Rhodes, the largest island in the Dodecanese group, offers a blend of rich history, beautiful beaches, and picturesque towns. From the medieval charm of Rhodes Old Town to the stunning beaches and scenic landscapes, Rhodes is a perfect destination for those looking to enjoy both cultural exploration and relaxation.
April – June: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes.
July – August: Peak tourist season, with hot weather, ideal for beach activities. It can be crowded in major spots.
September – October: Warm weather, but with fewer tourists, offering a perfect time for sightseeing and beach relaxation.
November – March: Quieter, cooler, and more budget-friendly, but some attractions may have limited hours.
By Air:
Rhodes International Airport (RHO) is well-connected with direct flights from Athens (about 1 hour) and several European cities during the peak season.
By Ferry:
Ferries connect Rhodes to Kos, Symi, Santorini, and other nearby islands, as well as the mainland via Piraeus Port in Athens.
Rhodes Old Town:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this medieval city is one of the best-preserved walled towns in Europe, with narrow streets, ancient palaces, mosques, and fortresses.
Palace of the Grand Master:
A grand medieval castle that was once the headquarters of the Knights of St. John. It offers stunning views and exhibits from the island's history.
Acropolis of Lindos:
A hilltop site with ancient ruins, including a Temple of Athena and spectacular views over the Aegean Sea.
Filerimos Monastery:
A serene site on a hill with panoramic views, featuring an old monastery, statues, and a path lined with crosses.
Valley of the Butterflies:
A lush green valley filled with butterflies (especially in summer), offering scenic walks through nature.
Ancient Kameiros:
The ruins of an ancient city, showcasing Hellenistic ruins with remains of houses, temples, and streets.
Rodini Park:
A tranquil, historical park with beautiful streams, bridges, and ancient ruins, perfect for a relaxing walk.
Mandraki Harbor:
The main harbor in Rhodes Town, surrounded by historic windmills and offering views of the Statue of the Colossus (a replica).
Tsambika Beach:
A beautiful, sandy beach with clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere. Great for swimming and sunbathing.
Anthony Quinn Bay:
A stunning cove named after the actor, with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
Lindos Beach:
Situated in the village of Lindos, this beach offers clear waters and is perfect for those seeking a blend of culture and relaxation.
Faliraki Beach:
A lively beach with plenty of water sports, bars, and restaurants. Great for those looking for a vibrant atmosphere.
Agathi Beach:
A quiet, golden sand beach ideal for families, with calm waters and clear views of Lindos Acropolis.
Ixia Beach:
A pebbly beach with great conditions for windsurfing and kite-surfing, often windier but with stunning sunset views.
Visit the Medieval City of Rhodes:
Explore the ancient streets and monuments, including the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master.
Hiking to the Acropolis of Lindos:
A rewarding hike to the top with incredible views of the Aegean Sea and the archaeological ruins.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving:
Explore the clear waters around Anthony Quinn Bay, Lindos, and Kallithea Springs for snorkeling or diving in vibrant underwater ecosystems.
Take a Boat Trip:
Explore nearby islands or enjoy a boat cruise around Rhodes, stopping at hidden coves and secluded beaches.
Wine Tasting:
Visit local wineries to try Rhodes’ wine and enjoy scenic vineyard views.
Jeep Safari Tour:
Go off the beaten path and explore the rural villages, forests, and hidden beaches on a thrilling jeep tour.
Visit the Butterfly Valley (Petaloudes):
Take a peaceful walk in the lush valley, home to thousands of butterflies during the summer months.
Luxury:
Kallithea Springs (Kallithea): A 5-star historic hotel with spa treatments, private pools, and beautiful architecture.
Elysium Resort & Spa (Kalathos): A luxury resort with spacious rooms, infinity pools, and stunning sea views.
Mid-Range:
Rodos Park Suites & Spa (Rhodes Town): A stylish hotel with a central location near the Old Town.
Lindos Mare (Lindos): A 4-star hotel with great views of the Aegean and beautiful gardens.
Budget-Friendly:
Hotel Parthenon (Rhodes Town): A budget-friendly, centrally located hotel with comfortable rooms.
Philoxenia Hotel (Ixia): A charming, affordable hotel just a short walk from the beach.
✅ Local Specialties:
Moussaka: Traditional Greek baked casserole with eggplant, potatoes, and minced meat.
Souvlaki: Grilled skewers of meat (often pork or chicken) served with pita bread and tzatziki.
Pitaroudia: A type of chickpea fritter, native to Rhodes.
Kleftiko: Slow-cooked lamb with herbs, usually served with potatoes.
Fresh Seafood: Enjoy the freshest seafood such as grilled fish and squid.
Karydopita: A delicious walnut cake soaked in syrup, perfect for dessert.
🍴 Top Restaurants:
To Steno (Rhodes Town): A family-run taverna offering traditional Greek dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
Kounenos (Lindos): A great spot for fresh seafood and local specialties, with a scenic terrace overlooking the acropolis.
Mavrikos (Lindos): A high-end restaurant in Lindos serving contemporary takes on Greek cuisine, with a lovely courtyard setting.
Taverna Nikos (Ixia): A family-run restaurant offering excellent grilled meats and local delicacies.
Hermes Restaurant (Rhodes Town): A modern restaurant offering both Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
Medieval Influence:
Rhodes has a strong medieval heritage due to the rule of the Knights of St. John, visible in the Old Town and the Palace of the Grand Master.
Greek Orthodox Traditions:
The island has many churches, and religious celebrations such as Easter are important, with local feasts and festivals.
The Knights of St. John:
The Order of St. John played a major role in shaping the island's culture, leaving behind a legacy in architecture, art, and traditions.
Rhodes Music:
Local folk music, including the "Rebetiko" genre, is often performed in local tavernas, reflecting the island’s deep cultural roots.
✔️ Rent a Car or Scooter: Rhodes is best explored with your own transportation for easy access to remote beaches and scenic villages.
✔️ Book Early for Summer: The island gets crowded during the peak months, so make reservations well in advance.
✔️ Bring Sun Protection: Rhodes can get quite hot in summer, so sunscreen, hats, and water are essential.
✔️ Respect Local Traditions: The island has a strong connection to Greek Orthodox faith, so be respectful of religious sites.