Rhodes Airport Car Rental: Ultimate Guide to the Island of Knights
Welcome to Rhodes, the magnificent Island of Knights, where ancient history meets stunning Mediterranean beauty. As the largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes offers an extraordinary blend of medieval architecture, sun-drenched beaches, and vibrant local culture that makes it one of Greece's most captivating destinations. Whether you are drawn to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, the crystal-clear waters of Lindos Bay, or the lush green valleys of the interior, having the freedom to explore at your own pace with a rental car from Rhodes Airport (RHO) transforms your holiday into an unforgettable adventure.
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Why Choose Rhodes for Your Next Holiday
Rhodes stands apart from other Greek islands thanks to its remarkable combination of historical depth and natural splendor. The island has been continuously inhabited for over 5,000 years, leaving behind an extraordinary archaeological legacy that includes the ancient city of Kamiros, the Acropolis of Lindos, and the legendary site of the Colossus of Rhodes. The medieval Old Town, one of the best-preserved in Europe, transports visitors back to the era of the Knights of St. John with its imposing Palace of the Grand Master, cobblestone streets, and fortified walls. Beyond history, Rhodes boasts over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it ideal for beach holidays from April through October. With a car hire from Rhodes Airport, you unlock access to hidden coves, mountain villages, and panoramic viewpoints that most tourists never discover.
Best Things to Do in Rhodes
The island offers an incredible variety of experiences for every type of traveler. Explore the medieval Street of the Knights, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe. Visit the ancient Acropolis of Lindos perched dramatically above a stunning bay. Discover the Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes), a unique nature reserve where thousands of Jersey Tiger moths gather during summer. Take a boat trip to the thermal springs of Kallithea, housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco spa complex. For adventure seekers, windsurfing at Prasonisi, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, provides world-class conditions.
Best Places to Visit in Rhodes
Start with Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its imposing Palace of the Grand Master and the atmospheric Street of the Knights. Drive south to Lindos, arguably the most picturesque village in the Dodecanese, with its whitewashed houses cascading down to a perfect bay crowned by an ancient acropolis. Visit the charming village of Archangelos with its traditional pottery workshops. Explore the west coast village of Kritinia with its Venetian castle offering panoramic sunset views. The southern tip at Prasonisi connects to a small island via a sand strip, creating two distinct beaches on either side.
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How to Drive in Rhodes
Driving in Rhodes is straightforward and rewarding. The main coastal road circles the island, providing easy access to all major towns and beaches. Roads are generally well-maintained, though some mountain routes can be narrow and winding. Speed limits are 50 km/h in towns and 90 km/h on main roads. Parking in Rhodes Town can be challenging during peak season, so use the large free parking areas outside the Old Town walls. A rental car gives you the freedom to explore the quieter eastern coast beaches and mountain villages that public transport cannot reach.
Best Restaurants in Rhodes
Rhodes offers exceptional dining experiences blending traditional Greek cuisine with Dodecanese specialties. Try fresh seafood at the fishing village of Kamiros Skala, where boats bring in the daily catch. In Rhodes Old Town, discover family-run tavernas serving pitaroudia (chickpea fritters), melekouni (sesame and honey bars), and fresh grilled octopus. The village of Lachania in the south offers authentic farm-to-table dining with local wine from the island's growing viticulture scene.
Planning Your Perfect Rhodes Itinerary
With a rental car, dedicate your first day to Rhodes Old Town and the northern tip. On day two, drive the stunning east coast road to Lindos, stopping at Anthony Quinn Bay and Tsambika Beach along the way. Day three, explore the interior mountains and the west coast, visiting the Valley of the Butterflies and the ancient city of Kamiros. For longer stays, the southern beaches of Prasonisi and Gennadi offer peaceful escapes from the busier north.
Rhodes Beaches Worth Discovering
The island boasts dozens of stunning beaches for every preference. Tsambika Beach offers golden sand and shallow turquoise waters perfect for families. Anthony Quinn Bay features dramatic rocky coves with crystal-clear snorkeling waters. Agathi Beach near Haraki provides a secluded sandy escape. On the west coast, the pebble beaches near Monolithos offer dramatic cliff backdrops. With a car hire Rhodes Airport, you can beach-hop along the entire coastline discovering your own private paradise.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Rhodes?
The best time to visit Rhodes is May to June and September to October when temperatures are warm, beaches are accessible, and crowds are smaller than peak summer.
Is it easy to drive in Rhodes?
Yes, driving in Rhodes is straightforward. Main roads are well-maintained and signposted. The island is compact enough to cross in about 90 minutes, making day trips easy.
How far is Rhodes Airport from Rhodes Town?
Rhodes Diagoras Airport (RHO) is located just 14 kilometers southwest of Rhodes Town, approximately a 20-minute drive.
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
EU license holders do not need an IDP. Non-EU visitors should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national license.
What are the must-try dishes in Rhodes?
Try pitaroudia (chickpea fritters), fresh grilled octopus, melekouni (sesame honey bars), and local seafood at coastal tavernas.