Rhodes: Travel guide, what to see, what to do and where to stay

Rhodes is well worth visiting for its combination of a living, breathing medieval town, important archaeological sites, long beaches and an interior with more to offer than summer day trips. You can walk along the Street of the Knights in the morning, swim at midday and dine in a village in the evening, without any two days feeling the same.

For a first visit, allow at least three full days, basing yourself in Rhodes Town and taking a day trip to Lindos. Five to seven days give you more time for beaches, the west coast and mountain villages. In winter, a three-day break in town works well, while in summer, longer journeys and traffic call for a more relaxed itinerary.

Why go

Rhodes is the largest island in the Dodecanese and lies in the south-eastern Aegean, close to the coast of Asia Minor. Its area of around 1,400 square kilometres explains why a quick tour is not enough to get to know it. The town occupies the northern tip, while further south, settlements become more scattered and journeys get longer. The landscape includes fertile valleys, pine forests, limestone massifs and Attavyros, the island's highest mountain at 1,215 metres.

The two coasts have different characters. The east coast is home to many of the best-known bays and beaches with visitor facilities, from Kallithea and Faliraki to Lindos and southern Rhodes. The west coast is more exposed to summer winds, with waves that attract windsurfers. This is not a hard-and-fast rule: the daily forecast, the direction each beach faces and the swimmer's experience remain key factors.

The island's history begins long before the Knights. Ancient Ialysos, Kamiros and Lindos were important centres, while the city of Rhodes was founded in 408 BC. The Colossus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was associated with the city's heyday. It no longer survives, and the popular image of it standing astride the harbour entrance is not a historically substantiated depiction.

The Knights Hospitaller shaped the fortified urban landscape that defines the Medieval Town. Ottoman rule and Italian administration followed, leaving distinct traces in mosques, public buildings and urban planning. The incorporation of the Dodecanese into Greece completed this long succession. The Medieval Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, still has homes, shops and places of worship, not just sights for visitors.

This blend of history and everyday life is a major reason to visit outside the peak season. Behind the shopping streets lie quiet courtyards, narrow lanes where daily life unfolds and small squares. In the newer part of town, you will find shops, cafés, restaurants and services open all year round. Meanwhile, the Italian architecture around Mandraki offers a striking contrast to the medieval walls, just a few minutes' walk away.

The interior offers a welcome change of pace. In Embonas, wine is central to local production; in Archangelos, craft traditions live on; and around Profitis Ilias, wooded routes are a reminder that Rhodes is not just a seaside destination. The distances between these places require some planning, but they reward anyone who spends a day away from the sunlounger.

The island therefore suits many kinds of trip: a cultural weekend, a family holiday, a walking break or a stay by the sea. You do not need to fit everything in. Choose one main area and two or three themed routes. For more historical and local information, read about what Rhodes is famous for and what makes it distinctive.

How to get there

The straight-line distance from Athens is approximately 430 km, and from Thessaloniki approximately 640 km. These are not road distances. A direct flight takes around 1 hour from Athens and 1 hour and 15 minutes from Thessaloniki, with flight frequency varying by season. Diagoras Airport is about 14 km from town, usually a 25 to 40-minute drive. Compare options in the guide to flights to Rhodes.

From Piraeus, the ferry usually takes around 13 to 18 hours, sometimes longer depending on the intermediate stops. If you are driving from Thessaloniki, allow for approximately 510 km and 5.5 to 7 hours to reach Piraeus, without lengthy stops, plus enough time to arrive at the port well before departure. Always check the specific sailing before booking connecting tickets.

You can bring a car to the island by vehicle ferry. KTEL Rhodes mainly serves the east coast and inland villages, while RODA covers town and west coast routes, including services to the airport. Services are less frequent in winter. For trips to more remote spots, hiring a car in Rhodes and planning your routes carefully can help.

What to see

Medieval Town and Street of the Knights

Start early, before the shopping streets get busy. Walk along the Street of the Knights, seek out the town gates and leave time to explore the narrow lanes of the Jewish quarter. The cobbled streets call for sturdy footwear, especially after rain.

Palace of the Grand Master and Archaeological Museum

The Palace impresses with its scale and courtyards, but its present appearance owes much to Italian reconstruction. The Archaeological Museum is housed in the medieval hospital of the Knights and deserves a dedicated visit, rather than a quick look between other stops.

