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Updated: 18 January, 2025
I'll tell you what to see in Rhodes, all the essentials if you only have one day or several to see the island, where to eat and many tips.
The beautiful island of Rhodes It is one of the most famous in Greece And no wonder.
Their beaches are among the most beautiful in the country, with bays of turquoise waters and many water activities for the whole family.
An island with a lot of history, it has a acropolis of the hellenistic period, a medieval city through which they have passed the pirates, the Knights Templar, the Ottomans and the Nazis.
Rhodes is the fourth largest island in Greece, with a size similar to Gran Canaria. It is the most important island in the Dodecanese, located in the Aegean Sea, a short distance from Turkey, which you cannot miss.
Below I tell you about the best places to visit on this greek island, all based on my experience of living on the island, with advice where to eat and itineraries around Rhodes depending on the days you come.
As always, at the end of the article you have the map with each site.
✅ Boat trip to Lindos – the most beautiful acropolis on the island
✅ Kayak pirate route – visit the best beaches and caves 😍
✅ Tour to Symi and St. George's Bay – an island with a lot of charm
What to do and see in Rhodes
1. Medieval City of Rhodes
In the city of Rhodes (Rhodes Town) is the largest active medieval walled city in Europe, declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.
– A little history
Rhodes was the first refuge of the Knights of the Order of Saint John after being expelled from the Holy Land and remained on the island from 1309 to 1523, walling part of its main city.
This Templar Order brought with it riches that boosted the economic growth of Rhodes, which although it had been a rich city, was in decline.
These riches and the fact that Rhodes was a strategic commercial point in the Mediterranean on the route between Constantinople (ancient Istanbul) and Egypt, attracted new conquerors.
In the end they were the Ottomans who occupied it led by Suleiman the Magnificent expelling the knights and they were on the island for almost 4 centuries.
During the First World War it fell into the hands of the Italians. for about 30 years.
Then, During World War II, the Germans were in Rhodes, although it was administered by the English.
As you can imagine, this is an ultra-quick summary of its long history, but important for the things I will tell you below, because everyone left their mark.
– What to see in the medieval city of Rhodes?
One of the great singularities of the interior of this walled area is the fusion of buildings from different cultures.
Therefore, this is the main place to visit in Rhodes, with its rich and turbulent history.
It is a place to take a walk through its labyrinthine cobbled streets with the knights' buildings such as shops and taverns, like the Turkish constructions that have a great presence.
I recommend you pay attention to the Ottoman fountains with Arabic engravings, mosques and other interesting details that you will find in this medieval city that is full of beautiful treasures to photograph.
An excellent way to visit the old town without getting tired is this tour of the medieval city of Rhodes on an electric bicycle, which in the end goes to a place to see the sunset. 😍
2. Palace of the Grand Master
This palace functioned as the headquarters and fortress of the Order of the Knights of Saint John and is a place worth visiting.
It is believed that They built it where the temple to the sun god Helios had been. and perhaps it was where the Colossus of Rhodes was.
Is a gothic style construction, something very rare in Greece.
The most striking thing inside the palace are its spacious rooms that still preserve the delicately carved wooden furniture such as tables, chairs and seats in meeting rooms, as well as chests.
Of course the gentlemen had good taste when it came to decorating. Many of the large rooms and hallways have exquisite flooring Greek mosaics from between the 2nd and 5th centuries BC, mostly brought from the island of Kos.
- Opening Hours: in summer from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Entrance: 8 euros or 10 euros for the combined ticket for the Palace of the Grand Masters, Archaeological Museum, Church of Our Lady of the Castle and Decorative Arts
- In this link you can get the entrance with audio guide included and without queuing.
👍 Fun fact: most scenes from the movie The cannons of Navarone from 1961 with Gregory Peck, Anthony Quinn and Irene Pappas were filmed in Rhodes and others in Cape Sounion near Athens.
3. Street of Knights
The street that goes from the Grand Master's Palace to the Church of Our Lady of the Castle is the famous Knights Street which has been preserved almost as it was when the knights still lived in Rhodes.
