Last updated: October 30, 2026. Rental prices below were checked on that date and change with the season and rental length, so confirm the price for your own dates.
A quad bike (ATV) is one of the most popular ways to explore Santorini: easy to park in Fira and Oia, fun on the caldera road, and cheaper than a taxi. But prices vary a lot between engine sizes and seasons, and the licence rules confuse many visitors. Here are the real daily rates we found on October 30, 2026, plus what you need to know before you ride.
Quad Bike Hire Santorini Prices: What We Found
Daily prices for quad bikes in Santorini listed on BikesBooking on October 30, 2026 (all taxes included, 2-seater automatic quads):
| Model | Engine | Price per day |
|---|---|---|
| Kymco MXU 310 | 310cc | from €30.28 |
| Kymco MXU 250R | 250cc | from €31.03 |
| Aeon ATV 300cc | 300cc | from €34.95 |
| Kymco ATV 300cc | 300cc | from €35.90 |
| Kymco MXU 450i | 450cc | from €36.07 |
| Goes Iron Max 500 | 500cc | from €38.73 |
| CFMoto CForce 450 | 450cc | from €33.73 to €53.04 (depending on rental company) |
| Buggy CFMoto ZForce | 625–800cc | from €70.52 |
BikesBooking, checked October 30, 2026. Listings typically include helmets, third-party insurance and unlimited kilometers; full damage cover (CDW) and deposits vary by company.
In short: a 250–450cc quad for two people costs roughly €30–€42 a day in our check, a buggy about €70 and up. Prices are highest in July and August, when quads can sell out, and lower in spring and autumn. Many rental shops close from November to March. Longer rentals usually lower the daily rate.
Which engine size? Santorini is hilly. For two adults, choose at least 250–300cc; small 150cc quads struggle on the climbs to Pyrgos and the caldera villages.
Licence Rules: What You Need to Rent a Quad in Santorini
- Car licence (category B): the rental companies we checked accept a regular car licence for their quads, usually with at least one year of driving experience.
- Minimum age: usually 20 or 21 for the driver.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): the US State Department says US visitors who drive in Greece must carry an IDP along with their US licence. Many rental shops don’t ask for it, but without one you can face fines and insurance problems if you’re stopped or have an accident. Americans can get an IDP from AAA before the trip.
- Be aware: some local sources say Greek law requires a motorcycle licence for quads over 50cc. Rules and their enforcement are not consistent, so check your rental contract and make sure your travel insurance covers the exact vehicle you rent.
- Helmets are mandatory for rider and passenger and are usually included.
Quad vs. Car vs. Bus: What Does It Cost?
| Option | Typical cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Quad bike (250–450cc) | about €30–€42 a day | Couples, short hops, easy parking |
| Rental car | about $15 a day on average, around $42 in August, around $16 in January (DiscoverCars, Santorini airport) | Families, luggage, hot summer days |
| KTEL public bus | about €2–€2.50 per ride (more at night) | Budget travelers; most routes go via Fira |
| Taxi | expensive; few taxis in peak season | Airport or late-night transfers |
Quad prices from BikesBooking and car prices from DiscoverCars (updated October 29, 2026); bus fares as published by KTEL Santorini.
Surprisingly, a small rental car can be cheaper than a quad outside peak season, and it’s safer with kids, luggage or in strong wind. A quad wins on parking and fun, especially in Oia and Fira.
Rental Options in Santorini
- Standard quads (250–310cc): the most common choice; fine for two people on most roads.
- Bigger quads (400–500cc): more power for hills and two adults, only a few euros more per day.
- Buggies (UTV): side-by-side seats and more comfort, but about twice the price.
- Guided quad tours: a good option if you’ve never ridden a quad and want to see hidden spots safely.
- Delivery: many companies deliver to your hotel, the airport or the port, sometimes for free.
Safety Tips for Quad Bikes in Santorini
- Wind: the summer meltemi wind can be strong. Wear a helmet with a strap and sunglasses, and take it slow.
- Roads: narrow, winding and busy with tour buses. Keep your speed down, especially near cliffs.
- Night: rural roads are poorly lit; avoid riding after dark if you can.
- Clothing: closed shoes and long trousers are safer than flip-flops and shorts.
- Before you leave: photograph the quad from all sides, check brakes and tires, and note the rental company’s emergency number.
- Dirt roads: some rental contracts don’t allow sand or dirt tracks. Check before heading to remote beaches.
How to Book a Quad Bike in Santorini
- Book online in advance for July and August; quads sell out.
- Compare the total price: daily rate, insurance level, deposit and delivery fee.
- Check the licence requirements of the exact listing.
- Read recent reviews about the vehicle condition and how deposits are handled.
- Bring your licence, IDP and passport to pick-up.
Common Mistakes When Renting a Quad
- Choosing the smallest engine to save a few euros, then struggling uphill with two people.
- Skipping the IDP and risking fines or insurance trouble.
- Not checking the insurance: basic third-party insurance doesn’t cover damage to the quad.
- Planning a quad for the whole family: a car is safer and often cheaper for three or more people.
Renting bikes or scooters elsewhere too? See our guide to the best bike rental deals for tourists.
Final Thoughts
A quad bike is a fun and affordable way to explore Santorini: in our check, a 250–450cc quad for two cost about €30–€42 a day. Choose at least 250–300cc for two people, book early for summer, carry an International Driving Permit if you’re from outside the EU, and check what the insurance covers. For families or windy days, a small rental car is often the better and even cheaper choice.
FAQs
How much does it cost to rent a quad bike in Santorini?
On October 30, 2026, we found 250–450cc quads from about €30 to €42 per day and buggies from about €70, including taxes. Prices are highest in July and August.
Can I rent a quad in Santorini with a car licence?
The rental companies we checked accept a car licence (category B), usually with at least one year of experience. Some sources say Greek law requires a motorcycle licence for quads over 50cc, so check your contract and travel insurance.
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
US visitors should carry one: the US State Department lists an IDP as required for driving in Greece. Without it you risk fines and insurance problems, even if the rental shop doesn’t ask for it.
Is it safe to ride a quad in Santorini?
It can be, if you ride slowly and carefully. The main risks are narrow roads, tour buses, strong wind and riding at night. Always wear a helmet.
Is a quad cheaper than a rental car in Santorini?
Not always. Outside the peak season, a small car can cost less per day than a quad. In July and August, both get more expensive.
