Renting A Car In Naxos: The Ultimate Guide + Tips (2024)

Are you planning on renting a car in Naxos?

As the largest Cycladic island, filled with peaceful beaches and delightful villages, Naxos is best explored if you have your own way of getting around.

Whether you’re exploring traditional villages, partaking in some beach bumming on Agios Prokopios Beach, or just taking it all in at Naxos Castle, also known as Castro, having your own private set of wheels will make your experience much richer.

In this guide to renting a car in Naxos, we’ll provide useful tips to help you find one quickly (at the right price) and prepare the necessary documentation and paperwork prior to loading up that rental agreement.

🚗 Find the cheapest deal on car rental Naxos has to offer and book your vehicle safely with no hidden cost & generous cancellation policy through ➡️ Discover Cars.

So if you’re looking forward to hitting up multiple spots around Naxos while still getting around safely with affordable transport – stick with us as we go through everything from logistics and requirements for Naxos car rental to the best places to visit on your road trip.

Is Renting A Car In Naxos A Good Idea?

If you’re dreaming of uncovering all the wonders and adventures Naxos has to offer, it’s time to rent a car. After all, what better way is there to bask in the beauty of this magical island than by hitting the road? You’ll be able to explore beyond your resort or hotel and experience the authentic Cycladic charm and small island vibe.

Renting a car in Naxos will give you flexibility and allow you to craft your own perfect itinerary. With a rental car at your disposal, you are empowered to explore wherever and whenever it pleases you. You can delve into the unknown by visiting off-the-beaten villages or choose less crowded times for popular destinations to enjoy them alone.

Beyond exploring renowned attractions, having your own car allows you to visit non-touristy tavernas and savour the local cuisine or bask on remote beaches.

Furthermore, if you are travelling with a group of family members, getting around the island is not only cheaper but also more convenient with a car because you will be able to pack and take with you anything you want.

Last but not least, renting a car in Naxos Greece will allow you to stay outside of the main touristy areas like Chora town, which will provide you with a more authentic holiday experience and often means saving money on accommodation.

RENTING A CAR IN NAXOS

Car Rental On Naxos: Logistics

What’s the best way to rent a car in Naxos?

If you’re planning a trip to Naxo, it’s critical that you book your vehicle ahead of time – especially if travelling in peak summer months or want an automatic car. The island is relatively small, and so is the number of available rental cars. Don’t wait until arrival day only to find out there are no available vehicles!

Searching individual car rental websites can be a time-consuming chore. Instead, we recommend you use a reliable car comparison website, such as Discover Cars, to save yourself some stress and energy. We always use Discover Cars whenever we need a car rental abroad, and they never let us down. They’re trustworthy and cost-efficient. That’s why we always recommend them to our readers.

Discover Cars not only provides a comprehensive list of available cars for rent on the island during your stay, but it also arranges the results in order of their highest reviews. So when selecting which car company to go with, rest assured that you will be renting from one that comes highly recommended by past customers.

Their car listings showcase specifications to help you locate the car that fits your needs based on how many people will travel with you and how much luggage you have. The prices at Discover Cars are fixed, and there are no hidden fees.

Why do we love Discover Cars? Not only are they the best car rental Naxos has to offer, but also provide free cancellation in case you reconsider your decision or something changes in regard to your travel plans. With them, it’s easy and stress-free!

Car rental Naxos Airport

If you’re planning to rent your cat at the Naxos Airport, we strongly recommend booking it in advance with a collection at the airport. Booking your car online in advance with Discover Cars will be cheaper, and you will save a lot of hassle and time when you land on Naxos.

There are several car hire Naxos Airport companies, such as Alamo, Enterprise, Avis, Budget and Sixt. 

Rent A Car Naxos Port

Another common place for car rental in Naxos is its port town Chora, also known as Naxos town. Chora is a busy town with Naxos visitors and day trippers arriving from other Cycladic islands multiple times per day.

To ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival into Naxos Port, pre-booking your rental car with Discover Cars is the way to go. With the pick-up at the port, you no longer have to worry about the availability of cars onsite and will save time on having to negotiate at one of the Naxos rent a car shops.

How much does a rental car in Naxos cost?