That is to say, cobbled, with its streetlights and its old buildings with beautiful carved coats of arms.
When you walk down this street you are transported back in time and for a moment you have the feeling that at any moment you will meet one of the knights.
4. Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is a 15th century building from the time of the Knights of the Order of Saint John.
The Museum collections include objects brought from archaeological excavations on the island, as well as other Dodecanese islands, such as Nisyros and Karpathos.
Some of the pieces that stand out are the sculptures brought from the Camiros acropolis in Rhodes belonging to the Greek archaic period, between the 8th and 6th centuries BC and a pair of sculptures of Aphrodite from the Hellenistic period.
- Opening Hours: in summer from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Entry Fee:: 6 euros or 10 euros for the combined ticket for the Palace of the Grand Masters, Archaeological Museum, Church of Our Lady of the Castle and Decorative Arts
5. The walls, moat and gates (blue on the map)
Medieval city walls They were built by the knights using the Byzantine walls as a base, even in some areas you can see remains of that old wall.
Rhodes was already walled because It was a rich city and piracy in these areas of the Mediterranean was a problem since the 9th century, long before the arrival of the knights.
In general, the entire wall is in good condition. Some parts were rebuilt because they were destroyed after the bombings of World War II.
From the Canyon Gate (1), next to the Palace, you can make a 2 km route above the walls to the Puerta de San Juan or Red Door (2).
* I have marked the doors on the map with the numbers that I put in parentheses.
There is also another tour you can take around the moat area, to get there there are several entrances. So far I have found two, the main one is next to the New Acandia Gate (3) and another next to the San Antonio Gate (4).
Then you will find 11 entrance gates to the medieval city who are named after the Great Templar Masters or saints.
– These are some of the most famous gates in Rhodes:
- Ambrose (the Grand Master) (5): it is the closest to the palace, it has a triple defensive zone with patrol paths and towers, In addition, you can still see remains of the old wooden doors.
- Saint Athanasius (6): Locals also know it as the Gate of Saint Francis, because it is very close to the Catholic church of Saint Francis of Assisi, built by the Italians. This gate, although not as monumental as that of Ambrosio, from a historical point of view had its importance, because apparently it was the gate that the Ottomans used to enter to conquer Rhodes. But to ensure that other invaders did not enter, the Ottomans closed this door and it was only in 1922 that the Italians reopened it, 400 years later.
- Saint Paul (7): it is one of the most beautiful doors in the old town, although it is almost completely rebuilt. The original gate was built to connect the fortified city with the port of Kolona and at the same time created another access to the port of Mandraki.
To visit the wall, that is, the upper part, you have to pay an entrance fee, the rest can be visited for free.
- Visit schedule to the wall: Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Entry Fee:: 2 euros
- Reserve here Rhodes Old Town Tour on a fun trikke, includes a visit to the new part of the city and Mandraki
6. The Medieval Clock Tower
The medieval Clock Tower is another of the most interesting places to see in Rhodes.
This tower, also known as Roloi, is in the Turkish quarter of the walled city. Although it is known as a medieval tower, it was built on top of a 7th century tower that was already there.
The current tower is Baroque style with wooden stairs inside, from its windows you can see the 360 degree panoramic views, over the city.
This is a short visit to visit the tower and also make a stop to take a break because the ticket includes a drink at the bar at the foot of the tower.
- Opening Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Entry Fee:: 5 euros
7. The Suleiman Mosque
The Suleiman Mosque is the main mosque in the city of Rhodes, with a beautiful white minaret and its typical Ottoman decoration.
This was the first mosque in Rhodes and was given the name Suleiman to commemorate his conquest of the island.
In its construction, elements from other previous buildings were used, for example On the outside the arched pillars belonged to a church.
But unfortunately the mosque cannot be visited.
You can take photos from several of the streets that lead to it and especially from the Clock Tower, which has excellent views of the mosque.
8. Walk along Socrates Street
Socrates Street is the main commercial artery of the old town of Rhodes, with clothing stores, leather footwear, jewelry.
In addition, you will find shops with typical Greek gastronomic products, souvenirs and items related to knights, even you can buy armor. 😁
This street runs from the Suleiman Mosque to Hippocrates Square.
