Car Hire in Heraklion Center
Find your ideal car from 1 local providers. Skip the airport markup — rent in the city instead.
Quick answer: At Heraklion Karteros you can compare rental cars from 1 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely — not just cheaply.
About Renting a Car at Heraklion Karteros
Karteros is a small coastal town 8 km east of Heraklion center with one rental company offering local car service. Its location just east of HER airport (3 km) makes it a practical option if you're staying along Crete's northeastern coast. The beaches at Karteros and Amnissos are within walking distance.
Karteros is located at the mouth of the Karteros River and has a popular sandy beach. From here it's 10 minutes to Heraklion center (8 km west) and 30 minutes to Malia (26 km east) along the coastal roads. Knossos Palace is reached in approximately 20 minutes (10 km).
Perfect if you're staying in one of the many hotels along the coast east of Heraklion. Book well in advance – with only one rental company, availability is limited, especially during peak season. Ask about the possibility of returning the car at HER airport, which is 3 km away.
Why choose Karteros over the airport for car rental? If you're staying in the Karteros area, you'll avoid traveling to the airport and can pick up the car right near your accommodation. How close is Karteros to HER airport?
Karteros is about 3 km east of the airport, approximately 5 minutes' drive. Are there good beaches near Karteros? Yes, Karteros Beach and Amnissos Beach are both within 1–2 km and offer peaceful bathing opportunities with facilities.
We compare prices from all major providers at Heraklion Karteros so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
What to Know Before Renting in Heraklion
🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms
- Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
- Extra driver: can cost extra — check before booking.
- Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents
- Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
- Passport or national ID
- Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup
- Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
- Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
- Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
Rental Companies at Heraklion Karteros
Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).
Essential Info for Renting at Heraklion Karteros
Practical answers and tips before you book.
✅ Quick Answers ▼
At Heraklion Karteros you can compare rentals from 1 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.
- Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
- Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
- Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in Greece ▼
In Greece you drive on the Right side.
- Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
- Rural roads: 90 km/h
- Motorway: 130 km/h
- Alcohol limit: 0,5 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼
Parking can be limited in cities, use parking garages.
Road tolls: Håll always cash or a kreditcard till havends.
Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at Heraklion Karteros
→ Read more in our guide
→ Read more in our guide
→ Read more in our guide
→ Read more in our guide
→ Read more in our guide
→ Read more in our guide
15-Day Weather Forecast for Heraklion
Other Rental Locations Near Heraklion Karteros
Rent a Car Near Heraklion Karteros
Other pickup points within driving distance.
Most Popular Pickup Points in Greece
Explore Greece & Europe
Let's get you on the road
Check prices from 1 providers at Heraklion Karteros — pick your dates and see what's available.
Find your car at the best price