The attractions, history, weather and things to do in Rhodes make it an island well worth visiting for everyone.
Rhodes is one of the rare European destinations that is perfect to visit at almost any time of the year.
You certainly won’t find many other places that can boast consistent 30°C temperatures in late September.
Add to this the numerous amazing beaches in Rhodes, a fascinating history to learn about, and even a vibrant medieval city to explore…
Yes, there’s plenty of things to do in Rhodes to appeal to everyone.
How can you make the most of your trip though?
After all, you probably don’t have the time to visit every single thing the island has to offer.
That’s where the list below comes in!
Discover the best activities and attractions in Rhodes, the most beautiful beaches to relax on, and which places you just have to see!
1. Rhodes Medieval City and Old Town
Rhodes Town is home to one of the few remaining examples of a medieval city that is still living and breathing.
A short glance into Rhodes’ fascinating history will demonstrate how diverse this area is, with Turkish, Italian, Christian and more influences.
You can wander around the cobbled streets of this UNESCO Heritage site and there is so much to see.
Imposing ruins tell the history of this Dodecanese island.
Many shops selling fascinating goods will catch your eye (we bought a chessboard with Greek gods for pieces).
Enticing restaurants with mouthwatering souvlakia, seafood and mezzes will tempt you inside.
And there are also a frankly unbelievable amount of cats!
Highlights and best places in Rhodes Town:
Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
This castle is one of the highlights of Rhodes and Rhodes town, cementing the Medieval history and vibe of the place.
Now it functions mainly as a museum that you can wander through which has many interesting pieces.
However, if you don’t have time to go inside we don’t feel you are missing too much – the most impressive part for us was the walk along the bridge and through the main castle entry before you get to the ticket office.
Entry: 6€ (free for students, over 65, and other reasons)
Street of the Knights
One of the prettiest streets in Rhodes, it’s cobbled path runs from the palace towards the medieval city.
You also have 7 symbolic inns that have been well-preserved and are still functional, representing the 7 countries of the Knights of the Order of St.John.
Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
Well preserved and organised collection of archaeological (a word “that comes from the Greek” – arkhaiologia means ‘ancient history’) artifacts from parts of Rhodes and surrounding islands.
There is also a nice garden to seek refuge from Rhodes’ sweltering heat
Entry: 6€
Roloi Clock Tower
Roloi Clock Tower is the highest point in Old Town, where you can get a beautiful view.
Entry: 5€
2. Lindos
Lindos is undeniably one of the most beautiful villages in Rhodes.
There are a couple of very big reasons for this.
Firstly, the beach and nearby bays are gorgeous. The sand is golden and fine, the water is crystal clear and you have a wonderful view all around.
You do have to pay 5€ for a sunbed, but you can also just set your towel down if you fancy! Either way, just listening to the calm surf and watching the water is pretty mesmerising.
One of the key elements of this view is the Acropolis and white buildings built right onto the hill.
The Acropolis itself sits right at the top of the hill, and offers an unbelievable view of Lindos to admire. Sure, you have to exert some sweat to get to the top (avoid hitching a donkey ride as they don’t seem looked after at all), but it’s really worth it.
Beware, queues to get into the Acropolis though are sometimes really long, so go earlier if you can to see the classic Greek pillars and ruins inside.
Just below the acropolis on the hill, you have a collection of beautiful white buildings, housing restaurants, souvenir shops, and more attractions.
Walking through these shaded streets is wonderful, and we almost felt like we were in Santorini for a second!
Just a heads up though – Lindos IS quite touristy, so there will likely be lots of people around.
3. Mandraki Port
A short trip outside Rhodes old town’s walls will land you in the more modern port of Mandraki. If you are coming into Rhodes town by ferry or boat, this is usually where you’ll be dropped off.
Initially the undeniable highlight of Mandraki was the Colossus of Rhodes – an enormous 30m statue of the sun-god Helios which stood over the entrance to the port.
Unfortunately the statue collapsed due to an earthquake in 226BC.
However it’s not all bad news. Two deer statues stand in its place, symbolising Rhodes and offering a nice welcome sight to visitors.
In Mandraki we’d suggest checking out the various sights of the Rhodes Acropolis, Archbishops Palace and Pythian Temple of Apollo.
For a delightfully cheap and quick bite, Gregory’s is a 5 minute walk. We had a fresh flapjack just out of the oven and a spanakopita (spinach and feta pastry), and they were SO good.
4. Kalithea Springs
Looking to recharge and purge the stress of your daily responsibilities?
Kalithea Springs are actually renowned for their therapeutic qualities. Once upon a time, visitors would come to try and find an unconventional cure for their ailments.
In 2007 the Springs were re-opened after a period of neglect, and now provides a charming getaway for the soul and body.
Mosaic floors, concerts and exhibitions are some of the attractions, plus the obligatory beach you can chill on.
Entry = 3€
5. Ancient City of Kamiros
If you’re thinking this list hasn’t had nearly enough historical points of interest so far, then let’s fix that right now.
Kamiros is pure ruins. The site looks like something that belongs in Rome.
Founded by the Dorians, Kamiros past was primarily in the agricultural production of oil, wine and figs.