9. Mehmet Aga Mosque
Along Socrates Street there is a wooden building that attracts attention with its Ottoman style, painted in pink and yellow tones.
This building is a very unique construction mosque because it lacks the typical minaret where the call to prayer is made and the dome, on the other hand, It has a wooden roof with a tower.
The Mehmet Aga Mosque began construction in 1820 and originally included the minaret and a balcony, but both fell into disrepair during World War II and were removed.
Another thing that draws attention is its façade, which is not aligned with that of the other buildings on the street, but rather It faces Mecca, the holy city of Muslims.
Next to the entrance, there is a old Arabic fountain from 1875 with beautiful engravings. This fountain had a double function, first for the ablutions of Muslim believers before praying and as a fountain for drinking water.
Today, the mosque remains closed and there are several shops on the ground floor.
The truth is that it was quite difficult for me to find its name and know what it was, because it does not appear on Google Maps nor do the guides talk about it despite its beauty.
10. Hippocrates Square
If you continue the walk along Socrates Street you will reach the popular Hippocrates Square, the main square of the old town of Rhodes.
Several commercial streets lead into the square, with small shops and restaurants, a meeting place famous for its nightlife.
The most remarkable thing is the ornamental fountain in the center of the square and the building that served as the Court of Justice of the Knights Hospitaller, built in the 14th century.
11. Jewish Martyrs Square
If you continue the walk along Aristotle Street you will reach the Jewish Martyrs Square with a plaque commemorating the Jews who were deported by the Nazis to concentration camps.
In the square there are several restaurants and cafes where you can have a drink quietly in the shade of its centuries-old trees.
Another thing that stands out in this square in the middle of the neighborhood is a small Fountain with Seahorses, in theory it is another memorial to the Jewish martyrs.
12. The Synagogue
In the heart of the Jewish neighborhood is the Kahal Kadosh Shalom synagogue, which means Congregation of Holy Peace.
This synagogue is believed to It was built in 1577 and the only one on the island that has services for its super-small community.
At its peak was in 1930, when the Jewish population of the island reached about 4,000 members, today only 35 remain.
The construction of the synagogue is Sephardic style and it is one of the most beautiful synagogues. The floors are made with beautiful black and white mosaics like those you will find in the rest of the old town and other parts of the island.
Inside, there is also a museum that houses a large collection, including a 16th century torah and old clothes brought from Spain by the Jews who fled the Spanish Inquisition.
- Visiting hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. except Saturdays
- Entry Fee:: 6 euros
- Reserve one here electric scooter to visit Rhodes without getting tired
13. Church of the Virgin Mary of the Burgh
This 14th century gothic church It was built by knights.
However, in the bombings of World War II it was almost completely destroyed.
Only 3 apses remain standing that remember its presence and give it a certain spiritual air, therefore, it continues to be one of the most photographed places in Rhodes.
14. New Agora
The new Agora or (new market) is located in the new part of the city, between the old town and the port of Mandraki.
This market was Built by the Italians starting in 1920, it is Arabic style with a beautiful dome and the interior is open to the sky, inside is the old fish market.
Nowadays it no longer functions as a market, instead, there are clothing, souvenir stalls and several restaurants. In fact, one of the cafes that I recommend at the end of the article is inside the Agora. 😉
15. Mandraki (violet on the map)
Mandraki Harbor It was the military port and is the oldest in Rhodes.
Its name literally means "stable" and refers to the fact that it was protected by the dock that surrounds it and the boats entered in an orderly manner as if it were a stable, taking up as little space as possible.
Today it is one of the main marinas with sailboats and luxury yachts that dock there, where you can also find boats to rent at a good price, even some without a license.
Boats also leave from Mandraki for the diving dives in Rhodes like this one from the link.
– In the dock area there are several interesting places to visit:
- The mills: Today there are 3 mills left, but in the time of the knights there were 13 in total, they were lined up all over the dock.
- Fort of St. Nicholas: Originally there was a tower that guarded the port of Mandraki, then the bastion was built surrounding the tower and forming the Fort of Saint Nicholas. The name is due to the fact that Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of sailors.
