One-Way Car Rental from Athens to Thessaloniki | Compare Prices & Fees

Home One-way Car Rentals Athens to Thessaloniki

Can I rent a car from Athens to Thessaloniki?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Athens to Thessaloniki. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for GR residents

Documents required for international visitors

Form of ID: A valid physical Greece national photo ID
Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s).
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa and Master.
Age requirements: Drivers must be between 19 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 19 to 24 incur an additional fee of EUR 12 per day (US$ 14.07 per day, tax included).

Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• EU Driving Licence. Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.

Notes: Notarized English translation, Official embassy translation in English are not allowed for rentals in Greece.
Form of ID: A valid passport
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, and Discover.
Age requirements: Drivers must be between 19 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 19 to 24 incur an additional fee of EUR 12 per day (US$ 14.07 per day, tax included).

How much does renting a car from Athens to Thessaloniki cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 106/day

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 125/day

Vehicle Types

Vehicle Types	Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included)	One-way Fee	Total(3-day Trip)	Best For
Small	US$ 264-US$ 344	US$ 212-US$ 583	US$ 316-US$ 427	Solo travelers, couples
Large	US$ 682-US$ 810	US$ 400-US$ 583	US$ 987-US$ 1,091	Families, comfort seeker
SUV	US$ 274-US$ 394	US$ 212-US$ 583	US$ 374-US$ 558	Large groups, long drivers
Premium	US$ 810	US$ 495	US$ 1,039	Families, comfort seeker
Van	US$ 307-US$ 913	US$ 212-US$ 583	US$ 452-US$ 777	Large families, groups

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration：

Understand the one-way fee: Some rental companies may charge a one-way fee for returning the car to a different location. Check the fee while booking to avoid surprises.
Cross-border restrictions: If considering traveling across borders, verify whether the rental agreement allows it and if additional fees apply.
Choose the right vehicle: Select a vehicle that suits the driving distance and road conditions between Athens and Thessaloniki for a comfortable journey.
Understand fuel policies: Familiarize yourself with the fuel policy, such as full-to-full, to avoid extra charges upon returning the vehicle.
Flexible pickup and drop-off timings: Check the rental provider’s policies on pickup and return timings to align with your schedule.

Smart Planning Tips:

Book well in advance: Secure the best deals and wider vehicle choices by booking your one-way rental early.
Plan the drop-off location: Ensure the drop-off location in Thessaloniki is convenient and examine local parking options as needed.
Bring necessary documents: Carry your driver’s license, rental confirmation, and any other required documents for a smooth transaction.
Consider additional coverage: Opt for extra insurance coverage for peace of mind during the extensive journey.
Check the vehicle comprehensively: Inspect the car for damages before accepting it and report any issues to avoid disputes later.
Familiarize with local traffic rules: Understand the driving regulations in Greece and the specific route to ensure a safe trip.

Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

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Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

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Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling

Parking

Tolls

Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the vehicle before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Refueling at stations near the drop-off location is often more economical.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price along the route is approximately €1.85 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.

Limit the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

Athens Parking

Parking in central Athens can be challenging during peak hours.

Consider using park-and-ride facilities to avoid city congestion.

Hourly parking rates range from €2 to €4 in most areas.

Thessaloniki Parking

Parking near the city center is limited and often expensive.

Use designated parking lots for better security.

Street parking is available but may require a parking card.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkAround - Find and book parking spots in Greece.

Parkopedia - Discover parking availability and prices.

e-Parking - A local app for real-time parking updates.

Tolls and FasTrak

The route includes toll roads such as the A1 Motorway.

Toll charges range from €2 to €4 per segment.

Keep cash or a valid toll card ready for payments.

Toll Payment Options

Cash payments are accepted at all toll booths.

Electronic toll passes can be used for faster processing.

Credit card payments are available at most toll stations.

Popular One-Way Car Rental Routes

Recommended Routes for Athens to Thessaloniki:

Coastal Drive via Lamia and Volos

Scenic Route 6 hours

A scenic journey along the coast and through central Greece, offering picturesque sea views and diverse landscapes.

Lamia , Volos , Larissa

Historical Landmarks Route via Delphi

Cultural Route 7 hours

Explore historical and cultural treasures with stops at ancient landmarks.

