Renting a car at Heraklion Airport offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the island of Crete at their own pace. Whether you’re visiting for the stunning beaches, ancient ruins, or scenic mountain drives, hiring a car ensures you don’t miss any of Crete’s hidden gems. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about car hire at Heraklion Airport, including what to expect, the benefits of renting a car, and some handy tips to enhance your experience.
Why Rent a Car at Heraklion Airport?
Heraklion International Airport, the second busiest airport in Greece, serves as the primary gateway for travelers exploring Crete. Renting a car directly from the airport is incredibly convenient and offers several advantages:
- Flexibility: With a car, you are free to travel at your own schedule, from sunrise beach trips to late-night dinners in quaint village tavernas.
- Comfort: Public transport can be crowded and infrequent, particularly in rural areas. A rental car ensures comfort and privacy.
- Access to Remote Locations: Some of Crete’s most breathtaking locations, such as Balos Beach, Elafonissi Lagoon, and Samaria Gorge, are difficult to reach by bus. A rental car makes these scenic spots easily accessible.
What to Expect When Hiring a Car at Heraklion Airport
Renting a car at Heraklion Airport is straightforward, especially if you book in advance. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
1. Wide Range of Car Options
Car rental agencies at Heraklion Airport offer a variety of vehicles to suit different needs:
- Compact Cars: Perfect for solo travelers or couples navigating the narrow streets of Crete’s historic towns.
- Family Sedans: Ideal for families or larger groups, offering more space and comfort.
- SUVs: Great for those planning to venture into Crete’s mountainous regions or off-road areas.
- Luxury Vehicles and Hybrids: For travelers seeking a touch of class or eco-friendly options, luxury cars and hybrids are available.
2. Pick-Up Process
When you land at Heraklion Airport, you can head directly to the car rental desks located in the arrivals area. If you’ve pre-booked, you simply provide your booking reference and necessary identification (passport, driver’s license, etc.). In some cases, car hire companies offer meet-and-greet services where a representative will take you to your vehicle, often parked just outside the terminal.
3. No Credit Card or Deposit Requirement
Certain car rental companies, such as MYTHOS Car Rentals, offer the convenience of renting a car without requiring a deposit or a credit card. This can make the process easier and less stressful for many travelers. Additionally, they often include full insurance coverage with no excess, eliminating concerns about hidden fees or unexpected costs.
4. Insurance and Coverage
Most car hire services at Heraklion Airport include comprehensive insurance in their rates. This generally includes:
- Full Damage Waiver: Covers any damages to the vehicle during your rental period.
- Theft Waiver: Protects against the loss or theft of the vehicle.
- Third-Party Liability: Covers damages to other vehicles or property.
- Glass, Tire, and Wheel Insurance: Provides extra protection in case of damage to these often-vulnerable parts of the car.
Some companies also offer optional extras like personal accident insurance and roadside assistance for added peace of mind.
Tips for Renting a Car at Heraklion Airport
1. Book in Advance
During peak tourist seasons (June to September), demand for rental cars skyrockets, and availability can become limited. Booking ahead not only guarantees that you get the vehicle of your choice but also often results in better rates.
2. Check Fuel Policies
Car rental companies have different fuel policies. The two most common are:
- Full-to-Full: The car is rented with a full tank of fuel, and you are required to return it with a full tank.
- Prepaid Fuel: You pay for a full tank upfront and can return the car with any level of fuel.
For most travelers, the full-to-full policy is more economical, as you only pay for the fuel you actually use.
3. Inspect the Vehicle
Before driving off, inspect the vehicle carefully. Make sure any existing damage is documented by the rental company to avoid potential disputes when returning the car. Take photos of the car’s condition, including the tires and interior, as an extra precaution.
4. Familiarize Yourself with Local Driving Laws
Driving in Crete may be different from what you’re used to, especially if you’re from outside Europe. Key points to remember:
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Mobile phone use while driving is illegal unless using a hands-free system.
- Speed limits vary: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90-100 km/h on highways, and 80 km/h on rural roads.
Additionally, roads in rural areas and mountain passes can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously, especially at night.
Benefits of Renting with MYTHOS Car Rentals at Heraklion Airport
MYTHOS Car Rentals is one of the top-rated car rental services at Heraklion Airport, offering several key benefits that make them stand out:
- No Excess, No Hidden Fees: All taxes, insurance, and unlimited mileage are included in the rental price. There are no surprise charges when you return the car.
- Hassle-Free Pickup and Drop-Off: They offer quick and easy car delivery at Heraklion Airport, so you can start your adventure in Crete without delay.
- Free Extras: MYTHOS includes free baby seats, GPS, and other useful extras upon request, ensuring you have everything you need for a smooth trip.
- 24/7 Roadside Assistance: Should anything go wrong during your journey, MYTHOS provides 24/7 roadside assistance to get you back on the road swiftly.
Discover Crete with Your Rental Car
Once you have your rental car, you’re free to explore Crete’s treasures. Heraklion, the island’s capital, offers plenty to see, including the famous Palace of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum. From there, you can venture to the idyllic beaches of Elafonissi, hike the rugged Samaria Gorge, or drive along the scenic coastline to Chania, a charming city known for its Venetian harbor and rich history.
Final Thoughts
Renting a car at Heraklion Airport is a convenient and stress-free way to experience the beauty of Crete. From the ease of the booking process to the comprehensive insurance packages and the flexibility it offers, car hire opens up a world of opportunities for adventure. With the right vehicle at your disposal, Crete’s beaches, mountains, and ancient ruins are all within your reach.