- Deer Column: Then at the end of the pier there is a column topped by a deer, on the other side of the entrance to Mandraki there is another deer. According to legend, this was the place where the Colossus of Rhodes was, although recent studies indicate that it could have been where the Palace of the Knights is located.
– Colossus of Rhodes
The Colossus of Rhodes It was one of the ancient Seven Wonders.
It was an impressive statue of sun god Helios 32 m high Built in 292 BC, it stood on a white marble pedestal 15 m high.
Unfortunately, the Colossus of Rhodes He did not survive the earthquake of 226 BC.That is, it only lasted 66 years.
🐱 Between the mills and the fort of San Nicolás there is a colony of cats (4), there is usually a man who is in charge of feeding and taking care of them.
If you like cats and it is within your means, you can contribute with money, which you use for this colony and others on the island, in total it cares for about 120 cats.
16. Acropolis of Lindos
The acropolis of Lindos is one of the must-see stops in Rhodes, perhaps the most impressive place to see on the island.
Is there another Acropolis apart from that of Athens?
Generally, when talking about the Acropolis it is associated with that of Athens, but The word acropolis in Greek means “city on high.” and you can find them throughout Greece.
These cities were characterized by being in elevated areas, sometimes next to a cliff and sometimes they were fortified.
In Rhodes, there are three acropolises, the most famous and spectacular is Lindos, then there is another near the city of Rhodes and Camiros.
What to see in the Lindos acropolis?
Lindos is located strategically located on the cliff next to the sea, an excellent defensive point that functioned as a watchtower.
The acropolis has beautiful views over the sea. The most beautiful view is towards the bay where Agios Pavlos beach is (Saint Paul).
This bay is known as the “pool,” because from the acropolis it appears to have no access to the sea.
In the acropolis of Lindos there are constructions from different periods, from the Dorians, who were the founders of the acropolis in the 10th century BC until the knights of the Order of Saint John.
The most emblematic building in the complex is the temple of Athena Lindia from the 6th century BC Hellenistic style, although a few columns remain, it maintains all its majesty.
– How to get from Rhodes to Lindos?
To get there you have this bus to Lindos which has several stops, one to take photos from a viewpoint and they also take you to the 7 Springs.
Although, the most fun option is to go boat to Lindos, with stops to swim at the most spectacular beaches in Rhodes, to make it a very complete day, below you can see availability and book.
– What to bring to Lindos?
If you are going to visit Lindos you will need comfortable shoes, bring water and your sun protection kit, that is, sunscreen, glasses and a hat.
Also, if you have a skin problem that you want extra sun protection, I recommend a umbrella for the sun, because in the acropolis of Lindos the heat can be overwhelming, as in other archaeological sites in Greece.
- Opening Hours: in summer from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Price: 12 euros
17. Anthony Quinn Bay and Beach
In Rhodes you will find many beautiful beaches but none like Anthony Quinn with its turquoise waters.
This cove sheltered by a rocky cliff It is the perfect place to relax and sunbathe while having a drink from their little bar.
Furthermore, because the bay is protected, it is the best place in Rhodes for snorkeling with corals and rich marine life.
Another good idea is explore the area by kayak where you will find several caves and you can do the well-known pirate route that preyed on wealthy Rhodes.
👉 Fun fact: the name of the bay is by the Mexican actor known as Anthony Quinn who fell in love with her beauty when she was on the island to film The cannons of Navarone. He bought land in that part of the island and even He was the one who opened the road that leads to the bay, which until then was a path.
– Hiking in Anthony Quinn
If you like hiking, this area of the island It is very picturesque for hiking trails with views over the bay Anthony Quinn, towards Faliraki and also through the Ladiko area, which is the beach before Anthony Quinn if you arrive by road.
In case you go hiking in the Ladiko area you will find a pair of tanks from World War II. Although more than tanks, they are just the top part with the hatch and the cannon.
– How to get to Anthony Quinn Bay?
The best alternatives to Anthony Quinn are to drive or go on a boat tour.
