Choosing Your Base: Coast, Town or Village?
Your first major decision is location. The east coast offers calmer waters and sheltered, sandy bays like Faliraki and Tsambika, making it ideal for swimming. The west coast is windier and more exposed to the open Aegean, perfect for wind sports at Ialyssos. For city life, the medieval and modern mix of Rhodes Town at the northern tip is the island's main transport and commercial centre. For a quieter holiday, the southern resorts of Pefkos and Kiotari offer a more relaxed, spread-out feel, though this means longer journeys to see the northern sights.
Budgeting and Daily Costs
Rhodes sits in the middle of the Greek island price range, with options for every budget. These estimates cover accommodation, food, and local transport.
For better value, look for accommodation outside the main resorts and eat at local neighbourhood tavernas away from the waterfront.
Arrival and Getting Around
Most visitors arrive at Rhodes Airport (RHO). Taxis are available outside, with indicative published fares of around €27–€29 to Rhodes Town and €74 to Lindos. The cheapest option is the public bus to Rhodes Town, where you can connect onward. For late arrivals or hotels in the far south, a pre-booked transfer is a practical choice.
Once you're settled, public buses are useful for travelling between the main resorts. However, to properly explore the mountainous interior, west-coast castles, and quieter southern beaches, a rental car provides far more flexibility. Plan your days out by grouping sights along the same coast to avoid spending too much time on the road.
Related Rhodes guides
Next, read our local guides to transport for your style of travel. Check the details of the specific place or listing before you book, as general island advice will not fit every trip.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to stay on the east or west coast of Rhodes?
It depends on your preference. The east coast generally has calmer, more sheltered bays ideal for swimming, such as Faliraki and Lindos. The west coast is windier and more exposed, making it a popular choice for wind sports in areas like Ialyssos.
What’s the best way to get from Rhodes Airport to my hotel?
For directness, especially with luggage or for southern resorts like Lindos, a taxi or a pre-arranged transfer is best. The lowest-cost option is the public bus, which runs to Rhodes Town, where you can connect to other services if needed.