Car Rental in Ios
Hiring a car is worth considering on Ios, which you reach by ferry. You can pick one up in the main town and at the port, and the same core rules apply as everywhere in Greece: a full licence held for a year, a credit card in the driver's name and a minimum age of 21. This guide covers whether you need a car, where to collect it and what driving on Ios is like.
- Airport
- None (ferry)
- Need a car?
- Optional
- Drive on the
- Right
- Min age
- 21
Do you need a car on Ios?
A car is optional on Ios. Ios is small, and its port, hilltop Chora and main beach sit close together with a frequent bus. Buses and taxis cover the busy spots, so a car or scooter mainly buys you freedom and quieter beaches.
The island itself is worth reading up on before you drive it. Our Ios guide covers its beaches, villages and where to base yourself.
Where to pick up a car on Ios
You can collect a car in the main town and at the Ios (Ormos) port, and many agencies also deliver to your hotel. Book ahead for July and August, when fleets sell out and the walk-up desks run short. Ios has no airport, so most drivers collect the car on arrival by ferry.
Whichever supplier you choose, check the excess and what the insurance covers before you pay, and photograph the car all round at pickup. Our car hire requirements guide sets out the documents, deposit and insurance in full.
Driving on Ios
Ios driving is on the right, like the rest of Greece, and the roads are narrow and winding rather than fast. A short road connects the port, the Chora and Mylopotas beach, with longer runs to the quieter southern coves. A smaller car is the easier choice for tight village streets and steep gradients.
For the rules, road signs, tolls, fuel and parking that apply across the country, see our driving in Greece guide.
