Travelling from Kos to Rhodes: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Embarking on a journey from Kos to Rhodes offers travellers a spectacular opportunity to experience two of Greece's most beloved Dodecanese islands. This popular ferry route connects these historic gems across the Aegean Sea, with multiple operators providing regular services throughout the year. Whether you're planning a day trip or island hopping adventure, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the ferry journey, port information, and making the most of your time in Rhodes.

Taking the ferry from Kos to Rhodes

The ferry journey from Kos to Rhodes spans approximately 61.4 nautical miles (113.7 km) across the stunning Aegean waters. Three reputable operators service this route: Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways, and SAOS Ferries, with around 2 daily sailings available. Journey times vary depending on the vessel and service type, with an average crossing time of 3 hours and 1 minute. The fastest services complete the journey in just 1 hour and 50 minutes, while slower connections may take up to 5 hours and 30 minutes.

Departures from Kos to Rhodes are scheduled throughout the day, with the earliest ferry leaving at 02:05 and the latest departure at 16:10. All operators accommodate foot passengers and vehicles, making this route versatile for different travel needs. Pet owners will be pleased to know that both Blue Star Ferries and Dodekanisos Seaways welcome four-legged companions on board. For those seeking extra comfort, Blue Star Ferries offers cabin accommodations and first-class options for an enhanced sailing experience.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Kos)

Kos Port is conveniently located near the island's main town, making it easily accessible by local buses, taxis, or on foot if you're staying in Kos Town. The terminal features basic amenities including waiting areas, cafés, tourist information points, and ticket offices where last-minute bookings can be made.

Arrival Port (Rhodes)

Rhodes Port is situated in Rhodes Town, within walking distance of the historic Old Town. Upon arrival, you'll find taxis, car rental agencies, and local buses to transport you to other parts of the island. The port area offers ATMs, cafés, and tourist information services to help you get oriented quickly.

Things to Do in Rhodes

Rhodes offers an enchanting blend of ancient history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture that captivates visitors year-round. The UNESCO-listed Medieval Old Town of Rhodes stands as one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities, with its impressive Palace of the Grand Master, Street of the Knights, and atmospheric cobblestone lanes. For beach lovers, Tsambika Beach provides crystal-clear waters and golden sands, while history enthusiasts shouldn't miss the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, perched dramatically on a clifftop with panoramic sea views.

Nature admirers will appreciate the Valley of the Butterflies, a unique ecological park that becomes home to thousands of colourful butterflies during summer months. For a more relaxed experience, wander through the charming village of Lindos with its whitewashed buildings and rooftop restaurants offering spectacular views of the Aegean Sea.

Weather in Rhodes

Rhodes enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 25-35°C between June and September, while winter months (December-February) see temperatures between 10-15°C. Spring and autumn offer pleasant conditions with temperatures around 15-25°C and fewer crowds. Rhodes boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually, earning its nickname as the 'Island of the Sun'.

Best Time to Visit Rhodes

The ideal time to visit Rhodes depends on your preferences. The peak season (July-August) offers guaranteed sunshine and the most vibrant atmosphere, but also brings larger crowds and higher accommodation rates. For a perfect balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October, when temperatures remain warm enough for swimming but the island feels more relaxed.

Rhodes hosts numerous events throughout the year that might influence your travel plans. The Medieval Rose Festival in May/June transforms the Old Town with theatrical performances and medieval market recreations. August brings the Rhodes International Festival with music and cultural performances, while September features the Rhodes International Film Festival. Winter visitors can experience a more authentic side of local life, though some tourist facilities may be closed.

Accommodation Options in Rhodes

Rhodes offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. In the heart of Rhodes Town, budget travellers can find comfortable guesthouses and hostels. The medieval Old Town area features charming boutique hotels housed in historic buildings, perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Families might prefer the spacious apartment rentals along the east coast beaches, particularly in Faliraki and Lindos, where self-catering options provide flexibility. For those travelling with vehicles from the ferry, numerous campsites dot the island's coastline, offering pitches with excellent facilities.

We recommend booking accommodation well in advance during the summer high season when Rhodes becomes particularly popular with visitors arriving via ferry from Kos.

Getting Around Rhodes

Rhodes boasts an efficient public bus network connecting major towns and beaches, with tickets available for purchase. The KTEL buses run frequently during summer months, making it easy to explore after disembarking from your Blue Star Ferries or Dodekanisos Seaways vessel.

Taxis are readily available at Rhodes port and throughout the island, operating on meters with fixed rates to popular destinations. For maximum flexibility, consider renting a car from one of the many agencies at the port, especially if you've arrived without your own vehicle on the ferry.

The compact nature of Rhodes Town makes it perfect for walking exploration, while cycling is popular along the coastal routes. If you've brought your campervan across on the ferry, you'll find the island's roads generally well-maintained and easy to navigate.

Your Greek Island Adventure Awaits

The journey from Kos to Rhodes by ferry offers not just convenient transportation but an authentic Greek island experience. With multiple daily sailings from operators like Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways, and SAOS Ferries, you'll have flexibility in planning your perfect island-hopping adventure.

Whether you're travelling with your vehicle, bringing pets along, or seeking the comfort of cabin accommodations, the ferry services cater to all your needs. The relatively short crossing time of just 1 hour 50 minutes on the fastest services means you can maximise your time exploring the medieval wonders and stunning beaches of Rhodes.

Book your ferry tickets today and embark on an unforgettable journey through the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea to experience the best of Greek island hospitality.