Did you know?
One of the World’s Seven Wonders, the Colossus of Rhodes, was located in Rhodes in antiquity! It was an enormous statue of the ancient god of the sun, Helius, built on the island’s port by the Charles of Lindos.
In this article
Rhodes Island Holidays Travel Guide
Picture this: You’re meandering through cobblestone narrow alleys. Around you, there are Medieval fortresses, castles, and buildings constructed by knights. You feel transported to another era… Maybe, you are the main character of a Medieval fairy tale… It sounds magical, right? Now open your eyes and come back to reality. This dream comes true in Rhodes, the island of the Knights.
Maybe it’s the castles and forts, maybe it’s the stunning beaches and breathtaking scenery… Whatever it is, a holiday to Rhodes island is an experience you won’t find anywhere else. To learn everything about it, keep reading!
Find in this vacation guide for your trip to Rhodes island
About Rhodes
Also known as the Island of the Knights, Rhodes breaths history and culture. The epicenter of the island’s activity is the medieval Rhodes Town. As you explore Rhodes Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll come across big walls, fountains, mansions, and other medieval remains. Some of the most important medieval monuments are the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master – don’t give these a miss!
Read also: Greece vacation
Why is Rhodes famous?
Because it oozes a unique charm that never fails to enchant visitors! Rhodes, or the “The Island of the Knights” as it is nicknamed, stands out for its medieval architecture, amazing beaches, secluded villages, and historical sites. If you love history, Rhodes will set your heart racing!
Rhodes Town, the island’s capital, is one of the biggest medieval cities in Europe and it’s a world on its own. The impact of the cultures and civilizations that have passed from the island is reflected in its cityscapes! Wandering the town’s narrow paved alleys, you’ll feel transported back to the era of knights and princesses.
Except for Rhodes Town, Lindos village is also a very popular place to visit. It boasts a beautiful location, as it is perched on the slopes of a hill and is surrounded by the sea. This historical settlement is particularly famous for its Acropolis, which sits on the top of a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea. Under the Acropolis of Lindos, you’ll find the most beautiful beaches in the village: Saint Paul’s beach and Lindos main beach.
As for the beaches of Rhodes, they are considered some of the best beaches of the Dodecanese island complex. They stand out for their beautiful natural settings, crystal clear waters, and cosmopolitan vibe.
Where is Rhodes located?
Rhodes Greece is located in the southeastern part of the Aegean Sea. It belongs to the Dodecanese island group, along with other islands, like Symi and Kos. Since it is the biggest island of the Dodecanese, it is an ideal base for island hopping to the nearby islands. More specifically, Rhodes is located 40 km away from Symi, 98 km away from Kos, and 126 km away from Kalymnos.
Read also: Santorini island holidays travel guide | Athens holidays travel guide| Mykonos island holidays travel guide | Crete island holidays travel guide
What is the best time to visit Rhodes?
The truth is that Rhodes is beautiful all year round! Given that it is the biggest island of the Dodecanese and has a busy city center, Rhodes attracts visitors both in winter and in summer. Besides, with 300 sunny days per year, in Rhodes, it’s almost always summer! If you want to introduce yourself to the island’s culture, discover the local lifestyle and go sightseeing, autumn and spring are the best seasons to visit the Island of the Knights. But, if you want to swim in the sparkling waters of Rhodes beaches, then summer is arguably the best season to visit Rhodes.
Read also: Best time to visit Greece
The weather in Rhodes
-
Autumn (September to November)
Highest: 81 F/ 27 C Lowest: 57 F/ 14 C
-
Winter (December to February)
Highest: 61 F/ 16 C Lowest: 50 F/ 10 C
-
Spring (March to May)
Highest: 73 F/ 23 C Lowest: 52 F/ 11 C
-
Summer (June to August)
Highest: 84 F/ 29 C Lowest: 69 F/ 21 C
What are the most popular events, holidays, and city-breaks in Rhodes?
