Discover the Spirit of Crete with Athenscars 2026

Welcome to Athenscars-Crete, your premier choice for economy and luxury car rentals on Greece's largest island. Since our founding in 1973, we have combined local expertise with high-quality service to help travelers explore Crete securely and affordably.

🌿 The Soul of Crete: Culture & Heritage

Crete is more than a destination; it is an experience of the senses. When you drive through the island, you are traversing the cradle of European civilization.

• Tradition in Every Step: The Cretan people are fiercely proud of their customs. You will often see men in traditional dress—black riding boots (stivania) and the iconic fishnet-weave kerchief (sariki).

• A Living History: From the 17th-century epic romance Erotokritos by Vikentios Kornaros to the 20th-century masterpieces of Nikos Kazantzakis, Cretan literature has shaped Greek identity.

• The Sound of the Island: The dominant sound of Crete is the Cretan Lyra, a bowed instrument often accompanied by the lute (laouto). Whether you are listening to a traditional Mantinada (rhyming couplet) or watching a high-energy Pentozali dance, the music is the heartbeat of the island.

• Flavors to Remember: No visit is complete without tasting Tsikoudia (Raki), the potent local distillate, and the world-renowned Cretan wine, often enjoyed alongside olive oil-rich Mediterranean dishes.

🗺️ Key Destinations & Natural Wonders

With a rental car from our fleet of over 250 vehicles, the entire island is within your reach:

• Minoan Palaces: Visit the world-famous archaeological sites of Knossos and Phaistos.

• Iconic Beaches: Drive to the pink sands of Elafonisi, the palm forest of Vai, or the crystal-clear waters of Chrysi Island.

• Venetian Charm: Explore the historic old harbors of Chania and Rethymno.

• Mythological Landmarks: Discover the birthplace of Zeus at the Dikti Cave or see the lizard-shaped island of Dia from the shores of Heraklion.

🚗 Why Choose Athenscars & Cretecars.gr?

We make car hire in Crete simple, transparent, and profitable for you.

✅ Effortless Booking & No Hidden Fees

Our online system allows you to book in 4 easy steps without the need for credit card details for your reservation. By managing the booking procedure yourself at Cretecars.gr, you help us keep costs down and quality up.

✅ 24/7 Presence at Heraklion Airport (HER)

Heraklion Airport is the gateway to the island.

• Convenience: Our private parking is located just 30 meters from the Arrivals Hall.

• Safe Parking: We provide free, secure parking for our clients 24 hours a day.

• Personal Welcome: Our staff meets you in the Arrivals Hall to guide you to your vehicle and provide a brief orientation on driving safely in Crete.

✅ One-Way Rentals & Island-Wide Service

Pick up your car at Heraklion Port or Airport and return it to Chania or Sitia. We offer 22+ service points, including Stalis, Gouves, Malia, and Amoudara.

✅ Fleet Options for Every Traveler

• Economy & Compact: Ideal for city driving and fuel efficiency.

• Jeeps & 4x4s: Explore the rugged mountains and the Samaria Gorge area.

• Convertibles & Luxury: Enjoy the sun on the coastal roads.

• Special Equipment: We offer free baby seats, booster seats, roof racks, and detailed road maps to ensure your family's comfort and safety.

🏨 Stay & Drive: Rania Hotel & Apartments

Located in the popular Amoudara area of Heraklion, our sister company Rania Hotel offers special "Room + Car" packages. Stay steps away from the beach and enjoy discounted rates on your transportation.

📞 Contact Us Today

Experience the reliability that has made us one of Greece's top rental agencies for over 50 years.

• Website: www.cretecars.gr | www.athenscars.gr

• Mobile / SMS: +30 6936790870

• Locations: Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, Lassithi, and more.