Car Rental in Santorini
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Cheapest Car Rental Rates
Santorini Airport
Economy
Kia Picanto
or similar
$6.85
per day
Santorini Airport
Mini
Fiat Panda
or similar
$7.08
per day
Santorini Airport
Compact
Opel Astra
or similar
$13.95
per day
Santorini Airport
Economy Elite
Renault Clio
or similar
$15.31
per day
Most Popular Car Rental Deals
Santorini Airport
Intermediate SUV
Nissan Qashqai
or similar
$21.62
per day
Santorini Airport
Compact Elite
MINI One 5door
or similar
$22.21
per day
Downtown
Mini Elite Convertible
Fiat 500 Cabrio
or similar
$25.74
per day
Santorini Airport
Standard SUV
Peugeot 3008
or similar
$28.61
per day
The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 3:11 AM on 11/19/24. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
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Travel Information
Languages
Greek
Currency
EUR
Drive on
Right-hand side
Country code
+30
Average car rental price
$18 per day
Average car rental length
5 days
Speed limit within town
50 km/h or 31 mph
Speed limit out of town
90 - 130 km/h or 56 - 81 mph
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.05%
Average gas price
$2.04 per liter or $7.73 per gallon
Lowest gas price
$1.91 per liter or $7.21 per gallon
Highest gas price
$2.24 per liter or $8.48 per gallon
Why rent a car in Santorini?
Santorini is a great place to visit. Small, but incredibly picturesque, the volcanic island has a wealth of coastal and inland scenery to explore and enjoy. The island is also known as Thira, or Thera. Its capital and main town, Fira, is arguably the most beautiful island town of Greece, but getting a rental car will let you travel even further and explore historic sites and nature areas that cannot be reached by public transportation.
Top ways to enter Santorini
- By plane: Flights from various countries arrive at Santorini (Thira) International Airport. One of the fastest-growing airports in Greece, it served 2.7 million travelers in 2022, a 78% increase from the previous year. It is located 5 km (3 miles) southeast of Fira, and you can drive into town in about ten minutes.
- By ferry: There are numerous ferry connections between Santorini and other nearby islands. Some of these islands also have airports, so you can fly to another island, take a ferry to Santorini, and fly home from Santorini. Islands near Santorini with international airports include Mykonos, Paros, and Crete, while Naxos and Milos also have domestic airports where you can fly to from Athens. If you are planning to hire a car and take it on a ferry, you should first ask your rental car provider if they allow it. A better idea might be to take a ferry as a passenger and to hire different rental cars on all the islands you are visiting. It’s also important to look up the ferry schedule in advance. Ferry services are frequent during the spring, summer and autumn months.
City facts
- Santorini has warm, dry summers and cool winters. The average high temperature is 29 °C (84 °F) in July and August, the warmest months, and 14 °C (57 °F) in January and February. Precipitation is relatively high in December and January, but there’s virtually no rain from June to August.
- Santorini was home to the Minoan civilization which is considered to be the oldest civilization of Europe. The reasons for its eventual demise are unclear, but one of the factors that might have contributed to its final end on Santorini was the Minoan volcanic eruption that occurred about 3,600 years ago. Often considered one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in the history of the planet, it significantly changed the face of Santorini and its surrounding islands; its effects were recorded not only by Greeks, but also Ancient Egyptians on the other side of the Mediterranean. After a while, Santorini became populated again, first by Phoenicians and Dorian Greeks, and later by rulers like Romans, Ottomans, and Venetians.
- Santorini is a culinary destination, famous for its varied and delicious cuisine. Some of the local specialties include fava, a type of split yellow pea, brantada, a cod fillet mixed with flour, salt, and garlic salad; koskosela, chopped and fried tomatoes and eggplants with olive oil and eggs; and melitinia, little pies made of local cheese, eggs, flour and sugar. Santorini is also famous for its delicious wine, like the local assyrtiko and vinsanto.
Top sights and activities
- See the sunset from Oia village: Oia, sometimes referred to as Ia, is a small village which is famous around the world for its stunning sunset views. It’s a popular destination, and gets very busy during the summer. If you’re visiting earlier in the day, you will love the iconic white churches with blue domes and cozy cafes facing the Aegean Sea.
