Athens is a city full of life and history. From the Acropolis to the cozy cafés of Koukaki, there’s always something new to discover. But driving in Athens brings an entirely different perspective to your daily experience.
Traffic and the unique layout of the city streets can feel overwhelming at first—but with the right planning and a reliable car from Let’s Drive, everything becomes much easier.
Public transport can be great for short distances, especially if you’re just moving around the city center. However, if you want to travel more freely, visit areas further out, take a spontaneous drive to Vouliagmeni for a swim, or head to Halandri for dinner, renting a car in Athens is the way to go.
Car rental in Athens downtown offer a level of comfort that’s essential—especially if you’re traveling on weekends, with company, or with kids.
Arriving in Athens by plane? Find the Let’s Drive station and rent your car at Athens International Airport easily and quickly.
Driving in Athens doesn’t have to be stressful. All it takes is a bit of preparation and a few smart tips:
- Peak traffic hours are usually 08:00–10:00 and 17:00–19:00, so plan your routes accordingly.
- Google Maps is your best friend—it gives you live updates on traffic, roadworks, and helps you choose the fastest route.
- Try to avoid driving in the city center, especially in areas like Syntagma and Monastiraki, unless it’s absolutely necessary.
- Watch out for cyclists and motorbikes—they tend to appear unexpectedly and often without warning.
Don’t forget to check out our article: Renting a car in Athens: Tips for a perfect adventure on the road.
Already in Athens and looking to rent a car in the city center? Stop by the Let’s Drive station to find the vehicle that suits your needs, no matter the type of trip.
Athens isn’t all about congested roads. There are beautiful routes and relaxing drives to enjoy too. Some of our favorite places to drive in Athens include:
- Lycabettus Hill: Perfect for an evening drive with panoramic city views.
- Syngrou Avenue: A main road you’ll likely cross whether you’re heading north for dinner or south to the beach.
- Athens–Sounio Coastal Road: Ideal for road trip vibes, with stops for coffee, food, and sea views—especially on sunny days.
- Tritsis Park or the National Garden: Lush green spaces right in the city, definitely worth visiting.
Driving in Athens isn’t just a means of transport—it’s an experience. Slow down, relax, and see the city from a different point of view.
Yes, parking in Athens can be a challenge. But with a compact car and a little patience, you’ll get the hang of it. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- In “blue zones” (found in most central areas), you can pay for parking via app or at kiosks.
- There are also many private parking lots with reasonable prices, especially during peak hours.
- If you're staying in Piraeus, renting a car in Piraeus makes it easy to reach the port without stress—and just as easy to return.
- Choose a compact or mid-size car—it’s easier to park and navigate narrow streets.
- Watch for one-way streets—Athens has lots of them!
- Always keep Google Maps active, even if you think you know the way.
- Stay calm and embrace the chaos—Athenian traffic is a vibe of its own.
Driving in Athens with a rental car doesn’t have to be a headache. With a reliable vehicle from Let’s Drive and the right mindset, you’ll move around more freely, discover more places, and—why not?—even enjoy the ride.
Whether it’s your first time driving in Athens or you’re a returning traveler, with the right car, everything gets easier. Let’s explore Athens, your way.
