Category Archives: Car Rental
Read important information and tips when you visit Crete Island and plan to hire a car for your fore-coming sunny vacation in Greece’s largest island.
January 3, 2025
Cretan Lyra: Experience the beauty of the spirit of Crete
No one plays the Lyra like the Cretans. Hearing the Cretan Lyra is an incredible way to experience the boldness and the beauty of the spirit of Crete. Read article
January 3, 2025
Mantinades: All About the Famous Rhyming Couplet of Crete
One of the many wonderful things about Crete is that traditional culture plays such an important role in contemporary life, and among all age groups. Tradition is embraced by all generations and is seamlessly and beautifully integrated into Cretan daily life. One of the signature features of Cretan traditional culture is known to all throughout Greece - Mantinades. Read article
December 30, 2024
Car Rental Deposit, Payments and Excess Reimbursement Explained
Car rental deposits, payments, and excess reimbursement policies are crucial elements of the car hire process that ensure smooth transactions for both renters and companies. A deposit, typically held as a credit card pre-authorization, acts as security for potential damages, theft, or unpaid fees. Depending on the vehicle type, rental duration, location, and insurance coverage, average cost of basic insurance in Crete is between €10 ($10.89, £8.70) and € 20 ($21.77, £17.40) per day, while comprehensive coverage ranges between €30 ($32.66, £26.10) and €40 ($43.54, £34.80) per day. Refunds are usually processed within 5 to 30 business days upon vehicle return. Payment flexibility is increasing, with options like debit cards, PayPal, and cash in specific cases. Excess reimbursement insurance provides financial protection by covering out-of-pocket expenses for damages, typically not included in standard car rental policies. Read article
December 28, 2024
Insurance Options for Renting a Car in Greece and Crete
Understanding your insurance options is crucial when renting a car in Greece, especially in Crete, to ensure a secure and stress-free experience. Insurance options in Greece include Third Party Liability Insurance (TPL), Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) or Full Damage Waiver (FDW), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), Theft Protection (TP), Fire Protection (FP) and Tire Insurance. Read article
December 27, 2024
Crete Geography: Beaches, Mountains, Gorges and Plateaus
Crete's geography is remarkably diverse, featuring stunning beaches, rugged mountain ranges, fertile plateaus, and dramatic gorges. The island is divided into four main regions: Heraklion, Lasithi, Rethymno, and Chania, each with distinct geographical characteristics. Read article
December 27, 2024
Greek Language: Facts, History, Structure and Culture
Greek, one of the oldest recorded Indo-European languages, dates back to the 15th century BCE. Modern Greek, the official language of Greece, evolved from Ancient Greek and has been in use since Greece's independence in 1829.Greek, a highly inflected language, has a rich grammatical structure and notable dialects, including Cretan, Pontic, and Tsakonian. Its alphabet, with 24 letters, defines its identity. Read article
December 20, 2024
15 Ways to Choose the Right Car to Rent in Crete
As a tourist making preparations for a vacation to Crete in Greece, deciding on the right Crete car rental has a significant impact on the quality of their time there. It is necessary to choose a car that is not only comfortable but fuel efficient given the multitude of twisting roads and steep hills on Crete. Consider the requirements, the number of people who are travelling with, the amount of money available, and the terrain that one is going to be driving on when selecting the vehicle to hire on Crete. SUVs such as the Volkswagen T-Roc and Nissan Qashqai are good for travelling on more difficult terrain, whilst compact vehicles such as the Fiat Panda and the Hyundai i10 are perfect for driving in the city and on roads that are narrower. Consider renting a minivan if someone is going on a trip with a large group of people or if they have a lot of luggage. Therefore, it is crucial to rent a car that is durable, meets one’s needs, and does not surpass their budgetary limits. Read article
November 7, 2024
National Holidays in Crete (& Greece): Christmas, Easter, Epiphany, Clean Monday, Ochi Day, Independence Day and more!
