Are you visiting the Greek Island of Naxos and wondering if renting a car is necessary? After my recent trip to the island, I have some helpful insight for you to make that decision!
Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades and with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it is a Greek island that beckons travelers from all over the world.
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Is Renting a Car in Naxos Worth It?
Yes. If you want to see more than just Naxos Town (Chora), renting a car is crucial.
You can take a bus tour of Naxos to see nearby villages, but to visit secluded beaches you will need a rental car. Period.
In this blog post, we will delve into my experience on the island and the advantages and disadvantages of having a Naxos car rental.
This information will help you make an informed decision for your Naxos adventure.
Ready to Rent a Car in Naxos?
When it comes to researching a car rental in Naxos, Discover Cars stands out as the best choice. With their wide selection of vehicles, best prices, excellent customer service, convenient pickup, and drop-off locations, and comprehensive insurance coverage, they offer an outstanding rental car experience.
Where is Naxos Located?
Naxos is located in the Aegean Sea, specifically in the Cyclades group of islands in Greece. It is the largest island in the Cyclades and is situated approximately 103 miles (166 kilometers) southeast of Athens.
Naxos is positioned between the islands of Paros and Mykonos. Which makes it ideal for Island hopping.
Best Way To Reach Naxos
The best way to reach Naxos depends on your starting point and personal preferences. No matter which way you choose to take to reach Naxos, I would recommend spending at least a couple of days in Athens.
And although Naxos is too far for a day trip from Athens, there are several other easy trips you can make.
Here are a few common methods of reaching Naxos:
Ferry to Naxos
Ferries are a popular and scenic way to reach Naxos. You can take a ferry from Athens (Piraeus port) or other nearby islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, or Paros.
Multiple ferry companies operate routes to Naxos, offering various schedules and vessel types. The journey duration varies depending on the departure point, but it generally takes around 3-5 hours from Athens and 30 minutes to 2 hours from neighboring islands.
If you are starting out your trip in Athens you do have the option of finding a car rental in the city and taking it to the islands.
When you arrive in Naxos, most car rental agencies are all within walking distance of the Naxos port.
Ferry Schedule & Timetables
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Flight to Naxos
Naxos has a domestic airport (Naxos Island National Airport, code: JNX) that receives flights from Athens International Airport (ATH).
Aegean Airlines typically operates daily flights to Naxos, with a flight duration of approximately 40 minutes.
Flight availability may be limited, especially during the off-season, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
Rental cars are available for pick up right at the Naxos airport.
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Island Hopping to Naxos
If you plan to visit multiple Greek islands, island hopping can be a fantastic way to reach Naxos. You can travel by ferry from neighboring islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, or other Cycladic islands.
Consider creating an itinerary that allows you to explore different islands while making your way to Naxos.
RELATED: 15 of the Greek Islands You Don’t Want To Miss!
PROS: Rental Car Advantages
PRO: Flexibility and Autonomy:
Embrace the freedom that comes with having your own car in Naxos. Break free from the constraints of fixed schedules and public transportation timetables, and experience the island at your leisure.
With a rented car, you have the liberty to seek out the island’s concealed wonders and captivating landscapes on your own schedule.
I loved the freedom I had similar to when I rented a car in Corfu so that I could FULLY experience the island.
PRO: Effective Adventuring:
Owning the wheel on your trip allows you to maximize your time on the island. You can quickly and effortlessly travel to various sites in a single day, reaching further than you might via public transport.
The convenience of a car equips you to fashion an itinerary that perfectly matches your tastes and inclinations.
PRO: Uncover Secret Treasures:
A rented car provides the chance to find hidden spots that might otherwise be challenging to reach. Venture to remote beaches, scenic villages, and delightful rural areas that lie beyond the usual tourist routes.
Con: Limited Parking Availability
One of the primary drawbacks of getting a rental car in Naxos is the scarcity of parking spaces, especially in high season.
Tourists may find themselves in a bind trying to secure a spot in popular areas like Naxos Town or near in-demand beaches.
The hunt for parking can become a significant inconvenience, detracting from the leisurely pace of island life and potentially adding an unexpected layer of stress to your travel experience.