St Basil Day/New Year, Theophania / Epiphany
Carnival season, Valentine’s Day, Tsiknopempti (Meat Thursday)
Kathara Deftera (Clean Monday), Carnival season, Independence Day (March 25th)
Easter Week, Easter Sunday
Labor Day, Medieval festival
Holy Spirit Day, Medieval festival, Saint Paul festival
Film festival, Saint Kyriaki feast
Film festival, Dormition of the Virgin Mary religious feast
Music festival
“OXI” Day
What are the best things to do in Rhodes, Greece?
-
Explore Rhodes Old Town
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rhodes Old Town literally breaths history! Strolling around the town you’ll discover many medieval treasures, such as the Street of the Knights, Our Lady of the castle (a beautiful Medieval church), the palace of the Grand Master, as well as many Byzantine churches. Full of narrow cobblestone alleys, Rhodes Old Town is the ultimate place for endless strolls!
-
Visit the best beaches in Rhodes, one by one
Rhodes is famous not only for its enduring history and medieval charm but also for its idyllic beaches! The island’s beaches boast a variety of landscapes and cover all tastes. Most of the beaches are big, organized, and lined with cafes, bars, and taverns, where you can sit after a long day of swimming and sunbathing. Among the best Rhodes beaches are Saint Paul’s Bay, Tsambika, Anthony Quinn Bay, and Prasonisi. But, more on that later!
-
Embark on a day trip to Lindos
If you go to Rhodes without visiting Lindos, did you even go to Rhodes? This incredibly photogenic village, which lies under the Acropolis of Lindos, is the perfect background for the most stunning Instagram photos! Visit the traditional captain mansions, climb up to the Acropolis, get lost in the village’s labyrinth alleys, and don’t miss the chance to taste local delicacies at the village’s little traditional taverns. Oh, and don’t leave your camera at the hotel!
-
Sail to Symi
Being in Rhodes gives you the perfect chance to go on a day trip to the nearby Symi island. Symi is easily accessible from Rhodes, as many ferries connect these two islands. Symi island stands out for its colorful neoclassical mansions, retro ambiance, and picturesque traditional settlements. You’ll instantly fall in love with it!
-
Feel like a knight at the palace of the Grand Master
The Palace of the Grand Master is a gem in the heart of Rhodes Old Town. This enormous medieval castle is one of the most important monuments of the knights’ era. Back in the 14th century, when the Knights Hospitaller ruled Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Master served as the residence of their master. The palace consists of three levels. On the first floor, you’ll find the Hall of the Council, the dining hall, and the Grand Master’s private chamber. On the ground floor, there are two permanent archaeological exhibitions, which display finds of excavations carried out throughout the island.
-
Marvel at the view from the Acropolis of Lindos
This is an absolute must! The Acropolis of Lindos sits on the top of the hill in Lindos village, 45 km south of Rhodes Town. Inside the Acropolis hide many archaeological monuments, such as a 4th century Doric temple, a Roman temple, a Hellenistic wall, and the Propylaea of the Sanctuary. They are all protected by an imposing 14th-century Medieval fort, which was later constructed by the Knights.
-
Embrace your inner fairy at the valley of butterflies
The valley of butterflies is a paradisiacal place to visit. As its name indicates, it is a natural reserve for butterflies who find shelter in it from spring until autumn. Thanks to its humidity, the area attracts the butterflies, offering them the ideal environment for reproduction. The ambiance is also charming: rivers, bridges, trees, and hills create an idyllic setting. It’s the perfect place to escape the summer heat.
-
Go to the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is housed in the Palace of the Grand Master in the heart of Rhodes Old Town. Its exhibits include findings from excavations carried out all around Rhodes, such as vases, tombs, archaic statues, mosaics, and small objects. It is worth a visit!
Read also: Best things to do in Greece | Sail & Yacht holidays in Greece
What are the shopping hours in Rhodes?