National holiday, also called public holiday, in Crete and Greece is a legally recognised non-working day during the year. Greece, including Crete, observes public holidays rooted in its cultural, religious and historical traditions.National holidays in Crete and Greece include Greek Independence Day, Orthodox Easter Monday, New Year's Day, Epiphany, Labour Day and Christmas. The Orthodox Christian faith plays a central role, especially in holidays like the Dormition of the Holy Virgin on August 15. Read article
October 27, 2024
Cretan Wines, Wineries in Crete & Wine Routes
Crete’s wine culture spans over 4000 years, evidenced by Europe’s oldest vineyard discovered in Kato Zakros and a 3500-year-old wine press found in Archanes. Wine deeply intertwines with Cretan life, with viniculture festivals showcasing traditions enhanced by modern knowledge and technology. Carefully selected vineyard sites and favorable climate nurture distinct grape varieties, yielding premium wines that pair excellently with nutritious Cretan cuisine, making it a culinary highlight for visitors. Read article
October 25, 2024
Crete Historical Sites, Landmarks, Fortresses and Points of Interest
The island of Crete is not just a beautiful holiday destination. It is one of the richest cultures and landmarks. There are many archaeological sites on the island of Crete. Crete is the largest and most populous island in Greece. The island of Crete is mostly mountainous, and its character is defined by a high mountain range crossing from west to east. It is located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, separating the Aegean from the Libyan Sea. Read article
October 24, 2024
12 Archaeological Sites of Crete
Crete is an island in Greece that has a long and illustrious history that dates back thousands of years. It is home to a large number of famous archaeological sites, and ancient Greek ruins, each of which provides a unique perspective on the history of the island. Some of the well-known archaeological sites of Crete include the Knossos archaeological site, Phaistos archaeological site, Spinalonga archaeological site, Gortyna, Aptera, Malia palace, Petras, Kommos, Falassarna, Gournia, and the Armeni archaeological site. The history of Crete dates back to the Neolithic period, around 7000 BCE, when the first settlements were established on the island. In the Bronze Age, Crete was home to the Minoan civilization, which flourished from around 2600 to 1100 BCE and was one of the most advanced civilizations of its time. The Minoans developed a sophisticated culture, which included impressive architecture, art, and a writing system that is still not fully deciphered. Read article
September 3, 2024
Vathi Beach Kritsa: A gem beach near Agios Nikolaos Crete!
Vathi Beach is a man-made beach 10 kilometers south of Agios Nikolaos in the Kritsa area of eastern Crete. Created in 2010 alongside the Daios Cove hotel, Vathi Beach is in a narrow, circular bay, well-protected from wind, resulting in calm, waveless waters ideal for swimming and families. Vathi Beach is popular for a beach experience and serves as a base for exploring Mirabello Bay's cultural and natural attractions. Vathi Beach sits in a narrow, wind-protected bay, facing east on Mirabello Bay. Vathi Beach is an artificial beach, created during the construction of the Daios Cove hotel in 2010. Vathi beach is lesser-known due to its recent creation. Read article
August 26, 2024
Myrtos Crete: Beaches, Things To Do, Travel Guide and Car Rental
Myrtos is a town on the southern coast of Crete, known for its semiarid climate. It is an ideal destination for summer visitors, especially between May and October. Myrtos is a popular destination for a range of activities, including beachgoing, hiking and sightseeing. Myrtos is located 13 kilometers (8 miles) west of Ierapetra and 51 kilometers (32 miles) southwest of Agios Nikolaos. Myrtos Beach is located right in the village but visitors can also visit the nearby beaches including Tertsa Beach, Voulisma Beach, Koutsounari Long Beach and Agios Panteleimonas Beach. Read article
July 6, 2024
24 Best Things to Do in Crete and Activities
Crete, Greece's enchanting island jewel, provides a variety of things to do that appeal to a wide range of interests and passions. The alternatives for things to do in Crete are almost limitless. Crete entices explorers, history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike, with ancient ruins that whisper stories of a rich past and blue seas of magnificent beaches. The fascinating resort has some top things to do in Crete, combining classic charm and contemporary vitality. Crete offers a unique vacation that captures the spirit of Greek culture, hospitality, and natural beauty, whether meandering through charming neighbourhoods, diving into historical treasures, savouring excellent Mediterranean food, or going on daring outdoor exploits. Read article
June 10, 2024
Sfakia Crete: All You Need to Know by Locals!
