When you think of Greece, chances are your mind drifts to the white-washed alleys of Santorini or the ancient grandeur of Athens. But tucked away in the sparkling Aegean Sea is Rhodes, an island rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. And while Rhodes Town is stunning, the island’s true charm reveals itself when you step off the beaten path which is exactly why renting a car is the smartest move for any traveler here.
If you want to uncover Rhodes at your own pace, away from the tourist crowds, here are the top attractions you should absolutely add to your itinerary.
The Best Attractions to Visit with a Rental Car
Rhodes Old Town
No visit to Rhodes would be complete without wandering through the maze-like streets of Rhodes Old Town a place where history isn’t just displayed, it’s alive around every corner. Surrounded by massive medieval walls and cobbled alleys that seem to whisper stories of knights and sultans, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.
Driving here with your rental car is easy; just park outside the old city gates and dive in on foot. Inside, you’ll stumble upon Gothic architecture, Ottoman mosques, charming hidden courtyards, and the famous Street of the Knights, where the crusading Knights of St. John once lived. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a sunlit square or losing track of time in the old marketplace, Rhodes Old Town is the kind of place that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook and with your own wheels, you can visit early or late, when the day-trippers are gone, and the magic is all yours.
Lindos Village & Acropolis
About a 50-minute drive from Rhodes Town, the coastal village of Lindos feels like stepping into a postcard. Picture white cube-shaped houses cascading down the hillside, narrow cobbled streets, and a magnificent Acropolis perched high above offering panoramic views of the sapphire-colored sea. With a rental car, you can roll into Lindos early in the morning, before the tour buses arrive, and climb up to the Acropolis in peace.
Pro Tip: Park outside the village and walk in. Lindos is car-free within the village itself, and exploring its alleyways on foot is part of the magic.
Butterfly Valley (Petaloudes)
During the summer months, Petaloudes Valley turns into a living, breathing fairytale. Thousands of Jersey Tiger moths settle here, attracted by the shade and coolness of the valley. It’s a tranquil spot to walk, with wooden bridges crossing over gentle streams and small waterfalls.
A rental car makes it easy to time your visit perfectly early morning or late afternoon is best, when it’s quieter and the butterflies are more active.
Kamiros Ruins
Forget the crowded sites drive out to Ancient Kamiros, often dubbed the “Pompeii of Greece.” It’s an archaeological site without the chaos, where you can freely wander the grid-planned streets of an ancient city that flourished over 2,000 years ago. The ruins sit on a hillside overlooking the sea, making it not just historically fascinating but visually stunning.
Seven Springs (Epta Piges)
For a cool escape from the island’s summer heat, point your GPS towards Seven Springs, located near the village of Archangelos. Here, you’ll find a series of springs and streams shaded by lush greenery. A short, slightly spooky tunnel walk leads to a small lake at the end a favorite for a quick dip.
Having a car means you can stop here, stretch your legs, and even pair your visit with a trip to nearby Tsambika Beach (one of Rhodes’ best sandy stretches).
Monolithos Castle
If you’re craving that “wow” moment, drive to the west coast and climb to Monolithos Castle, built by the Knights of Saint John in the 15th century. While the castle itself is mostly ruins now, the views from the top overlooking endless blue sea and rugged coastline are absolutely worth the drive and climb.
Bonus: This side of the island is often less touristy, so you’ll likely have large stretches of road and views all to yourself.
Prasonisi – The Island at the Edge
At the southernmost tip of Rhodes lies Prasonisi, a unique spot where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet. Depending on the season and tide, Prasonisi is either a peninsula or an island. It’s a popular windsurfing hub, but even if you’re not keen on water sports, the drive itself is an adventure winding roads, wild landscapes, and untouched beaches.
Why Renting a Car in Rhodes is a Game-Changer
Public transport on Rhodes is decent, but limited if you want to see more than just Rhodes Town and Lindos. A rental car gives you freedom. You can weave through mountain villages, stop for lunch at a quiet taverna, or take a detour down an unmarked road just because the view looks promising.
And trust me in Rhodes, it usually is.
Rhodes isn’t just a beach destination; it’s a living museum, a tapestry of cultures, and a nature-lover’s dream all in one. And the best way to experience its diversity is with the windows down, the Mediterranean breeze on your face, and no schedule but your own.
So rent that car, hit the road, and let Rhodes reveal itself one scenic turn at a time.