- Take a sunset cruise: One of the best ways to enjoy the island and its famous sunset is to take a sailing tour. There are several companies offering this service, which is an unforgettable experience.
- Wander around the capital, Fira: Fira is the main settlement of Santorini, and also one of the island’s main tourist attractions. Its architecture is a splendid mixture of Cycladic and Venetian influences. There are a few museums you can visit, such as the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, where you can learn about the island’s past. Much of the island’s nightlife also takes place in and around Fira.
- Hike from Fira to Oia: This 10 km (6.2 mile) hike is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Santorini if you love the outdoors. If you are visiting in summer, you should start early in the day, as it gets too hot after 10.30 - 11.00 am.
Traffic and parking
- There are no highways, toll roads, or national roads on Santorini.
- Most of the roads on Santorini are narrow and have many twists and turns. While the larger roads are in good shape, the smaller roads might have poor surfacing and potholes. Be careful when driving on them, especially after dark.
- Speed limits in Santorini are low. It’s best to keep at 50km/h (31 mph), and even lower in populated and built-up areas.
- Many gas stations might be closed during weekends and public holidays.
- It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving.
- There are designated parking areas everywhere on the island, including outside the villages. However, parking in popular destinations, like Oia, can be a challenge.
- The legal alcohol limit is 0.5 g/l for experienced drivers and 0.2 g/l for novice drivers. Exceeding these limits can lead to high fines and a license ban. Exceeding the limit of 0.8 g/l is a criminal offense and can lead to imprisonment.
- Proof of insurance and the car’s documentation need to be in the car whenever you’re driving.
- When driving, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
- The general emergency number, like elsewhere in the EU, is 112. The police number is 100, the ambulance number is 166, and the fire brigade number is 199.
Toll roads
There are no toll roads in Santorini.
Ideas for day trips
- Archeological Site of Akrotiri: An important historical site, it is one of the best-preserved ancient settlements in Greece. The excavation is still in progress, but wall frescoes, golden ritual objects, and vases made by the original Minoan inhabitants have been found there and can be observed by visitors. The opening times change quite frequently, however, so it’s a good idea to check them in advance on the official website. Located in the southwestern part of the island, Akrotiri is just 10km (6 miles) from Fira and can be reached in about 15 minutes. After seeing the excavation, explore the Red Beach and other beaches in the area.
- The island’s wineries: The small volcanic island has well over a dozen wineries. Some people choose to take an organized winery tour, but it is also possible to drive around the island and visit the wineries you are mostly interested in.
- The beaches in Santorini: Apart from the strange volcanic landscapes, long history, and amazing sunset views, Santorini is also a beach destination. There are plenty of beaches to choose from, too. You can explore the hip and busy Kamari and Perissa Beaches with the iconic black-gray sand, the picturesque Akrotiri Red Beach that’s great for snorkeling, the relaxed Baxedes Beach, and the White Beach. Jump in your rental car and drive up or down the coast - you’ll soon find a picturesque shore that will feel perfect for you.
- The inland villages: A rental car will offer flexibility if you want to explore the numerous villages in Santorini. One of the best villages to drive to is Pyrgos Kallistis. It is the highest point in Santorini, with a Venetian castle and an old monastery. The last part of the way cannot be done by car, so you’ll have to walk up and enjoy the quaint architecture and impressive views from the top. Pyrgos is just 5 km (3 miles) southeast of Fira, and is only a ten minute drive.
- Vothonas: A small village that’s something of a hidden gem, Vothonas is best known for the fact that many of its buildings are carved into the local cliffs. Try and catch the morning market, where you can buy fresh fish and other seafood from local fishermen. Vothonas is only 4 km (2 miles) from Fira and takes less than 10 minutes to reach up the narrow and rocky road.
- Thirassia. A small neighboring island, Thirassia was actually a part of Santorini until a volcanic explosion broke it off about 3,000 years ago. Maintaining close ties with the main island, Thirassia can be accessed on a short boat ride with some ferries allowing you to bring a vehicle with you (although that might be unnecessary since the island is so small; if you do want to go by car, ask your rental car supplier in advance if they permit it). Once on the island, you can explore its ancient monasteries, rugged cliffs, and fantastic views of the sea.