The cost of renting a car in Naxos depends on the type of vehicle you choose, the length of your rental agreement and your travel dates, as well as whether you have any extra services or add-ons.

For instance, a daily economy car rental can start from 35 euros per day (not including full insurance coverage and based on a 7-day rental period in June), whereas an SUV will be slightly more expensive. Depending on the rental company, you may also have to pay an additional fee for extras like GPS navigation or child car seats.

The best way to ensure that you get the best value is to compare prices on Discover Cars and select a vehicle that suits your budget and needs. That way, you can be sure to make an informed decision instead of settling for the first car rental company you come across.

RENTING A CAR IN NAXOS

Renting A Car In Naxos Greece: Requirements

Summary:

Can US citizens rent a car in Greece?

Renting a car in Naxos is a very simple process for U.S. citizens.

When you are travelling in Naxos or anywhere in Greece, renting a car is possible with just the use of your U.S driver’s licence – provided that it has been valid for at least one year and you are aged between 21-70.

Note that if you are over 21 but are under 25, you are classed as a young driver and may have to pay an additional rental fee.

Although you are no longer legally required to get an International Driver’s Permit (IDP), it is still highly recommended, especially if you’re a regular traveller who visits numerous countries. More than 150 countries around the world accept and recognize IDPs compared to just a handful that accepts US-issued driver’s licence.

If you are 18 or above and have a valid driver’s license from the United States, then you meet the requirements to receive an International Driver’s Permit. You can quickly apply for it either online or at any AAA office within the United States.

Can UK citizens rent a car in Greece?

Despite Brexit, UK citizens are still able to rent a car in Naxos or any other Greek islands with a British driver’s licence as long as they meet the following criteria – being over 21 years old, under 70 and having held their British driving licence for at least 12 months.

It is, however, a good idea to get an International Driver’s Permit just in case.

What are the requirements for EU countries?

Drivers from other EU countries need to show a valid, current driving licence from their home country. The same age rule applies: you must be over 21 but under 70 years old and have had your licence for at least one year. 

Drivers from non-EU but European nations like Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway are also allowed renting a car in Naxos and Greece with their home-country driver’s licence, and the same age rules apply.

Do I need insurance for renting a car in Naxos?

Yes, renting a car in Naxos requires insurance.

Although most rental car agreements include basic insurance consisting of a collision damage waiver (or CDW), we highly recommend opting for full insurance coverage while booking a car through Discover Cars.

Full cover will protect you from any claims against you in the event of an accident, theft or damage. You may also have to pay a deposit for the car, which is typically refunded once you return it without any damages. Full insurance coverage also protects your deposit.

Be sure to read your rental agreement carefully and make sure that it includes full insurance coverage before signing on the dotted line.

Booking your full insurance coverage online in advance is almost always cheaper than doing so at the car rental agency. Discover Cars offers an inexpensive and comprehensive policy that will give you peace of mind!

Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Naxos Island?

Most Naxos car rental shops require a credit or debit card for a deposit.

The rental company needs a credit card to block a certain amount of deposit as a protection against damage or theft to the car when it is in your possession and if you need to pay any fees or penalties upon returning the car. This blocking deposit is taken whether you take out full insurance or not. 

Some rental companies allow customers to use their debit card for the deposit, but we do not recommend that. This is because the rental shop will actually take the deposit money from your card. 

If you have a monthly spending limit on your debit card, this deposit could severely impact your access to cash throughout the duration of your trip.

The money is then unblocked (on a credit card) or refunded (debit card) within a few days of returning the car in good condition. 

In some cases, a rental company may require a credit card as a prerequisite to give you a car. They will need it for their system and in case you want to extend your car rental period later on. 

RENTING A CAR IN NAXOS

Tips For Car Hire Naxos

Want to hire car in Naxos Island with confidence? Here are the most important tips for driving in Naxos.

✔️ Get a full insurance cover

Renting a car in Naxos is much like it is anywhere else—it comes with potential hazards to both yourself and other drivers. To sufficiently shield yourself against any incidents, you should always obtain full insurance coverage for your rental car, alongside whatever personal travel coverage you might already possess.

