30 Best Places to Visit & Things to Do in Rhodes, Greece

Discover the best things to do in Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese Islands, located at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea routes, the Aegean Sea and the coast of the Middle East.

Because of its strategic position, Rhodes, one of the most prominent cities of ancient Greece, was invaded by many civilizations, including the Arabs, the Romans, the Knights of Saint John, the Ottoman, and the Italians.

Nowadays the only invasion we see on Rhodes are millions of tourists flocking to the island to discover why it is considered one of the best places to visit in Europe.

There are many things to do in Rhodes, the island of the god Sun, Apollo, and the famous Colossus. It exudes natural beauty, and history and has something for every traveller’s wanderlust.

In this guide, you will find what to do in Rhodes and many tips to help you have an unforgettable time in Greece.

Some of the most popular tours on Rhodes:

Planning a Trip to Rhodes – Greece

Where is Rhodes?

Rhodes is situated 363 km (226 mi) from the Greek mainland, and 18 km (11 mi) from the southern shore of Turkey (check the exact location here).

How to get there?

You can get to Rhodes by ferry or plane.

• By plane

Rhodes has two airports: a military airport, situated in Maritsa village, and an international one called Diagoras International Airport (RHO), which is the main island airport and it’s located just north of the village Paradeisi, about 14 km southwest of the capital city, Rodos.

You can book your flights with Skyscanner, the website I trust, use and recommend.

• By ferry

There are ferries to Rhodes from other Dodecanese Islands, Cyclades Islands, Athens and Turkey. Check schedules and prices here.

How to get around?

There’s a bus terminal in the capital, Rhodes, connecting the city with other villages on the island.

You can get around by bus, but the best thing to do to get around Rhodes easily is to rent a car. Find the best deals and compare prices on Rental Cars and Discover Cars.

What’s the best time to visit Rhodes?

Rhodes has a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers, mild winters and a whopping 300 glorious sunshine days a year.

You can visit the island from April to November, but the best time is during the shoulder seasons, May/June and September/October. July and August are the busiest and hottest months, with temperatures reaching up to 40C.

Where to stay on Rhodes?

I suggest staying at least five days on the island. You can stay 3 days in Rhodes Town and 2 in Lindos.

I stayed eight nights, six in Rhodes at Semiramis City Hotel, and two in Lindos at the gorgeous Melenos Art Boutique Hotel.

• Don’t miss: Where to Stay in Rhodes

Where to eat?

There isn’t a shortage of good restaurants on Rhodes, but my favourites are: Romeo Restaurant, Rhodes Old Town, Island Lipsi, Rhodes Old Town, Paraga Restaurant, Apóllona Village, Kalypso, Lindos and Hellas Restaurant, Pefki.

30 Best Things to Do in Rhodes Greece

1 – Explore Rhodes Old Town

A trip to Rhodes cannot be complete without visiting Rhodes Old Town, one of the most beautiful and preserved medieval cities in Europe!

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a mixture of different architectures from various historical periods, particularly The Order of St John of Jerusalem, 1309 to 1522, and the Ottoman, from 1522 to 1912.

It features impressive palaces, towers, imposing gates, churches, mosques, synagogues, appealing gardens, arcs, quaint restaurants, and stores and is full of life.

There are plenty of things to do in Rhodes Old Town, such as visit the Palace of the Grand Master and the Archaeological Museum, walk on the city walls, wander around its maze of historic cobbled streets and alleys, go souvenir shopping, enjoy Rhodes nightlife, etc.

2 – Be in awe of The Palace of the Grand Master

If there’s a place that you can’t miss during your visit to Rhodes Old Town is the Palace of the Grand Master, the most emblematic architectural piece in Rhodes.

Originally built on the foundations of the Temple of Sun God, Helios, and where the Colossus of Rhodes stood in Antiquity, the Knights of St John constructed this impressive palace in the 14^th century to be their administrative centre and the palace of their Grand Master.

The tower-shaped rectangular building features a large courtyard surrounded by galleries, 30 beautiful ancient floor mosaics brought from the island of Kos and 24 rooms open to the public displaying antique furniture, sculptures, medieval costumes, exquisite oriental vases, etc.