In fact, one of the best experiences to do in Rhodes is a boat tour like this link in a catamaran with lunch included, with unlimited beer and wine.
🤩 Another good alternative is this Full-Day Rhodes Boat Tour with stops in Anthony Quinn, Tsambika and Lindos, so you can take advantage of seeing various sites.
📢 Friend's tip: If when you travel to Rhodes you are going to go to the beach, don't forget to bring the water booties, because many beaches are made of stones. Those from the link are cheap and of good quality, on the island they cost twice as much and at most you use them twice and they break. 😝
18. Rent a boat
One of the funnest things to do in Rhodes is rent a boat to explore its beautiful beaches with turquoise water, with caves and beautiful bays, including Anthony Quinn.
On this beautiful island the range of rental boats is very wide and with good prices, but I recommend that you look carefully at where you rent so as not to be disappointed.
A good search engine for rent a boat in Rhodes This is the link, that the boats are in good condition, you can compare prices and see other people's comments.
You will even find for rent boats without a license in Rhodes, like this one from the link that costs very cheap, yes, you will need to reserve it in advance because it is in high demand.
If you know how to sail, you will find good options for sailboats and catamarans for less than 300 euros per day depending on the season, like this one Dufour 390 GL sailboat 12 m in length for 8 people.
⭐ You may also be interested in this article about 6 Best Places to Rent a Boat in Greece, which includes practical tips.
19. Visit to Symi
Another of the most beautiful places to visit is Symi, it is a small island just 1 hour by ferry from Rhodes.
In fact, The only way to get to Symi is from Rhodes.
Symi Island It is one of the most picturesque in the Dodecanese with its main town built into the side of the mountain with small cobbled streets full of charm.
This peculiar island, unlike the other Greek islands, was built by the Italians when they were in the Dodecanese.
So, instead of the classic Greek island postcard with white houses with blue doors and windows, you will find multicolored homes that They are more reminiscent of the Italian Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre.
😋 Gastronomic advice: try seafood and fish dishes, especially Symi's prawns They are small, deep orange and they are served almost whole (without the head), they are eaten like this and have a crunchy texture and a great flavor.
– How to visit Symi?
To get to Symi you can do it by boat, on this website you can see ferry schedules, price and get the tickets.
🤿 In case you stay in Symi, you can take advantage of do diving, here you can book the dives at a good price. There are several interesting spots for diving, including the Sinking of a German ship from World War II.
If not, the most popular alternative is to go with a tour Symi one day, which leaves you time to see the town.
In addition, they make a stop in the town on the other side of the island, Panormitis, where the monastery dedicated to the Archangel Saint Michael, a place of pilgrimage for the Greeks.
Other tours, instead of going to Panormitis do a stop in St. George's Bay, a spectacular place, which can only be accessed by boat because it is surrounded by a vertical rocky wall.
If you go in summer, I recommend the tour with a stop in the bay, because with the heat, taking a dip there is a joy. 😍
Below you can see the availability and book the visit to Symi with St. George's Bay:
20. Kalithea Springs
The Kalithea springs are one of the most fascinating places to see in Rhodes, a place built by the Italians in 1929.
This unique place is in an area of springs known for their healing properties.
The luxurious spa that was designed in Art Deco style, with beautiful gardens, mosaic floors, beautiful columns and elegant ornamentation. A site inaugurated by the Italian king Vittorio Emanuele.
Kalithea Springs is one of the most emblematic places on the island which served as a setting for some films.
The facility is located right in front of a beautiful beach, where you can take the opportunity to take a swim and relax.
If you combine it with the beach, you can spend a very pleasant half day with an entry fee at an affordable price.
📢 Fact: There is no thermal center in Kalithea Springs, the visit includes its beautiful buildings and garden, the area of a small cliff next to the sea, the spring that goes down the rock wall to the sea and the beach.
- Summer schedule: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Entry Fee:: 4 euros
😎 Advice: If you are going to visit the area, I recommend that explore other beaches that are nearby such as: Kokkini beach, Oasis Beach, Tasos beach and Nicolas beach.
