Not All Car Rentals Are Created Equal
When planning your trip to Crete, renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the island freely. But there’s one big question many travelers ask:
Should I rent from a big international chain or a local car rental company?
At first glance, global brands may look safer or more familiar. But in reality, local car rental providers often offer a far better experience, especially in Crete.
Here’s why choosing a company like Mike’s Rent A Car in Georgioupolis and Chania isn’t just smart — it’s a move that can transform your trip.
1. Personal Service from Real People (Not Call Centers)
At big rental companies, you’re often just a booking number. You wait in line, speak to someone you’ll never see again, and hope for the best.
With a local business:
You’re greeted by name
You get direct contact with a real person (not a 1-800 number)
If anything goes wrong, we’re 10 minutes away, not 10 countries away
Example: At Mike’s, we deliver cars directly to your hotel or villa and walk you through everything. No queues, no stress.
2. Transparent Pricing (No Hidden Fees)
Big brands often lure you in with a low online price, then surprise you with:
Mandatory insurance fees
Young driver fees
Extra charges for fuel, GPS, mileage
Local businesses like ours believe in clear pricing:
What you see is what you pay
All fees are explained upfront
No surprise charges at drop-off
Check out our reviews on Google
3. Flexible Pick-Up & Drop-Off Options
Need the car dropped off at your villa at 8:30 AM? No problem.
Want to return it at Chania Airport before your flight? We’ll meet you there.
Big companies rarely offer:
Hotel or Airbnb delivery
After-hours drop-off without fees
Location flexibility outside airports
We do. And we do it for free around Georgioupolis and Chania.
4. Locals Know the Island Better
Crete isn’t all highways. You’ll encounter:
Narrow village roads
Steep hills
Gravel paths to places like Balos Lagoon
Big brands often have basic city cars. Local companies like Mike’s provide:
SUVs and 4x4s ready for off-pavement driving
Manual and automatic options
Car types selected for Cretan terrain, not just inventory
5. Better Cars for Crete’s Unique Roads
Crete isn’t all highways. You’ll encounter:
Narrow village roads
Steep hills
Gravel paths to places like Balos Lagoon
Big brands often have basic city cars. Local companies like Mike’s provide:
SUVs and 4x4s ready for off-pavement driving
Manual and automatic options
Car types selected for Cretan terrain, not just inventory
6. More Flexibility & Less Red Tape
International brands often require:
Credit card holds
High security deposits
Add-ons for basic services
At Mike’s, we offer:
No credit card? No problem.
Free child seats
Free second driver
No excess insurance confusion
Just good service, fair terms, and flexibility.
7. Supporting the Local Economy
Every euro spent at a local business helps:
Pay fair wages
Keep local families employed
Strengthen the local economy
You’re not just renting a car — you’re supporting a community.
And you’ll feel the difference in every interaction.
| Feature | Mike’s Rent A Car | Big Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Local Support | ✅ | ❌ |
| Transparent Pricing | ✅ | ❌ |
| Hotel Delivery | ✅ | ❌ |
| Balos-Ready Vehicles | ✅ | ❌ |
| Flexible Terms | ✅ | ❌ |
| Local Tips & Advice | ✅ | ❌ |
Local is Better — Always
When it comes to renting a car in Crete, going local means:
Better service
Better cars
A better experience
You won’t just save money — you’ll save time, avoid stress, and travel smarter.
Ready for a better rental experience?
Book your car now with Mike’s Rent A Car — local, reliable, and always ready to help.