Most popular cars
The most popular rental car in Santorini is the Toyota Aygo, although many travelers also go for the Hyundai i10 and the Toyota Yaris 5d. The most popular rental car types are mini, economy, and compact.
Further destinations
- Naxos: The largest of Cycladic islands, Naxos is home to historical sites like Apollo’s Gate and the Temple of Demeter. There are also great opportunities for water sports like surfing and snorkeling. Most visitors visit Naxos’ northern and central part, but with a rental car, you can also drive to see its less explored, sparsely populated south, as well as the east coast.
- Paros: Another nearby island that can be reached by ferry, Paros is great for either exploring its nightlife or enjoying the tranquility on one of its less busy beaches. On top of that, it is also a water sports hub and one of the best places in all of Greece for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Do keep in mind that, as with Naxos and other islands, the ferries tend to sell out very quickly during the high season, so booking tickets well in advance is a wise choice.
- Crete.: By far the largest Greek island, Crete is famous for its Minoan, Byzantine, Ottoman and Venetian heritage that can still be felt in the island’s architecture and cuisine. But even if history is not your thing, there’s plenty to enjoy from countless beautiful beaches to impressive nature areas like the Gorge of Samaria or Balos Beach. Heraklion, the island’s largest city and capital, is the best place to arrive if you’re coming from Santorini.
- Athens:. Athens was the home of Classical Greece. Here, you will see several ancient sites like the Acropolis, the Theater of Dionysus, the Ancient Agora and Plato’s Academy. But there’s much more to Athens than just history, and its many public gardens, contemporary art centers, and various restaurants are a joy to explore. After visiting Athens, you can travel to see the rest of Continental Greece, from the Peloponnese in the southwest to Thessaloniki in the north.
- Note: While it is possible to go from Santorini to Naxos, Athens, and other places in Greece by ferry, most rental car providers will not permit bringing a car on one, even if you would later return the car in Santorini. A better idea is to go as a passenger and to pick up a new rental car after arriving at your destination.
Car rental prices in Santorini
- Convertibles - from $8 per day
- Station wagons - from $34 per day
- Large cars - from $38 per day
- Medium cars - from $7 per day
- Vans - from $49 per day
- Premium cars - from $125 per day
- Small cars - from $7 per day
- SUVs - from $11 per day
Money-saving and other tips
There are things you can do to land a great rental car in Santorini:
- Compare the rates of different rental car providers
- Book your rental car well in advance
- Plan your route before you go
- Know your fuel and mileage requirements
- Visit during the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting the island is the cheapest in June when renting a car is about 38% cheaper than the yearly average. Come visit Santorini in the early summertime!
Top 20 cities near Santorini
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40.3 km / 25 miles away
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79.1 km / 49.2 miles away
-
81.9 km / 50.9 miles away
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99.2 km / 61.6 miles away
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115.8 km / 72 miles away
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126.5 km / 78.6 miles away
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139.7 km / 86.8 miles away
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150.5 km / 93.5 miles away
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162.1 km / 100.7 miles away
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162.2 km / 100.8 miles away
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170.9 km / 106.2 miles away
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185.3 km / 115.1 miles away
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191.7 km / 119.1 miles away
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218.4 km / 135.7 miles away
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221 km / 137.3 miles away
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223.9 km / 139.1 miles away
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233.3 km / 145 miles away
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234.7 km / 145.8 miles away
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236.1 km / 146.7 miles away
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240.5 km / 149.4 miles away
Top 20 locations near Santorini
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4.5 km / 2.8 miles away
-
74.8 km / 46.5 miles away
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76.4 km / 47.5 miles away
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81.9 km / 50.9 miles away
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95.4 km / 59.3 miles away
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115.8 km / 72 miles away
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117.6 km / 73.1 miles away
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123.1 km / 76.5 miles away
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150.5 km / 93.5 miles away
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170.3 km / 105.8 miles away
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191.7 km / 119.1 miles away
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218.4 km / 135.7 miles away
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223.3 km / 138.8 miles away
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223.9 km / 139.1 miles away
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230 km / 142.9 miles away
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233.3 km / 145 miles away
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233.3 km / 145 miles away
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234.7 km / 145.8 miles away
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234.9 km / 146 miles away
Map of Car Rental Locations
What is the cheapest month to rent a car in Santorini?