Although it can be a strain to add insurance coverage on top of costly rental car fees, especially during the peak summer season, I’m sure you would never drive uninsured in your own country, so why should driving abroad be any different?

Full insurance coverage is always worth the peace of mind and protection it offers. Small damage to a windscreen can cost as much as €700, so make sure you are fully covered to avoid a nasty surprise later on.

By taking full insurance coverage, you are also protecting yourself from third-party damage to the car or to other people and potential legal repercussions and unexpected enormous bills.

When you opt for full coverage insurance, you have peace of mind knowing that your rental car, passengers and property are all covered in the event of an accident. You’ll be taken care of no matter how serious or light any resulting damage may be!

Before you commit to any insurance policy, be sure to read the fine print and understand what is and isn’t covered. As you plan your road trip around Naxos, it’s essential to make sure that there are no restrictions in place that could nullify your coverage – such as driving off-road.

✔️ Record the condition of the car

Before you hit the road on your adventure, it is essential to take a few minutes and inspect the rental car thoroughly. This small effort can save you both money and stress later if something goes wrong – don’t let eagerness to get going overcome being smart with what could be an expensive mistake.

Before driving off with the vehicle, go through any paperwork carefully to ensure that all existing dents, scratches or windscreen cracks are accounted for. If damage is noted on the sheet, double-check its location and degree in order to make sure it has been correctly documented.

After that, you should record the condition of the car yourself. It is important to take detailed close-up photos or a video of both the exterior and interior elements of the vehicle. Focus especially on potential problem spots such as windshields, headlights, and bumpers/fenders.

No matter how slight the damage may be, make sure the rental car representative updates it on the paperwork. Furthermore, consider making copies of any photos or videos you have taken for added security should you happen to misplace your phone.

✔️ Choose accommodation with parking 

If you’re planning to rent a car, it is essential to make parking a priority when selecting your accommodations – whether that be through a hotel or Airbnb. 

By having car parking readily available onsite, preferably with a designated spot, you’ll save yourself the time and headache of trying to locate an area nearby to park. This is especially convenient when coming home late in the evening after touring all day.

Furthermore, if you park your car someplace safe and secure, it will give you peace of mind when leaving it unattended in the evening.

To make the most of your vacation, book a hotel or Airbnb with free and reliable parking. You don’t want to be surprised by additional daily car charges for something that should already be included in your stay – these fees can add up quickly over a one or two-week holiday!

✔️ Take advantage of free car parks

Naxos Island has many public car parks in towns and near the beaches, where you can leave your vehicle free of charge when exploring the island. While it may be tricky to find a free parking spot in Chora, other more remote locations have many free parking options.

RENTING A CAR IN NAXOS

Best Places To Visit With A Rental Car In Naxos

Here are some of the best places to discover with your rental car in Naxos.

📍Chora

Start your sightseeing in Chora Naxos, the capital of the spectacular island and a point of arrival for all travellers. As you enter this vibrant city, you’ll be enchanted by its most iconic landmark – Portara, which is actually just an immense marble door frame that is what remains from the Temple of Apollo dating back to 523 BC.

Meander through its lovely old town with white-washed alleys and picturesque sugar cube-like houses – typical examples of Cycladic architecture. Journey back in time to explore the iconic 13th-century pentagonal Venetian castle!

Exploring the charming Old Town of Naxos is an absolute must-do! You’ll be captivated by all its fascinating Cycladic churches, intriguing museums and art galleries, as well as delightful boutiques offering handcrafted items and traditional goods that make great souvenirs or gifts.

📍Agia Anna

Agia Anna Naxos is just a 15-minute drive away from the hustle and bustle of Chora, but its vibe couldn’t be more different! The area’s atmosphere is super serene – there are no noisy beach clubs or people partying all day long. Instead, Agia Anna encourages restful relaxation with its chilled vibes.

Agia Anna is an extension of the popular and family-friendly beach, Agios Prokopios. Both beaches feature an abundance of sunbeds and umbrellas for visitors to make use of. What makes Agia Anna especially ideal for families is its small port which creates tranquil wave-free waters that are sheltered from Naxos winds – perfect for young children!