Most shops in Rhodes are open from 9 am until 2.30 pm and then from 5 pm until 9 pm, from Monday to Friday. On Saturdays, the shops are open from 9 am until 2-2.30 pm, while they remain closed on Sundays. However, during the tourist season (from April to October), most shops are open from 9 am until 9 pm.
Key facts about Rhodes
-
Population
115.490 (2011)
-
Currecy
Euro
-
Language
Greek
-
Average Temperatures
Warmest Month: July (84 F/ 29 C)
Coldest Month: January (50 F/ 10 C) -
Tipping
Tipping is not obligatory in Rhodes but is very appreciated. You can leave a tip (a few euros) if you are satisfied with the service. We advise you to tip in cash so that the money will go straight to the person that served you.
-
Loved by
History buffs, families, couples, Medieval enthusiasts
The history of Rhodes
Rhodes has an enduring history that counts many invasions. The island took its name from the wife of Helios, the ancient god of the sun, Rhodos. The legend has it that Rhodes emerged from the sea, historically, though, the island was inhabited in the Neolithic period. Since then, it has been inhabited by the Minoans, the Mycenaeans, the Dorians, and the Romans. One of the most important parts of Rhodes’ history was the rule of the Knights of Saint John from 1310 until 1522. The signature Medieval buildings and fortifications of Rhodes were constructed during that period.
How to get to Rhodes?
Getting to Rhodes is easy. The ways you can get to the island are basically two: by ferry or by air. The ferry is cheaper but slower, while the plane is pricier but faster.
Getting from Athens to Rhodes by ferry
Taking the ferry from Athens to Rhodes is the cheapest way to get to the beautiful Greek island. There are frequent ferry schedules from Athens to Rhodes in summer, but we recommend that you pre-book your ferry tickets to ensure availability.
Ferries from Athens to Rhodes depart from Piraeus port in Athens. Traveling to Rhodes from Piraeus port is a convenient option if you want to explore Athens city center before you set sail to Rhodes.
Depending on the type of the ferry (regular or high speed), the trip from Athens to Rhodes may last from 13 hours to a day, so we suggest you book a cabin for your trip. As for the cost, a ferry ticket from Athens to Rhodes costs around 45 € to 70 €.
The Greek ferry companies that serve the itinerary from Athens to Rhodes are Blue Star Ferries and Aegeon Pelagos Ferries. You can also reach Rhodes by ferry from other Dodecanese islands, like Symi and Kos.
Getting to Rhodes by air
The fastest way to get to Rhodes is by air. There are many direct flights to Rhodes airport from foreign airports as well as domestic flights from Athens, other Greek mainland towns, and Greek islands. If you want to travel to Rhodes from abroad, there are flights from the UK, Sweden, Norway, Brussels, the Czech Republic, and other European countries. If on the other side, you plan to visit the Greek capital before heading to Rhodes, there are frequent flights from Athens to Rhodes.
Where to stay in Rhodes?
Rhodes Town
Rhodes Town is where the island’s cultural heart beats! Having been conquered by many civilizations, such as the Romans, the Italians, and the Ottomans, Rhodes Town breaths history, quite literally. Rhodes Town is basically divided into two districts: Rhodes Old Town and Rhodes New Town.
Rhodes Old Town, which is one of the biggest medieval cities in Europe, is a monument on its own. Full of narrow cobblestone alleys, it is a paradise for wanderers and history buffs! Wandering the town, you’ll discover some of the most important Medieval sights of the island, such as the Street of the Knights, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the Knights’ Quarter.
Rhodes Town is not only a wonderland for history lovers, though. It is also the island’s commercial center. In Rhodes Town, you’ll find many restaurants, fashion boutiques, shops, cafes, and amenities.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Rhodes Town are: Rhodos Horizon City, D’Argento Boutique Rooms, Nikos Takis Fashion Boutique Hotel, and Elakati Luxury Boutique Hotel.
Lindos
Lindos is a charming village located on the east coast of Rhodes. It boasts unique traditional architecture, beautiful beaches, and an imposing Acropolis -the trademark of the village.