The Palace of the Grand Master, also known as Kastello, is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8h00 to 19h45. My recommendation is to book a skip-the-line ticket with an audio guide / guided tour for a much richer experience.

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3 – Visit the Archaeological Museum

One of the best places to visit in Rhodes, if you’re a keen historian, is the Archaeological Museum.

Housed in the monumental Gothic building that was used as the Hospital of the Knights of St John, this world-class museum has many archaeological findings from Ancient Kamiros and Ialysos, floor mosaics, a vast collection of pottery, Mycenaean jewellery, sculptures from different periods, etc.

Tickets cost €6 in the summer and €3 during the winter. If you want to save money, buy a combined ticket to visit the Palace of the Grand Master, the church of Our Lady of the Castle and the Decorative Arts Collection for only €10.

4 – Walk on the Old City’s walls

The medieval city of Rhodes is surrounded by defensive stone walls and forts. The fortifications were constructed between the two Ottoman sieges in 1480 and 1522.

During your visit, you can walk a section of these 4 km long and 7-8 m wide walls, which have bastions, towers, counterscarp, and imposing gates.

A walk along these impressive walls allows evaluating the importance of this fortification for the Medieval City and also to enjoy the magnificent panoramic view of the old and new town of Rhodes.

Tickets to walk atop the Old City’s walls cost €3 and are sold separately at The Palace of the Grand Master. My recommendation is to do it early in the morning because of the heat.

• Suggested: Best Places to Stay in Santorini

5 – Strolling around Mandraki Marina & Port

Another place that is great for a walk is Mandraki, the main harbour of Rhodes, which is located within walking distance of the Old Town.

Strolling along this coastal boulevard you have the chance to admire the architecture of charming Italian buildings and take a closer look at three medieval windmills and the Agios Nikolaos Fortress.

You can also visit the Church of the Annunciation, see the lovely fountain at Eleftheria Square, and meet “Elefos” and “Elafina”, two deer statues that stand where once ‘stood the feet of the Colossus’.

• Looking for a quiet island to visit? I suggest Folegandros or Astypalea

6 – Soak up the sun on Elli Beach

If you’re looking for the best place to bask in the sun while in Rhodes Town, Elli Beach is the answer.

This urban pebbled beach, located less than 10min away from Mandraki harbour, boasts amazing crystalline-blue water, stylish beach bars (OMG), an 8m-high trampoline, sunbeds and umbrellas (€15 for the set) and all the facilities you need to have a perfect day on the beach.

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7 – Visit Rhodes Acropolis

The ancient city of Rhodes dates to 407 BC and is situated on Monte Smith, 3 km Southwest of the city centre.

The green and beautifully laid out archaeological park contains the Hellenistic stadium, built in the 3rd century BC, where ancient games took place. Next to the stadium is the small restored Roman Odeon, which could accommodate 800 spectators. And on the summit of the Acropolis stands the temple of Apollo, the patron deity of the city.

8 – Be surprised with the Valley of the Butterflies

One of the best things to do in Rhodes for families is visit the Butterflies Valley, a 600-acre park with dense flora, walking trails, waterfalls, bridges, and breathtaking natural beauty.

If you visit Rhodes during the summer months, you can witness a spectacular rare phenomenon: a huge number of butterflies congregate in this small valley during the final stage of their life cycle. They are attracted by the scent of the oriental sweetgum trees and come yearly at the end of the wet season (beginning of June).

During my visit, on the 2nd of June, there weren’t any butterflies. Even though I think is worth visiting it, particularly if you’re travelling with kids.

9 – Go wine tasting

If you’re wondering if the Rhodian wine is good, you will be thrilled to hear that there has been plenty of good wine on Rhodes, as the art of winemaking has been practised since antiquity.

Whether you’re a connoisseur or want to try the local varieties, the best way to delight your tastebuds with the divine Rhodian wine is to indulge in a wine-tasting experience.

You will taste and learn about some Greek grape varieties, and meet the producers, the cultivation and the winemaking techniques they use.

