Car rental at Thessaloniki airport means you start your trip without waiting for taxis and transfers, as long as you book before you fly and know exactly where the pick-up takes place. Thessaloniki "Makedonia" airport (SKG) is about 17 km from the city centre and is the most common starting point for travellers heading on to Halkidiki. Here is what to prepare before the trip, how pick-up works and what to watch for on return.
Book before you fly, with your flight details
The earlier you book, the more choice you have, especially in July and August and on long weekends. Choose a pick-up day and time that match your arrival and leave room for collecting luggage, because landing times are not always exact.
Give the store your flight number and a contact phone number where it asks for them. If the flight is delayed, tell the store early so the booking is not lost and you do not need a new agreement on the pick-up time.
Where and how pick-up happens
The pick-up method differs by store. Some wait for you in the arrivals hall, others transfer you to an office near the airport and others bring the vehicle to a point you agree on. Do not assume there is a desk inside the terminal unless your booking says so.
On Ridom the pick-up point is set by the store you choose. Read the instructions before you complete the booking and note the phone number and the meeting point. If you want delivery to another address, first ask whether it is offered and at what charge.
What to bring to the pick-up
You will need an ID card or passport, your driving licence and, if the store requires it, a card for the deposit. The licence must be valid and suit the category of the vehicle. If your licence was issued outside the EU, ask whether you also need an international driving permit.
Everyone who will drive must be named in the contract. If two people will drive, ask for a second driver to be added before you leave the store, not later.
Inspect the car before you leave
Walk around the vehicle with the staff member and note every scratch, dent or wheel rim damage. Take photos or a video of every side, the interior and the dashboard showing the mileage and fuel level. That gives you evidence if there is a discussion about damage on return.
Check that there is a spare wheel or repair kit, a warning triangle, the vehicle documents and the roadside assistance number. Ask which fuel the car takes and what the fuel policy is, meaning how full the tank must be when you return it.
From the airport to the city or Halkidiki
If your flight arrived late or you are tired, keep the first leg short. You reach central Thessaloniki in roughly half an hour depending on traffic, while for Halkidiki allow at least one to two hours depending on the destination. Set up navigation before you start and stop for coffee or fuel if you need to.
In summer the roads to the Halkidiki beaches usually fill up on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons. If you can, pick another time or day for the transfer and keep a time buffer for the return.
Return and flight: plan the timeline
Leave enough time between handing back the car and check-in. Agree the return point and time in advance, and whether the inspection takes place in your presence. If your flight is early in the morning, ask about out-of-hours returns and how you hand over the keys.
Refuel if the terms require it, remove your belongings and photograph the vehicle again. Ask for confirmation that it was returned without problems and ask when the deposit is released, if there is one.
Airport or city: when to change the pick-up point
If you will stay in the centre for the first days, you may not need a car from the first moment. Traffic and parking in the centre cost effort and money, so consider picking the car up later in the city, on the day you leave for Halkidiki.
On the other hand, if you go straight to a coastal destination, picking up at the airport saves time. Compare your whole plan and not just the daily price.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book in advance?
It is recommended, especially in summer and at peak times. That way you choose the category and pick-up time and do not depend on whatever is left on the day you arrive.
What if my flight is delayed?
Tell the store as early as you can, with your flight number. The terms for holding the booking and the new pick-up time are set by each store.
Do I need a credit card?
It depends on the store and the vehicle. Some stores ask for a card or another deposit, and the terms are shown before booking. Check them before you travel.
Can I return the car at a different location?
Only if the store offers it. Ask before you book, because returning to a different location may carry an extra charge.
Which documents do I need?
An ID card or passport and a valid driving licence. If your licence is from a non-EU country, ask whether you also need an international permit. The store sets the final requirements.
Useful destination resources
- Discover Greece · Thessaloniki – Halkidiki road trip
- Your Europe · Renting a car in another EU country
These routes are editorial suggestions. Check access, conditions and current opening hours before you travel.
