Rhodes Travel Guide, Greece

People looking for things to do in Rhodes find a mix of medieval history, beaches and ancient ruins on one island. Rhodes is the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands and the ninth largest in the Mediterranean. It has long been known as the Island of the Sun, and also as the Island of the Knights, after the Knights of Saint John who ruled it from 1310 to 1522.

In antiquity it was famous for the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today the medieval Old Town of the city of Rhodes is a World Heritage Site, and the island is one of Europe’s popular holiday destinations, with a population of around 125,000 as of 2022.

The climate is typically sunny and mild, with lively resorts on the northern coast and tranquil beaches in the south. That makes the island flexible: you can base yourself in the city for history, on a resort coast for nightlife, or in a quiet village.

Explore the medieval Old Town

Walls, gates and cobbled streets enclose a living medieval city, including the Street of the Knights. Allow half a day or more. Tip: go early, wear flat shoes for the cobbles, and expect crowds when cruise ships are in port.

Visit the Palace of the Grand Master

The fortress-like palace in the Old Town recalls the era of the Knights. Allow about two hours. Tip: check opening days and ticket rules, since hours change by season.

Climb to the Acropolis of Lindos

Lindos is a whitewashed village below an ancient acropolis with views over the bay. Allow half a day. Tip: the climb is steep and exposed, so go early or late, take water and expect queues in high season.

Spend a day on the beaches

The island has long beaches on both coasts, with the east generally calmer and the west windier. Allow a full day. Tip: check local conditions, since wind can change the sea state quickly.

Visit the ancient city of Kamiros

This archaeological site on the west coast offers ruins of an ancient town. Allow around two hours. Tip: there is little shade, so bring a hat and water, and check opening times.

Drive into the interior

Villages, pine forests and hill roads give a quieter side of Rhodes. Allow half a day. Tip: take a map, fuel up before heading inland, and expect slow, winding roads.

Stroll the harbour in Rhodes town

The harbour area is the evening meeting point, with cafes and views of the walls. Allow an hour or two. Tip: restaurants right on the harbour tend to be pricier, so check menus first.

Rhodes has a sunny, mild climate. Summers are hot and dry, with the busiest and most expensive weeks in July and August, and the sea is warm into the autumn. Late spring and early autumn are good for sightseeing, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter is mild but quiet, and many resort businesses close, though the city of Rhodes stays active.

For beach holidays, September is often a good choice, as the sea is still warm and the crowds have thinned.

Rhodes International Airport has regular flights from Athens and, in the holiday season, direct flights from many European cities. Ferries and hydrofoils connect the island with Athens and other Dodecanese islands, though schedules are seasonal, so check current options.

On the island, buses link Rhodes city with the main resorts and villages, and taxis are available. Many visitors hire a car or scooter to reach quieter beaches and villages, which gives the most freedom but needs care on narrow, winding roads. In summer, book rental cars ahead, since demand is high.

The island is large enough that where you stay decides your trip.

• Rhodes city and the Old Town: best for history, restaurants and walking, with good bus links.
• Northern coast resorts: suited to travellers who want lively beaches, bars and organised activities.
• Lindos: a picturesque base for couples and sightseers, though busy and pricier in high season.
• The quieter south: good for tranquil beaches and a slower pace, with a car recommended.

Prices rise sharply in July and August, so book ahead and check cancellation terms.

Four to five days lets you see the Old Town, Lindos and several beaches. A long weekend is enough for the city and one other highlight, while a week lets you add the interior and southern coast at a relaxed pace.

1. Day 1: Old Town, the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master, then a harbour dinner.
2. Day 2: Drive or take a bus to Lindos, climb the acropolis early and spend the afternoon on the beach.
3. Day 3: Kamiros and the west coast, with a late swim.

Add days for the interior villages, southern beaches or a boat trip to another island.

Symi

Symi is a small island known for its colourful harbour houses, reached by boat from Rhodes. Allow a day. Check boat schedules and weather, as sea conditions affect crossings.

Halki

Halki is a small, quiet island west of Rhodes, with a tiny harbour village. It suits a relaxed day or overnight stop. Check ferry timetables, as services are limited.

Santorini

Santorini is a popular Cyclades island with a caldera and cliff villages. It is a long way from Rhodes, so it fits a longer island-hopping route. Check ferry and flight connections in advance.

Crete

Crete is the largest Greek island, northeast of which Rhodes sits. It is too far for a day trip, so treat it as a separate stop. Check flights and ferry options before planning.