Santorini isn’t just one of the most famous and scenic islands in Greece. It’s also a destination that becomes even more magical when explored by car. The distances are short, the landscapes are ever-changing, and the freedom a rental vehicle gives you is priceless. If you’re planning your trip there, car rental in Santorini is one of the smartest choices you can make.
If you’ve been to a Greek island before, you already know how useful it is to have your own means of transportation. The same applies to Santorini.
If you’ve been wondering whether Santorini needs a car, consider that many of the island’s most beautiful places like Imerovigli, Akrotiri, Perissa, or Exo Gonia aren’t always easily accessible by bus. A rental car allows you to go wherever you want, whenever you want, without depending on timetables or taxis.
The main roads connecting Fira with Oia, Pyrgos, Kamari, and other villages are paved and easy to drive on. Of course, there are narrower spots, especially within traditional settlements, but with a bit of caution, you’ll navigate them easily. Choosing a small or midsize car from Let’s Drive , as it allows you to move around comfortably even on narrower roads.
If you choose a car rental from Santorini Airport, you can start your vacation right away with no waiting, no extra transfers. It’s a convenient way to get directly to your accommodation or first destination.
The answer is yes as long as you drive carefully and take it slow. Most visitors are driving on the island for the first time and quickly adapt. Drivers are generally courteous, and the distances are short. If you have basic driving experience, you won’t find it difficult at all.
Having your own vehicle also gives you flexibility to visit both well-known and more remote areas without worrying about how to get back or where the nearest bus stop is. And if you’re thinking about saving fuel, you can check out which driving style helps reduce fuel consumption and can make your trip more economical.
The island may be small, but it’s full of contrast and beauty. You can drive from one end to the other in about 40 to 60 minutes. Every route offers something special: a changing landscape, a small chapel by the road, a beach you didn’t plan to visit but simply can’t resist.
A great way to explore is to dedicate different days to different parts of the island: one day for the eastern beaches, one for the northern routes toward Oia and Imerovigli, and another for Akrotiri and the southern coast. This way, your experience will be rich and relaxed.
If you’re traveling with family, check out the best cars for family holidays with enough space for luggage and child seats. For couples or small groups, a compact car is ideal for Santorini’s size and roads. Whatever you choose, go for a model you’re comfortable driving, with good air conditioning and fuel efficiency.
Driving in Santorini is truly enjoyable, especially if you approach it with a relaxed mindset. The island offers stunning views of the Aegean, charming villages, and unexpected stops at beaches and photo-worthy spots.
A car gives you the chance to discover Santorini beyond the tourist spots to wander into hidden alleys, stop wherever your heart leads, and enjoy the island on your own terms.
With Let’s Drive and a rental car in Santorini, your vacation takes on a new dimension. Start when you want, stop wherever you like, change plans on the fly. Experience the island with the comfort and freedom you deserve.
