Compare prices and check availability for automatic car hire at Rhodes Airport to pick the right size for your group or family. Book early for peak summer dates.
Why Choose Automatic Car Hire
Automatic cars take the stress out of island driving. They are simpler in heavy traffic and on steep coastal roads.
For families and groups, an automatic reduces driver fatigue on longer transfers to resorts such as Lindos or Faliraki.
What Types of Automatic Cars Are Available
At Rhodes Airport you will find compact city cars, family hatchbacks, small SUVs, and estate cars. Larger vans and minibuses appear in the summer fleet.
Popular models for families include small SUVs and 7 Seater or 8 Seater vans when travelling with groups.
| Feature | Automatic | Manual |
|---|---|---|
| Ease in traffic | High | Lower |
| Fuel efficiency (typical) | Good | Often better |
| Driver learning curve | Minimal | Requires practice |
| Availability at RHO | Wider in summer | Common year round |
Main takeaway: automatic cars are easier for busy roads and for drivers unused to hill starts.
What to Expect When Renting an Automatic
Most rental desks at Rhodes Airport are inside the arrivals hall. Companies will either hand over keys there or run a short shuttle to an off-airport lot.
Expect a credit-card pre-authorisation for the security deposit. Many firms ask for the same licence details as for a manual car.
- Collecting the car. Look for the “Car Rentals” signage after baggage claim.
- Shuttle collection. Off-airport lots usually take 2–5 minutes by shuttle.
- Fuel policy. Check whether the tank must be returned full.
Driving an Automatic for the First Time
Modern automatics are intuitive. Start in P and select D for drive. Use the handbrake on steep slopes until moving.
On Rhodes, coastal roads can be narrow with tight bends. Take time to feel the brake response and steering.
If you plan to visit Lindos or the south coast, remember that the drive from the airport is longer than the trip to Rhodes Town.
| Driving Situation | Is Automatic a Good Choice? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Island towns and narrow streets | Yes | Easier to stop and start in traffic |
| Coastal sightseeing runs | Yes | Smoother gear changes on undulating roads |
| Remote dirt tracks | Maybe | Some automatics struggle off-road |
Main takeaway: automatic cars are a practical choice for relaxed sightseeing and town driving.
Tips for Choosing the Right Car
Match the car size to luggage and passengers. Families should favour a compact SUV or estate for comfort and boot space.
Ask about child seat availability and fitting rules. Greek law requires correct child restraints for children under 12 years or under 135 cm height.
- Request an automatic specifically when booking. Availability is limited on short notice in July and August.
- Check the fuel policy and mileage caps on the rental agreement.
- Consider an upgrade for hillier routes and longer transfers.
What Affects the Price
Seasonal demand drives the biggest changes in rates. Rhodes sees high demand in July and August, which pushes prices up.
Airport location charges and local fees are common on Greek island rentals. Out-of-hours collection fees and airport supplements can apply at some firms.
| Factor | Impact on Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Season | High | Summer peak raises daily rates |
| Airport pick-up | Medium | Airport fees or surcharges may apply |
| Vehicle size | High | Larger cars cost more |
| Insurance level | Medium | Full cover increases the price |
Main takeaway: book early and check contract fees to avoid surprises.
| Tip | Potential Saving | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|
| Book several months ahead | Large | Easy |
| Pick up in town, not airport | Small to medium | Moderate |
| Return with same fuel level | Small | Easy |
Takeaway: small changes in pickup location or booking timing reduce the total cost.
Popular pickup locations
– Rhodes Airport — quickest option for arrivals with on-site rental desks.
– Rhodes Town — easy for city stays and Old Town access.
– Lindos — picked by visitors heading straight to the village.
– Faliraki — popular for beaches and family resorts.
– Kos Airport — another Dodecanese hub for island hopping.
– Santorini — high demand; good for island travel plans.
– Athens Airport — main international gateway with large fleets.
– Heraklion — Crete gateway popular with holiday drivers.
– Chania — Crete west coast option for coastal touring.
– Corfu — Ionian hub picked for western Greece travel.
Final Advice Before Booking
Confirm where the rental desk is and whether a shuttle is needed. Expect most desks inside arrivals and brief shuttle runs for some operators.
Allow time for car handover when you arrive. During July and August counters are busy and waits can lengthen by 15–45 minutes.
Plan routes on the main coastal road to the south. Parts of National Road 95 are still single carriageway and can be congested on busy days.
For official airport arrangements see the Rhodes Airport site. For operator notices consult the airport pages before you travel.
Frequently asked questions — Rhodes Airport automatic hire
1. Where are rental desks located at Rhodes Airport? Most desks are inside the arrivals hall next to baggage claim.
2. Is there a shuttle to off-airport rental lots? Yes. Shuttles normally take 2 to 5 minutes between the terminal and off-site lots.
3. How far is Rhodes Town from the airport? Rhodes Town is about 14 km and drives take roughly 20 minutes in light traffic.
4. Are airport surcharges common? Some operators add airport or out-of-hours fees. Check the rental terms for exact amounts.
5. Is an automatic car harder to park in Old Town? Old Town streets are narrow. Choose a compact automatic for easier parking.
6. Do rental companies accept UK licences? UK licences are usually accepted for short stays. Carry your passport and the driving licence.
7. Should I rent a 7 Seater or 8 Seater? Choose based on passenger numbers and luggage. Larger vehicles handle groups and long drives better.
8. What if I arrive late at night? Some firms charge an out-of-hours fee. Confirm collection hours when booking.
9. Are automatic cars more expensive? They can be. Availability and season affect the price more than transmission type.
10. Any advice for driving to Lindos? The coastal route is scenic but takes about 50–60 minutes from the airport. Plan time for stops and parking.
