Automatic car rental in Rhodes

Why automatics are harder to get

Greek rental fleets have traditionally been built around manual cars, because that is what the domestic market buys. Automatics were added for visitor demand and still make up a smaller share of the cars available on the island.

In practice the automatic pool is committed earlier than the manual one in July and August, so late requests can be difficult to fill.

Where an automatic helps most

• •Steep resort access roads in Lindos, Pefkos and Vlicha, where hill starts are routine.
• •The winding inland climbs towards Profitis Ilias and Embonas.
• •Rhodes Town and Faliraki traffic in the peak weeks.

Which categories offer automatics

Automatic versions are typically found across compact cars, SUVs, cabriolets and larger 7 and 9-seaters, and electric cars are automatic by design. The smallest economy class is usually manual. Availability is confirmed on the marketplace for your dates.

How far ahead to book

• •July and August: as early as you can, several weeks ahead — most companies rent out all of their cars in these two months.
• •June and September: a couple of weeks ahead is usually comfortable.
• •April, May and October: booking 2–3 days before pickup normally guarantees availability.