Let us introduce ourselves 🙂
UNIVERSAL Car Rental in Crete was founded in 1986 by the Marakis family and is constantly striving to evolve and improve. Menelaos Marakis and his wife, Kalliope, the founders of the company, always wanted to share their love for the island with their clients. This passion was also passed on to their daughter Sofia, the current manager of the company, whose main goal is to guide the company's clients through her excellent knowledge of the island and help them explore Crete to create unforgettable memories. According to the Marakis family, Crete is one of the most popular holiday destinations all year round. Every year, couples, families, and solo travelers visit the island to discover the magic of Crete. The ideal way to navigate the island is by following specific routes. Routes that pass through villages and coastal roads, crossing vineyards and olive groves, await you to discover the hidden beauties of the island.

We are here to guide you through Crete! 

Rent a car in Crete from UNIVERSAL Car Rental to explore the beauties of our Mediterranean paradise!

Here is some important information about renting a car in Crete:

Crete is famous for its gorgeous beaches, wild natural beauty, world-famous cuisine, hospitable people, culture, and history. The Minoan Civilization (c. 2700–1420 BC) was home to the mighty king Minoas, as well as one of the most recognizable figures in Ancient Greek mythology, the Minotaur. Crete has raised some of the most renowned writers, poets, painters, and musicians who are recognized globally. One of the most important Greek painters, El Greco (Dominikos Theotokopoulos), was born in Crete. Don't miss the chance to visit the birthplace of the famous Greek painter in Fodele village, nestled in a lush orange grove just a few minutes from the island's northern coast. The great writer Nikos Kazantzakis also hails from Crete. Myrtia village is his birthplace and is home to a museum dedicated to the Cretan writer. It exhibits personal objects that refer to the life and work of Kazantzakis, as well as copies of his books. Let us help you customize your trip and guide you through Cretan literature, poetry, music, and pottery by visiting the most famous Cretan artists' villages, museums, and monuments.

While staying in Crete, you will discover some of the most significant attractions in Greece. Famous archaeological sites such as the Minoan Palace of Knossos, Phaistos, Malia, and Kato Zakros should all be considered when road tripping around Crete! You can also visit important monasteries, such as the Preveli Monastery in southern  Rethymno, the historic Arkadi Monastery located on a high plateau in Crete, and the Toplou Monastery, also known as Moni Toplou, a 15th-century monastery situated in eastern Crete. Famous attractions like Koule Fortress in Heraklion, The Fortress of Frangokastello in Chania and Fortetsa Castle in Rethymno will all offer a memorable experience.

Crete is also an ideal destination for those who seek to spend time in nature. The Samaria Gorge, with its world-renowned Portes (Iron Gates), is considered to be the longest gorge in Europe.

Thousands of nature lovers visit it every year. Another highlight of our island's natural beauty is the monumental olive trees. These trees are the oldest inhabitants of our island, scattered throughout every corner of Crete since the Minoan civilization. Some of these trees can live up to 5000 years while still producing healthy olives. Visit the world's oldest olive tree, located in Ano Vouves village in Chania.

Cretan Hospitality is one more reason to visit Crete. If there's one thing that sets Crete apart from every other holiday destination on earth, it's the warmth of the Greek people.Explore the Mediterranean diet and taste unique Cretan dishes. The Cretan dietary archetype is renowned globally. The ancient eating habits of the island's inhabitants were based on what the Cretan land generously offered: oil, wheat, wine, honey, greens, and herbs. It is certain that the optimal health and longevity of the Cretans is attributed to their traditional diet. Let us take you on a tour of Cretan gastronomy by introducing you to some of the traditional Cretan villages that you should visit.

Finally, a trip to Crete also means a visit to stunning beaches. We are here to share our suggestions for visiting the best beaches in Crete based on your preferences!

SOME OF THE MOST IMPORTANT SERVICES WE OFFER FOR YOUR TRIP IN CRETE:

• Premium Insurance: Your rented car is protected by full insurance with no excess. You don't have to worry about any additional hidden costs.

• 24-hour Road Assistance: All our vehicles are covered by 24hour road assistance.

• Customized Travel Guide: We are here to help you create a personalized travel experience in Crete. Once your booking is complete, our travel planners will send you a personalized travel guide. Free of charge!

• Children's  safety seat: We ensure your child is protected while driving in Crete by providing certified children's car seats that comply with the European Safety Rules ECE 44/04.

• Easy Pickup: Choose to pick up your car from our offices. Rent a car in Hersonissos and Heraklion. You can also choose to pick up your rental car from the airport, port, or even your hotel.

  (Additional charges may apply for certain destinations).

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