santorini — or browse our full range at Car Hire Greece for mainland options too.
- Freedom to discover hidden beaches the tour buses never reach
- Visit authentic mountain villages with stunning panoramic views
- Travel on your schedule — no waiting for infrequent buses
- Affordable daily rates starting from just €18
- Wide selection of vehicles from economy to family-sized cars
Driving Tips and What to See
Driving in Crete is straightforward once you know what to expect. The north coast road connecting major towns like Heraklion, Rethymno, and Chania is well-surfaced and well-signed. It makes getting around the island’s main hubs surprisingly easy. However, venture inland and you’ll encounter winding mountain roads that require careful navigation.
Our top tip? Book a compact car. Rethymno’s old town features narrow Venetian streets, and mountain villages often have tight lanes that larger vehicles struggle with. A smaller car also means easier parking — a real advantage in summer when beach town car parks fill up quickly.
From Rethymno, you’re perfectly positioned to explore. Head west to the stunning Balos Lagoon or south to the palm beach of Preveli. The ancient Minoan ruins at Knossos make for an unforgettable day trip. And don’t miss the drive through the Amari Valley — it’s one of Crete’s best-kept secrets, with traditional villages untouched by mass tourism.
- Always carry your driving licence and rental documents
- Fuel up before heading into remote mountain areas
- Watch for goats wandering onto rural roads
- Park in designated areas — fines are enforced in tourist spots
- Take your time on hairpin bends in the mountains
Booking Your Car Hire
Booking with 365 Car Hire is simple and stress-free. We compare prices from trusted rental companies to find you great value options. All our bookings come with transparent pricing — there are no hidden fees to worry about. What you see is what you pay.
We understand that plans change. That’s why we offer free cancellation on most bookings. Book now, lock in your rate, and adjust your dates if needed without penalty. It’s travel flexibility that suits modern holidaymakers.
The process takes just minutes. Enter your pickup location — whether that’s Rethymno city centre or one of the island’s airports — choose your dates, and browse available vehicles. Each listing shows exactly what’s included, from insurance coverage to mileage allowances. Our team is also on hand if you need help deciding which car suits your Cretan adventure best.
Q: Do I need an International Driving Permit for Crete?
Drivers from EU countries can use their standard driving licence. Visitors from outside the EU should check requirements — an International Driving Permit alongside your regular licence is often needed for car hire in Greece.
Q: What’s included in the rental price?
All our rentals include basic insurance, taxes, and unlimited mileage. Many vehicles come with air conditioning as standard — essential for Greek summers. Additional coverage options are available if you want extra peace of mind.
Q: Can I pick up in Rethymno and drop off elsewhere?
Yes, one-way rentals between locations are available. Popular routes include picking up at Heraklion Airport and dropping off in Chania. Just note that one-way fees may apply depending on the supplier.