21. Valley of the Butterflies
The Butterfly Valley in Rhodes is a rather peculiar place to see the butterflies that migrate massively in summer to the island and settle there.
The place is also known as Petaloudes which is the Greek word for “butterflies” and It is a natural refuge in a charming wooded area, with waterfalls and streams where there are walkways built.
The valley area is beautiful in itself, but in summer it is covered with millions of butterflies that create a multicolored blanket without equal.
Butterflies are actually moths of the species Panaxia Quadripunctaria, but unlike other moths, they have a very pretty pattern and show a cheerful orange color on their wings when flying.
As this is a nature reserve, you have to follow some rules so as not to disturb the butterflies and it is prohibited to make loud noises (clap, whistle, etc.) or chase them.
Once in the valley, you can also make a Hiking route to Kalopetra Monastery along a 1.3 km trail.
The most practical way to get there is by car or with this excursion to the Valley of the Butterflies which includes a visit to Filerimos.
- Opening Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Price: in summer 5 euros and the rest of the year 3 euros
- Visiting time to see the butterflies: from mid-June to mid-September
22. Seven Springs
The Seven Springs (or Epta Piges in Greek) are one of the natural wonders of the island of Rhodes and as its name indicates, there are 7 springs of clean, crystalline water that spring up in the area.
Starting in the 20s of the last century, the Italians began to build a tunnel to channel water from the springs and the Loutanis River.
The tunnel is 150m long and 2.5m high and you can walk through it if you don't have claustrophobia. Of course, take some shoes that you don't mind getting wet or some flip-flops because the water circulates on the floor.
The Seven Springs area is a true oasis of refreshing peace in a wooded area where there is a waterfall and an artificial lake.
This lake was built to use the water as source of irrigation for crops in Kolympia, the town down the hill towards the coast.
There you will meet some very peculiar inhabitants, peacocks in freedom, which are actually quite common in many parks and forested areas of the island.
In the same place there is a restaurant with a varied menu, specializing in meats and Greek food in general.
If you are traveling to Rhodes in summer and it coincides with a heat wave, this is an excellent place to visit, a place that you can visit with this excursion to 7 springs and Lindos.
- Opening Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Admission: free
23. Tsambika Beach (ideal for families)
Beaches cannot be missing from a good list of things to see in Rhodes and it won't be options.
The Tsambika beach is one of the most popular on the island, with its 800 m long of fine, golden sand, something that not all beaches on the island have.
Its crystal-clear waters invite you to take a swim on this beach with a calm atmosphere.
tsambika too It is the favorite beach for families, for his huge inflatable park which is in the water, suitable for children and not so children, where fun is guaranteed at a good price. 💦
The full day costs 18 euros and they have discounts for families.
This beach has a nearby parking, sun lounger and umbrella service, as well as several restaurants and bars so you can spend the whole day enjoying this wonderful beach.
Although, due to its popularity and easy access, it can get quite crowded at times.
👉 Tip for families or water park lovers: If you are looking for adrenaline, in Rhodes there is an excellent water park for children and adults, here you can book skip the line entry.
24. Tsambika Church
The Church of the Virgin Mary of Tsambika is a place of religious pilgrimage of the Greeks, especially seeking to be blessed with fertility to have children.
For this reason, in Rhodes and other Dodecanese islands there are many people called Tsambika or Tsambiko, in honor of the virgin.
The church is part of a monastery and is traditional greek architecture with beautiful frescoes.
However, the main reason for tourist visits are its impressive panoramic views over the Aegean Sea and Tsambika beach, which takes its name from the church.
To access the church you must climb a steep staircase of no less than 300 steps, but the effort is worth it.
- Visiting hours: 24 hours
- Admission: free
25. Traganou Beach
Traganou beach is one of the most unique on the island and in which you will not find any sand, there are only stones.
In the northern part there is an area of huge caves that are spectacular and they are the biggest attraction of this beach along with its turquoise waters.
In ancient times, before Rhodes was a tourist site, The locals used the caves to extract salt that accumulated naturally. Salt in those times was a product that was valued very well.
Another of the attractions of Traganou beach is the offer of water activities where you can rent a jet ski and it is the best place to practice wakeboarding in Rhodes.