Car rental prices in Santorini vary by time of year. This graph shows the average prices per month to help you find the best time of year to rent.
Average rental costs per day in Santorini
The cheapest month to rent a car in Santorini is April (when prices average $18.39 per day). This is 26% cheaper than the yearly average and 53% cheaper than renting in August (when prices average $39.46).
This information can help you identify the low season. But these are only average numbers. How much your car rental will cost will depend on the type of vehicle you rent, how long you’ll rent it for, and how far ahead you book. Simply enter your dates in the form at the top of the page to see the exact prices.
This information can help you identify the low season. But these are only average numbers. How much your car rental will cost will depend on the type of vehicle you rent, how long you’ll rent it for, and how far ahead you book. Simply enter your dates in the form at the top of the page to see the exact prices.
What’s the usual rental length in Santorini?
How long travelers keep their rental cars for varies from month to month: in April, the average renter keeps their car for 5 days, and in January, they keep their car for 3 days.
Average number of rental days in Santorini
What's the most popular month to rent a car in Santorini?
Based on the number of searches by our customers, the most popular month for renting a car in Santorini is August, and the least popular is January.
Monthly searches in Santorini by pick-up date relative to the average
Car rental information
| Car rental locations | 6 |
| Airport locations | 1 |
| Popular suppliers | CarQ, Goldcar, Autounion, Yours Car Rental, Centauro |
| Popular car categories | Small cars, Medium cars, Convertibles, SUVs |
| Lowest price | $7 per day |
| Cheapest supplier | Surprice |
Most popular car models of rental suppliers
| Rental Supplier | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CarQ | Fiat Panda | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| Autounion | Citroen C1 | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
| Centauro | Fiat 500 | 3 | 1 | Small cars |
| Yours Car Rental | Kia Picanto | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Goldcar | Fiat Panda | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| CarQ | Citroen C3 | 5 | 2 | Small cars |
| Carwiz | Toyota Aygo | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
| CarQ | Toyota Aygo | 3 | 2 | Small cars |
| AddCar | Volkswagen Up | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
| OTOQ | Fiat Panda | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
Our customers' reviews
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
KL
Hong Kong
Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet
10/30/24 
NM
Poland
Opel Corsa
9/27/24
Great Experiences on My Trip to Santorini:
1. Nature Spots:
Oia Sunset: Watching the sunset in Oia was breathtaking. The village offers a stunning view of the caldera with the sun dipping into the Aegean Sea, creating a magical atmosphere.
Red Beach: Known for its striking red cliffs, Red Beach is a unique spot for a swim and some great photography. The volcanic landscape adds a dramatic touch to the experience.
Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Visiting this ancient city was a highlight for history lovers. The ruins of the Minoan civilization give a fascinating glimpse into life before the volcanic eruption.
2. Activities:
Caldera Boat Tour: Sailing around the caldera and visiting volcanic islands was an unforgettable experience. We even hiked the Nea Kameni volcano and enjoyed the hot springs.
Wine Tasting: Santorini’s wine culture is fantastic. I visited several wineries like Santo Wines and enjoyed tastings with incredible views of the sea and vineyards.
Hiking from Fira to Oia: This scenic 10 km hike along the cliffside was both challenging and rewarding. The views of the caldera, villages, and ocean were unbeatable.
3. Restaurants:
Amoudi Bay: This little bay at the foot of Oia offers fantastic seafood restaurants right on the water. Dimitris Tavern had the freshest seafood with a view of the boats.
Metaxi Mas: Located in Exo Gonia, this restaurant offers traditional Greek dishes with a modern twist. The food was incredible, and the service was warm and welcoming.
Argo in Fira: A perfect place for dining with a caldera view. The atmosphere was romantic, and the Greek dishes, especially the seafood, were exceptional. 
MV
Belgium
Fiat 500
9/19/24 
SB
Lithuania
Citroen C3
9/16/24 
RW
Poland
Fiat 500 Cabrio
9/16/24
Akrotiri lighthouse - amazing views, I do recommend nearby restaurant "Giorgaros", also a better place for the sunset than Oia. For sunrise go to Perissa beach.
