Rhodes Bus Guide – Routes, Prices & How to Use Buses in Rhodes

Are buses in Rhodes good for tourists?

Buses in Rhodes can be a very useful and budget-friendly way to travel between major towns and popular beach resorts, especially if you are staying in Rhodes Town or along the east coast.

However, buses are also one of the things that surprise visitors the most. Routes can be limited outside main tourist areas, timetables change seasonally, and summer buses can become crowded — particularly on routes to Lindos and Faliraki.

If you understand how the system works and plan around it, buses can save you a lot of money and help you explore the island comfortably without renting a car.

This guide will show you when buses are a great option, when they are not, and how to quickly check routes, prices and schedules.

👉Check Bus Routes, Prices & Timetables

Pros and cons of using Rhodes buses

Pros

• Very cheap compared to taxis

• Reliable on main tourist routes

• Good airport transfer option on a budget

• Easy connections between Rhodes Town and east coast resorts

Cons

• Limited access to hidden beaches and villages

• Two different bus companies can confuse visitors

• Crowded during peak summer months

• Less convenient on the west coast and mountain areas

Understanding the Rhodes bus system

One thing many visitors don’t realise is that Rhodes does not have a single unified bus network.

There are two different bus companies, and each serves different areas of the island.

City buses mainly operate around Rhodes Town and nearby resorts such as Ixia, Ialyssos, Faliraki and Kallithea.

Intercity buses (KTEL) connect longer routes across the island including Lindos, Kolymbia, Kiotari, Gennadi, Prasonisi and several inland villages.

Both systems are easy to use once you know which one you need — and the timetable tool below helps simplify this completely.

Rhodes bus routes and prices

Bus prices in Rhodes are very affordable, with most routes between major towns and resorts costing only a few euros. Prices depend on distance, route type, and whether you are using city buses around Rhodes Town or intercity buses connecting destinations across the island.

Instead of searching multiple websites or trying to understand seasonal timetables, you can quickly check routes, ticket prices and schedules using the tool below.

Check Rhodes bus routes, prices and timetables in seconds:

Quick tips for using buses in Rhodes

• Buy tickets at kiosks when possible — some buses do not accept cards onboard

• Arrive a little early in summer as popular routes can fill up

• East coast routes run much more frequently than west coast routes

• Rhodes Town bus station is the main hub for most intercity buses

• Always double-check the last return bus to avoid being stranded

When buses may not be the best option

While buses are great for budget travel between main resorts, they are not ideal for exploring hidden beaches, mountain villages, or quieter parts of the island where routes are limited and timetables can be restrictive.

If you want full flexibility, fewer crowds, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car can completely change your experience — especially if you plan to visit remote beaches, traditional villages, or the west coast.

For travellers who prefer not to drive, combining buses with occasional taxis is often the easiest way to stay flexible without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads.

To compare your best alternatives, you can explore Car Rental Rhodes, check typical taxi costs in the Rhodes Taxi Prices Guide, or read Where to Stay in Rhodes for First Time – Best Areas (2026) if you are planning your trip without a car.

Many visitors use buses for short trips and rent a car for one or two days to explore the island more freely — a great balance between budget and flexibility.

Frequently asked questions about Rhodes buses

❓Are buses in Rhodes reliable for tourists?

Buses in Rhodes are generally reliable on the main tourist routes, especially between Rhodes Town and east coast resorts such as Faliraki, Kolymbia and Lindos. They are affordable and run frequently during the summer season, making them a good option for budget travellers.

However, services can be limited in quieter areas, on the west coast, and when travelling to villages or hidden beaches. If you want a broader understanding of transport options and when buses work best, see Rhodes Transport Tips – Best Ways to Travel Around the Island (2026).

❓How much do buses cost in Rhodes?

Most bus journeys in Rhodes cost only a few euros depending on the distance, making them one of the cheapest ways to move between resorts. Airport buses and longer intercity routes cost slightly more but still offer excellent value compared to taxis.

For a full breakdown of travel costs including taxis, accommodation and daily expenses, you can also read Is Rhodes Expensive in 2026? Full Cost Breakdown for Hotels, Food, Transport & Activities and Rhodes on a Budget 2026 — Save Money Like a Local (Cheap Areas, Food & Travel Tips).

❓Can you explore Rhodes without renting a car?

Yes — many travellers successfully explore Rhodes using buses, taxis and organised tours, especially if staying in well-connected areas like Rhodes Town or Faliraki. Choosing the right base can make a huge difference to how easy it is to move around without driving.

If you are planning a car-free trip, check Where to Stay in Rhodes Without a Car – The Ultimate Local Guide (2026) and Where to Stay in Rhodes for First Time – Best Areas (2026) for the easiest locations to stay.

❓Is renting a car better than using buses in Rhodes?

Buses are great for simple point-to-point travel, but a rental car offers much more flexibility, especially if you want to visit remote beaches, mountain villages and scenic viewpoints that buses rarely reach.

If you’re considering driving, see Car Rental Rhodes – Local Tips, No-Deposit Options & Trusted Companies and Should I Rent a Car in Rhodes? Honest Advice Before You Book to decide what suits your trip style.

❓What is the best area to stay in Rhodes if using buses?

The easiest areas for bus travel are Rhodes Town, Faliraki, Kolymbia and Lindos because they have frequent connections and good access to restaurants, beaches and excursions.

You can explore accommodation ideas in Rhodes Island Greece Hotels – Best Picks for 2026, or dive deeper into specific areas like Staying in Rhodes Town – Local Guide to the Best Area in Rhodes (2026) and Where to Stay in Lindos Rhodes (2026) – Best Areas & Hotels by Local Expert.