10 – Explore the coast by boat

Rhodes has over 200 km of coastline and the best way to explore it is, definitely, by boat.

This is the reason that when you’re visiting the island, you should not miss the opportunity to sail along beautiful scenery and discover sea caves, grottoes, hidden gem beaches and impressive rock formations from the perspective of the boat.

You can take an All-Inclusive Catamaran Cruise, a Sunset Cruise, a Symi Island Full-Day Yacht Cruise, or the same one that I took, a Romantika Day Cruise with Chef’s Buffet and Open Bar.

• Suggested read: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Crete

11 – Fall in love with Lindos

One of the best things to do in Rhodes is visit the scenic town of Lindos, which is located 55 km (34 mi) from the capital.

It features whitewashed houses, narrow winding streets with quaint eateries, shops, “traditional captain’s houses”, and beautiful turquoise-water beaches. But the cherry on the cake is the captivating acropolis sitting atop the steep hill.

It’s hard not to fall in love with this picturesque village full of history and charm. Bear in mind that Lindos can get very busy with daily visitors. Thus I recommend staying overnight to enjoy the town without the crowds and get immersed in its graceful atmosphere.

12 – Visit Lindos Acropolis

While in Lindos, you can’t miss its Acropolis! It’s perched on a hilltop, 116 m above sea level, and was constructed in the 4^th century to house the Temple of Athena Lindia.

When visiting the historic fortified Lindos Acropolis, you can see several ancient structures including the Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, the Hellenistic Stoa, the Byzantine church of Saint John and the headquarters of the Knights’ Period.

My recommendation is to visit the Acropolis of Lindos early in the morning, buy a skip-the-line ticket and book a guided tour to make your experience much richer.

• Read next: Best Things to Do in Lindos

13 – Be enchanted by Kalithea Springs

Located in a charming bay with crystal-clear emerald water and pine trees, Kalithea Springs is a seaside Monument that combines natural beauty with exquisite architecture, history, and art.

Formerly used by the Ancient Greeks for hydrotherapy because of its curative properties, Kalithea was renovated by the Italians and inaugurated by King Vittorio Emmanuele in 1929. At the end of WWII, it was used as a penitentiary by the Germans.

After years of decay and abandonment, it was aesthetically renovated and became one of the most popular attractions on the island. Kallithea Springs was one the most picturesque places that I visited on Rhodes, and I loved it.

14 – Enjoy the worldwide-class beaches in Rhodes

Rhodes is world famous for its amazing, vast, and award-winning beaches. Whether they have crystal-clear blue or turquoise water, are sandy or pebbled, organized or free, they all will offer hours of relaxation underneath the famous Rhodian sun.

Some of the best beaches on the island are Anthony Quinn Bay, Elli Beach, Kalithea Springs Bay, Tsambika, Traganou and Afandou Beach. Other popular Rhodes beaches are Faliraki, Lindos Beach and Saint Paul’s Bay.

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15 – Go to a Beach Bar

Do you want to upgrade your beach experience on Rhodes? If you answer “Yes, please”, you should go to a beach bar.

Whether you’re into a laid-back or boho-chic beachfront escape, you will find some superb bars on Rhodes boasting comfy loungers, stylish decor and a great selection of food and drinks! Some of the best are: Elli, Ronda, Baia, Aquarius, Naya, Casa del Sol and Gallazio.

Spending the day at a beach bar with your other half is one of the best things to do in Rhodes for couples and it’s going to be so relaxing like any other day on the island.

16 – Do water activities

While on the beach, what about doing some water sports? With miles of coastline and great sea conditions, there are no excuses to engage in some sort of fun activities on Rhodes.

Elli Beach, Faliraki, Afandou and Kiotari are some of Rhodes’s beaches that offer a plethora of water sports to children and adults alike. From inflatable rides to kayaking, jet skiing, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, parasailing, scuba diving, etc.

I went on a Sea Kayak Adventure with Trekking Hellas and I loved it. We paddled from Massari Beach to Red Sand Beach, passing by Agahti Beach and Feraklos Castle — a total of 10 km (both ways). And we still had a picnic and went snorkelling at Red Beach.

