🚙 How to get around Rhodes: all the options (2025)

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Once you've arrived on the island, it's time to get around. And while Rhodes isn't huge, it does have its tricks: some areas are well connected, others less so. Therefore, choosing the right mode of transportation can make the difference between a day of exploration or one spent waiting in the shadows at a stopover.

Here I'll tell you all the options for getting around Rhodes based on your travel style, budget, and patience level.

Table of Contents

Transportation in Rhodes

1. Buses

This is the cheapest option and, surprisingly, quite convenient if you're staying in popular locations like Rhodes Town, Faliraki, or Lindos. There are two main stations in Rhodes Town: one for buses serving the west coast and Rhodes Town (DES Roda) and another for buses serving the east coast (Ktel Rodou).

Buses run fairly regularly, but don't expect Swiss punctuality. For example, to places like Lindos, which is one of the Rhodes must-sees spots, there are usually quite a few buses, but to others such as Siete Manantiales or Valle de las Mariposas only a few arrive per day, and none during the low season.

During peak season, they're usually packed, and sometimes you have to stand. However, the prices are low, and the trip, although slow, is a good way to see the scenery.

It's not ideal if you're in a hurry, with small children, want to visit more secluded sites, or travel late at night. Furthermore, there are no buses connecting both coasts; you'll need two: one to Rhodes Town and another to your final destination.

Some details you should know about each company:

🔹 DES Roda (West and city)

Color: White and blue
ToursThey have several lines, some going through Rhodes Town and others along the west coast, including the airport. They also have a line that goes to the Valley of the Butterflies (May to September), and in summer they share the route with Ktel Rodou between Rhodes and Kalithea.
Schedules and prices: They vary greatly depending on the time of year, day of the week and route. In this link From their website you can download the schedules and here you can check the updated prices.
Rhodes OfficeYou can buy tickets at the ticket office, where they accept card or cash payments. They usually offer a discount on return trips.
Ticket machinesThere are also ticket machines next to the office and at some major stops; these only accept cash.
Payment on the bus: They only accept cards.

🔸 Ktel Rodou (East)

Color: White and orange
Tours: They have different lines for the coast and villages on the east side of the island up to Prasonisi, including Kalithea, Faliraki, Lindos and the Seven Springs.
Schedules and prices: They vary considerably depending on the time of year and the route. On their website You can download the calendar with schedules and prices. You'll also find a QR code at the stop to download it.
Rhodes OfficeYou can buy tickets at the office, where they accept card or cash.
Payment on the bus: They only accept cash, it is better if you carry coins or small bills.

⭐ Related article: How to get from Rhodes Airport to the City Center and other areas.

2. Taxi

Taxis are well-served in Rhodes and can be easily found in major towns or hailed by phone. There are also taxi ranks at tourist attractions.

In general, prices are reasonable if you're not traveling too far, but if you plan to tour the island by taxi, be prepared to pack your wallet. If there are several of you, it can be worth it, especially if you want to avoid the heat of the bus in August.

The good thing is that prices are fixed for the main towns and are indicated on signs like the one in the photo below, which is from Rhodes Town.

Also, keep in mind that most taxi drivers only accept cash, so it's best to ask before getting in if you want to pay by card.

Just so you know—there’s no Uber or similar apps in Rhodes.

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3. Renting a Car

This is my favorite option for exploring Rhodes independently. Renting a car gives you complete freedom to discover hidden beaches, inland villages, and travel without having to worry about timetables. The roads are quite good, and driving around the island is easy even if you don't speak the language (there are signs in English).

During peak season, it's best to book in advance. You can rent directly at the airport or in major towns. Prices vary greatly depending on the season, the type of car, and where you rent, but there are generally good deals if you look early.

I recommend this website for car rentals in Rhodes, which is the one I use. I've found cars there for as little as €5 a day during the low season and for around €35 during the high season. Alternatively, you can compare this other search engine, which sometimes has good deals.

✔️ Requirements to rent a car in Greece

Minimum Age: 21 (some companies require 23 or 25). Young driver surcharge may apply.
Driving license:
- Valid if you are from the EU.
- If you are from outside the EU, you’ll need an international driving permit.
License held for at least: 1 year (sometimes 2).
Credit Card in the driver's name for the deposit (some accept debit, but with restrictions).
Additional documentation: Passport.

4. Quad

Quads have become popular among tourists, especially because they can be rented with a driver's license. But I honestly don't recommend them. Every summer, there are accidents involving people who've never driven one and who take to the roads.

They're more unstable than they look. Many tourists tip over, with consequences that can range from a few fractures to worse. So, if you're inexperienced, it's best to avoid risks.

5. Motorcycle

Renting a motorcycle is a good option if you have experience and the appropriate license (a car license is not valid for driving a motorcycle in Greece). In areas like Faliraki, Kalithea, or Rhodes Town, it can be practical for getting around without depending on anyone. Just be careful with the heat, traffic, and curves if you venture outside the urban environment.

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6. Bicycle and e-scooter

If you're into eco-friendliness or just want to get around at a different pace, you can rent a bike in Rhodes Town or in tourist areas like Faliraki. I must warn you, though, that the roads aren't particularly well-maintained, so it's not the safest option outside the city center.

Still, it's a good option for leisurely strolls along the seafront or short hikes. You can also find electric bikes and e-scooters for rent.

7. Rental boat

A great way to explore the coast is by chartering a boat. In Rhodes Town, Faliraki, and other coastal towns, you'll find boats in good condition and at a good price. There are also a variety of options, from catamarans, sailboats, and yachts to small boats that don't require a license.

To rent a boat in Rhodes, I recommend this website , which has good prices and is well-organized.

8. Tourist bus

An excellent option for getting around Rhodes City is the tourist bus, which stops near the main points of interest in both the medieval city of Rhodes and the new town. I recommend this one from the link , which is quite affordable.

9. Organized excursions

If you don't want to drive or rely on the bus, you can sign up for organized excursions that take you to Lindos or to beaches with turquoise waters. These are available by bus or boat, for a complete island experience.

The good thing is that you just sit back and enjoy it. The bad thing is that you go with the rhythm of the group and sometimes you feel like staying in one place longer.

Below are links to some of the best excursions on the island:

Boat trip to Lindos : the most beautiful acropolis on the island
Full-day tour to the Seven Springs and the Valley of the Butterflies
Cruise ship tour : a day trip to the medieval town of Rhodes and Lindos

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Final Thoughts

These are all the options for getting around Rhodes. Each has its pros and cons. If you're staying in the city, buses or taxis are fine. If you're traveling all over the island, renting a car is the best option. And if you prefer to relax as much as possible, organized tours may be the solution.

Whatever you choose, Rhodes deserves to be explored at leisure. Because here, even the journey between two towns can be part of the adventure.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