When to Rent: The Whole Trip or Just for Exploring?
One of the first decisions is whether to hire a car for your entire holiday. If you’re spending the first few days exploring Rhodes Old Town, its restaurants and nearby beaches, you can manage perfectly well on foot. Delaying collection until you’re ready to travel farther afield avoids paying for unused rental days and the challenge of parking in town.
A car becomes truly worthwhile for reaching destinations beyond the main bus routes, such as the mountain villages of Embonas, the castles at Monolithos and Kritinia, and the southern tip at Prasonisi.
Where to Collect: Airport, Town or Hotel?
Collecting from the airport is ideal if you plan to start exploring from day one or are staying outside the main towns. However, if you're tired after your flight or spending your first few days in one place, a taxi or transfer followed by a later rental can be a better option.
The drive from the airport to Rhodes Town is one of the island's busiest stretches, especially in July and August. Don’t assume airport pickup is more expensive or town pickup is cheaper; compare the total cost of the rental days you actually need plus any transfer fares.
Booking Smart: What to Know Before You Choose
Waiting until you arrive to find a car, especially in summer, can lead to higher prices and limited choice. To get the vehicle you want at a better rate, planning is key.
- For summer trips, book your car 2–4 weeks in advance.
- Small cars and automatics are popular and sell out early. Reserve ahead if you need one.
- Avoid hiring a larger car than you need. Narrow village roads and tight parking spots, particularly around Lindos, make a smaller vehicle much more practical.
- Check the insurance and deposit terms carefully. Some local firms offer no-deposit rentals, but this doesn't mean no responsibility; the rental conditions still apply.
What to Expect on the Road
Outside the busiest areas, driving in Rhodes is generally straightforward. The main east-coast road from Rhodes Town to Lindos is smooth but sees heavy traffic in summer, while quieter inland and west-coast routes have their own challenges.
Expect narrow mountain bends, goats on the road around Embonas and Salakos, and strong crosswinds along the exposed western coast. Driving defensively is always wise—watch for scooters and visitors braking suddenly for a photo.
Car rental guides by resort
Where you stay changes how and where to collect a car. Read the guide for your base: Rhodes Town, Ixia, Ialyssos, Faliraki, Kolymbia, Lindos, Pefkos, Lardos, Kiotari and Gennadi.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to rent a car for my whole stay in Rhodes?
Not necessarily. If your first few days are focused on Rhodes Town, you can explore on foot and collect a car only when you're ready to travel farther. This saves on rental costs and parking.
Is it cheaper to rent a car from Rhodes Airport?
It depends. Airport collection isn't automatically cheaper or more expensive. The best approach is to compare the total cost: the rental for the days you need it, plus any separate airport transfer fees.
Should I book my Rhodes rental car in advance?
Yes, especially for summer travel. Aim to book 2–4 weeks ahead to secure a better price and wider choice. Small cars and automatics sell out quickly, and last-minute walk-in rates are often higher.