Con: Additional Costs
Another con to consider when you get a car in Naxos is the cumulative expense. While it provides the freedom to explore at will, the financial outlay for the rental, fuel, and any extra insurance can weigh heavily on a budget-conscious traveler.
For those not used to the idiosyncrasies of Greek island roads, there’s also the added risk of navigating less maintained rural roads, which can lead to increased safety risks and potential additional costs in case of damage to the rental vehicle.
❤︎ Truthfully, none of the above was a deal breaker for me when compared to what I was able to see and do with a rental car.
Best Car Rental Company in Naxos
When planning a trip to Naxos, having a reliable and convenient mode of transportation is key to exploring all the island has to offer.
These days there are so many car rental agencies to choose from, but who is the easiest to work with?
When looking for your Naxos car rental, I always recommend Discover Cars as the best choice for a seamless and enjoyable experience.
There are so many advantages to using Discover Cars for your car rental agency.
Wide Selection of Vehicles:
Rental cars with Discover Cars offer a wide range of vehicles to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, they have options that cater to different party sizes and budgets.
From compact cars for city exploration to spacious SUVs for off-road adventures, you can find the perfect vehicle to enhance your Naxos experience.
Competitive Prices and Transparent Booking Process:
Finding the cheapest rental car price is always a top priority for me. Discover Cars is known for providing competitive prices for rental cars in Naxos.
Their platform allows you to compare prices from multiple rental companies, ensuring you get the best deal.
From my experience, the booking process is transparent, with no hidden fees or surprises. What you see is what you pay, making it easy to plan your budget accordingly.
🚗 Click here to start searching for the best Naxos car rental deals.
Excellent Customer Service:
Discover Cars takes pride in offering exceptional customer service. Their team is dedicated to assisting you throughout the rental process, from booking to returning the vehicle.
Should any issues or questions arise during your rental period, their customer support is available 24/7 to provide assistance, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience.
Convenient Pick-up and Drop-off Locations
Discover Cars collaborates with reputable rental car providers in Naxos, offering convenient pickup and drop-off locations.
Whether you prefer to pick up your car at the Naxos airport, ferry port, or city center, they have options available to suit your convenience.
This allows you to start your exploration of Naxos immediately upon arrival and return the car hassle-free when your trip comes to an end.
Flexibility and Freedom to Explore:
Renting a car with Discover Cars provides you with the flexibility and freedom to explore Naxos at your own pace.
With a rental car, you can easily access hidden beaches, remote villages, and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
You have the freedom to create your own itinerary, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Naxos.
Comprehensive Insurance Coverage:
Discover Cars prioritizes your safety and peace of mind by offering comprehensive insurance coverage options. You can select the coverage that best suits your needs, ensuring you’re protected during your rental period.
This gives you added confidence to fully enjoy your Naxos adventure without worrying about unforeseen circumstances.
Booking rental cars with Discover Cars allows you to maximize your time in Naxos, explore its hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories at your own pace.
Start your Naxos adventure with confidence by choosing Discover Cars as your trusted rental car provider.
Alternative Transportation Options in Naxos:
Fortunately, Naxos offers alternative transportation options for those who decide against renting a car.
The island’s public transportation system, including buses and taxis, can provide convenient access to popular destinations and major towns.
The bus schedules could be limited depending on the time of year you visit.
Additionally, hiring a taxi service can be suitable for specific trips or day excursions, but they could end up costing you more than a rental car would.
Driver Rental Car Requirements for Naxos
When deciding whether to rent a car in Naxos, it’s essential to consider factors such as personal preferences, budget, itinerary, and comfort level.
Evaluate your willingness to navigate the island’s roads, adhere to local driving rules, and manage associated costs.
To rent a car in Naxos, Greece, you need to fulfill certain qualifications and requirements. Here are the common qualifications needed:
1. Age Requirement:
The minimum age to rent a car in Greece is typically 21 years old. However, some car rental companies may require renters to be at least 23 or 25 years old, depending on their policies. Young drivers under 25 may be subject to additional fees or restrictions.
2. Driver’s License:
In order to get a rental car in Naxos, you must have a valid driver’s license issued in your home country.
If your license is not in English, it’s advisable to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your regular driver’s license.
The IDP serves as a translation of your license and is generally accepted in Greece.
