Top 10 things to do in Rhodes

Rhodes is the largest island in the Dodecanese, an archipelago of twelve Greek islands geographically close to Turkey. It’s an island that attracts travelers not only for its rich history and cultural density, but also for its many beaches and enchanting landscapes. What to see and do in Rhodes? Visit the old town of Rhodes, of course, as well as the port where the famous Colossus of Rhodes, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world, is said to have stood. Don’t miss Lindos and its Acropolis. Or let yourself be tempted by a trip to Symi… Between the great classics and visits off the beaten track, here’s our best-of 10 things to do or see in Rhodes.

1- Explore the medieval town of Rhodes

Behind its thick ochre ramparts, the medieval town of Rhodes is superb. Its heritage is rich and well-preserved. And its medieval character mixed with an oriental touch is absolutely unique. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We like:

• first of all, stroll through the labyrinth of cobbled streets overhung by arcades. A stroll through the old town is an absolute must. During the day and in the evening, the narrow passages are a joy to wander through.
• but also admire buildings from various historical eras. A real journey through time: Byzantine, Ottoman, Hospitaller of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem and Italian eras.

Don’t miss Rhodes:

• the Knights district: the Street of the Knights of Rhodes is splendid. This cobbled alleyway is lined with Gothic buildings. These are the inns of the different nationalities of the Knights of the Order of Saint John. The “Auberge de France”, with its crocodile-headed gargoyles, is certainly the most beautiful.
• The Palace of the Grand Masters is also magnificent and well worth a visit. This military fortress is impressive. Book your ticket + audioguide if option chosen.
• but also a tour of the ramparts: again, a must. This walk will give you an idea of the scale of the knights’ achievements. Please note that opening times are limited (from 12 to 3 pm in high season – check the official website before your visit). Alternatively, “plan B” is just as good: take the moat path. This is the line drawn around the old town of Rhodes in green dotted lines on GoogleMaps. It links the Liberty Gate to the Akandia Gate.
• the cathedral of Our Lady of the Castle, with its beautiful Byzantine frescoes.
• the Archaeological Museum, also very interesting. It is housed in the Knights’ Hospital, and boasts a magnificent collection of ancient artefacts from the Dodecanese. One of the highlights is the Aphrodite of Rhodes, a marble statue of a young woman on her knees with her hair up.
• stroll through the village, avoiding the touristy alleys lined with tacky stores. Indeed, the parallel streets are quiet and full of charm.
• and finally, a stroll through the Turkish Quarter or Chora: the main shopping area in Rhodes’ old town. Among the many restaurants and stores, you’ll see ancient mosques with their minarets and Ottoman buildings, giving this part of town an oriental air.

Guided tours

You can enjoy a private guided tour of the medieval town in English (2h30). Or this walking tour in small group, also in english.

If you wish, a tourist bus can also be used to explore the ancient city of Rhodes and its modern center for around ten euros, with a multi-stop ticket allowing you to visit all the island’s most important sites in just one hour. Information and reservations here.

Another option is to visit Rhodes by bike. Baja Bikes offers bike rental and a guided tour of the highlights of the whole island of Rhodes. Or why not discover the medieval city on a Segway or take a Trikke tour of the port and old town?

2- Wander around Rhodes marina

It’s pleasant to stroll around the fishing port, at the foot of the ramparts. And continue the walk to the windmills to reach the Mandraki marina. A doe and a stag, the emblematic animals of Rhodes, stand proudly guarding the entrance to the port.

Legend has it that the famous Colossus of Rhodes once stood here. one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This 32-metre-high bronze statue was so tall that boats could pass between its legs. It represented the God of the Sun. Unfortunately, this marvel collapsed during an earthquake in 227 BC. The debris remained until 654, when Arab conquerors sold it off in pieces. Today, nothing remains of the famous colossus, so we can only imagine.

Another option is to visit Rhodes by bike. Baja Bikes offers bike rental and a guided tour of the highlights of the whole island of Rhodes.

3- Relax on the beaches of Rhodes

Rhodes has many beaches. Many of them are pebble or rock beaches, but there are also a few fine sandy beaches.

Beaches are also the ideal place to try out original activities above or in the sea: for everyone. sea kayaking, stand-up paddle, or scuba diving, for ride fans windsurfing or kite surfing even Wing Foiling; and for thrill-seekers, jet ski, wakeboard, flyboard-hoverboard or parasailing… Treat yourself – that’s what vacations are all about!

Our favourite beaches in Rhodes :

• The sandy beach of Tsambika (east coast) is certainly one of the most beautiful on the island, and the monastery overlooking it offers a wonderful view of the coast. But it’s not our favorite, as it’s very busy in summer and overrun with deckchairs, refreshment stands and umbrellas.
• In Stegna (east coast), you’ll find two heavenly beaches on either side of a charming marina.
• We also like the sandy beach of Pefki, south-east of Rhodes, or a little further afield at Glystra.
• If you don’t have a car, the beaches of the new town of Rhodes are within easy walking distance. But it’s crowded.
• To the north-east of the island, Ladiko, also known as Anthony Quinn Bay, is pleasant.
• We also recommend the magnificent beaches of Lindos Bay.
• Fourni beach, south-west of Rhodes, is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. But be careful on windy days, as the sea is rough.
• For water sports enthusiasts (kite-surfing, windsurfing), opt for the beaches of Cap Prassonissi. They are beautiful and often windy.
• Last but not least, we love Kallithea thermal baths beach and the nearby beaches of Jordan Beach, Oasis Beach, Tassos Beach and Nicholas Beach. They are pleasant and the natural setting is magnificent.

