Rent a car in Crete easily 
We compare the best car rental deals – no fine print, with real Hebrew support. Choose your car, book in a few clicks, and travel with peace of mind.
Pick-up locations
Auto Europe Israel collaborates in Crete with THRIFTY, BUDGET, ENTERPRISE, EUROPCAR, AVANCE, and HERTZ, allowing you to easily book a car at competitive prices. These suppliers have service points and branches at the airports of Heraklion and Chania, as well as central urban branches on the island. Through us, you can compare the fleet, fuel policies, and insurance policies of each provider, choose the offer that suits you, and enjoy service and support for Israelis along the way.
Car rental companies in Crete
Auto Europe Israel collaborates with a wide range of car rental suppliers in Crete and Greece in general, offering you full flexibility in choosing pick-up and return points across the island. The main pick-up points are located at Heraklion (HER) and Chania (CHQ) airports, as well as near the main ferry ports – Heraklion port and Souda port near Chania. Additionally, you can find rental branches in convenient urban locations in major city centers and popular tourist areas, so you can choose whether to pick up the car immediately upon landing/by ferry or after settling in at the hotel. This solution is especially convenient for those planning a star trip or transition from coastal towns to mountain sites, allowing you to start driving immediately upon arrival and save precious time on vacation.
Additional rental stations are spread across Crete, allowing friendly itinerary planning: pick-up in one city and return in another on the same island may be possible depending on availability and supplier policy. During the busy tourist season, it is recommended to book in advance the appropriate car model for the group size and type of roads planned, especially if you plan to travel to mountainous areas or small villages where parking and passages may be relatively narrow. For pick-up, a valid passport, valid driver's license, and an international driving license according to the supplier's policy are recommended. Additionally, a physical credit card in the driver's name is usually required for security deposit.
Operating hours vary between companies and stations and may be affected by seasonality. Airport branches are generally open for longer hours, while smaller city or resort branches may operate on a limited schedule, including lunch breaks or limited activity on Sundays. Therefore, it is important to confirm in advance that the hours at the station you chose match your arrival time. If you are landing late, consider picking up the car at an airport station, and add your flight details to the booking to assist the supplier in preparing for delays. Some stations offer drop-off outside hours using a key box, subject to station policy. The operating hours, late collection options, and full rental conditions can be viewed during the booking process and before payment.
FAQ – Car rental in Crete
What is the minimum age for renting a car in Crete, and is there an additional charge for young drivers?
In Crete (Greece), when booking through Auto Europe Israel with partner suppliers, the minimum age is usually 21; certain models require 23-25. Drivers under 25 are typically charged a daily young driver fee. A minimum license term of one year (and sometimes two) is required, and an active international credit card in the main driver's name. Some suppliers may charge a fee for senior drivers over the age of 70-75.
Is an Israeli driver's license sufficient, or is an international license required?
In Crete, suppliers generally require an international driving permit (IDP) in addition to a valid Israeli license for at least a year. Thus, it is recommended and customary to bring the Israeli license, IDP, passport, and a credit card in the driver's name. Without the IDP, a supplier may refuse to deliver the car, and insurance coverage may not apply in the event of a police check. When booking through Auto Europe Israel, the supplier's exact document requirements are usually displayed.
What does the basic insurance package include, and what additional insurance is recommended?
When renting in Crete through Auto Europe Israel, the basic package usually includes CDW (collision damage waiver) and TP (theft protection) with an excess, as well as third-party liability by local law. The basic coverage typically does not include windows, tires, mirrors, roof, underside, keys, or battery damage or incorrect fuel. Common extensions: reduction/elimination of excess (SCDW), glass/tires/mirrors coverage (WUG/TIW), personal accident insurance (PAI), and extended roadside assistance. Coverage conditions vary between Hertz, Europcar, Enterprise, Budget, Thrifty, and Avance, so it is advisable to check the Auto Europe Israel booking summary before collection.
Can an additional driver be added, and what are the costs involved?
Yes. When booking through Auto Europe Israel in Crete, an additional driver meeting the same age and license conditions can be added. The additional driver must be present at pick-up and present a license (and sometimes IDP) and passport. Most suppliers charge a daily fee for an additional driver (approximately 5-10 euros per day, plus local tax), and sometimes there are promotions with the first additional driver at no cost. Only drivers listed in the contract are covered by insurance.
What happens in case of an accident or car malfunction?
In an emergency, stop in a safe place and call 112. Immediately report to the local supplier on the emergency number that appears in the contract, and do not carry out independent repairs. In Greece, a police report is often required for any damage/theft event to activate insurance coverage—get party details, photograph damages, and wait for instructions. For mechanical malfunctions, towing/assistance will be sent; damages to tires, windows, keys, or incorrect fuel are not covered by basic insurance unless appropriate coverage is purchased. Auto Europe Israel staff is available to assist and coordinate with the supplier after the event, but immediate treatment is done with the local supplier.
Tips for car rental in Crete
Looking to rent a car abroad with peace of mind? Here are four short and precise tips that will help you save money, pass the counter quickly, and return the car without unnecessary surprises. In any destination and any season with confidence.
Smart Pick-Up and Return Timing
The rental price is calculated in 24-hour blocks. A small delay may incur an additional day charge, and pick-up/return outside hours sometimes involves a fee. Set realistic times according to landing and flight.
Required Credit Card and Records
Most suppliers require a physical credit card in the main driver's name for security. Ensure sufficient available limit; debit/prepaid cards are not always accepted. Bring a driving license, passport, and in some countries also an international license.
Profitable Fuel Policy
Choose a "full to full" policy to pay only for what you use. Fill up at a nearby station before returning and keep the receipt. "Empty to full" policies may involve refueling costs and service charges.
Insurance and Excess
Check the included coverages (damage/theft/third-party) and the level of excess. Consider expanding excess cancellation, and pay attention to common exclusions like tires, windows, underside, and roof.
Pick-up map around Crete
Click any location on the map to view the rental page for that destination via Auto Europe.
Everything you need to know about car rental in Crete
Speed limit in city
50
km/h
Speed limit on highways
90
km/h
Minimum age to rent a car
21
Drivers from age 21, at least one-year license. Young driver fee up to 23–25, certain groups 25.
Parking restrictions in major cities
In Cretan cities (Heraklion, Chania) paid parking zones with meters, enforcement and fines.
Why rent a car in Crete with Auto Europe?
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Professional Hebrew-speaking service
Israeli representatives who understand your needs, speak your language, and assist you throughout the entire process – from booking to vehicle return.
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Full flexibility and personal customization
A wide range of cars, easy modification and cancellation terms, and flexible pick-up and drop-off locations across Germany.
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Transparent pricing with no surprises
All costs are displayed upfront, including local taxes, unlimited mileage, insurance, and extras – with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
More destinations in Greece
Auto Europe wishes you a pleasant and safe journey.
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