And if you didn’t know, figs are kind of a big deal for Greeks. Come between a man and a fig at your own peril.
Highlights include the Temple of Athena, Doric fountain and the Acropolis.
Entry = 6€
5. Visit the best beaches in Rhodes
Lindos Beach, Lindos: A beautiful stretch of soft, fine sand with an incredible view of the Acropolis. Quite touristy, but worth it.
Anthony Quinn Bay, Faliraki : Named after the actor who starred in a film here, the emerald waters surrounded by greenery make Anthony Quinn Bay a great place to relax. There are a lot of rocks though, so aqua shoes are advised.
Tsambika Beach, Kolymbia: One of the most popular beaches in Rhodes, Tsambika beach is gloriously beautiful. It’s also quite busy, but there is more space so it’s less crowded.
Kiotari Beach, Kiotari: Calm sea water and a location about 30 minutes from Lindos makes this beach perfect for a quiet swim and relaxation.
Prasonisi Beach, Macheria: Prasonisi is a uniquely amazing place, as you have 2 beaches in one. The beach divides the Aegean and Mediterranean Sea, making for breathtaking views and ocean everywhere you look.
Agathi Beach, Agathi: Locals love Agathi beach as it escapes the attention of most tourists. The beach though is just as impressive and beautiful as other, busier ones on the island and well worth visiting.
St. Paul’s Bay, Lindos: Just round the corner from Lindos beach, this bay offers lovely views but can get quite crowdedAfandou Beach, Afandou: Another quiet beach good for families or travellers looking for an uncrowded beach to relax on. It’s a mixture of sand and pebbles.
7. Valley of the Butterflies
For the best experience, you’ll want to head to the Valley of the Butterflies between June and September.
During this time the many trails and trees are covered in butterflies, creating a scene straight out of a magical children’s book.
The reason for this phenomenon is rather more scientific though: the trees are a rare species of plane tree, and the butterflies love its sap almost as much as Greeks love figs.
This fondness also makes the Valley of the Butterflies one of Europe’s best butterfly sanctuaries.
The area is still nice outside of these months without the butterflies… but let’s be honest, it’s just not the same.
Entry: 5€ (or 2€ outside of June-September)
8. Day Trip to Symi Island
Did you know that you can take a day trip from Rhodes and think you are on the Amalfi Coast?
Symi Island provides just that opportunity – this place is one of the most colourful places on the Aegean sea.
Symi Island is also known for its standout beaches, like St. George’s Bay.
Getting here takes a 2 hour boat trip from Mandraki port in Rhodes town, leaving at 9AM. Then usually you will have about 3 hours and 30 minutes to explore the island.
This is one of the best day trips you can do from Rhodes, and a fantastic way to make the most of your stay.
Price: ~30€ from Mandraki port
9. Tsambika Monastery
Tsambika Monastery offers one of the best views in all of Rhodes.
Just like the Lindos Acropolis, the 300 steps up to this Byzantine church will mean you have to earn the view… but we think it can be even sweeter that way!
The historical reason why women used to make this journey is also fascinating – it’s said that women who could not get pregnant used to make the trip. If they were successful in getting pregnant afterwards, they had to name their child after the Monastery!
You can take a trip here to enjoy the outstanding view of Rhodes, and then head down to one of Rhodes’ best beaches straight after.
You can even incorporate the next item on the list, as it’s not far at all from Tsambika Monastery.
10. Seven Springs / Efta Piges
There aren’t many sounds more calming than running water.
After the business of Lindos or Rhodes Town, you may want somewhere to relax with nature away from the hustle and bustle.
Seven Springs is one of the best places in Rhodes to have such a peaceful experience, or just escape from the heat
It’s worth noting you shouldn’t expect cascading waterfalls, and a total lack of man-made structures.
In fact, the long and dark underground tunnel in Seven Springs is one of its main attractions and definitely not very relaxing for those who don’t like tight spaces.
However this area is still nice to visit, with a tasty local taverna right by the water.
Entry = free
11. Monolithos Castle
The ruins of this 15th-century castle sit on a cliff, surrounded by stunning views.
You’ll find a small church and charming arch at the top too.
Nowhere else in the South West of Rhodes offers such an incredible panorama, and you won’t regret travelling here just for the scenery.
Fourni beach also is a 10 minute drive to create a nice day itinerary.
Where is best to stay in Rhodes?
Lindos is best for beautiful scenery, and fancy restaurants
Rhodes Town is best for city explorers who don’t need a beach
Kiotari is best for quiet beaches further from main tourist hotspots
Kolymbia is best for a base to Lindos and Rhodes town, with its own nice beaches
Faliraki is best for nightlife and an energetic vibe
Kallithea is Best for beautiful beach resorts
Pefkos is best for those looking for quiet near Lindos
How many days best to spend in Rhodes?
7-8 nights is the best amount of time.
You need 3 or 4 days at least to see the main attractions in Rhodes. This then leaves some days to enjoy the lovely beaches the island has to offer.
We spent 10 days because we were after more of the lazy beach experience, but you can shorten your trip if a few days beach is enough for you.
Has this guide convinced you to book your trip to Rhodes? Find out how to get the best deals on flights and hotels with our Plan Your Trip section.
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