The Acropolis of Lindos, a 14th-century fortification, stands on the top of a hill overlooking the Aegean sea. Those who’ll make the climb up to the hill will have the chance to discover a selection of monuments from several eras inside the Acropolis (we’re talking to you, history lovers).
Under the Acropolis lies the beautiful village of Lindos, a mixture of tradition and elegance. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone alleys, discover the 16th-century shipowners’ mansions, capture their elaborate wooden doors, and shop local products at the small shops of the village. We bet you’re going to fall in love with this quaint little village!
As for accommodation in Lindos, there are several options. -from luxurious hotels to studios. You can choose the best one for you depending on your taste and budget.
The best hotels to stay in Lindos are: Aquagrand Exclusive Deluxe Resort Lindos, Mitsis Lindos Memories Resort & Spa, Caesars Gardens Hotel & Spa, and Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel.
Ialyssos
Ialyssos, which is located west of Rhodes Town, is a laid-back village, ideal for a relaxing holiday in Rhodes. Since it has been a holiday destination for wealthy locals for many years, Ialyssos stands out for its elegant architecture. The neoclassical buildings and mansions with exotic gardens ooze a nostalgic charm!
The biggest village in Rhodes, Ialyssos, is full of places to explore. The church of Filerimos, the Museum of Mineralogy and Paleontology, the underground church of Saint George, and the ancient town of Ialyssos are some of them.
But exploration is not the only thing to be done in Ialyssos! If you are a water sports enthusiast, you’ll be happy to know that Ialyssos is one of the best places to practice windsurfing. The 10 km long windy beach of the village is ideal not only for windsurfing but also for swimming, thanks to its crystal clear waters.
Along the beach and the waterfront, there’s a selection of hotels, restaurants, and cafes, where you can sit and enjoy a drink after a long day under the sun.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Ialyssos are: Santa Helena Hotel, Johnhara Studios & Apartments, Platoni Elite, and Villas Duc.
Read also: Villa holidays Greek Islands
How to get around Rhodes?
Given that Rhodes is a big island, you’re going to need a means of transportation to get around. You can choose between a car/motorbike, a taxi, and the bus.
Getting around Rhodes by car
Rhodes is a big island, so the best way to get around is by car. There are many car rental companies in Rhodes, where you can hire a car to explore the island at your own pace. The average price for a rental car is 40-50 euros per day, while the cost drops to 20-30 euros if you opt for a motorbike.
Getting around Rhodes by taxi
An alternative to the car is a taxi. If you don’t have a private means of transportation, a taxi is the best way to get to your hotel from the airport or the port, especially if you have heavy luggage. Many taxis wait outside the airport and at the port, so it’s not hard to find one. The taxi fees from/to the airport are fixed.
Getting around Rhodes by bus
The cheapest way to get around Rhodes is by bus. Many public buses depart from the Central Bus Station in Rhodes Town and get you to pretty much all the main villages and beaches on the island. There are two main bus terminals in Rhodes, the Eastern Bus Terminal and the Western Bus Terminal. The first one serves routes to places like Faliraki and Lindos, while the second one serves routes to the Valley of Butterflies, Ancient Kamiros, and Ancient Ialyssos, among others.
How much will you spend on Rhodes per day?
How much you’re going to spend on your holiday in Rhodes depends on many factors, like the area you’re staying at. Generally speaking, you’re going to spend about 100 € (119 $) per day during your stay in Rhodes. More specifically, you’ll spend 30 € (36 $) on food, 30 € (36 $) on transportation, and 40 € (48 $) per person for a double room in Rhodes.
What foods to try in Rhodes?
-
Lopia
Lopia is a traditional dish, which you’ll find in the island’s mountainous villages. It consists of meat, tomato sauce, and legumes (usually peas or beans). It is traditionally slow-cooked in a wooden oven.
-
Melekouni
Melekouni is a delicious (and healthy) local sweet treat. It is very similar to the Greek pasteli, but it is made with honey instead of sugar. The traditional melekouni used to be served on special occasions, like weddings and birthdays, but today you can find it almost everywhere, from pastry shops to supermarkets. It’ll leave you salivating!
