Rhodes, Greece, is an impressive island with historical sites everywhere. Due to its size and the sheer number of things to see and do, you could easily spend a week there. It is also a relatively flat island with reasonably low traffic and straightforward roads. For that reason, driving in Rhodes is one of the best ways to experience all the island has to offer.
Well, what about an ATV or scooter? Those are options too! This guide to renting a car in Rhodes also applies to alternative forms of transportation. If you’re wondering if having your own vehicle is right for you, keep reading. I will cover the top tips for getting around the island and how and where to get your rental.
Tips for Renting a Car in Rhodes
During our trip to Rhodes, we decided that the best way to get around was by car. Our overall experience was great! Here are some essential tips to know before visiting Rhodes.
Why Rent a Car in Rhodes
Rhodes, Greece, is a spectacular island rich in history and culture. It is also one of the most remote Greek islands and one of the largest. For that reason, renting a car is one of the best ways to explore all areas.
If you plan on staying in one location, such as Old Town Rhodes, then getting around by foot is sufficient. But a car is the only way to get from place to place besides a guided tour if you want to venture to Lindos or some other remote locations.
We would rather have the flexibility to get around on our own and stop by interesting locations we may encounter along the way. Having your own rental car is the best way to do this. And with Rhodes having so many hard to reach areas, it is sometimes the only way to get there.
Even if you are staying for a few days, the 45-minute drive between Lindos and Old Town is much better spent in a rental than a tour bus. At least, I think so.
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How to Book a Rental Car
Overall, renting a car in Rhodes is similar to other places in Greece. If you are traveling between June and August, the prices will always be higher than during the shoulder season. Demand will also be much higher, so booking in advance will help ensure you get the car you want.
To save a little money, you can research discount rates. Some places will give you a cheaper rate if you rent a car for longer than a day or two. The most affordable rate you can find is €20 per day, with rates reaching around €60 for a standard automatic car.
My go-to rental car sites are Discover Cars and RentalCars.com. Both these sites cross-reference prices from different companies to give you the best deals. You can also choose where you’d like to pick up your car.
Where to Pick Up Your Rental Car
If you stay in Old Town Rhodes, you will have a few places to pick from. An added perk is that these companies stay open 24 hours, allowing you to return your car whenever you want. We spent our first full day exploring the Old Town, so renting a car there made the most sense.
Just outside the main gate, there are several rental companies. We picked our vehicle up at Port Rent a Car, but other places are just as good around town. They were extremely friendly and went through some popular locations with us. They even recommended a restaurant that was a local favorite. It ended up being the best meal we had in Rhodes.
You can also pick up your car rental from the airport. Since Rhodes is such a remote island, you should fly there instead of taking the ferry. If you are staying elsewhere on the island or want a car right away, you can pick up your car here.
Best Cars to Choose
The price of your rental depends a lot on what type of car you want. One important thing to know is that manual cars are popular in Europe, and renting an automatic car will cost a little more. Unless you are extremely experienced driving manual, I recommend sticking to automatic, especially when driving somewhere new.
Most cars come standard with air conditioning and basic equipment. You can also purchase a GPS for an additional price. However, I always buy an international data plan to use the navigation on my phone instead.
Another thing to think about is what size vehicle you want. A general rule is the larger the vehicle, the more expensive. You honestly don’t need anything large in Rhodes. You will find parking much easier in a smaller car as parking can be hard to come by, and most spots will be tight.
TRAVEL TIP: Gas is not included in the rental cost. You will have to fill up what you used on your own before returning the vehicle.
Car Rental Insurance
Yes, you should get it. No matter where you travel, you should always purchase rental insurance. The extra cost can save you many headaches and give you additional peace of mind.
Rental Requirements
Generally, you can get any rental if you are over 21. Some companies charge an extra fee for drivers under 25, though! Bring an updated driver’s license when you pick up your rental. In addition, you will need an International Driving Permit if you are not an EU citizen.
International Driving Permit
Most European countries require an International Driving Permit on top of your regular one if you do not have an EU license. This license states that you are eligible to drive in any foreign country. It is very simple to apply for and costs a small fee.
If you plan on renting any vehicle, apply for your permit at least two weeks before your trip. For an additional fee, you can also get a digital copy within an hour on some sites. Just make sure to get it before you leave on your trip!
Tips for Driving in Rhodes
Overall, driving in Rhodes was very laidback. There was little traffic on the main roads, and the signs were easy to spot. What I liked was the signs pointing to attractions nearby. It made finding our way around a lot easier. Once you get closer to Rhodes Town, it gets congested, but it is far less traffic than places like Rome or Athens.
Driving Rules in Rhodes
- Like most places, you drive on the right side of the road.
- You are not allowed to use a phone while driving.
- Seat belts are mandatory.
- Parking around Rhodes Town usually is not free. You must buy a ticket at a nearby machine once you’ve parked.
- The main roads have a speed limit of 80km/hr. (50mph). Once you get closer to the towns, the speed drops to 50km/hr. (30 mph). If you need more clarification, keep an eye out for the speed limit signs, there were plenty around town.
Getting from Old Town to Lindos
The route between the two main towns, National Road 95, is simple to navigate. It is a two-lane, paved road with incredible views of the sea on one side. In addition, popular beaches like Anthoney Quinn Bay and St. Paul’s bay are located just off 95 and are easy to get to. The total travel time between Rhodes Town and Lindos is about 45 minutes without traffic.
