Travelling from Marmaris to Rhodes: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Exploring the journey from Marmaris, Turkey to Rhodes, Greece offers travellers a fascinating transition between two distinct cultures separated by just 40.1 km of sparkling Aegean waters. This popular Mediterranean route connects the vibrant Turkish resort town with one of Greece's most historic islands. The ferry crossing serves as the primary transportation method, offering a scenic and practical alternative to more complicated flight arrangements. With approximately 12 weekly sailings and a journey time of just 1-2 hours, the ferry provides an efficient and enjoyable travel experience. This guide covers everything you need to know about travelling between these two destinations, including ferry operations, port information, and what to expect when you arrive in Rhodes.

How to get from Marmaris to Rhodes: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Marmaris to Rhodes, you have limited transportation options as there are no direct flights between these destinations. The ferry is by far the most practical and straightforward choice.

Flying would require travelling to larger airports like Dalaman or Bodrum in Turkey, then catching connecting flights to Rhodes, making it a time-consuming and expensive option. This indirect route often takes much longer than the direct ferry crossing and removes the opportunity to experience the beautiful Aegean seascape.

The ferry journey, by contrast, offers a direct connection across just 21.7 nautical miles (40.1 km) of sea. With Sea Dreams operating regular services throughout the year, the ferry provides a convenient and scenic transportation option. The relatively short crossing time of 1-2 hours makes it feasible even for those with limited travel time. Additionally, the ferry experience itself becomes part of your holiday adventure, offering stunning views of the Turkish and Greek coastlines as you transition between these two culturally rich destinations.

Taking the ferry from Marmaris to Rhodes

You can take a ferry from Marmaris to Rhodes. Ferries sail in around 1-2 hours with about 1 sailing a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 1 hour and is provided by Sea Dreams. Departures start as early as 08:45, with the last departure from Marmaris to Rhodes at 17:45.

Sea Dreams operates the primary ferry service on this route, offering comfortable passenger transportation across the Aegean. Their vessels are well-maintained and designed to provide a pleasant crossing experience. The ferry company maintains a consistent schedule with approximately 54 monthly sailings during peak season, ensuring good availability for travellers.

Onboard the ferries, passengers can enjoy various amenities to make the journey comfortable. These typically include indoor seating areas with panoramic windows, outdoor deck space for enjoying the sea breeze and views, and refreshment services offering drinks and snacks. The relatively short journey means extensive facilities aren't necessary, but you'll find everything needed for a comfortable crossing.

While the route operates year-round, it's worth noting that sailing frequency may vary with the seasons. Summer months (May through October) typically see more frequent departures to accommodate increased tourist demand. During winter, services continue but may operate on a reduced schedule. It's always advisable to check the latest timetables and book in advance, especially during high season when ferries can fill quickly.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Marmaris)

Marmaris ferry port is conveniently located near the city centre, making it easily accessible for travellers. The port sits at the southern end of the main harbour area, within walking distance of many hotels and the central tourist district. If you're staying further away, local dolmuş (shared minibuses) provide affordable transportation to the port from most areas of Marmaris. Taxis are also readily available throughout the town and offer a direct route to the terminal.

The ferry terminal itself is relatively straightforward, with clear signage in multiple languages. Facilities include ticket offices (though advance booking is recommended), a waiting area, basic refreshment options, and restrooms. Currency exchange services are available nearby if needed. It's recommended to arrive at least 45-60 minutes before departure to allow time for passport control and boarding procedures, as you'll be crossing an international border.

Arrival Port (Rhodes)

Rhodes ferry port is situated in Rhodes Town, on the northern tip of the island. The commercial port area where international ferries dock is approximately 1.5 km from the medieval Old Town, one of the island's main attractions. Upon disembarking, you'll proceed through Greek passport control before exiting the terminal building.

From the port, you have several transportation options. Taxis are usually waiting outside the terminal and can take you to Rhodes Town or further destinations across the island. For budget travellers, local buses connect the port with the main bus station, from where you can reach most parts of Rhodes. The walk to the Old Town takes about 20 minutes along the waterfront, which is pleasant in good weather.

Near the port, you'll find several cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as tourist information points where you can gather maps and local advice. ATMs are available for withdrawing euros, the local currency in Greece.

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Marmaris to Rhodes is entirely feasible and makes for an excellent excursion. With the earliest ferry departing Marmaris at 08:45 and arriving in Rhodes around 09:45 (accounting for the one-hour time difference between Turkey and Greece), you can enjoy a substantial amount of time on the island before returning.