📍Plaka Beach

Plaka Beach is an exquisite, untouched haven of golden sand on the western side of the island, a mere 25-minute drive or bus ride away from Chora, and a perfect stop on your Naxos road trip.

For those seeking a serene beach experience, this curved stretch of sand offers crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and swimming with turtles and fish graciously swimming in the shallow water.

And if you’d like to indulge in some food or activities at your leisure, there are several restaurants, cafes and water sports located near the northern end of the shoreline. The beachside restaurants at Plaka are renowned for their fantastic seafood dishes, so this is also a perfect spot for lunch or dinner.

📍Halki

Halki is an off-beaten track destination on the island for those that are willing to take a road less travelled and discover an authentic Cycladic village with charm on every corner. It is the perfect destination for a day trip as well as for staying a few days.

Explore the labyrinthine alleys of Chalki Naxos village, and discover a wealth of delightful bars, cafes and traditional tavernas.

When in Halki, a must-do is to savour the freshly squeezed orange juice while you take part in one of the locals’ favourite pastimes: people watching. To complete your experience here, try their signature treat – loukoumades! These delicious puff pastries come with a variety of toppings, such as cinnamon and chocolate sauce or ice cream.

Halki is also famous for its historic Byzantine churches and excellent hiking trails. For those looking to explore the outdoors and take in some incredible island views, a 6.5 km Circular Path leading to the village of Monitsia is the perfect trail choice.

RENTING A CAR IN NAXOS

How To Get Around On Naxos Without A Car?

How do people get around on Naxos? While car rental on Naxos is the most convenient way of getting around, there are other modes of transport to consider.

By Bus

If renting a car in Naxos is not an option for you, don’t worry, as the island boasts reliable bus services. Every major destination on the island is connected to one another – from Plaka Beach to Agios Prokopios Beach, Glyfada, Aliko, Halki, Filoti or even Vivlos.

So whether it’s exploring serene beaches or strolling through island villages, in most cases, you will be able to get everywhere by bus.

Be aware during the off-season, buses run way less frequently, so make sure to plan ahead and keep an open mind. 

And, when it comes to bus ticket prices, you’ll find that they are very affordable, costing anything between €1.8 and €5 for a single trip. I’m leaving a link to the Naxos bus schedule below.

Bus Timetable Naxos 

By Scooter

For those tourists who prefer to explore Naxos on their own, scooter rentals are a well-liked mode of transportation.

Scooters are not only more affordable to rent than cars, but they have lower maintenance costs as well. Additionally, you’ll find that parking is significantly easier in crowded towns and villages with a scooter!

To hire a scooter in Naxos, you must show a valid driving license from your home country that includes motorbikes and scooters of at least 125cc.

In addition to a driver’s licence, you should have previous experience riding a scooter. The rental shops actually ask you that. We recommend you also check that your travel insurance covers you to ride a scooter, and if so, what engine size.

Typically insurance covers you to ride a scooter up to 125cc and only if you possess a valid driver’s licence. But, please do not rely on this information and instead check your own travel insurance policy.

The scooter prices start at €20 per day in the low season and also depend on the rental period. You can expect a discount for renting for more than one day and if you pay in cash.

ATV

If you like your transport a little more adventurous, a Naxos ATV rental may be an option for you. 

A thrilling way to navigate Naxos is with an ATV (all-terrain vehicle). It will allow you to get off the beaten path and uncover all that this beautiful area has to offer! However, it’s essential to remember that these vehicles are not toys but instead require a level of caution while driving them.

If you want to rent a quad bike in Naxos, you will need a current valid driver’s licence. Plus, like scooter rental, it is essential to check the terms and conditions of your travel insurance carefully.

Quad bike or ATV rental prices start from €30 per day in low season to €60 per day in high season. Like rental cars and scooter hire, discounts are available for long-term hire.

By Taxi

Taxis are your fastest transportation solution to get you where you need to be, especially if you have a lot of luggage. Whether it’s for an airport departure or ferry port rendezvous, opting for a taxi can save precious minutes, making sure that your journey starts off on the right foot.

Taking a taxi in Naxos is easy, as they are available almost everywhere, from the airport and ferry port to every town and village. However, it’s worth noting that this convenience comes at a price – taxis in Naxos are not the most cost-effective mode of transport.