Mandraki and the Acropolis of Rhodes

In Mandraki, see the windmills, the Fort of St Nicholas and the buildings from the Italian period. Later, head up St Stephen's Hill, known as Monte Smith, for the archaeological site and sweeping sea views.

Lindos and its acropolis

Around 50 to 55 km from Rhodes Town, Lindos combines whitewashed houses, sea captains' mansions and an acropolis with the sanctuary of Athena Lindia. The climb involves steps, exposure to the sun and slippery patches. Visit in the morning, then continue exploring the village or head to St Paul's Bay.

Kallithea Springs

Kallithea Springs stands out for its architecture, pebble mosaic floors and seafront setting. It is a historic complex open to visitors, not a working thermal spa. A visit can easily be combined with a short stop by the sea, weather and site opening arrangements permitting.

Ancient Kamiros and Filerimos

Kamiros offers an insight into the layout of an ancient town, with streets, homes and public spaces. Filerimos, above Ialysos, combines archaeological remains, a monastery complex and scenic views. These are two distinct stops that fit into a route along the western side of the island.

Valley of the Butterflies and Prasonisi

The Valley's distinctive moths gather during the summer months, not all year round. Move quietly without disturbing them. Prasonisi, at the southern tip, mainly attracts water sports enthusiasts; take care with the wind, currents and shifting sands.

Activities

Spring and autumn are best for walking, with routes around Profitis Ilias or along selected inland trails. Attavyros is suited to more experienced hikers: it has exposed sections, little shade and requires good navigation skills. Check access after severe weather or wildfires, and do not assume that routes will be waymarked.

Ixia, Ialysos and Prasonisi are good spots for windsurfing, but choose a school and conditions suited to your ability. Diving and organised boat trips are available at various locations, mainly during the tourist season. For a relaxing day, go for a swim at Tsambika, Agathi or a beach close to where you are staying. Rafting and skiing are not established activities on the island.

When to visit

Spring

This is a good time for archaeological sites, villages and walking, with greener scenery and usually pleasant temperatures. The sea is still cool, while tourist services gradually open for the season. Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket.

Summer

Plan sightseeing for early in the day and leave the hottest hours for resting. The sea is often calmer on the east coast, but check wind conditions daily. Book accommodation and a vehicle well in advance, especially if travelling as a family.

Autumn

In early autumn, the sea retains its summer warmth and excursions become more comfortable. Later, rain becomes more likely and some seasonal services scale back. Combine beach visits with museums and stops to enjoy the local food.

Winter

The town remains open for business and is ideal for quiet sightseeing, dining and cultural visits. Many seaside resorts close, while wind and rain can affect excursions and ferries. Base yourself in town and confirm opening hours the day before.

3-day itinerary

Day 1

Spend the morning in the Medieval Town, exploring the Street of the Knights and either the Palace or the Archaeological Museum. After lunch, head to Mandraki. Round off the day with views from Monte Smith and dinner in town, with no more driving needed.

Day 2

Set off early for Lindos and visit the acropolis first. Follow this with a stroll through the village, a meal and, weather permitting, a swim. Choose just one more stop on the way back. In winter, allow more time for the village and check in advance which places are open for food.

Day 3

Head west to ancient Kamiros, then continue to Embonas for a meal and an introduction to the local wine, with the driver abstaining from alcohol. If you prefer shorter journeys, choose Filerimos and Ialyssos. Prasonisi calls for a separate, more leisurely trip.

What to eat

Look out for pitaroudia, usually chickpea fritters with herbs, along with stuffed vine leaves and seasonal vegetables cooked in olive oil. Rhodian cuisine also includes lakani, meat with wheat or bulgur slow-cooked in an earthenware pot, when available. Ask what has been prepared on the day of your visit rather than expecting the same menu everywhere.

Try melekouni, the island's signature sesame and honey sweet, and wine made from local grape varieties such as Athiri. When ordering fish, ask upfront how it is priced and how much it weighs. A simple meal at a taverna might cost around €18-30 per person, while fish, bottled wine and more elaborate cooking will push the bill up considerably.

Where to stay

Rhodes Town is the most practical base if you do not have a car or are visiting in winter. Ixia and Ialyssos suit those who want to stay close to town, while Kallithea and Faliraki offer seaside options. For an overall comparison, see which areas of Rhodes suit your trip.