For a unique day out, take a day cruise on a caïque, a traditional Greek boat, and discover the beaches of Rhodes (snorkeling, swimming, gourmet buffet and unlimited drinks). We haven’t tested this excursion, but it’s highly rated.

And for a memorable week, set sail on a sailboat or catamaran with Click and boat which offers cruises with or without a skipper.

4- Visit Lindos, a marvel

Located 50 kilometers south of Rhodes town, Lindos is absolutely stunning. Along with the medieval town, Lindos is one of the must-see things to do in Rhodes.

What’s more, it’s easy to get to Lindos from Rhodes town thanks to this shuttle service.

We also recommend this one-day boat trip to Lindos which not only allows you to discover the site, but also to swim in the superb beaches.

Things to see and do in Lindos :

• Perched between sky and sea, the Acropolis of Lindos enjoys a magnificent seafront location. Access is by foot or donkey. And from the top, the view is spectacular, with the sea on one side and the white city on the other. Be careful, however, as the site is in direct sunlight and the climb is slippery. Sneakers or walking shoes compulsory (please don’t go in flip-flops). Admission Ticket
• The village of Lindos: a maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses. There are many bars and restaurants. The village of Lindos has all the charm of a white Greek village. However, it’s very crowded in summer, and tourist folklore can spoil the fun (donkey rides, lace sales, touts near restaurants). A pity, as the lower town is well worth a visit. Don’t hesitate to leave the crowded streets to discover the quieter lanes.
• Finally, there are two beautiful beaches in the bay of Lindos.

Find out more about this charming town and its archaeological site in Lindos in Rhodes, a hidden tresor.

5- Rhodes with your family: ideas for visits

Here are some fun things to do in Rhodes if you are visiting Rhodes with kids:

• The Valley of the Butterflies. In summer, from June to September, red and brown butterflies settle in this valley north of Rhodes, attracted by the scent of liquidambar, a tree whose leaves are used to make incense. The butterflies are numerous and the walk is extremely pleasant. Try this day trip to Butterfly Valley, reasonable price and interesting tour.
• The Faliraki water park is a great idea for a family outing, with slides (with or without buoys) for children, as well as sensational slides for older children, such as the kamikaze, a large wave pool and calmer activities such as the quiet river. Don’t forget your beach shoes, as the ground is very hot. – Here on Google Maps –
• Ideal for rainy or hot days, discover the history of Rhodes with Trone of Helios, a multidimensional cinema session in 9D!

6- Acting in the thermal baths of Kallithea

Some ten kilometers south of Rhodes lies this astonishing art deco spa built in 1929 by an Italian architect. It was used as a backdrop for several scenes in the film Zorba the Greek, as well as for the James Bond film Athens Love.

Today, the Kallithea thermal baths are well worth a visit to appreciate the somewhat old-fashioned charm of the place, to admire the mosaic floors, the colonnades and the superb seaside location. There’s also a pleasant sandy beach for swimming.

7- Travel back in time with a visit to the ancient town of Kamiros

Kamiros is an ancient city located some 30 km southwest of Rhodes. It was destroyed by two earthquakes in 226 and 142 BC. What remains today vestiges that give an idea of the site’s grandeur at the time and understand how a Greek city was organized. It’s easy to spot the Agora, the residential district and an ancient temple to Athena. The site is not only interesting but also full of charm. What’s more, the view from here is breathtaking.

We’ve spotted but haven’t tested this full-day guided bus tour in English, which you might like to take, with visits to ancient Kamiros, Embonas and its cellar, Kritinia castle and the Kallithea thermal baths, among others…

8- Visit the Rhodes Acropolis

Because there’s more to Greece than the Athens Acropolis! Less than 3km west of Rhodes town, at the top of Monte Smith, lies the Acropolis (free access), built in 408 BC. The remains of a temple dedicated to Apollo can still be seen, as well as a well-preserved stadium and a restored theater. But above all, from here, you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the medieval city of Rhodes. On sunny days, you can also see the coast of nearby Turkey.

9- Off the beaten track in Rhodes

Rhodes is a very popular island with tourists in summer. It is indeed crowded… but few travelers venture south of the island. It’s still possible to find peaceful spots on Rhodes, especially in the central and southern parts of the island.

So, to fully appreciate all that Rhodes has to offer, we strongly encourage you to get out of the seaside towns and discover the wooded, mountainous center of the island, as well as the south and its (almost) deserted beaches . As well as avoiding the tourist traffic, it’s also a great way to get some fresh air inland. And discover another, more authentic face of Rhodes.

Discover Monolithos, a village perched high up in the mountains, and its castle located a little further away in a superb natural setting. Clinging to a rocky peak, this eagle’s nest offers an absolutely magnificent view.

In a different style, the village of Gennadi is also pleasant. It’s small and peaceful. There are a few traditional cafés and just one main street. The contrast with the city of Rhodes and the hyper-built-up north is striking! Recommended for lovers of peace and quiet.

Why not explore Rhodes off the beaten track, in the heart of nature, with this mountain bike excursion?

10- Day trip to Symi

Fancy a little getaway from Rhodes? How about a day in Symi?

This lovely island, with its neoclassical architecture, is easily accessible from Rhodes. And it would be a real shame not to visit.

Several agencies offer boat tours. We’ve spotted a few that look interesting.

We wish you all the best for your vacations. Now you’ve got plenty of ideas for things to do in Rhodes! And for all the practical information you need on the island of Rhodes, read this article. Finally, to find out where to stay in Rhodes, and which town to choose for your accommodation, we tell you everything in this article. You’ll find a vast selection of accommodation on Booking.

^{Laure M.}