26. Stegna Beach
Stegna beach is next to the fishing village of the same name and is characterized by its fine golden sand, but with some areas with stones.
As it is a more secluded beach has remained quieter, without too many tourist-focused shops or nightlife.
There you will find all the amenities you need to spend a relaxing day on the beach, such as the rental of sun loungers and umbrellas, restaurants at good prices in a family atmosphere.
It is also an ideal place for take a SUP ride (paddle surf) in the area next to cliffs and snorkelling.
27. Wilder beaches (green on the map)
The most beautiful and popular beaches are on the same coastline that runs from Rhodes Town through Lindos to the other end and you will find many more than I mentioned above.
However, the other side of the island is full of much wilder and less crowded beaches.
Another characteristic of that part of the island is the wind, it is an area that blows much more.
For this reason, these beaches attract lovers of water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing where you can do camps to learn these sports, improve your level or rent equipment.
If you are interested in making a windsurf camp in Rhodes, this is the best, or a kitesurf camp, otherwise you can reserve one here punctual windsurfing class.
Some of the most interesting beaches in that area are:
- ixia: It is a narrow and long beach, mostly made of stones. Near the hotel area there are umbrellas and sun loungers to rent, the rest of the beach, although it is next to an inhabited area, does not have any type of service.
- Paradise: a beautiful beach with deep blue waters, with a mix of stones and sand. A quiet place to relax, although the peace can be disturbed by the arrival of planes because it is right next to the airport.
- Theologians: a beautiful beach away from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism but with services such as sun loungers and umbrellas. A beach where there is a lot of wind and some waves.
Where to eat in Rhodes?
These are some of my favorite places to eat in Rhodes Town:
- Symi traditional coffee: Traditional Greek food at a good price where smoked fish and squid dishes stand out. It is located right on the square inside the new Agora. They open at 1 p.m.
- Mom Sofia: the best traditional Greek food restaurant in Rhodes. They have a varied menu and good prices. The lamb dishes and the house moussaka stand out, which is scrumptious. Although they don't have the menu in Spanish, don't be surprised that the waiter speaks it a little. 😉
- RoYo: Delicious creamy and homemade ice creams to cool you down. They also have frozen yogurt, smoothies, and coffees.
- Auvergne Cafe Bar Restaurant: Although it is very close to the Palacio de los Caballeros, it is an oasis of peace with soft music, in a very charming corner. It is a mid-priced restaurant with very good Greek cuisine, any dish you choose will be a success.
Greece is a country with a long tradition in wine making, if you want to try its best wines, I recommend this wine tasting in Rhodes with an expert.
Rhodes Map
* To check the legend for each place, click the button in the top left corner of the map. To view this map on your phone or computer, tap the star on the right side of the title. Then go to Google Maps, select "Your Places" and "Maps" from the menu.
How to get to Rhodes?
From Spain
To go to Rhodes from Spain there are no direct flights, you will have to stop in Athens, or other places in Greece such as Thessaloniki or Crete.
From Athens
To go to Rhodes from Athens the most practical thing is by plane, which takes approximately 1 hour and usually has good prices.
On this website you can see flight schedules to Rhodes, find offers and make the reservation.
From Rhodes airport to the city
From Rhodes airport to go to the city you can do it by taxi or with this transfer service that will be waiting for you and the price is per car.
How to get around Rhodes?
Rhodes Old Town and Center
To explore the old town and the center the cheapest way is on foot.
If you don't want to get tired you can alternate the route with the touristic bus (here you can reserve) or with the rental of an electric scooter which will give you a lot of flexibility in your visit.
Rest of the island
Then, to visit the rest of the island, it is most practical to drive, because taxis are usually expensive, even for short distances.
To rent a car in Rhodes This is the best search engine with good prices.
If you don't want to drive, there are many excursions at good prices that I have linked to throughout the article.
Nearby Greek Islands and Türkiye
Rhodes is well connected by sea mainly with the other Dodecanese islands, some of the most interesting of which are Cos, Patmos, Kalimnos and Kastellorizo.
