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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Dodecanese, Greece

Air Travel: Rhodes International Airport RHO

Flights & Routes

Rhodes International Airport "Diagoras" (RHO) is located approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) southwest of Rhodes Town. It serves as the main airport for both domestic and international flights.

Airlines & Connections

  • Seasonal direct charter flights from various European cities.
  • Year-round domestic flights to Athens (ATH) and Thessaloniki (SKG).
  • No direct flights from North America or Asia; connect via Athens or European hubs.

Airport Transfers

RHO offers standard facilities including duty-free, cafes, car rental, ATMs, and Wi-Fi. Multiple options transport you to Rhodes Town or your accommodation.

Getting to Town

  • Taxi: Fixed price (~€25-€35) to Rhodes Town, 20-25 min.
  • Public Bus: KTEL Rhodes, ~€2.50-€3.00, 30-40 min to central station.
  • Private Transfer: Pre-booked for convenience.

High Season Flights

Highest frequency, highest prices (July-August). Book several months ahead.

Shoulder Season Flights

Good availability, lower prices (May-June, Sept-Oct).

Low Season Flights

Reduced frequency, lowest prices (Nov-April), mainly domestic via Athens.

Flight Planning & Tools

Booking Essentials

  • Book flights several months in advance for better rates.
  • Prices fluctuate by season; expect highest in peak summer.
  • Explore deals with Dollar Flight Club.
  • Compare options on sites like Skyscanner.

Additional Air Travel Considerations

  • Confirm luggage restrictions for your airline.
  • Arrive at airport 2-3 hours before international flights.
  • Connecting flights typically go via Athens (ATH) or major European cities.
  • AirHelp can assist with flight delays/cancellations.

Rhodes Airport Facilities

Shopping & Dining

Duty-free shops, cafes, and restaurants are available for travelers.

Practical Services

Car rental desks, ATMs, and currency exchange services.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi access for passengers.

Land Transportation on Rhodes

Bus Network KTEL Rhodes

The KTEL Rhodes bus network serves as the main form of inter-town land transportation on the island. Rhodes Town acts as the main hub for this network, offering connections to all major towns, villages, and beaches.

Bus Travel Tips

  • Main hub at Evangelismos Square near Mandraki.
  • Tickets purchased from the driver, inexpensive fares.
  • Schedules vary by season; more frequent in peak months.

Self-Driving & Car Rental

A valid driving license from your home country is generally suitable for short-term visitors from many countries. For non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended and legally required for some nationalities.

Driving Considerations

  • IDP alongside home country license.
  • Main roads are well-maintained; smaller roads can be narrow.
  • Credit card typically required for a deposit.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

A valid motorcycle license (A category) is for motorcycles. For scooters up to 125cc, a standard B (car) license obtained before 2013 may be suitable for EU citizens. For non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit endorsed for motorcycles/scooters is often needed. Helmets are mandatory by law for both driver and passenger.

Scooter Tips

  • Helmets are legally required and strongly advised.
  • Numerous rental shops throughout Rhodes Town.
  • Scooter rentals typically range from €20-€40 per day.

Car Rental Logistics

Major international companies like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Sixt operate on Rhodes, alongside numerous local rental agencies. Local companies can sometimes offer more competitive rates.

Car Rental Advice

  • Daily rates range from €30-€70 (varies by season).
  • Insurance (CDW) usually included; check excess amounts.
  • Compare options using sites like DiscoverCars.com.

Driving & Safety

  • Driving habits can be aggressive; stay aware.
  • Strict laws apply regarding drink-driving.
  • Parking in Rhodes Town is challenging; use paid lots.
  • Smaller village roads can be narrow, winding, unpaved.
  • Always use seatbelts.
  • Old Town is largely pedestrianized; vehicle access is very restricted.

Sea Arrivals: Rhodes Port

Ferry Services & Operators

Rhodes Port, located on the northern tip of Rhodes Town, is the main port for passenger ferries and cruise ships. It offers good access to the New Town and Old Town. Major ferry companies serving Rhodes include Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways, and Seajets.

Ferry Routes

  • Mainland Greece: Daily connections to Piraeus (Athens' main port).
  • Dodecanese Islands: Frequent connections within the island chain.
  • Turkey: Seasonal ferry connections to Marmaris and Fethiye.

Cruise Ships & Port Logistics

Rhodes is a popular port of call for numerous international cruise lines, with ships docking regularly, especially during the warmer months. Standard passport control applies for international arrivals, like from Turkey.

Port Access & Procedures

  • Walkable distance to New Town and northern Old Town.
  • Taxis and local city buses are available directly outside port gates.
  • Identity checks may be less stringent for intra-Schengen travel.

Ferry Departures

Arrive at Rhodes Port 30-60 minutes before departure; more if with a vehicle.

Ticket Procedures

Vary by company; some require physical ticket exchange, others accept digital.

Exit Fees

No specific departure tax or exit fee on tickets leaving Greece.

Departure Information

Airport Departure

For international flights, arrive at Rhodes International Airport (RHO) at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is suitable. This provides ample time for check-in, security screening, and any unforeseen delays.

Check-in Process

  • Allow sufficient time for check-in and security.
  • Adhere to airline luggage restrictions to avoid fees.
  • Airport facilities include duty-free, cafes, restaurants, lounges.

Ferry Port Departure

For ferry departures, arrive at Rhodes Port at least 30-60 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Allow more time if you are traveling with a vehicle or during peak season, as boarding can take longer. Check-in procedures vary by ferry company.

Port Facilities

  • Terminal building with ticketing offices and waiting areas.
  • Nearby cafes and kiosks for refreshments.
  • Ensure physical ticket exchange if required by your ferry operator.

Final Departure Considerations

Luggage Limits

Confirm airline or ferry operator luggage limits before packing.

Ticket Confirmation

Double-check your ticket for departure times and gates.

Airport/Port Access

Plan your transfer to the airport or port well in advance.

Smooth Departures

Planning your departure with enough time alleviates last-minute stress. Be mindful of peak travel hours.