Rhodes Diagoras Airport is the main airport on the island of Rhodes and receives millions of passengers every year, especially during the tourist season. The airport has one terminal and offers connections to many European cities. This is where your Rhodes adventure begins, and with a rental car you can easily explore the whole island.
How to drive from Rhodes Airport to Rhodes Town
Rhodes Airport is located about 14 kilometres southwest of Rhodes Town. The quickest route is via the Eparchiaki Odos Ialisou-Katavias, and within 20 minutes you can be in the centre. On the way, drive along the coastline, passing picturesque beaches and cosy seaside towns such as Ialyssos.
Continue to Lindos and Faliraki
From the airport, you can also easily reach other popular places. Take the EO95 south and you will reach the famous white village of Lindos in about 45 minutes. On the way, you'll pass stunning views of the Aegean Sea. If you drive east, the Leoforos Kallitheas will take you to the lively resort of Faliraki, famous for its beaches and nightlife, within 30 minutes.
5 Highlights within driving distance of Rhodes Airport
- The Old Town of Rhodes: A UNESCO World Heritage Site full of medieval charm.
- Lindos Acropolis: Beautiful ruins on a hill with fantastic views.
- Tsambika Beach: One of the island's most beautiful beaches, perfect for a day of sun and sea.
- Butterfly Valley (Petaloudes): A unique natural area where thousands of butterflies congregate during the summer months.
- Kallithea Thermal Baths: A historic spa with beautiful mosaics and tranquil pools.
Rhodes road network
Rhodes' roads are generally in good condition, although some rural roads can be narrow and winding. The main roads between towns are wide and well maintained, but watch out for sharp bends in mountainous areas. Always be mindful of local road users, such as scooters and donkey carts.
Recommended car type for Rhodes
A compact car is fine for the narrow roads in villages and towns, but if you plan to trek into the mountains or cover longer distances, an SUV may be handy. This type of car offers more comfort and power for trips over steeper roads and gives you extra space for luggage and souvenirs
Best travel time to visit Greece
The best travel time for Rhodes is from May to October, when the weather is pleasantly warm and the sun shines almost every day. Avoid the crowds in July and August if you prefer quieter travel.
Eating and drinking in Rhodes
Rhodes is known for its delicious Greek dishes, such as moussaka, souvlaki and freshly caught fish. Don't forget to try a glass of local ouzo or a cold Mythos beer, but make sure you don't get behind the wheel afterwards. Also try local delicacies such as ‘melekouni’, a sweet snack based on honey and sesame.
Useful words and phrases about car hire in Greek
- Φανάρι (Fanári): Traffic light
- Βλάβη (Vlávi): Breakdown
- Στροφή (Strofí): Turn
- Κλειδίαυτοκινήτου (Kleidí aftokinítou): Car key
- Χώροςστάθμευσης (Chóros státhmefsis): Parking
- Ποιοαυτοκίνητο είναι για μένα; (Poio aftokínito eínai gia ména?): Which car is for me?
- Ορίστε το δίπλωμά μου. (Oríste to díplomá mou): Here you have my driving licence.
- Τοαυτοκίνητο χρησιμοποιεί βενζίνη ή πετρέλαιο; (To aftokínito chrismopoií venzíni í petrélaio?): Will there be petrol or diesel in my car?
- Πούείναι το πλησιέστερο βενζινάδικο; (Poú eínai to plisiésterο venzinádiko?): Where is the nearest petrol station?
- Πούαφήνω το αυτοκίνητο όταν οι διακοπές μου τελειώνουν; (Poú afíno to aftokínito ótan oi diakopés sou teleiónoun?): Where do I leave my car when my holiday is over?