In addition, Rhodes is very close to Turkey and is perfect to take advantage of your trip to visit the Turkish Riviera area.
From Rhodes there are direct ferries to Marmaris and Fethiye which take between 1 hour and an hour and a half.
On this website you can see the schedules, prices and book ferry tickets from Rhodes to the other islands or to Türkiye.
⭐ You may also be interested in this article about How to go to the Greek islands and move between them?
Where to stay in Rhodes?
The best area of the island to stay is in the city of Rhodes, the area within the walls is the most beautiful and will be good for you if you are going to stay for a few days.
These are the best hotels in Rhodes town:
- Cheap: Stavros Pension with clean rooms and well located.
- Half: Hotel Ellique It has charming rooms in the heart of the medieval city and delicious breakfasts.
- Luxury: Utopia Luxury Suites They are elegant apartments with all the comforts and an excellent breakfast included.
If you prefer to go to the beach and relax, I recommend the hotels and resorts in Rhodes that are on the south coast, where the most beautiful beaches are. For me, the best area is the one that goes from Kalithea to Faliraki and continuing a little further.
Here are some of the best hotels on the beaches of Rhodes:
- Half: Zoes Hotel & Suites Close to the beach and within walking distance of Anthony Quinn Bay and with good breakfasts.
- Luxury: Ammades All Suites Beach Hotel It is elegant, with a huge pool, is next to the beach and has a very relaxed atmosphere.
What to take on a trip to Rhodes?
In addition to your normal beach kit, I am going to recommend some things that you cannot forget and are important to visit Rhodes, here are the links:
- Water bottle: A good way to save money is with a refillable water bottle because the tap water is drinkable in Rhodes and at the same time it is a way to avoid single-use plastics that pollute so much. This collapsible bottle It is super practical because when empty it takes up very little.
- reef-safe sunscreen: If you go swimming, I recommend using a reef-safe sunscreen that does not harm corals.
- water shoes: This is a must in Rhodes and other Greek islands because many beaches are made of stones.
- Comfortable shoes: Bring comfortable shoes to visit the island, such as sneakers that have some grip or hiking sandals like the ones in the link that are suitable for all terrains, even for getting into the water, or these others for men.
- umbrella for the sun: I recommend this if you have skin problems or want to have extra protection, because the sun in Greece in summer is very strong and is especially noticeable when you visit the ruins.
How many days to dedicate to Rhodes?
Rhodes is an island that can be a destination on its own or you can easily combine it with other Dodecanese islands or even with Türkiye, as I told you before.
If you want to see the most emblematic places of the island with its rich history, at the same time enjoy the beach and activities at sea I recommend that you dedicate at least 4 days to it.
But if you have less time, I give you some ideas to prepare your itinerary through Rhodes:
What to see in Rhodes in 1 day cruise
If you are only visiting Rhodes in 1 day, the best thing you can see is the old town part.
Another place you should see is the Lindos acropolis, but if you go on your own you will have very little time.
Therefore, you can reserve this tour of the old town and Lindos with guide in Spanish, to see the best of the island.
What to see in Rhodes in 2 days
On a 2-day trip to Rhodes you have time to add a visit to the beautiful Anthony Quinn Bay. You can take advantage of go by boat and visit Lindos the same day.
Then, the next day take the opportunity to visit the medieval city of Rhodes and depending on the free time you have left you can go to Kalithea.
What to see in Rhodes in 3 days
In the event that you travel to Rhodes for 3 days, in addition to the visits that I suggest for 2 days, I would add the tour to Symi with St. George's Bay or visiting some of the beaches of Rhodes.
Final Thoughts
These are the best things to see in Rhodes, an island that has a lot to offer for a good vacation.
If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. 👍❤
More about the Greek islands and Greece
- How to go to the Greek islands and move between them?
- When to Travel to the Greek islands.
- Free Museum Entry Days in Athens and Greece
- How to Get from Athens to Santorini: ferry or plane
Hello, I’m Andrea, the creator and writer of Viajeros Activos (Active Travelers). I’m a nomad, so I consider myself a full-time traveler. I’m passionate about good food and always looking for new adventures.