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Discover Athens with Ease

Plan your one-way car rental journey from Thessaloniki to Athens

Can I rent a car from Thessaloniki to Athens?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Thessaloniki to Athens. 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 Norway or 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, Master, DinersClub, JCB, and AMEX. Some policies may require two credit cards. Debit cards are not widely accepted.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 19 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 19-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 12.80 per day (capped at US$ 128.09) or €12 per day (US$ 13.97). Specific fees and conditions may vary by location.
  • 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) (Please note that an IDP is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.)
    • EU Driving Licence. Notarized English translations or official embassy translations in English are not allowed for rentals in Greece.

    Notes: Notarized English translations or official embassy translations 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, JCB, and AMEX. Some policies may require two credit cards. Debit cards are not widely accepted.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 19 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 19-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 12.80 per day (capped at US$ 128.09) or €12 per day (US$ 13.97). Specific fees and conditions may vary by location.
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How much does renting a car from Thessaloniki to Athens 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$ 129/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 265-US$ 439US$ 212-US$ 466US$ 318-US$ 528Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 763-US$ 810US$ 495US$ 1,084-US$ 1,147Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 292-US$ 483US$ 212-US$ 495US$ 386-US$ 630Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 810US$ 495US$ 1,147Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 303-US$ 621US$ 212-US$ 495US$ 442-US$ 952Large families, groups

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

Key Consideration:
  • Consider one-way fees: Many car rental companies charge a fee for one-way rentals. Be sure to confirm and account for this in your budget.
  • Returning the vehicle requirements: Some rentals have specific rules about where and how to return vehicles; ensure locations match your schedule.
  • Vehicle type and availability: For one-way trips, certain vehicle types might be limited. Book early to secure your preferred car type.
  • Cross-border restrictions: If your journey involves international travel, verify whether the rental allows border crossing to avoid conflicts.
  • Rental time frame impacts cost: One-way rentals might carry time restrictions which could influence rates; discuss this during booking.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book in advance to save costs: Booking early often gives you access to better rates and ensures vehicle availability for your trip.
  • Verify drop-off locations: Confirm the exact location for vehicle drop-off in Athens to streamline your travel plans.
  • Understand rental agreement terms: Review the rental agreement thoroughly to be aware of any hidden fees or travel restrictions.
  • Plan refueling stops: Make note of major refueling spots on your route; many companies require the car to be returned with a full tank.
  • Map out your route: Plan your journey from Thessaloniki to Athens, including rest stops and possible delays.
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.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
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.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Tolls
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid higher charges from the rental company.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Use refueling stations near the drop-off location to ensure a full tank upon return.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel price along the route is approximately €1.80 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed of 90-100 km/h for optimal fuel efficiency.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Limit use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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Thessaloniki Parking

Public parking areas are available in the city center, costing around €1.50 per hour.

Consider using private parking lots near major landmarks for convenience.

Street parking is limited; always check for restrictions or permits.

Athens Parking

Parking in Athens can be challenging; use designated parking garages.

Rates range from €2 to €4 per hour depending on the location.

Avoid parking in restricted zones to prevent fines.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia: Provides detailed parking information and availability.

SpotHero: Allows booking parking spots in advance.

ParkMe: Offers real-time updates on parking spaces and rates.

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Tolls and FasTrak

The route includes toll roads such as the A1 motorway. Charges vary depending on vehicle type and distance.

Expect toll costs of approximately €30 for the entire journey.

Toll booths accept cash and card payments.

Toll Payment Options

Cash payments are accepted at all toll booths.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted for toll payments.

Electronic toll collection devices can be used for faster processing.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Major Scenic Routes for Thessaloniki to Athens:
Thessaloniki to Athens via Larisa
Direct Heritage Route 5 hours

A direct route through Greece showcasing iconic landscapes and cultural heritage.

Larisa , Mount Olympus , Thermopylae
Thessaloniki to Athens along the Coast
Scenic Coastal Drive 6 hours

A scenic drive along the Aegean coast perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Katerini , Volos , Chalkida
Thessaloniki to Athens via Parnassus
Mountain Adventure Route 7 hours

An adventurous drive through the highlands and near iconic mountains.

Larisa , Delphi , Arachova
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Vehicle Selection: Choose a vehicle suitable for mountainous driving and long distances.

Route Familiarization: Research the chosen route and familiarize yourself with rest stops.

Timing: Plan your travel during off-peak hours to avoid traffic congestion.

Refueling Points: Note the location of gas stations along your planned route.

Alternative Routes: Consider scenic routes to enhance your travel experience.

Local Flavors: Take time to enjoy authentic cuisine at stops along the way.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When selecting a car rental company for a one-way route between Thessaloniki and Athens, it is crucial to verify their one-way rental policies and fees, ensuring their fleet meets your needs and checking their service coverage in both cities.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Avis Car Rental$$HighExcellent Wide selection of vehicles , 24/7 customer support , Multiple pickup and drop-off locations
Hertz$$HighExcellent Reliable customer service , Comprehensive insurance options , GPS navigation inclusivity
Budget$ModerateGood Affordable pricing , Economic car options , Simple rental process
Sixt Rent a Car$$$Very HighExcellent High-end luxury vehicles available , Speedy pickup services , High-tech integrated features in vehicles
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
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

Rental Car Centers Details

Operating Hours:

Rental centers in Thessaloniki and Athens operate typically from 7 AM to 11 PM on weekdays and weekends.

Location Information:

Car rental centers are located within the main airport terminals of Thessaloniki and Athens for ease of access.

Shuttle Services:

Complimentary shuttle services are available every 15 minutes between the rental center and airport terminals.

Baggage Assistance:

Staff at the rental centers assist in managing and transporting baggage to vehicles conveniently.

Pro Tips for Thessaloniki Airport(SKG) Car Rentals

Consider booking your vehicle online in advance for discounted rates and confirmation of availability on your travel dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to rent a car one-way from Thessaloniki to Athens?

Yes, many rental companies provide the option for one-way rentals between Thessaloniki and Athens. Make sure to confirm the availability and any additional fees with the provider.

What costs are typically involved in a one-way car rental?

Costs might include the base rental rate, fuel, insurance, and possibly a one-way fee charged by the rental company for returning the car to a different location.

Are there any additional requirements or policies for one-way rentals?

While requirements may vary, you typically need a valid driving license, a credit card for the deposit, and the responsibility of refueling the car before returning it.

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

The drive from Thessaloniki to Athens typically takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.

What should I do if there is a problem with the rental car during the trip?

If an issue arises, contact the rental company's support number provided at the time of rental. They will assist in resolving the problem or provide emergency aid.

Ready to Book Your Thessaloniki to Athens Adventure?

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