Where to stay in Rhodes without a car?

In this article, we will look at Where to stay in Rhodes without a car? I will share with you what I believe are the best areas to stay in Rhodes without a car (including a helpful map), where I stayed in Rhodes, and the best hotels for all budgets.

Rhodes, a popular Greek island, has a variety of transportation options for visitors who prefer not to drive. Some ways to navigate the island without a car include buses, taxis, walking, cycling, and guided tours.

Rhodes island is served by Diagoras International Airport, located 15 km away from Rhodes Town. You can take a bus, hotel’s shuttle, rental car, or taxi to get from the airport to the town center. Taxis cost around 20 euros/ trip.

Rhodes is also reachable by ferry. It has connections with Symi, Kos, Patmos, Santorini, Leros, and Piraeus. Ferry schedules and availability can vary depending on the time of year, so it’s a good idea to check with the ferry companies or use ferry booking websites to plan your trip.

The island has a well-developed public bus system that connects many towns and popular destinations. The central bus station is located in Rhodes Town on Averoff Street. You can find Bus schedules online or at local bus stations.

Buses are operated by two companies, KTEL and RODA. KTEL covers the east coast of the island, offering buses from Rhodes Town to Faliraki, Afandou, Lindos, and Prasonisi.

RODA buses cover the urban area of Rhodes Town as well as routes to Faliraki beach, and routes on the north and west coast take you to popular resorts of Ixia, Ialysos, and Monolithos.  

Taxis are available on the island. However, they is more expensive than other forms of public transportation. Uber has its service in Rhodes in April 2023.

Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore certain areas of Rhodes, especially in more compact towns or along the coastline. Some hotels and rental shops offer bicycle rentals.

If you have a valid motorcycle license, you can rent a scooter or motorcycle to explore the island at your own pace. Be sure to wear the necessary safety gear.

In some towns and tourist areas, walking is a convenient way to get around, especially if you want to explore the historic sites and enjoy the local scenery.

To visit nearby islands or take boat tours, you can use ferries and boats from the ports in Rhodes Town and other coastal towns.

Many tour operators on Rhodes offer guided tours to popular attractions and destinations. This is a hassle-free way to explore the island without the need for personal transportation.

If you only need a car for a specific trip or day, you can rent one for that purpose from local car rental agencies.

Remember that while it’s possible to get around Rhodes without a car, the availability of transportation options is vary by season and location. It’s a good idea to plan your transportation in advance, especially if you want to explore remote or less touristy areas of the island.

Where to stay in Rhodes without a car?

The best areas to stay in Rhodes without a car are Rhodes Town, Faliraki, Lindos, Kolymbia, Ixia & Ialysso, and Pefkos Beach (Pefki). They are all popular tourist resorts and villages, offering plenty of things to do on foot and by bus, so you don’t necessarily need a car to stay in these areas.

In general, Rhodes Town is the overall best place to stay in Rhodes without a car and for first-time visitors. It’s a hub of activity with plenty of restaurants, shops, and historical attractions. Staying in or near the Old Town allows you to explore many places on foot. 

During my trip to Rhodes without a car, I stayed in STAY Rhodes Hotel, a popular 3-star beachfront hotel, located within a short distance from Elli Beach, Deer Statues, and Akti Kanari Beach. Also easy access to major attractions such as The Street of Knights, Mandraki Port, and Clock Tower.

Map of the best areas and neighborhoods in Rhodes without a car:

Let’s get into the details of the best areas to stay in Rhodes, especially for travelers without a car. I’ll explain to you how to reach each area, how to get around, as well as the best things to do and some suggestions of the best places to stay in each area for every budget.

6 Best areas to stay in Rhodes without a car:

1. Rhodes Town

Rhodes Town, without doubt, is the best area to stay in Rhodes without a car, especially for first-time visitors. Also known as Rodos Town, it is the capital and largest city located on the northeastern coast of the island. 

It is located only a short taxi/ bus ride from the airport and port. It is also the transport hub of the island, making it a great base to explore the island on a bus. Additionally, the town is walkable, you can easily explore major attractions, restaurants, and shops on foot.

