Rhodes Ferry
The port of Rhodes plays a key role in the ferry network of Greece, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 3 ferry routes operated by 6 ferry companies, Rhodes serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.
Ferries depart regularly from Rhodes, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.
Popular routes from this port include Piraeus - Rhodes, Symi - Rhodes connecting Rhodes with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.
Operators such as Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways, Sea Dreams run regular services from Rhodes, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.
Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Rhodes offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.
Route Overview
Date Updated: 2025
Reaching Rhodes by Land, Air, and Sea
Rhodes is accessible via multiple transportation options, with its international airport receiving flights from major European cities during peak season. From Athens, the flight takes approximately 50 minutes, while ferries from Piraeus port require about 14-18 hours depending on the service. Regular ferry connections link Rhodes to nearby islands including Kos, Symi, and Kastellorizo. The ferry terminal is well-connected to Rhodes Town by local buses running every 30 minutes, and taxis are readily available. If arriving by car, ample parking is available near the port area, though summer months may require early arrival to secure a spot.
Routes
Rhodes: The Island of Knights
Rhodes stands as a jewel in the Aegean Sea, where medieval history meets Mediterranean splendor. This sun-drenched Greek island blends ancient ruins, pristine beaches, and a walled Old Town that transports visitors through centuries of fascinating history. As a key ferry hub in the Dodecanese, Rhodes offers travelers the perfect balance of historical exploration and seaside relaxation, with its vibrant atmosphere and distinctive local character.
When to Experience Rhodes at Its Finest
Rhodes enjoys one of the longest summer seasons in Greece, with warm weather typically spanning from April through October. The peak months of July and August bring hot temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F) and larger crowds, while May, June, September and early October offer pleasant warmth with fewer tourists. Spring showcases the island covered in wildflowers, perfect for exploration of ancient sites. The Medieval Rose Festival in late May transforms the Old Town with period costumes and events. Ferry services operate year-round but increase in frequency during summer, with more connections to smaller islands available during this peak period.
Ferries to Rhodes
Island Adventures from Rhodes Ferry Port
Rhodes serves as an excellent gateway to explore the treasures of the Dodecanese islands. The emerald isle of Symi lies just an hour away by ferry, offering neoclassical architecture and the stunning Panormitis Monastery. Chalki, reached in about 90 minutes, charms visitors with its peaceful ambiance and car-free environment. For those seeking Turkish experiences, daily ferries connect to Marmaris in just under two hours, providing an opportunity to explore a different culture and cuisine. The journey between islands offers spectacular views of the azure Aegean waters, with dolphins occasionally accompanying the ferries, making the transportation itself part of the adventure.
Unmissable Experiences in Rhodes
The UNESCO-listed Medieval Old Town of Rhodes presents a remarkable journey through time with its Street of Knights, Palace of the Grand Master, and labyrinthine alleys filled with boutiques and tavernas. Just outside town, the Acropolis of Lindos perches dramatically above its whitewashed village, offering panoramic sea views worth the climb. Beach enthusiasts should head to Anthony Quinn Bay or Tsambika for crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Rhodes' culinary scene shines with local specialties like pitaroudia (chickpea fritters), dolmades, and fresh seafood best enjoyed at waterfront tavernas in Mandraki Harbor. The Valley of Butterflies provides a refreshing natural retreat during summer months when thousands of Jersey tiger moths gather among the lush vegetation.
Fascinating Secrets of Rhodes
Rhodes once housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Colossus of Rhodes, a massive bronze statue of the god Helios that reportedly straddled the harbor entrance until an earthquake toppled it in 226 BCE. The island enjoys an impressive 300+ days of sunshine annually, earning its dedication to the sun god Helios in ancient times. Medieval knights from across Europe left their mark with distinctive inns along the Street of Knights, each representing different nationalities who served in the Order of St. John. The famous Rhodes deer statues (called Elafos and Elafina) at Mandraki Harbor stand where many believe the feet of the legendary Colossus once stood.
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