Staying in and around Lindos puts the village and the eastern beaches first. Ialyssos as a holiday base is convenient for the western side of the island. You can also compare family-friendly hotels in Rhodes or adults-only accommodation, depending on who you are travelling with.

The price ranges below are a guide to the cost of a double room per night, not live offers. The season, room type and board basis all affect the cost significantly, and winter opening needs to be confirmed.

1. Kókkini Porta Rossa
A small property in the Medieval Town, ideal for a stay focused on the historic surroundings. It suits those who prefer exploring on foot to staying at a seaside resort.

• Average cost: €300-650 per night (indicative)

2. Hotel Parthenon Rodos city
An option in the newer part of town, close to the western seafront. It is convenient for combining walks around town with evenings out without needing a car every day.

• Average cost: €40-110 per night (indicative)

3. Rodos Palace Hotel
A large hotel complex in Ixia, close to Rhodes Town. It caters for travellers who prefer a full-service hotel base to staying within the town walls.

• Average cost: €100-280 per night (indicative)

4. Sheraton Rhodes Resort
A resort in Ixia, on the western side of the island. The area lets you combine a resort holiday with frequent visits to town.

• Average cost: €160-380 per night (indicative)

5. Atrium Platinum Resort & Spa
A luxury hotel in the Ixia area, near the northern tip of Rhodes. It is an option for those who want a resort without being too far from the town's sights.

• Average cost: €180-450 per night (indicative)

6. Elysium Resort & Spa
A beachfront resort in the Kallithea area, on the east coast. It suits holidays split between time by the sea and a few chosen excursions.

• Average cost: €190-480 per night (indicative)

7. Sun Beach Resort
A hotel complex in Ialyssos, on the west coast. It provides a base for a seaside stay and trips to Filerimos or Rhodes Town.

• Average cost: €90-240 per night (indicative)

8. Rodos Princess Beach Hotel
A resort in Kiotari, well suited as a base for south-eastern Rhodes. Its distance from town makes it better suited to staying in the local area than travelling north every day.

• Average cost: €150-360 per night (indicative)

9. Esperos Village Blue & Spa - Adults Only
An adults-only hotel on a hillside in the Faliraki area. It suits those looking for somewhere to stay away from the built-up town.

• Average cost: €170-420 per night (indicative)

10. Galaxias Hotel
A hotel in Rhodes Town, rather than a seaside resort. It serves travellers who need a practical base for getting around and going out each day.

• Average cost: €45-100 per night (indicative)

11. Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel-Adults only
An adults-only hotel on Vlycha Bay, close to Lindos. It makes a good base for a seaside holiday with easy trips to the historic village.

• Average cost: €280-650 per night (indicative)

12. Aquagrand Artistic Luxury Beach Resort - Adults Only
An adults-only beachfront resort in the Lindos area. It suits a trip focused on the south-east coast, with fewer visits to Rhodes Town.

• Average cost: €240-580 per night (indicative)

Practical tips

• Parking: leave your car outside the walls and check access restrictions if you are staying in the Medieval Town.
• Heat: water, a hat and sunscreen are essential at archaeological sites. Avoid strenuous walks around midday.
• Opening times and timetables: check official updates for museums, archaeological sites and buses, especially outside the tourist season.
• Driving: allow extra time in villages, on narrow roads and in tourist areas. Avoid planning back-to-back trips to opposite ends of the island.
• Safety: follow weather warnings, fire safety advice and lifeguards' instructions. In an emergency, call 112.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in Rhodes?

Three full days are enough to explore Rhodes Town, Lindos and one additional route. Allow five to seven days if you want to visit a variety of beaches, villages and southern Rhodes.

Do you need a car?

Not if you are staying in town and exploring locally. However, a car is particularly useful for the island's interior, remote beaches and trips with several stops.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Spring and autumn are ideal for exploring. Summer is better suited to seaside holidays, while winter works well for a short break based in town.

Is Rhodes suitable for families?

Yes, provided you choose a beach with suitable conditions and avoid travelling excessive distances each day. The cobbled streets in the Medieval Town can make using a pushchair a little difficult.

Where is the best place to stay without a car?

In the newer part of town or near the Medieval Town, with easy access to places to eat and bus departure points. Check the actual walking distance before booking.

Can you visit Lindos on a day trip?

Yes, allow around 1 to 1.5 hours each way by road from Rhodes Town, depending on traffic. If travelling by bus, check the journey time and the last return service.