Car rental at Rhodes Airport (RHO)

Rhodes Airport is the main air gateway to the sun-drenched island of Rhodes. Tucked away about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) southwest of Rhodes City, it’s the first stop for millions of travelers headed to this historic and scenic corner of Greece. The airport runs on a single terminal setup split between two connected buildings. The older section handles both arrivals and departures, while the newer side is geared just for departures. Inside, you’ll find all the essentials—cafés, restaurants, duty-free shopping, and car rental desks. If you’re after a quieter space, there are two lounges—Skyserv Business Lounge and Filoxenia Lounge—for a more relaxed pre-flight experience.

Annually, over 6 million passengers come and go, solidifying its status as a key hub for the Dodecanese region. By car, getting to the city center takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on how the traffic flows. It’s a smooth entry point to an island that blends ancient ruins with turquoise coastlines—perfectly setting the tone for what’s ahead. You can find more information on the airport’s official website: Rhodes Airport

Picking up a rental car at Rhodes Airport is pretty hassle-free. You’ll find most of the rental desks right inside the arrivals area, so you can sort things out as soon as you land. A few companies operate just outside the terminal, and in those cases, you might be shuttled to their nearby office. Some even offer a meet-and-greet service—someone will be waiting for you in arrivals, holding a sign with your name, ready to walk you through the handover. To keep things smooth and stress-free, it’s smart to double-check the exact pickup details with your provider ahead of time.

Choose the right car for your trip. Don’t just go for the looks—think practically. Rhodes has plenty of tight streets, so a small car makes life easier. But if you’re traveling with family, space, and comfort take priority.

Bring your GPS or use your phone. Save yourself the extra cost by using your smartphone. With offline maps or apps like Google Maps, you’ll get solid directions without paying for a clunky rental GPS you probably don’t need.

Check the fuel policy. Some rentals want the tank full on return, others don’t. It’s a small detail that can cost you big if missed, so read the policy closely before you hit the road.

Read the cancellation terms carefully. Travel plans don’t always go as expected. A flexible cancellation policy means you can adjust or cancel without losing cash if your itinerary shifts last minute.

Stick to the return time. Returning the car late, even by 30 minutes, can lead to unexpected charges. Set an alarm, plan for traffic, and get it back on time to end your rental stress-free.

Medieval Old Town. Lose yourself in the maze of Rhodes Town’s Old Town, a stunning UNESCO site packed with history. Cobbled lanes, stone arches, and fortress walls give it that magical, time-travel feeling you won’t forget.

Palace of the Grand Master. Standing tall in the center of town, this grand fortress was once home to knights and now tells centuries of stories. Wander through massive halls, gaze at ancient mosaics, and soak in the island’s layered past.

Street of the Knights. With its towering stone facades and silent, echoing charm, this historic street is one of Rhodes’ most iconic. You can almost hear the footsteps of knights who once walked these same paths.

Archaeological Museum of Rhodes. Step into a former medieval hospital turned museum, where Rhodes’ rich history is told through ancient sculptures, detailed mosaics, and everyday artifacts. It’s a quiet but powerful reminder of the island’s enduring legacy.

Elli Beach. Just outside the Old Town walls, Elli Beach is the perfect place to wind down. Grab a cold drink, kick off your shoes, and watch the Greek sun dip into the sea in style.

Lindos. Just 50 minutes by car from Rhodes Town, Lindos feels like stepping into a dream. Whitewashed houses tumble down the hillside beneath a dramatic ancient acropolis, while sun-drenched beaches and maze-like streets invite you to linger longer.

Seven Springs (Epta Piges). Around 35 minutes from town, this hidden gem is a breath of fresh air—literally. Cool trails, shady woods, and a narrow tunnel leading to a natural spring-fed lake make it a perfect break from the island heat.

Butterfly Valley (Petaloudes). Only 30 minutes away, this enchanting valley comes alive in summer when thousands of butterflies flutter through its lush greenery. Peaceful streams and quiet footpaths make it feel worlds away from the coastline.

Monolithos Castle. About 1 hour and 15 minutes from Rhodes Town, this lonely cliff-top fortress is well worth the drive. Sweeping views of the Aegean and the wild, untamed beauty around it create an unforgettable backdrop for a bit of exploring.

Prasonisi. Head south for 1 hour and 30 minutes and you’ll reach Prasonisi, where the Aegean and Mediterranean meet. It’s a magnet for surfers and dreamers alike, with wide beaches and a wild, windswept vibe that’s hard to resist.