Rhodes Car Rental 2026 — from €16/day

Car Rental in Rhodes

From the ancient Acropolis of Lindos to the sun-kissed beaches of Tsambika, a rental car is your essential passport to Rhodes. Navigate the scenic coastal roads at your own pace, stopping for impromptu dips in the Aegean or lingering over a meze in a traditional village. With your own wheels, every hidden cove and historic ruin becomes an accessible adventure, transforming your island getaway into an unforgettable journey of personal discovery.

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Car Rental in Rhodes

Rhodes, Greece

Where to drive

Drive to Lindos, a stunning village dominated by an ancient acropolis, approximately 50 km (around 1 hour drive) south of Rhodes Town. Explore its narrow streets and enjoy breathtaking views.
Visit the Valley of Butterflies (Petaloudes), a unique natural park located about 27 km (45-minute drive) from Rhodes Town. Best visited in late May to early September.
Explore the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While you can't drive within the walls, a car makes reaching and parking nearby much easier.
Journey to Prasonisi, the 'Kiss of Two Seas', at the southern tip of the island, about 92 km (1.5-hour drive) from Rhodes Town. It's a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing where the Aegean and Mediterranean meet.
Discover the Seven Springs (Epta Piges), a cool, shady oasis with natural springs and a man-made tunnel, roughly 30 km (40-minute drive) from Rhodes Town. Perfect for a refreshing stop.
Take a scenic coastal drive along the east side of the island, stopping at beaches like Tsambika, Agathi, and Anthony Quinn Bay, all easily accessible by car.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Rhodes, you will generally need a valid driver's license held for at least one year, your passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your driver's license is not in English or does not use a Latin alphabet (e.g., Greek, German, French are generally fine), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required in Greece, even if some rental agencies might not strictly enforce it. The minimum age for car rental is typically 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories. A young driver surcharge may apply for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Rhodes vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 20-30 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models can range from 60 EUR to over 150 EUR daily during peak summer months. Expect prices to be highest from June to September, with significant drops in winter.

Price by month, €

25€

Jan

23€

Feb

28€

Mar

35€

Apr

45€

May

60€

Jun

75€

Jul

80€

Aug

65€

Sep

40€

Oct

30€

Nov

28€

Dec

Demand by month

15%

Jan

12%

Feb

20%

Mar

35%

Apr

55%

May

80%

Jun

95%

Jul

100%

Aug

85%

Sep

50%

Oct

25%

Nov

18%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Greece, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 110-130 km/h on motorways (though Rhodes has limited motorways). Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children under 12 years old and shorter than 1.35m must use an appropriate child seat or booster. Using a mobile phone without a hands-free system is prohibited. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05% BAC, or 0.02% for new drivers (less than 2 years of experience). Headlights are not required during the day.

Parking

In Rhodes Town, parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are several paid municipal parking lots and some private car parks, particularly around the Old Town. Street parking can be found, often marked with blue lines for paid parking (pay at a nearby machine) or white lines for free parking. Yellow lines usually indicate no parking. Outside Rhodes Town, in smaller villages and near beaches, parking is generally easier to find and often free.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Rhodes, particularly on main roads and near larger towns. They typically operate from early morning until late evening, though some might close earlier in rural areas. Most stations accept major credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash on hand for smaller, more remote stations. The price of petrol (gasoline) and diesel is regulated nationally and is generally comparable to average European prices, subject to fluctuations. Unleaded 95 octane is standard.

Which car to choose

For navigating Rhodes' diverse terrain, an economy or compact car is often ideal for couples or small families. Their smaller size makes them easier to maneuver on narrow village roads and find parking. If you plan to explore more rugged, unpaved routes, especially in the island's interior or towards more secluded beaches, a small SUV with higher ground clearance could be beneficial. Automatic transmission cars are available but often cost more and should be booked in advance, as manual transmission is more common.

Pros

Unrestricted access to all parts of the island, including remote beaches and historical sites.
Flexibility to set your own itinerary and explore at your own pace.
More cost-effective for families or groups compared to multiple taxi fares.
Convenient for carrying beach gear, souvenirs, and luggage.
Ability to discover authentic local tavernas and villages off the main tourist routes.

Cons

Parking can be difficult and expensive in Rhodes Town, especially in high season.
Some rural roads can be narrow, winding, and occasionally poorly maintained.
Navigating can be challenging in older towns with complex street layouts.
Fuel costs can add up, especially with extensive driving.
Traffic can be heavy during peak summer months, particularly around popular attractions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy for car rentals in Rhodes?

Cancellation policies vary by rental company. Many offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, while some may charge a fee for late cancellations. Always check the specific terms and conditions when booking through RentoRika or directly with the provider.

Do I need to pay a deposit or prepayment for car rental?

Most car rental companies in Rhodes require a security deposit, usually held on a credit card in the main driver's name. Some may require a small prepayment to secure the booking, especially during peak season. Full payment is typically made upon pickup.

Is my home country driving license sufficient, or do I need an IDP?

If your driver's license is from an EU country or uses a Latin alphabet, it is generally accepted. However, for licenses not in English or a Latin script, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required in Greece. It's always safest to carry one to avoid potential issues.

What are the age requirements for renting a car in Rhodes?

The minimum age to rent a car in Rhodes is typically 21 years old. For certain car categories, the minimum age can be 23 or 25. Drivers under 25 may also be subject to a 'young driver surcharge'.

Where is the best place to pick up a rental car in Rhodes?

The most convenient pickup locations are usually Rhodes International Airport (RHO), also known as Diagoras Airport, or directly in Rhodes Town. Picking up at the airport allows you to start exploring immediately upon arrival, while town pickups are suitable if you're already staying in the city.

Can I pick up my car in Rhodes and drop it off in a different city in Greece?

One-way rentals within Rhodes are often possible between different agency branches. However, dropping off a car in a different city on the Greek mainland or another island usually incurs a significant 'one-way fee' and depends on the rental company's policy. Always confirm this in advance.

Available cars — Rhodes