Is taxi expensive in Naxos?

In comparison to other cities in Europe, taxis on Naxos are not expensive. But if you plan to take taxi rides frequently during your stay there, it may be more cost-effective for you to rent a car instead.

Naxos taxi prices are controlled by the Greek government. You will pay a minimum fare (or a base fare) for short journeys, with longer journeys calculated on a metre per kilometre travelled. The per kilometre rate will increase at night or in the early hours of the morning. 

You may also have to pay a surcharge for luggage or for an airport or ferry drop off or pick up. 

RENTING A CAR IN NAXOS

Where To Stay In Naxos Without A Car

If car hire Naxos Greece is not for you, then one of the best places to stay in Naxos without a car is its capital city Chora. With convenient bus services, Chora is perfectly situated for easy access to the rest of this beautiful island. If you choose to stay in Chora, the nearby beach of Agios Georgios is just a stone’s throw away.

RENTING A CAR IN NAXOS

Rent A Car Naxos Island: FAQ

Is it difficult to drive a car in Naxos?

No, it is not difficult to drive a car in Naxos. The roads on the island are well-maintained, not too busy and easy to navigate. Just make sure you adhere to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe driving experience. Additionally, you should make sure you choose full insurance coverage in case an incident was to occur while renting or driving a car.

Is it worth to rent a car in Naxos?

Yes, renting a car in Naxos is worth it. Having your own car allows you to explore the island at your own pace and gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you like, without having to worry about public transportation schedules.

Plus, many rental companies offer special packages for weekly rentals that can be more cost-effective than taking taxis every time you need to go somewhere. If you travel with a family or a group of friends, car rental can also work out cheaper.

Can you rent an automatic car in Naxos?

Yes, you can rent an automatic car in Naxos. Many car rental providers offer a wide selection of both manual and automatic transmission cars, so you should be able to find the right vehicle for your needs. To avoid disappointment, book your vehicle online ahead of your travel dates via Discover Cars.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Greece?

The minimum age to rent a car in Greece is 21 years of age. Additionally, most rental companies require that you have held your driving license for at least one year and will request proof of identification before giving you access to their vehicles. If you’re under 25 years old, you may also have to pay a “young driver” surcharge.

How many days is enough in Naxos?

That really depends on what kind of holiday you’re after and how much time you have. If you want to get a taste of Naxos, then two or three days should be enough. However, if you’d like to explore the island more deeply and visit its authentic mountain villages (Halki, Filoti, Vivlos) and unspoiled beaches such as Pyrgaki or Aliki, then four or five days would give you more time to discover the hidden gems of Naxos.

Is Naxos walkable?

Yes, the capital city of Chora is very walkable. It is easy to explore Chora’s winding backstreets and enjoy its many cafes, restaurants, shops and galleries on foot. Outside of the main city centre, you’ll find some beautiful walking trails that take you through rural villages or along the coastline for spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. But, to get from one town to another, you will need to take a bus or hire a car.

Is Naxos a good destination for families?

Yes, Naxos is an ideal destination for families of all ages. With its beautiful natural environment, great beaches, good family accommodation options and plenty to do and see, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.

What is the best beach in Naxos?

The best beach in Naxos is hard to pinpoint, as the island has many stunning and unique beaches to choose from. Some of the most popular beaches include Agios Prokopios, Plaka Beach and Pyrgaki Beach. All boast crystal-clear waters and golden sand that’s perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or just soaking up some sun.

➡️ READ MORE: 14 Epic Beaches of Naxos Greece – You Must Visit

RENTING A CAR IN NAXOS

Renting A Car In Naxos: Final Word

If you’re planning a trip to Naxos and want to get the most out of your experience, renting a car is one of the best ways to do it.

It’s cost-effective for groups and families, plus you’ll be able to take some detours along the way and stay at your favourite beaches as long as you wish.

Renting a car in Naxos isn’t complicated—all you have to do is to book your car online via Discover Cars, collect it upon arrival on the island and then hit the road.

There are so many incredible places to explore in Naxos – pristine beaches and quaint villages, that having access to your own vehicle can really open up opportunities for day trips and excursions.