Rhodes Island

Rhodes is an island that seduces you with its beauty and makes you want to keep coming back because there’s something new to discover every time! Standing out for its medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its natural beauty, picturesque villages, and stunning beaches, Rhodes island attracts thousands of visitors annually. Will you be one of them?

Where is Rhodes?

Rhodes, one of the most popular Greek islands, is the largest of the Dodecanese, an island group located in the southern Aegean Sea. It belongs to the South Aegean administrative district and is also known as the ‘Island of the Knights’ due to the Knights Hospitaller (the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem) who ruled the island in the Middle Ages (from the 14th to the 16th century) and built the Palace of the Grand Master and other prominent buildings in the old town.

How to get to Rhodes

You can reach the island of Rhodes by boat or plane. Diagoras, the National Airport of Rhodes, is one of the busiest in Greece, receiving frequent flights from most Greek airports and international ones in the summer. Many travelers from international destinations opt for domestic flights from Athens or Thessaloniki, which last for just 50 minutes. Regular flights operate from Athens, Thessaloniki, and other Aegean islands throughout the year, with additional flights in the summer.

Besides flights, another way to reach Rhodes Greece, is by ferry. Taking a ferry to Rhodes is a great option if you want to travel from other Greek and Dodecanese islands, such as Kos, Leros, or Symi. During the summer, ferries from other Dodecanese islands to Rhodes operate almost daily. If you don’t mind the long trip, which lasts 16-18 hours, you can also travel from Athens to Rhodes by ferry. Furthermore, you can take a ferry from Marmaris in Turkey to Rhodes, which is a convenient option if you’re planning to visit both countries.

When is the best time to visit Rhodes?

The best time to visit Rhodes in terms of weather is between June and September. That’s the best time for basking in the sun, island-hopping, swimming in the waters of the Aegean Sea, and having the quintessential holiday experience on Rhodes island. However, early summer marks the beginning of peak season in Rhodes, which lasts until early fall, meaning that the island gets overcrowded, especially in August.

If you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy Rhodes, spring and fall are excellent alternatives. The weather is still mild in spring and autumn, but the crowds thin out, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace.

How many days you should stay in Rhodes

Although the number of days you spend in Rhodes depends on your schedule, we suggest staying for at least 2-3 days. Rhodes is a big island with so many things to do and see that one day won’t suffice. Even if Rhodes is part of your island-hopping itinerary in the eastern Mediterranean, you should spend at least a couple of days on the island to have enough time to explore the main points of interest and enjoy the beaches.

However, if the time you can spend on the island of Rhodes is limited, make sure to visit the main attractions, including the imposing Acropolis of Lindos, Rhodes Old Town, one of the most important world heritage sites, the Palace of the Grand Master, the Valley of Butterflies, and Ancient Ialyssos.

The history of Rhodes island

Rhodes island boasts a long history influenced by the Romans, Crusaders, Ottoman period, and Italian rule. But in ancient times, before invasions, Rhodes was an important maritime and commercial center, home to renowned schools, and featured architectural masterpieces. The most popular is arguably the Colossus of Rhodes, once one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Located at the island’s port, the Colossus of Rhodes was an enormous statue dedicated to Helios, the ancient god of the sun, and although it was eventually destroyed, it remains one of the most fascinating art pieces of the ancient world!

Another highlight in the island’s history is the Knights of Saint John’s medieval occupation, which shaped Rhodes’ beautiful medieval architecture. From the 14th to the 16th century, the knights built some of the island’s most important attractions, including the Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes Old Town, Kritinia Medieval Castle, and Monoithos Medieval Castle!

