How to Get from Athens Airport
to Rhodes — 2026 Guide
Direct flight in 50 minutes or overnight ferry from Piraeus — everything you need to travel from Athens Airport (ATH) to Rhodes (RHO) in 2026, including private minivan transfer to the port from €95.
Your Options: Athens Airport to Rhodes
Rhodes is in the Dodecanese — southeastern Aegean. It is one of the few Greek islands where flying is almost always the better choice for most travelers, but the ferry is a valid option for those with flexibility.
✈️ Option 1 — Direct Flight ATH → RHO
- Airlines: Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, Sky Express, Ryanair (seasonal)
- Flight time: ~50–55 minutes
- Cost: €50–€170+ per person depending on season
- Frequency: Multiple daily flights year-round
- Best for: Solo travelers, couples, business, families with light luggage
- Note: Rhodes Airport (RHO) is 15 km from Rhodes Old Town — taxi or pre-booked transfer needed on arrival
⛴️ Option 2 — Overnight Ferry from Piraeus
- Transfer: Athens Airport → Piraeus by private minivan (~50 min, €95)
- Ferry: Piraeus → Rhodes ~16–18 hours (overnight + day crossing)
- Cost: €40–€120+ per person depending on cabin class
- Departs: ~13:00–15:00, arrives next morning
- Best for: Groups with large luggage, adventure travelers, those on a budget
- Note: ANEK Lines, Blue Star Ferries operate the route. Often stops at other islands en route.
🌊 Option 3 — Flight + Island Hop to Rhodes
- Fly: ATH → Kos or Santorini (~50 min)
- Ferry: Island → Rhodes (1–4 hrs depending on island)
- Best for: Travelers combining multiple islands
- Note: Great option if you want to visit Kos, Symi or Santorini before Rhodes
Athens Airport to Rhodes — Full Comparison 2026
| Route | Total Time | Approx. Cost (per person) | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Flight ATH → RHO | ~3–4 hrs total | €70–€190 | Most travelers — fast, reliable | Need airport transfer at both ends; luggage fees on budget carriers |
| Minivan to Piraeus + Overnight Ferry | ~18–20 hrs total | €60–€150 | Groups, adventurous travelers, large luggage | Long crossing but saves a hotel night; cabin options available; scenic island stops |
| Fly to closer island + Ferry to Rhodes | ~4–6 hrs total | €80–€200 | Island hoppers | Best if combining Rhodes with Kos, Symi or Santorini |
Bottom line: For most travelers, the direct flight is the right choice. The ferry makes sense for groups of 4+ with large luggage, or travelers who want the island-hopping experience.
Step-by-Step: Both Main Routes
✈️ Route A: Athens Airport → Direct Flight → Rhodes (Recommended)
⛴️ Route B: Athens Airport → Piraeus Port → Rhodes (Ferry)
Book Your Athens Airport Transfer
Whether you need a transfer to your Athens hotel before flying, or direct to Piraeus for the ferry — we cover both.
Practical Tips: Athens to Rhodes 2026
📅 Book Flights Early
Rhodes is one of the busiest summer destinations in Europe. Direct flights from Athens fill up fast in July and August. Book as soon as your international connections are confirmed.
⛴️ The Ferry Is a Long Haul
The Piraeus–Rhodes ferry is ~16–18 hours — significantly longer than Crete or Mykonos. Only choose the ferry if you genuinely enjoy the sea journey or have very large luggage to transport.
🏛️ Rhodes Old Town on Arrival
If arriving by ferry, you dock at Rhodes Commercial Port — a short walk from the medieval Old Town. If flying, the airport is 15 km away and requires a taxi or pre-booked transfer.
🌊 Island Hopping via Rhodes
Rhodes is a great hub for the Dodecanese. Day trips to Symi (50 min), Lindos boat trips and excursions to Kos are all easy from Rhodes. Plan accordingly when choosing your base.
🧳 Luggage on the Rhodes Ferry
No luggage limits on the ferry — ideal if you have dive equipment, sports gear or multiple large suitcases. Load everything into the Vito and straight to Piraeus.
⏰ Same-Day Connection at ATH
If connecting from an international flight to a Rhodes domestic flight the same day, allow at least 2.5–3 hours at Athens Airport. Immigration and baggage reclaim take time.
What Travelers Say
“Flew into Athens, AMT waiting inside with a sign. Stayed one night in Athens then flew to Rhodes the next morning. Perfect service, fixed price, no stress. Will use every time.”
— Couple, UK“Group of 7 with dive gear and suitcases. AMT took everything to Piraeus for the Blue Star to Rhodes. No way we could have managed that on the metro. Excellent service.”
— Dive group, Germany“Late arrival at ATH, AMT to our hotel in the center, Rhodes flight next morning. Driver tracked our delayed flight, no issues. Everything went perfectly.”
— Family from USAAthens Airport to Rhodes — FAQ 2026
What is the fastest way to get from Athens Airport to Rhodes?
Direct flight from ATH to RHO — approximately 50–55 minutes in the air. Total door-to-door time including airport procedures is ~3–4 hours. For most travelers this is by far the best option.
How long is the ferry from Piraeus to Rhodes?
Approximately 16–18 hours. Ferries depart Piraeus in the early afternoon and arrive in Rhodes the following morning. The route typically stops at several Dodecanese islands including Patmos and Kos.
How much does the private transfer from Athens Airport to Piraeus cost?
€95 fixed price for up to 8 passengers in a Mercedes Vito Extra Long. Includes meet & greet inside the terminal, real-time flight tracking, all tolls and direct drop-off at your Rhodes ferry gate.
Is the Rhodes ferry worth it compared to flying?
For solo travelers and couples, the direct flight is almost always better — faster and often cheaper when you factor in the long ferry crossing. For groups of 4+ with heavy luggage, the ferry can work out more economical, especially if you enjoy the sea journey and island stops en route.
Where does the ferry arrive in Rhodes?
At Rhodes Commercial Port, which is walking distance from Rhodes Old Town. This is one of the advantages of arriving by ferry — you are right in the heart of the island’s main attraction without needing an airport transfer.
Can I stop in Athens before flying to Rhodes?
Yes — many travelers spend 1–2 nights in Athens to see the Acropolis and Plaka before continuing to Rhodes. Our private minivan will take you to your Athens hotel from the airport (€82), and you can then fly to Rhodes the next day.
Book Your Athens Airport Transfer for Rhodes
Private Mercedes Vito Extra Long • Fixed price • Meet & greet • Flight tracking • 24/7
Athens Airport (ATH) → City Center (€82) or Piraeus Port (€95) • Up to 8 passengers