-
Pitaroudia
This is one of the yummiest appetizers of the local cuisine. Pitaroudia is fried chickpea-balls, made of peas, onion, tomato, and spearmint. They are a staple of a Greek meze meal!
-
Takakia
Takakia (or mantinades) is a delicious local pastry. It is made with handmade crust, honey, cinnamon, walnuts, olive oil, and sesame. If you don’t eat dairy, this is a great option for dessert. Plus, it’s very nutritious!
Useful Information
Greece is a European city and a part of the Schengen Agreement. So, if you’re a European citizen or citizen of a country member of the Schengen Agreement, you only need a Passport or an Identity Card to enter the country. If you’re a citizen of a country that is neither European nor a member of the Schengen Agreement, you need a visa to visit Greece.
Medical Emergency:112 Fire Service: 199 Ambulance: 166 Police: 100 SOS: 193 First Aid: 2241080000 Harbour: 2241027695-27690
Health care & Safety
Health Care in Rhodes
The Greek Health Care System is public and provides free treatment to citizens and expats. You can visit a public practitioner for free or a private practitioner with a charge. In both cases, you have to pay for prescribed medicines. In case of emergency, you can call a public EKAV ambulance (166) or the European emergency number (112).
Safety in Rhodes
Rhodes is considered a safe island, but you should still take normal security precautions. To avoid pickpockets, you should keep an eye on your belongings and don’t hold much money in cash with you. Also, don’t forget to lock your car after parking it and don’t leave your belongings unattended at the beach.
What are the best beaches in Rhodes?
Lindos beach
Lindos is arguably one of the most beautiful places in Rhodes! Although there are quite a few beaches in Lindos, Megali Paralia and Limanaki Agios Pavlos are our top picks. The first one is a long beach very close to Lindos village and boasts a breathtaking view of the Acropolis of Lindos. The second one is nested in a small cove, under the white Saint Paul’s chapel. Try to visit them both!
Anthony Quinn Bay (Ladiko beach)
Anthony Quinn is one of the most idyllic beaches in Rhodes. Nestled directly on a little cove insulated with greenery, Anthony Quinn bay boasts a beautiful and peaceful setting. The interesting name of this beach comes from the famous actor, who fell in love with the beach while filming The Guns of Navarone.
Tsambika beach
Tsambika beach lies 25 km away from Rhodes, under the Tsambika Monastery. This sandy beach stands out for its wild natural beauty, emerald waters, and rocky landscape. Tsambika is partly organized and has some water sports facilities, but other than that, it has a peaceful vibe and unspoiled charm.
Prasonisi beach
Prasonisi is probably the most interesting beach in Rhodes in terms of geology, as it is an islet! This long sandy beach lies on the southern part of the island, 85 km away from Rhodes Town. It is very popular with water sports enthusiasts, so every summer, Prasonisi attracts many windsurfers from all over the world, who flock to catch the waves.
Read also: 30 Best Beaches in Greece
Gifts for your loved-ones from Rhodes
-
A jar of olives
-
Thyme honey
-
Melekouni
-
Olive oil soap
-
Local jam (tangerine, orange)
-
Barley rusks
-
Rhodian chamomile
-
Pottery
Conclusion
So, are you already obsessed with Rhodes? You’re not the only one. Many have fallen for this alluring Dodecanesse stunner!
You’re all set to go -you know all the basics of planning a holiday to Rhodes island! The best places to stay in Rhodes, the best beaches, the best things to do and many more.
But, we’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts and tips about Rhodes in the comments. Do you have any questions about Rhodes? Ask away! Oh, and share this article on Social Media if you found it helpful!
Other Travel Guides you may be interested in: Santorini island holidays | Mykonos island holidays | Paros island holidays | Naxos island holidays | Crete island holidays | Athens holidays | Corfu island holidays
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked.*