The best attractions in Rhodes

This stunning Greek island brims with stunning places to visit, but the best attractions in Rhodes that shouldn’t be missing from your list are:

• The ancient Acropolis of Lindos

• Lindos village

• Rhodes Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• The Street of the Knights

• The Palace of the Grand Master

• The Ancient Acropolis of Rhodes

• The Monastery of Filerimos

• The Valley of Butterflies

• The Aquarium of Rhodes

• The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes

• The archaeological site of Ancient Ialyssos

• The Springs of Kallithea

• Monolithos Castle

• The National Theatre

• The Modern Art Museum

• The Castle of Kritinia

• The Casino of Rhodes

• Panagia Tsambika

• Seven Springs

• The island’s most popular beaches, including Anthony Quinn Beach, Lindos Beach, Kallithea Beach, and Tsambika Beach

How to get around Rhodes – Public transportation services

Rhodes has a public transportation network, which you can use to get around the island. It consists of public buses that depart from the central bus station on Rhodes island, reaching various destinations across the island, including the Old Town, Afandou, Kallithea, Lindos, Ladiko, and Sever Springs. However, public buses can’t take you anywhere, so you should also explore other options!

Another option is taxis, which are faster and more convenient than buses but can be pricey, especially if your destination is far from your departure point. You can find taxi stations in several spots throughout the island, including the airport and the capital. However, the best option is to hire a private taxi, which can pick you up from any location and take you everywhere in Rhodes.

If you want to explore the island at your own pace, hiring a private car, minivan or minibus is your best bet. Just make sure you rent it for the entire duration of your trip so that you can go to every place on your bucket list. Choose a legitimate car hire company, like Ride and Hire, and opt for a vehicle that meets your needs!

FAQS

When is the peak season in Rhodes?

The peak season in Rhodes lasts from June until August with the latter being the busiest month. Summer is the best time to visit Rhodes because the weather is hot and the water temperature is pleasant for swimming. However, hotel rates are higher in peak season, and the island’s main points of interest are usually overcrowded.

How far is Rhodes from Athens?

The duration of the trip from Athens to Rhodes depends on the means of transportation you choose. If you travel to Rhodes from Athens by ferry, the trip will last almost 13 hours, whereas if you opt for a plane, it takes about 50 minutes to reach the island.

Does Rhodes have an airport?

The island has an airport, Rhodes International Airport Diagoras, located on the island’s west coast, 14 southwest of the capital. One of the busiest airports in Greece, Diagoras Airport, receives both domestic and international flights.

How do you get a taxi in Rhodes?

Taxis are a popular means of transportation in Rhodes, as they can take you quickly and safely wherever you want to go, from Rhodes town to Anthony Quinn beach. Numerous taxi stations are scattered across the island for convenient pickups, but you can also call a taxi to pick you up from anywhere.

What is the cost of a taxi transfer in Rhodes, and how is it calculated?

The cost of taxi transfers in Rhodes is calculated based on the distance between your departure location and final destination. However, sometimes the drivers aren’t straightforward about the cost of your trip, meaning you can end up paying more than the standard taxi fee. At Ride and Hire, we have fixed prices, so you will know exactly how much you’re going to pay for your transfer the moment you book it!

What tours can you do in Rhodes?

The best way to explore the island and make the most of your time there is to join a tour! There are many tours you can take in Rhodes, either by land or by sea. If you want to discover remote beaches and take a dip in the emerald waters of the Aegean, you can go on a boat tour. On the other hand, if you wish to explore the island’s picturesque villages, a private tour of Rhodes is your best bet!

How can I book a private transfer in Rhodes?

You can easily book a private Rhodes transfer in advance on our website, choosing from a wide variety of vehicles, from private cars to shuttle buses. To book a transfer in Rhodes with Ride & Hire, all you have to do is fill out the booking form with your destination, arrival date and time, and the number of passengers, and choose the vehicle type you want. Then enter your personal information and flight number, and pay online. After completing the process, you will receive a confirmation email with all the information regarding your booking!

Can I book a transfer in Rhodes for a specific time or date in advance?

Yes, you can book a transfer in Rhodes between any locations you want and choose the date and time you prefer by filling out the booking form on our website.

How do I request a transfer service in Rhodes for a large group of people or passengers with special requirements?

If you want to request a transfer in Rhodes for a large group of people or passengers with special requirements, please contact us at info@rideandhire.com.

Do Rhodes transfer services include meet-and-greet options at the airport or other pickup locations?

Of course! One of our professional drivers will be waiting for you at your desired location on the day and time you have chosen. For airport pick-ups, the driver will wait for you at the arrival hall, holding a sign with your name.