Rhodes Town is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, stunning medieval architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. The town has two distinct parts, Rhode Old Town and Rhodes New Town.

Rhodes Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. It is enclosed by impressive fortifications, including walls and moats, built by the Knights of Saint John during the medieval period. 

Inside the Old Town, you can explore narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, palaces, churches, and the famous Palace of the Grand Master.

The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes was constructed in the 14th century and used as the headquarters of the Knights Hospitaller. It houses a museum that showcases artifacts and artworks from different historical periods.

You can visit the Mandraki Harbor, the main harbor of Rhodes Town, flanked by iconic bronze deer statues at its entrance. It is lively and bustling with waterfront cafes, restaurants, and boats.

History buffs can visit the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, located in the medieval Hospital of the Knights. It houses a collection of artifacts from ancient Rhodes and neighboring islands, spanning from the Geometric period to the Roman era.

Situated above the modern town, the Acropolis of Rhodes offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline. It’s home to the ruins of the Temple of Apollo.

Take a stroll along the Street of the Knights within the Old Town and immerse yourself in the historical ambiance. It is lined with medieval inns and residences used by the Knights of Saint John. 

Located near Rhodes Town, Elli Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach offers beautiful views of the town and is a great place to relax.

While the Old Town is the historical heart of Rhodes Town, the New Town offers a more modern atmosphere with shops, restaurants, bars, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Best places to stay in Rhodes Town without a car:

• Luxury ($$$): Mitsis Grand Hotel Beach Hotel
• Mid-range ($$): Acandia Hotel
• Budget ($): STAY Rhodes Hotel

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN  RHODES TOWN

2. Faliraki

Faliraki is a great base for car-free travelers in Rhodes island as it is a popular tourist destination located just a few km south of Rhodes Town and is easily accessible by bus. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of water sports and recreational activities. 

Faliraki boasts several beautiful sandy beaches, including the main Faliraki Beach. The beaches here are known for their crystal-clear waters and are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, and scuba diving.

Faliraki is famous for its vibrant nightlife. There are numerous bars, clubs, and discos that come alive in the evenings, making it a hotspot for partygoers.

The Faliraki Water Park is a popular attraction, especially for families with children. It features a range of slides and pools for a fun day out.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Faliraki where you can enjoy Greek and international cuisine. Fresh seafood is a local specialty.

You can take boat trips and excursions from Faliraki to explore other parts of Rhodes, including nearby islands and historical sites.

Faliraki is a seasonal destination, with the peak tourist season typically from late spring to early autumn. The weather is warm and sunny during this period, making it an ideal time for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Best places to stay in Rhodes in Faliraki without a car:

• Luxury ($$$): Apollo Blue
• Mid-range ($$): Kouros Exclusive Hotel & Suites – Adults Only
• Budget ($): Elpida Beach Studios

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN FALIRAKI

3. Lindos

Lindos is a beautiful village located around 40 minutes drive from Rhode Town and is well-connected by bus. Lindos is a popular destination for tourists and car-free travelers as it is known for its picturesque white-washed buildings, stunning beaches, and historical sites.

The most famous attraction in Lindos is the Acropolis, which sits atop a hill overlooking the village. The Acropolis is a historic site with ancient ruins, including a Doric temple dedicated to Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom. The views from the Acropolis are breathtaking and offer a great vantage point for taking in the surrounding beauty.

Lindos boasts several beautiful beaches, with the main one being Lindos Beach itself. The clear waters and soft sand make it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Water sports and boat trips are also available.

Lindos Village itself is a maze of narrow, winding streets filled with charming shops, restaurants, and cafes. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for shopping for souvenirs, enjoying traditional Greek cuisine, or simply wandering around the quaint streets.

Short walk from the village’s center is the Saint Paul’s Bay, a small and picturesque bay and is a lovely spot for swimming and snorkeling and offers views of the nearby chapel dedicated to Saint Paul.

In Lindos, you can take a donkey ride up to the Acropolis if you prefer not to make the steep walk. It’s a unique and traditional way to reach the ancient site.

Lindos also features the Church of Panagia, a Byzantine-era church with beautiful frescoes. It’s a historical and cultural point of interest in the village.

