Top Summer Destinations in Greece by car
Summer is just around the corner, and we're all looking for that ideal combination: sun, beaches, and a nearby destination for a perfect getaway. If you're one of those who prefer to avoid ferry rides and keep the steering wheel firmly in your hands, then this article is for you.
There are beautiful Greek islands you can reach by car — no hassle, no delays, just pure freedom!
Discover below the top islands for summer holidays with a car, combining stunning landscapes, great food, and easy access from Athens and Thessaloniki.
Evia – The King of Road Trips
Of course, we couldn’t leave Evia off our list — Greece’s second-largest island and one of the top nearby destinations for summer holidays. Crossing the bridge at Chalkida, you're already at your summer escape!
Whether you pick up your rental car in Athens or you’re based in Piraeus, in less than two hours you can be enjoying a swim at Agia Anna or relaxing at the thermal springs of Aidipsos. For nature lovers who are looking for something different, a hike on Mount Dirfys is an absolute must.
Lefkada: The ultimate destination for summer holidays in the Ionian Sea - No Ferry Needed
Lefkada is the ultimate destination for summer holidays with a car. Thanks to a small floating bridge, you can get there directly by road! And the reward? Beaches like Egremni, Porto Katsiki, and Kathisma that look like they're straight out of a tropical paradise.
No matter where you’re starting from, once you've sorted your rental car from Athens, plan a stop at Nafpaktos or Messolonghi to break up the drive. Lefkada is perfect for couples and groups of friends looking for a mix of relaxation and nightlife, with the freedom of a car to hop from beach to beach.
Tip: If you're arriving from afar and picking up a rental car in downtown Athens isn’t convenient, don’t worry — start your journey right away by choosing a car rental from Athens Airport.
Thassos – The Island of Contrasts
If you're based in Northern Greece, Thassos is one of the best destinations for summer holidays with a car. Located just across from Kavala, it’s connected via a short ferry ride from the port of Keramoti — just 35 minutes!
Renting a car from Thessaloniki gives you the flexibility to explore the island to the fullest: from the turquoise waters of Alyki to the picturesque villages inland. And of course, don't miss the famous Giola — a natural "pool" carved into the rocks right by the sea.
Elafonisos – A Vintage Greek Summer
Elafonisos may be small, but its natural beauty is massive. Drive down to Neapoli in Laconia, then take a short ferry — with your car — to cross over. It’s one of the closest summer getaways near Athens, with the beaches of Simos and Sarakiniko ready to take your breath away.
Enjoy an epic road trip deep into the Peloponnese, with optional stops in Mystras, Monemvasia, or Sparta. The journey itself becomes an unforgettable experience when you have the right vehicle, and Carwiz is here to help you make it happen.
Summer Vacation Destinations: Salamina – The “Hidden” Island Next Door
You might have never thought of it, but Salamina is the perfect spot for a quick escape — or even longer summer holidays. It’s just a stone’s throw from Piraeus and offers clean beaches, cozy tavernas, and a nostalgic, old Athens vibe.
Take a short drive with a rental car from Piraeus and you’ll be dipping your toes in beaches like Psili Ammos or Kolones in no time. It’s an ideal destination for families and couples who want to get away without traveling too far.
Whether you're planning summer holidays with a car or looking for nearby destinations for a summer getaway, Carwiz is your ultimate travel companion. Choose your ideal vehicle, map your route, and… let's hit the road!