17 – Visit the picturesque village of Koskinou

There are 43 towns and villages on the island of Rhodes. And while Rhodes Town, Lindos and Faliraki get most of the attention, there are many other villages to visit.

The idyllic Koskinou, located just 6 km from the capital, features a labyrinth of countless paths and whitewashed squares filled with lovely cobbled streets, distinctive colourful houses, leafy alleys and courtyards decorated with mosaics and plants, is the one not-to-miss.

There’s also a famous Traditional House decorated, with handmade wefts and ceramic figs.

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18 – Visit the Ancient City of Kamiros

Located 30 km (18.6 mi) northeast of the city of Rhodes, Ancient Kamiros was one of the city-states, Lindos and Ialysos were the other ones, founded by the Dorians when they settled in Rhodes in the early first millennium BC.

The city of Kamiros was built following the principles of Hellenistic urban planning and developed along a natural valley, with the buildings arranged amphitheatrically on the slopes.

When visiting Kamiros, you can observe the remains of a Hellenistic and Roman town and its ancient conveniences, including an Agora, a Doric Late Classical fountain house, a sanctuary do the Gods, a reservoir, and an imposing stoa that overlooks the city.

19 – Be captivated by Filerimos

Another place that I visited on Rhodes and liked a lot was the appealing Filerimos Hill.

Here you can find monuments from the Ancient, Byzantine and Knight periods. The remains of the Acropolis of Ialysos from the Late Classical and early Hellenistic periods include a Doric fountain-house and the foundations of the temple of Zeus and Athena Polias.

The picturesque Monastery of Panagia Filerimos, built by the Knights in the 14^th century AD at the ruins of the Byzantine church which had been built on the foundations of the Temple of Athena, is a feast for the eyes.

There’s also a small underground Byzantine church, built before the Knight’s time, with rare frescoes dated to the 14^th and 15^th century AD, lovely tree tunnels, dozens of peacocks and Golgotha, a stone paved road with twelve copper engravings representing the passions of Christ. The path ends at a 17.80 meters-high Crucifix.

20 – Conquer a castle or two

Rhodes had a brilliant defensive system during the Knight’s period, 1309 to 1522, with 11 castles spread around the island.

Some of the castles that you can visit are: Monolithos, Archangelos, Kritinia, Asklipio and Feraklou.  During your trip, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to see some of them. They are free of charge, offer incredible views, and become a hotspot during the sunset.

21 – Go olive oil, honey and Souma tasting

You might know that Greece is one of the largest olive oil producers in the world. But did you know that the island of Rhodes produces high-quality and award-winning olive oil?

If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Rhodes, why not do an olive oil tasting?

During my trip, I went to Ladomilos, a five-generation oil mill and museum, that offers not only olive oil tastings but also honey and Souma (a traditional alcoholic beverage from Rhodes produced by distillation of grape marc from wineries).

Ladomilos Olive Oil Factory and Museum is located in Siana village, close to Monolithos Castle. If you prefer to book a tasting with pick-up included, this one is a good option.

22 – Savour the delicious Greek cuisine

While on Rhodes, you must not miss the opportunity to taste its cuisine, which is based on olive oil, olives, legumes, cereal, fish and seafood, honey, and wine.

Some of the dishes you should try when visiting Rhodes are:

• Greek salad (cucumber, tomato, feta cheese, onions, olives, oregano, and olive oil)
• Dolmades (stuffed vine leaves with rice, herbs, ground beef or lamb)
• Moussaka (layers of fried eggplant, potatoes, seasoned ground meat, spiced tomato sauce, topped with creamy bechamel sauce)
• Melekouni (a typical sweet from the Dodecanese, made from sesame, almonds, herbs and honey)
• Baklava (a mixture of finely chopped walnuts and pistachios on a layered dough topped with honey)

• Read next: 15 Reasons to Visit Rhodes

23 – Take a cooking class

Learning to cook while travelling is much more than just a lesson, it’s an immersive experience into the culture of the place you’re visiting. That’s why I recommend taking a cooking class while on Rhodes.

You will discover secret flavours and unique recipes, learn to cook traditional Greek plates and recreate them at home. It’s also an opportunity to meet other travellers and unleash the MasterChef in you.