Sfakia, also known as Chora Sfakion or Hora Sfakion, is a small town and region in southwestern Crete, Greece. It is the capital of the mountainous and rugged area of Sfakia, which spans from the southern part of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) to the Libyan Sea. The town has a population of around 265 people, while the entire municipality is home to about 2,000 residents. Sfakia has been known for its fierce resistance against foreign invaders, including the Venetians and the Ottomans. The Sfakians played significant roles in Cretan uprisings and helped Allied forces evacuate the island during World War II. The region's rugged terrain and independent spirit have shaped its unique culture and traditions. Read article
May 11, 2024
Crete for Seniors: Things to Do in Crete for Older People and Pensioners
Crete, the largest Greek island, offers many experiences for seniors and older travelers. Seniors can explore the island by visiting ancient sites like the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. They can also stroll through towns and villages, such as Chania and Rethymno. Crete features beaches for those interested in nature, such as Elafonissi and Balos, where seniors can swim in crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the shore. The island's rugged interior is home to hiking trails, including the famous Samaria Gorge, which physically fit seniors can enjoy. Foodies will delight in Crete's culinary offerings, with opportunities to dine in traditional tavernas, sample local wines and even take cooking classes. Read article
April 24, 2024
Matala Beach: Things to Do, Travel Guide, Beaches and Car Rental
Matala Beach is famous for its splendid beauty and exciting caves. Matala is a vibrant village located 75 km (46,6 miles) southwest of Heraklion, Crete, Greece. Matala boasts a village full of a hippie vibe from its colourful murals, street art, and famous Matala Beach. Matala Beach is one of the most lovely beaches on the island of Crete. According to Greek Mythology, it is on Matala Beach where Zeus swam ashore in disguise as a bull while carrying Europa on its back. Matala Beach is a sandy and pebble beach with crystal clear water. Several water sports are available at the beach, where numerous establishments offer the opportunity to practise some water sports. These water sports include riding jet skis, pedal boats, and snorkelling, to name a few. Inside the village of Matala There are various little shops, studios, taverns, small hotels, small pensions, and a campsite inside the village of Matala. Matala Beach is 250 M long and 45 M wide. It is famous for the carved caves in the rocks and hippies of the ‘70s. During the Roman and Christian period, it was believed that caves were used as burial tombs. Matala was once used as the port of Festos during the Minoan civilization and as the port of Gortyna during Roman rule. The collection of Caves at Matala Beach is carved into the soft white limestone at the north end of the beach. Most of the caves have separate rooms, windows, and stairways, displaying that they were used as living quarters. Read article
September 26, 2023
6 Steps On How to Claim Car Rental Insurance in Crete
Rental car insurance is of utmost importance when renting a vehicle in Crete or any other destination. Rental car insurance offers an additional layer of security that lessens financial obligations in the event of mishaps, theft or damage to the rental car. Visitors are saddled with prohibitive repair or replacement expenses due to the unknown roads and driving conditions in Crete, so having sufficient insurance coverage assures that in case of an unanticipated mishap during their rental period. It gives visitors peace of mind and enables them to explore the island with assurance because they know they are ready for unforeseen circumstances. Read article
August 19, 2023
Gouverneto Monastery: History, Etiquette, Attractions and Car Rental
Gouverneto Monastery is located in the Akrotiri peninsula of Chania, Crete. It sits tucked within a scenic gorge overlooking the Libyan Sea. The monastery has a long and rich history dating back to the 16th century. Gouverneto Monastery was founded in 1537 by two Venetian Catholic monks, Jeremiah and Laurentio Gouverneto. They built the monastery in a highly defensible position within the gorge to avoid pirate raids which plagued the region. The original building had Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements. During the Ottoman occupation of Crete, Gouverneto Monastery was destroyed by the Turks in 1571. Later, in 1618, the monastery was rebuilt and inhabited by Orthodox monks. The monastery played an important role in the struggle against Ottoman rule. Rebels used it as a hideout due to its remote location and stout walls. In 1866, after years of conflict, Crete won independence from the Ottomans. Gouverneto Monastery was abandoned and fell into ruin. In the late 19th century, the monastery was reconstructed and reopened by five monks from Mount Athos. Read article
August 13, 2023
Paleochora: History, Hiking, Attractions, Beaches and Car Rental
The picturesque coastal town of Paleochora occupies a peninsula on Crete's southwest shore, its strategic location drawing settlers since ancient times. Neolithic, Minoan and Roman era inhabitants all occupied the area, attracted by its coastal resources and defensible position between two bays. During Venetian rule in the 13th century, the fortress of Selino was built to defend Paleochora from pirate raids, remnants of which stand today.After periods of destruction and revival, Paleochora re-emerged in the 20th century primarily as a fishing village before growing into a relaxed tourist destination renowned for its sandy beaches, laid back ambiance and old town architecture. Visitors can best explore its surroundings and secluded coves by renting a car. Local agencies like Rental Center Crete offer vehicles suited for narrow roads, with the sporty Fiat 500c Cabriolet allowing open-air driving to enjoy the scenery. Read article