AS
United States of America (USA)
Renault Clio
9/3/24
Driving all over Santorini.
RC
United Kingdom
Peugeot 108
7/15/24
Santorini is one of the best places i have ever been...Stunning views every restaurant we visited we were smiling and contented as we were coming out,the culture and people we've come across were very friendly and beautiful....Greek food one of the best in the world...Nature spots are a must to visit in Santorini....
ME
Italy
Fiat Panda
5/29/24
Turism one day in Santorini
DO
Ireland
Nissan Micra
5/17/24
Taxis tend to be expensive. Having a car on Santorini is important unless you rely on local buses. We had a two week holiday and found the car gave us freedom and flexibility. 
MO
United Kingdom
Toyota Aygo
5/11/24 
MR
United States of America (USA)
Peugeot 208
4/18/24
With the car and being the off-season, it was possible to find parking in Santorini, in all the villages. We managed to explore many of the villages in the 3 days we spent in Santorini. Having the car was great so we could explore at our pace
CS
United Kingdom
Fiat Panda
11/12/23 
GP
Bulgaria
Fiat Tipo
10/25/23
The trip was so exciting and the island of Santorini is amazing place!
ED
Canada
Peugeot 308
10/16/23
Drove all over the island, checked out beaches small towns and of course Fira and OIa.it was relaxing, inter3stign and fun.
AN
Belgium
Citroen C3
10/13/23
Thanks to our rental car, we could go to places the public bus doesn't go, like the prophet Elias monistary (heighest point of the island) and the Akrotiri lighthouse. We also visited ancient Akrotiri, Red Beach, Oia, Firostefani, Fira, Imerovigli and Kamari. We had a lovely trip! 
KR
United States of America (USA)
Toyota Yaris
9/24/23
We stayed in Akrotiri away from the craziness in Oia and Fira. We visited those places during our stay but preferred the relative quietness of Akrotiri.
TW
United Kingdom
Fiat Panda
6/19/23
Everything was spot on
AR
Israel
Hyundai i20
5/6/23
Santorini is a dream place with amazing people. 
LM
Spain
Fiat 500
9/18/21
Rent a car is must in Santorini. A 500s will take you everywhere although there are some roads that you really need to be really carefull like red/black beach access.
DG
United Kingdom
Nissan Pixo
8/23/20
Get a car and get around.
Car Rental Statistics
Highest-rated company
Avance
9.3 / 10
Lowest-rated company
Finalrentals
7.3 / 10
Total number of reviews
88
Total rental companies
34
Average daily price
$17.67
Lowest daily price
$6.85
Total cars available
732
Top 34 suppliers in Santorini in 2024
Avance
1 location
$11 - $82
Carwiz
1 location
$22 - $83
OTOQ
1 location
$13 - $23
Autounion
3 locations
$14 - $379
SIXT
1 location
$11 - $36
AddCar
1 location
$9 - $14
WheeGo
3 locations
$13 - $152
Alamo
1 location
$16 - $21
DRIVE S.A.
1 location
$10 - $55
Budget
2 locations
$13 - $39
Surprice
3 locations
$7 - $13
drive365
2 locations
$7 - $13
Cargini
1 location
$26 - $43
Keddy
1 location
$11 - $22
Thrifty
3 locations
$14 - $55
CarQ
1 location
$24 - $41
Europcar
1 location
$11 - $26
H-Lead Hospitality
2 locations
$18 - $41
Hertz
1 location
$19 - $105
Dirent a car Greece
1 location
$19 - $105
Enterprise
1 location
$17 - $22
Avis
3 locations
$17 - $64
National
1 location
$20 - $26
Selecta rent a car
3 locations
$15 - $118
Yours Car Rental
1 location
$15 - $118
SKG Rent A Car
2 locations
$11 - $96
Goldcar
1 location
$7 - $12
Centauro
1 location
$22 - $36
EXER
1 location
$53 - $117
ACARENT
2 locations
$112 - $252
GreenMotion
3 locations
$9 - $26
Alma Car Hire
1 location
$24 - $76
Idea Mobility
1 location
$24 - $76
Finalrentals
1 location
$24 - $76
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