Driving to Remote Areas
The roads get trickier once you leave the main streets. Remote areas like Monolithos Castle mean you will be traveling through small, winding paths and hills. These are much narrower, with many being dirt roads. They are, however, not very busy, so take your time driving on them. Also, if you plan on visiting one of these locations, visit during the day when there is plenty of light and ideal driving conditions.
Parking in Rhodes
Depending on where you are going, parking options differ. In general, beach parking was free with plenty of available spots. The two places where parking was the most challenging were Lindos and Old Town Rhodes. Why? Both areas are comprised of pedestrian-only streets, causing you to park on the outskirts of town. On top of that, those are the two most popular places to stay and visit.
Parking in Lindos
Several free dirt parking lots are available near Lindos at the top of the hill. You will also see a small roadside shop selling snacks and souvenirs. Even during peak season, you can find a place to park your vehicle. However, it may be further out if you wait until the middle of the day to get there. To get to the Village of Lindos, you will follow the sidewalk down the hill straight into the city from the parking lot. The entrance to the Lindos Acropolis is within the village.
Parking in Old Town Rhodes
One advantage to renting a scooter over a car is the ease of parking around Old Town. Outside the fortified area’s main entrance is a large parking lot designated for scooters. However, parking is much more challenging if you rent a car, and most lots charge a fee.
Making the Most of Your Rental
Now that you’ve booked your rental, it is time to start planning! One of the first things to look at is the general location of the sites you’d like to see. If you don’t plan on having a rental the entire time, start with the walkable places and save the distant ones for later.
Then, plan your itinerary based on the proximity of attractions. For example, we hit the Village of Lindos, the Acropolis of Lindos, and two nearby beaches in one day since they were all close together. Stick to one side of the island if you plan to spend an entire day beach hopping.
Road 95 is the main road between Lindos and Old Town on the island’s east side. You will find many popular beaches along this side of Rhodes. Attractions on the west coast include the Butterfly Valley, Ancient Kamiros, and Monolithos Castle.
Other Ways to Get Around Rhodes
Public Transportation
The cheapest way to get around Rhodes Town is by bus. It is just over €2 per ticket and will take you anywhere you need. You can download the Rhodes Public Transport App to see bus stops and routes closest to you. In addition, the bus connects Rhodes Town to the airport for a cheap way to get between the two.
Take a Taxi
Taxis are an easy way to get to and from Rhodes airport and cost about €25. If you need to get to Lindos, you are looking at about €60. Taxis are best for traveling with lots of luggage or longer distances. They also make the most sense if you spend most of your time in one place. If you plan to spend multiple days exploring the island’s different areas, you will either want to join a tour or get a rental.
Where to Stay in Rhodes
There are some fantastic places around the island to stay for all types of travelers. For those looking for luxury resorts near the water, staying near the Acropolis of Lindos is a terrific place. However, if you want to be in the middle of it all, you will want to stay in Old Town Rhodes.
That is where you will find the majority of the main attractions. Plus, you are within walking distance of the harbor, shops, and restaurants. The boutique hotels here are an attraction in themselves. Since the Old Town is a medieval fortified city, many accommodations are refurbished apartments that knights lived in a few hundred years ago.
Kókkini Porta Rossa
The luxurious boutique hotel was originally a knight’s home in the 15th century. The hotel has five different suites, each with a separate living room and decorated in period pieces with touches of modern amenities. With fireplaces in each room, private gardens, balconies, and complimentary breakfast, Kókkini Porta Rossa is one of the top-rated places to stay in Rhodes Old Town.
Luxury Hotel: Check Prices
10GR Hotel & Wine Bar
The 10GR Hotel and Wine Bar is a luxury hotel inside the Old Town. We absolutely loved our stay here! The rooms are built inside caves but have all the modern and luxurious amenities you need.
The rooms also have small outdoor terraces. With one of the best wine bars in Rhodes and close to the harbor and historical attractions, 10GR Hotel was the perfect place to stay for our first visit.
Mid-Range Hotel: Check Prices
Nikolis Historic Boutique Hotel
The S. Nikolis Historic Hotel is one of the few places to stay in the Medieval part of Old Town. The rooms are situated in a historic building dating back to the 1300s.
Each room is uniquely decorated to fit the building and has original features such as 700-year-old windows. The room also comes with a small balcony or shared patio.
Mid-Range Hotel: Check Prices
Conclusion
Rhodes is a fascinating island with a long history and a melting pot of cultures. Renting a car in Rhodes is an easy and efficient way to get around the island.
It allows you to be flexible with your itinerary and is more cost-effective than relying on taxis to take you around. Know of some other important tips for driving a car in Rhodes? Leave a comment below!
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Travel Planning Resources
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT |Skyscanner is the top search engine for finding and booking flights. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices.
VIEW ACCOMMODATIONS |For booking hotels and vacation rentals Booking.com is a top resource . They offer some of the cheapest rates and different payment options.
PLAN TRANSPORTATION | Discover Cars is my go-to site when booking rentals. They work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs and budget.
SCHEDULE YOUR TOURS | There are many top companies available in Europe. Get Your Guide is one of the best sites for tours, excursions, and activities. Viator is another terrific website for all types of experiences.
GET TRAVEL INSURANCE | Having travel insurance is always a good idea. World Nomads is one of the top travel insurance companies. It will cover you if you must cancel your trip or if something unexpected happens.
Check out the resource page for additional travel planning resources.
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