For a successful day trip, focus your time on Rhodes Town, particularly the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its medieval architecture and atmospheric streets. A sample itinerary might include exploring the Palace of the Grand Master, walking the Street of the Knights, visiting the Archaeological Museum, enjoying lunch at a traditional Greek taverna, and spending some time shopping or relaxing at a café before heading back to the port.

The latest departure from Rhodes back to Marmaris is typically in the late afternoon, giving you approximately 6-7 hours on the island. While this doesn't allow time to explore the entire island, it's sufficient for experiencing the highlights of Rhodes Town. Remember to keep an eye on the time and account for the need to arrive at the port at least 30-45 minutes before your return sailing.

If you find a day trip too rushed, consider an overnight stay to experience more of what Rhodes has to offer, including its beautiful beaches and inland villages.

Things to Do in Rhodes

Rhodes offers a wealth of attractions that blend historical significance with natural beauty. Here are the top five must-visit sites:

The Medieval City of Rhodes (Old Town) stands as one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Walking through its stone-paved streets, you'll discover architectural treasures from various historical periods. The Old Town is open for exploration at all hours, though individual attractions within it have specific opening times.

The Palace of the Grand Master is an imposing fortress that once served as the headquarters of the Knights of St. John. Today, it houses an impressive museum with ancient mosaics and medieval furnishings. Open daily from 08:00 to 20:00 during summer, with reduced hours in winter.

Lindos Acropolis combines ancient Greek ruins with stunning panoramic views. This archaeological site, crowned by the Temple of Athena, sits above the charming white-washed village of Lindos. Open daily from 08:00 to 19:40, with last admission 20 minutes before closing.

The Valley of the Butterflies offers a refreshing natural experience, especially in summer when thousands of Jersey Tiger Moths gather in this lush valley. Best visited between June and September, open from 08:00 to 18:00.

Rhodes' beaches provide perfect relaxation opportunities, with Tsambika, Anthony Quinn Bay, and Prasonisi being among the most beautiful. These natural attractions are accessible year-round, though swimming is most pleasant from May through October.

Rhodes Neighbourhoods Worth Exploring

Rhodes Town divides into the medieval Old Town and the more modern New Town, each offering distinct experiences. The Old Town, enclosed by impressive walls, contains most of the historical attractions and souvenir shops, along with atmospheric restaurants hidden in cobblestone alleys.

The New Town features broader streets lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels, centred around Mandraki Harbour with its iconic deer statues. Elli Beach stretches along the northern coastline, offering excellent swimming and water sports.

For authentic local experiences, venture to Lindos Village with its cubic white houses cascading down to a picturesque bay. The inland villages of Archangelos and Embonas provide glimpses into traditional Greek island life, complete with local crafts and excellent tavernas serving regional specialties.

The west coast area around Ialyssos and Ixia has developed into a windsurfing paradise, with numerous resorts catering to active travellers. Meanwhile, the southern part of the island remains less developed, with quiet villages and secluded beaches perfect for those seeking tranquility.

Weather in Rhodes

Rhodes enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, slightly wetter winters. The island boasts an impressive 300+ days of sunshine annually, making it one of Greece's sunniest destinations.

Summer (June to September) brings consistent warmth with temperatures typically ranging between 26-35°C. These months see virtually no rainfall, with clear blue skies being the norm. July and August represent the hottest period, when temperatures occasionally climb above 35°C, and the cooling Meltemi winds provide welcome relief.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) offer ideal conditions for exploring, with comfortable temperatures between 18-25°C and fewer tourists. These shoulder seasons provide perfect weather for sightseeing and hiking, though the sea remains warm enough for swimming, especially in early autumn.

Winter (December to March) brings mild temperatures ranging from 10-15°C, rarely dropping below 5°C even at night. This period sees increased rainfall, though prolonged wet spells are uncommon. Many tourist facilities reduce operations during winter, but the Old Town remains accessible and atmospheric.

The ferry crossing between Marmaris and Rhodes can occasionally be affected by strong winds, particularly during winter months or when the Meltemi winds blow strongly in summer. Crossings are generally smooth in good weather, but the ferry operator may adjust schedules during adverse conditions, prioritising passenger safety.

Cost of Visiting Rhodes

Rhodes offers options for various budget levels, though prices tend to be higher during the peak summer season (July-August).

Budget travellers can expect to spend around £50-70 per day, including accommodation in a hostel or budget hotel (£20-35), meals at inexpensive restaurants or street food (£15-25), and public transportation or limited activities (£10-15).

