Car rental in Skíathos

Car rental in Skiathos is an ideal way to explore the natural and historical attractions of this small Greek island. Located in the western Aegean Sea, it's renowned for its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Travelers often start exploring the island from the main town of Chora (also called Skiathos). However, the most impressive views and locations lie beyond its limits. With a rental car, you can reach them comfortably at any time.

Benefits of Renting with Localrent

Localrent is a service offering the best deals from local rental companies in Skiathos. Here are some advantages you get when using it:

1. Transparent terms. You see the final rental cost including all options (insurance, deposit, additional services) when booking your car. No unexpected payments or fees upon collection.
2. Flexible deposit options. You can find rental offers without a deposit or with an amount that suits you.
3. Small advance payment when booking. You pay only 15-20% of the rental cost upfront. The remaining amount is paid when collecting the vehicle.
4. Convenient filters. You can quickly sort offers by different parameters: brand and class (luxury or budget option), transmission type, deposit conditions, etc.
5. Customer support. Throughout the entire rental period, you can contact a Localrent manager via messenger, online chat, or email.

What You Need to Rent a Car

To arrange car rental in Skiathos, you'll need:

• Passport for contract signing.
• Valid driver's license — Category B license.
• Bank card — to pay the advance when booking. Depending on the terms, it may also be needed to pay the balance when collecting the car. Some companies accept only credit cards in the main driver's name.

Age and driving experience requirements depend on the specific vehicle — check them in the listing. You can also specify your parameters in the filters to immediately exclude unsuitable offers.

Road Conditions in Skiathos: Key Considerations

Due to the island's small size, travel time to virtually any location takes no more than half an hour. However, most roads are narrow, winding, with sharp turns and steep gradients. Driving on them requires heightened concentration and caution.

Traffic rules in Skiathos are practically the same as throughout Europe. However, it's useful to be aware of some specifics:

• Speed limits. Standard limits: 50 km/h in populated areas, 90 km/h outside them. However, given the descents, climbs, and turns, driving at maximum speed is practically impossible. And there's no need to.
• Road behavior. Be prepared for local drivers who don't always follow the rules, make unexpected maneuvers, don't use turn signals, etc.
• Right of way. At uncontrolled intersections, the "priority to the right" rule applies if there are no other signs. However, on narrow mountain roads, priority is often given to those climbing uphill.

Fuel Stations

The island has only a few fuel stations. Most are located around Chora town. Typically, fuel is pumped by the station attendant, and payment is made at the cashier by card or cash (which can be given to the attendant). Remote areas of the island may accept cash only.

Fuel stations don't usually operate 24/7. Fill up your tank with a reserve, especially if planning a trip for early morning or late evening.

Parking

One of Skiathos's main challenges is the shortage of parking spaces, even at paid parking lots. Sometimes you'll need to leave your car farther away and walk.

Free parking can be found on the town's outskirts (for example, near the port), at hotels (for guests), and near beaches.

How to Book a Car in Skiathos

The car booking procedure in Skiathos through Localrent includes several steps:

1. Specify rental dates and convenient vehicle collection location.
2. Set up filters. Choose desired options for transmission type, deposit and rental payment conditions, car class, etc.
3. Review the listing of the car you like. Pay attention to technical specifications, driver requirements, rental terms, insurance, and payment. If necessary, add additional services (for example, a second driver or child seat).
4. Specify the location and time of vehicle collection/return, personal details and contact information of the main driver. If all parameters and amounts suit you, click the "Continue" button.
5. Pay the advance. Its amount won't exceed 15-20% of the total rental cost. Payment is only possible by bank card.
6. Receive booking confirmation to your email. The message will include a voucher with order details, which should be saved on your phone or printed. Present it when collecting the car.

On the appointed day, arrive at the chosen location to collect the car and sign the rental agreement.

What to See with Your Rental Car

By car, you can visit Skiathos's most scenic locations:

1. Koukounaries Beach — ranked among Greece's top three beaches. Wide, with gleaming golden sand and transparent water framed by pine forest. On the other side of the forest lies the saltwater Lake Strofilia, where you can see wild ducks and black swans.
2. Kastro Fortress Ruins — remains of a medieval town located atop a cliff. There are also three 17th-century churches here, and a stunning panoramic view of the coastline.
3. Lalaria Beach — the island's symbol with snow-white pebbles and natural sea arches, including the famous "rock with a hole." The beach is accessible only by sea. However, by car you can conveniently reach the port where excursions depart.
4. Panagia Evangelistria Monastery — the largest of three monasteries in Skiathos. It has an active 18th-century church and an island museum, with abundant greenery and flowers throughout the grounds.
5. Xanemos Beach — located at the end of Skiathos Airport's runway. Here you can watch planes literally meters above your head.

For short trips around the island, it's better to rent a compact car. This is a good choice given the narrow roads and limited parking space. For trips to remote areas of Skiathos, choose more powerful mid-size cars or crossovers.

Where to Rent a Car in Skiathos

Rental companies offer different vehicle collection points in Skiathos. Available options include:

• Skiathos International Airport "Alexandros Papadiamantis" (Skiathos Alexandros Papadiamantis Airport)
• Delivery to your hotel or another location on the island
• Rental company office

Depending on the rental company's operating conditions, chosen model, and booking dates, some options may be unavailable. Always check the car listing. You can also use the "Specify location" filter immediately after entering rental dates — all available options will be shown there.

Tips for Renting a Car in Skiathos

When planning a rental in Skiathos, consider some recommendations to ensure your vacation and trips bring more pleasant experiences.

Book in Advance

Peak season with the highest prices falls in July-August. During low season (October through April), rental costs are more affordable. To get the best car at an optimal price, book several weeks or even months before your trip.

Thoroughly Inspect the Car Upon Collection

Examine in detail the condition of the interior, bumper, wheels, windshield and rear window, areas of damage and defects. Document everything with photos or video. Ensure all defects are recorded in the handover report. Pay attention to the fuel tank level and return the vehicle with the same amount.

Plan Your Trips

If you're heading to one of the popular beaches or other attractions, arrive in the morning. You'll almost certainly find a free parking space nearby. Closer to midday, parking lots are often full, and finding a space becomes nearly impossible.

Don't Drive on Unpaved Roads

Some interesting locations are situated away from paved roads. Keep in mind that basic insurance and extended policies don't cover unpaved roads. In case of any vehicle damage, full financial responsibility falls on you.

Frequently Asked Questions