24 – Admire the breathtaking views from Tsambika Monastery

The Monastery of Panagia Tisambika consists of the upper (the old one) and the lower (the new one) monasteries on the Rhodes-Lindos main road.

To reach the upper Monastery, which is situated on a hilltop just before Tsambika Beach, you need to walk up a winding steep path, about 500 m long – 300 steps, passing through a forest of cypress trees.

Once atop the hill, you can visit a small, graceful chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary and take in the breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding area, which includes some of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

25 – Take your kid to the 9D Cinema

If you’re travelling to Rhodes with kids, you just can’t miss the Throne of Helios 9D Cinema, which is located 460 m distance from Medieval City.

On this interactive cinema, you will ride through the history of Rhodes following the Chariot of the Sun God. Ancient cities, imposing medieval buildings, ancient Gods, the Colossus, Knights, Ottomans, earthquakes, battles, and disasters come alive again in a way that amazes kids and adults alike.

This 9D is a joyful way to learn about Rhodes history and I had a lot of fun. Get your ticket online in advance here.

26 – Visit a pottery workshop

Pottery has been part of Greek society since ancient times. They were used primarily to store, transport, and drink liquids such as wine and water. Smaller pots were used as containers for perfumes and unguents.

If you want to learn more about Greek pottery history and witness the ceramic art unfold in front of your eyes, from the creation of a ceramic up to giving colours, you should visit a pottery workshop while on Rhodes.

Some of the places that you can go are: Elafos Ceramic Factory, Savvas Ceramics, Artisitc Village and Boris Ceramic.

27 – Go souvenir shopping

With a great variety of boutiques, souvenir and gift shops, jewellery stores, bookshops, and shopping centres, you’ll feel very tempted to go shopping on Rhodes.

You can buy beach accessories, such as hats and sunglasses, handmade bags, designer jewels, potters, ceramics, sponges, magnets, olive oil soaps, cosmetics made with bee wax, etc.

During my visit, I bought home some olive oil soaps from Natura Rodos and face cream made with bee wax, calendula, and black orchid from the co-operative of the women of Apóllona.

28 – Enjoy Rhodes nightlife

If you’re looking for things to do in Rhodes at night you will be pleased to hear that there are lively bars, clubs, classical music festivals, drama performances, medieval cinema festivals, concerts, traditional dances and village celebrations.

The best nightlife in Rhodes Town is in the medieval city, and my recommendation is the lovely Sissitio and Fuego Open Air Club. If you want to listen to Greek live music with plate smashing, head to Romeo Restaurant.

And if you to want dance the night away and go bar hopping, Faliraki is the place to be. It has been very popular among youngsters and Brits since the 1990s and has the hottest nightlife on the whole island and many themed bars, including strip clubs.

29 – Go on a hike

Whether you’re a hiker or an occasional stroller, while on Rhodes you can walk among bushes and pine trees, in forests or on the mountains, next to springs or close to the sea.

Some of the most popular hiking paths on the island are: the dry Moat in the Medieval City, City of Rhodes – Kritika, Filerimos Hills – Salakos – Profit Ilias, Archangelos – Tsampika Hill – Kolympia, and Butterfly Valley – Kalopetra Monastery.

30 – Renew of faith at the Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary

Also known as the Cathedral Church of the Annunciation of the Theotokos, this graceful church was built in the period of 1924/1925 – 1929 by the Italian architect Florestano di Fausto.

This former Catholic church was converted into an Orthodox church after the incorporation of the Dodecanese in 1947. While the exterior remains unchanged, the interior was adapted to meet the needs of Orthodox worship and include the decoration of the walls with stunning colourful frescoes.

The church is free of charge and open to the public from 07h00 -13h00 (Winter hours) and 07h00 – 13h00 / 17h00 – 19h00 (Summer hours).

This is my list of the 30 best places to visit and things to do in Rhodes and, if you find something else, let me know in the comments below.

I hope this guide will help you plan your trip, and that you will have an unforgettable time in Greece.

Safe travels and have fun on Rhodes.

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