3. Driving Experience:
Most car rental companies require a minimum period of driving experience, usually at least one or two years. This ensures that the renter has sufficient experience to handle a rental vehicle safely.
4. Credit Card:
A valid credit card in the renter’s name is typically required to secure the rental car and cover any potential damages or additional charges.
The credit card should have enough available credit to cover the deposit or pre-authorization amount, which is held by the rental company during the rental period.
5. Insurance:
It is mandatory to have third-party liability insurance coverage to rent a car in Greece. The rental car will usually come with this coverage. However, you may consider additional insurance options such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Theft Protection (TP) to provide more comprehensive coverage and reduce your liability in case of an accident or theft.
6. Rental Agreement:
Before renting a car, you will need to read and sign a rental agreement provided by the rental company. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions, including rental duration, mileage limitations, fuel policy, and any additional charges or fees.
It’s important to note that specific requirements may vary between car rental companies, so it’s advisable to check with your chosen rental car provider in Naxos to ensure you meet all the necessary qualifications.
Additionally, it’s recommended to familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and regulations before driving in Greece to ensure a safe and enjoyable rental experience.
5 Tips for Renting a Car in Naxos
1. Book in Advance
To secure the best deals and ensure vehicle availability, it’s advisable to book your rental car in advance. This is extra important if you are like me and need to rent automatic vehicles.
During peak tourist seasons, demand can be high, and last-minute availability may be limited.
Booking ahead of time allows you to compare prices, choose the vehicle that suits your needs, and have peace of mind knowing your transportation is sorted.
2. Choose the Right Size and Car Types
Unless you are a large group, I would really advise getting a small car. Naxos offers a variety of roads, including narrow village streets and rugged terrains, so choose a vehicle that is appropriate for the destinations you plan to visit.
3. Review the Naxos Rental Car Agreement
Before you sign the rental agreement, and pick up your Naxos car rental, carefully review the terms and conditions. Pay attention to details such as mileage limitations, fuel policy, insurance coverage, and any additional fees or charges.
4. Inspect the Vehicle
I speak from experience when I say take a good look at the car before driving off. You want to thoroughly inspect the rental car for any existing damages or issues.
Take note of any scratches, dents, or other signs of damage and ensure that they are documented in the rental agreement. This will protect you from being held responsible for pre-existing damage upon returning the vehicle.
If you notice any issues, inform the rental company immediately to avoid disputes later.
5. Familiarize Yourself with Driving Laws and Road Conditions
Before hitting the road in Naxos, familiarize yourself with Greek driving laws and regulations. Observe the speed limit, buckle up, and always carry your driver’s license and necessary documentation.
Additionally, pay attention to road signs and be aware of local driving customs. Some roads in Naxos may be narrow or winding, so drive cautiously and adjust your speed accordingly.
How Hard Is Driving in Naxos?
I found Naxos to be a pretty relaxed island to drive around. It is fairly well-paved, but narrow at times. In the peak summer season, June, July, and August, the roads will be a lot more crowded in Naxos Town.
Search Naxos Car Rental Options
Find all the available vehicles and look for the best possible price with Discover Cars. If you can’t drive manual transmission be sure to book your rental car in Naxos in advance.
Final Thoughts on Renting a Car in Naxos
I really appreciated my rental car in Naxos it offered me unparalleled freedom, flexibility, and the chance to discover hidden gems on the island.
Just be sure to do your research and consider things such as street parking when booking your hotels.
Evaluate your travel priorities, budget, and comfort level to make the decision that aligns best with your needs and preferences. Whether you choose to rent a car or opt for alternative transportation, Naxos is sure to enchant you with its beauty and cultural riches.
Embark on your Naxos adventure with confidence, knowing that you have made the transportation choice that suits you best.
Should I Rent A Car in Naxos FAQs
If you are planning to visit the secluded beaches you will need to rent a car. Naxos is a large island with many hidden gems that you can only visit with a car.
The cost of a rental car in Naxos depends on the time of year that you visit. I find that the prices are fairly reasonable around $33 a day in the summer months.
If you are visiting Naxos for more than 2 days you should rent a car and visit the hidden beaches and small idyllic villages.
The roads in Naxos are well-kept but narrow. It is not that hard to drive in Naxos, you just want to remain alert and aware and go slowly.
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