Mid-range travellers should budget approximately £100-150 daily, covering a comfortable hotel (£60-90), good restaurant meals (£30-40), and several activities or attractions (£20-30).

Luxury experiences start from £200+ per day, with high-end hotels or villas (£150+), fine dining (£50+), and premium activities like private tours or yacht rentals.

For budget-conscious visitors, consider travelling during shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) when prices drop by 20-30% while weather remains excellent. Self-catering accommodations, eating lunch as your main meal (when menu prices are lower), and purchasing the special combined tickets for archaeological sites can further reduce costs.

Best Time to Visit Rhodes

The peak tourist season in Rhodes runs from mid-June through August, bringing warm temperatures, minimal rainfall, and maximum tourist facilities. However, this period also means larger crowds at major attractions and beaches, higher accommodation prices, and more competition for ferry tickets. If you enjoy vibrant nightlife and don't mind paying premium prices, this might be your ideal time.

The shoulder seasons of May to early June and September to mid-October offer excellent value. During these months, you'll enjoy warm temperatures (22-28°C) suitable for swimming and sunbathing, significantly fewer crowds, and reduced prices (often 20-30% lower than peak season). Most restaurants and attractions remain open, making this the perfect balance of good weather and value.

The off-peak winter season (November through April) sees the island at its most authentic, with locals going about their daily lives without the tourist influx. While many beach facilities close, the Old Town remains fascinating to explore, and you'll find drastically reduced accommodation rates. Winter visitors should be prepared for occasional rainfall and cooler temperatures (10-18°C), though sunny days are still common.

Rhodes hosts several notable events throughout the year. The Medieval Rose Festival in May/June recreates the island's knightly past with tournaments and performances. The Rhodes International Festival brings cultural performances to ancient venues during summer months. Wine festivals in September celebrate the island's viticulture, while Orthodox Easter (date varies) offers a deeply authentic experience of Greek traditions and celebrations.

For most visitors, late May to early June or September to early October provides the ideal combination of pleasant weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowd levels while maintaining good availability of ferry services from Marmaris.

Accommodation Options in Rhodes

Rhodes offers diverse accommodation options to suit every traveller's needs and budget. In the mediaeval Old Town, you'll find charming boutique hotels and guesthouses starting from around £50 per night, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the island's rich history.

For beach lovers, the eastern coast offers numerous resort-style accommodations with prices ranging from £60-£200 depending on the season. Budget travellers can find hostels and simpler guesthouses from £25-40 per night in less central locations.

Families might prefer the spacious apartments and family-friendly hotels in Faliraki or Lindos, which typically include amenities like pools and kids' clubs. For a truly authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional stone house in one of the inland villages.

We recommend booking accommodation well in advance if travelling during the peak summer months (June-September) when the ferry from Marmaris brings many visitors to the island.

Getting Around Rhodes

Rhodes offers excellent transport options to explore all its treasures. The island has a reliable public bus network operated by KTEL Rhodes, connecting major towns and beaches with fares typically between £1.50-£4 depending on distance.

Taxis are readily available throughout the island, especially in Rhodes Town and tourist areas. For maximum flexibility, consider renting a car (from approximately £30 per day) or a scooter (around £15 daily) to discover hidden beaches and mountain villages at your own pace.

The compact nature of Rhodes Town makes it perfect for exploring on foot, especially the pedestrian-friendly Old Town with its maze of mediaeval streets. Cycling is also popular along the coastal roads, with bike rentals available from £8-15 per day.

If you've arrived via the Marmaris-Rhodes ferry, you'll find yourself conveniently close to Rhodes Town's amenities, with most transport options available right at the port.

Your Perfect Marmaris to Rhodes Journey Awaits

Crossing from Marmaris to Rhodes by ferry offers an unforgettable travel experience combining convenience, comfort, and breathtaking views. In just 1-2 hours aboard operators like Sea Dreams, you'll transition from the Turkish Riviera to Greek island charm.

With daily sailings departing as early as 08:45 and as late as 17:45, you can easily plan a day trip or longer stay to discover Rhodes' mediaeval wonders, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. The short 40.1km journey across the sparkling Aegean makes ferry travel the preferred choice for this route.

Whether you're seeking a cultural adventure, beach relaxation, or culinary exploration, the Marmaris-Rhodes ferry connects you to an island that truly has it all. With 12 weekly sailings and 54 monthly options during peak season, planning your perfect Mediterranean escape has never been easier. Book your ferry crossing today and prepare for an unforgettable journey between two of the Mediterranean's most captivating destinations.