Best places to stay in Rhodes in Lindos without a car:

• Luxury ($$$): Aquagrand Exclusive Deluxe Resort Lindos – Adults only
• Mid-range ($$): Lindos View Hotel
• Budget ($): KRANA APARTMENTS

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN LINDOS

4. Kolymbia

Kolymbia is a small resort town located on the eastern coast of Rhodes, approximately midway between the island’s capital, Rhodes Town, and the town of Lindos.

Kolymbia is known for its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a quieter and more relaxed vacation. The main beach in Kolymbia is a mix of sand and pebbles, and the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea are perfect for swimming and water sports.

You can also explore the surrounding area with olive groves and pine forests. The town itself offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and bars to cater to tourists.

Kolymbia is a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Rhodes while still having access to amenities and activities. It’s also conveniently located for day trips to popular destinations, such as Lindos and the ancient city of Rhodes, both of which are within a reasonable driving distance.

Best places to stay in Rhodes in Kolymbia without a car:

• Luxury ($$$): Sentido Asterias Beach Resort
• Mid-range ($$): Myrina Beach
• Budget ($): Kolymbia Sun

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN KOLYMBIA

5. Ixia and Ialyssos

Ixia and Ialyssos are popular neighboring towns conveniently located on the western coast of Rhodes, close to Rhodes Town, only 7 km away. It is well-connected by bus, making it a great location for travelers without a car.

Ixia is a popular tourist destination known for its long pebble and shingle beach, which is well-organized with various hotels, resorts, restaurants, and water sports facilities. The area is also famous for its strong winds, making it a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts.

Ialyssos (also spelled Ialysos or Trianta) is one of the island’s ancient cities and was historically an important center in antiquity. Today, Ialyssos is a charming coastal town with a mix of modern amenities and historical sites. 

You can explore the ruins of the ancient acropolis, which includes the Temple of Athena Polias and a medieval monastery. The town also has a lovely beach and various accommodation options for tourists.

Best places to stay in Rhodes in Ixia and Ialyssos without a car:

• Luxury ($$$): Electra Palace Rhodes – Premium All Inclusive
• Mid-range ($$): Ixia Dream hotel – Adults only
• Budget ($): Blue Eyes Apartments

BEST HOTEL DEALS IN IXIA AND IALYSSOS

6. Pefkos Beach (Pefki)

Pefkos Beach, also known as Pefki Beach, is a popular tourist destination located approximately 55 kilometers south of Rhodes Town. Pefkos is a charming seaside resort town that attracts visitors with its beautiful beaches, and laid-back environment.

The main Pefkos Beach is a sandy bay with clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. There are also several other smaller coves and beaches in the area, including Lee Beach and St. Thomas Beach, which is within walking distance.

Water sports enthusiasts can engage in activities like windsurfing, jet skiing, and parasailing at Pefkos Beach. Rental shops are available for equipment hire.

Pefkos is well-located for exploring other parts of Rhodes. The town of Lindos, famous for its ancient Acropolis, is just a short drive away. Lindos also has its own beautiful beaches.

Pefkos Beach is a serene and picturesque destination, perfect for those looking for a relaxing beach holiday with the option to explore the cultural and historical attractions of Rhodes Island. 

Best places to stay in Rhodes in Pefkos without a car:

• Mid-range ($$): Pefkos View Suites & Maisonette
• Mid-range ($$): St.Thomas Beach Luxury Apartments
• Budget ($): George Beach Studios

See more:

• Where to stay in Corfu without a car
• Where to stay in Santorini without a car
• Where to stay in Crete without a car
• Where to stay in Naxos without a car
• Best areas to stay in Kos for first time

In conclusion, Rhodes Town, Faliraki, Lindos, Kolymbia, Ialysso, and Pefkos are the best places to stay in Rhodes without a car. Rhodes Town is the overall best area for car-free travelers and first-timers as it is the island’s transport hub, but other towns also offer plenty of things to do and see for tourists.

There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas that you can stay during your car-free trip to Rhodes. I hope you found my article helpful and enjoy your holiday!

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.