Rhodes Town is where ancient history meets island life. The medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, draws visitors from everywhere, but the real magic happens when you get out of the centre. Hiring a car here means you’re not stuck in the tourist bubble — you can hit the beaches on the east coast, drive down to Lindos before the tour buses arrive, or explore the quiet villages that most visitors never see.

Getting Around Rhodes Town by Car

Rhodes Town sits at the northern tip of the island, making it a natural base for exploring. The Old Town itself is pedestrian-only, so you’ll want to park outside the walls and walk in. Most car rental offices are clustered near the port or along the main road into town — picking up your car here means you’re already on the main ring road that circles the island.

Parking in Rhodes Town can be tricky during peak season. The best bet is the large public car park near the port, which is reasonably priced and about a 10-minute walk to the Old Town gates. Street parking exists but fills up fast, especially when cruise ships are in port. Outside the walls, driving is straightforward — Greek drivers are assertive but predictable, and the roads are well-maintained.

The main advantage of having a car? Freedom. You’re not tied to bus schedules or expensive taxi rides. A trip to Lindos costs about €40 each way by taxi — with a rental car at €15-20 per day, you’ve already saved money after one trip. Plus you can stop at Anthony Quinn Bay or Tsambika Beach on the way back, places that are awkward to reach without wheels.

Best Day Trips from Rhodes Town

Lindos (45 minutes south) — The Acropolis of Lindos is stunning, but the village below is equally charming. Go early to beat the crowds and the heat. The drive down the east coast is beautiful, with sea views on one side and rocky hills on the other.

Faliraki (20 minutes southeast) — Known for nightlife, but the beaches here are excellent too. Anthony Quinn Bay, named after the actor who fell in love with the spot during filming, is a must-visit for swimming and snorkelling.

Butterfly Valley (25 minutes southwest) — A shaded nature reserve that’s a welcome break from the beach. Come in July or August when the butterflies are most active. The drive takes you through pine forests and traditional villages.

Prasonisi (1 hour south) — The southernmost point of Rhodes, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. Popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers. The drive itself is half the fun — you’ll pass through villages that feel untouched by tourism.

Driving Tips for Greece

Greek driving can feel chaotic at first, but it follows its own logic. Drivers use their horns liberally — it’s not aggressive, just communication. A quick beep means “I’m here” or “the light changed” or “go ahead.”

Speed limits are 50 km/h in towns and 90 km/h on open roads, though you’ll see locals going faster. Police do set up speed traps, especially on the roads near popular beaches, so stick to the limit. Fuel stations are plentiful in and around Rhodes Town, but sparse in rural areas — fill up before long drives.

Roundabouts are common, and the rule is simple: traffic already on the roundabout has priority. Greeks don’t always signal when exiting, so keep your eyes open. Parking on yellow lines means no parking — white lines are free parking, blue lines are paid. Most beaches have dedicated car parks, usually €2-5 for the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit for Rhodes?
Yes, if your licence isn’t in Roman script (like Arabic or Chinese). EU/UK/US licence holders can drive on their regular licence for up to 6 months.

Is it worth hiring a car in Rhodes Town?
Absolutely. Taxis add up fast, and buses don’t reach everywhere. For the price of two taxi rides, you can have a car for a full day and explore at your own pace.

What’s the best time to drive around Rhodes?
Early morning is ideal — cooler temperatures, emptier roads, and you’ll beat the tour buses to popular spots like Lindos.

Related Destinations

Explore more of Greece with car hire in Athens, Santorini, or Mykonos. For island hopping, check our Greece car hire guide.