Delphi , Thermopylae

Fastest Highway Route via A1 Motorway

Direct Route 5 hours

The quickest way between Athens and Thessaloniki, ideal for those on a time-sensitive schedule.

Lamia , Larissa

Must-Take Day Trips from Thessaloniki:

Mount Olympus National Park

1 hour

Explore the majestic Mount Olympus, the mythological home of the Greek gods.

Halkidiki Peninsula

1.5 hours

Enjoy pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters on this peninsula.

Pella, Birthplace of Alexander the Great

45 minutes

Visit the historical site and marvel at the origins of Alexander the Great.

Edessa Waterfalls

1 hour

View the breathtaking waterfalls and enjoy the serene surroundings of Edessa.

Road Trip Planning Tips

Vehicle Selection: Choose a car suitable for Greek roads and the number of travelers.

Budget Planning: Check for additional fees such as one-way rental charges and toll costs.

Car Inspection: Inspect the vehicle for any damages before departure; take pictures to document.

Navigation Tools: Have a reliable GPS or map of the area to avoid getting lost.

Travel Timing: Plan your travel time to avoid rush hours and enjoy a relaxed journey.

Safety Preparation: Ensure the car comes with safety equipment, like a first-aid kit and a spare tire.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When planning a one-way rental from Athens to Thessaloniki, choosing the right car rental company ensures a smooth and comfortable journey. It's important to pick a company offering comprehensive services, transparent pricing, and excellent customer feedback. Below, find some of the best options available.

Company	One-Way Fee	Fleet Variety	Location Coverage	Key Advantage
EuroCar Rentals	$$	High	Excellent	Affordable one-way rental fees , Wide range of vehicles, including energy-efficient options , Competitive pricing on extended rentals
Greece Wheels	$	Moderate	Good	Ease of reservation modifications , Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
AutoDrive Greece	$$$	High	Excellent	Premium vehicles available , Comprehensive insurance options , Enhanced customer support
FastGo Rentals	$	Moderate	Moderate	Competitive daily rates , Eco-friendly vehicle options

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Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:

Pricing Considerations

Base rental rate per day
One-way drop-off fees
Additional driver charges
Insurance costs
Fuel policy and potential charges

Vehicle Selection

Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
Fuel efficiency for long drives
Comfort features for highway driving
Navigation and entertainment systems
Vehicle condition and mileage

Company Reliability

Customer service reputation
Transparency in fees and policies
Roadside assistance coverage
Cancellation and modification policies
Reviews from other one-way renters

Athens Car Rental Information

Operating Hours:

Car rental centers in Athens generally operate from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with some offering 24/7 service.

Pickup Locations:

Most rental providers are located near Athens International Airport or central city areas for convenience.

Shuttle Services:

Several companies offer free shuttles from various points in Athens to their rental centers.

Key Services:

Many rental companies provide additional services such as GPS rental, child seats, and vehicle insurance.

Pro Tips for Athens Airport(ATH) Car Rentals

Ensure to confirm the terms of the rental agreement regarding the one-way journey and inquire about potential extra fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of a one-way car rental from Athens to Thessaloniki?

The cost varies depending on factors like the type of car, the rental duration, and the company policies. Generally, additional fees for one-way rentals might apply, so it's advisable to check with the rental provider for specific pricing details.

How long does it take to drive from Athens to Thessaloniki?

The driving distance between Athens and Thessaloniki is approximately 500 kilometers, and typically takes around 5-6 hours by car under normal traffic conditions.

Can I rent a car in Athens and return it in Thessaloniki without extra fees?

Most rental companies charge a one-way fee for returning the car to a different location. However, promotions or agreements may waive this fee, so it is best to confirm with the specific company.

Are there rest stops or gas stations along the route?

Yes, there are several rest stops and gas stations available along the national highways connecting Athens to Thessaloniki, providing convenient options for refueling and breaks.

What type of documentation is required for a car rental in Greece?

To rent a car in Greece, you typically need to provide a valid driver's license, an International Driving Permit (if required), a credit card for payment and deposit, and a valid ID or passport.

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