Rhodes
About Rhodes
Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and one of the most historically rich destinations in the Mediterranean. The UNESCO-listed Medieval Old Town of Rhodes is the best-preserved medieval city in Europe, enclosed by 4 km of imposing walls built by the Knights of St. John. Once home to the Colossus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Rhodes blends ancient Greek, medieval, and Ottoman heritage.
Beyond the medieval walls, Rhodes offers golden-sand beaches, picturesque villages like Lindos, lush green valleys, and over 300 days of sunshine per year. The island's strategic location near the Turkish coast gives its cuisine a unique blend of Greek and Anatolian flavors.
Useful links:
Quick Tips
- Currency: Euro (EUR). Cards accepted at most establishments. Cash preferred at village tavernas and small shops.
- Transport: KTEL buses connect Rhodes Town to major destinations. Renting a car is the best way to explore the island's interior villages and remote beaches.
- Tipping: Round up or leave 5–10%. Customary in sit-down restaurants.
- Old Town exploration: Get intentionally lost in the medieval streets — GPS is unreliable inside the walls. The best discoveries happen when you wander.
- Lindos timing: Visit the Acropolis of Lindos early morning. The climb is steep with no shade, and the village gets extremely crowded with cruise ship passengers by midday.
Interesting Places to Visit
Medieval Old Town
Europe's best-preserved medieval town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander cobblestone streets past Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and the impressive Street of the Knights. Over 200 streets and alleys to explore within the ancient walls.
Palace of the Grand Master
A massive medieval castle at the highest point of the Old Town, built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 14th century. Imposing towers, mosaic floors from Kos, and exhibitions on medieval and ancient Rhodes. Allow 1–2 hours.
Lindos & Its Acropolis
A stunning white village cascading down a hillside, crowned by an ancient acropolis with a 4th-century BC Temple of Athena. The views from the top are breathtaking. Below, St. Paul's Bay has crystal-clear swimming.
Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes)
A lush, shaded valley where thousands of Jersey tiger moths gather in summer (June–September). Wooden bridges and pathways wind through the forest along a stream. A peaceful natural attraction.
Ancient Kamiros
One of three ancient cities of Rhodes, beautifully excavated on a hillside overlooking the sea. Streets, houses, and a temple complex reveal daily life in a Hellenistic town. Much less visited than Lindos but equally fascinating.
Mandraki Harbor
The ancient harbor where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood. Today guarded by bronze deer statues, it's lined with Italian-era administrative buildings, windmills, and the Fort of St. Nicholas. A lovely waterfront walk.
Tsambika Beach & Monastery
One of the finest beaches on Rhodes — a long sweep of golden sand with turquoise water. The hilltop monastery above offers panoramic views. Access via 300 steps. The beach has basic facilities and sunbed rentals.
When to Visit
Rhodes is one of the sunniest places in Europe with over 300 days of sunshine per year:
🌸 Spring (April – May)
Ideal for sightseeing. Warm (17–25°C), wildflowers everywhere, and the medieval town is uncrowded. Perfect for hiking and exploring archaeological sites.
- Wildflowers across the island's hills
- Greek Easter celebrations in villages
- Comfortable temperatures for the Lindos climb
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Hot (28–35°C) and dry. Peak beach season. Cruise ships fill the Old Town daily. Book accommodation and restaurants well in advance.
- Medieval Rose Festival (May–June)
- Butterflies at Petaloudes (peak July–August)
- Full beach season along the east coast
🍂 Autumn (September – October)
Warm (20–28°C) and excellent. September is still summer weather with fewer crowds. October remains pleasant with warm sea temperatures for swimming.
- Wine festivals in inland villages
- Warm sea through late October
- Golden afternoon light for photography
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Mild (10–16°C) with some rain. The Old Town is atmospheric and empty. Many resort hotels close, but the city remains lively with locals. A great off-season destination.
- Uncrowded medieval streets
- Christmas festivities in the Old Town
- Cheapest time to visit
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Rhodes offers a rich culinary scene blending Greek island cooking with Dodecanese specialties. Avoid the tourist traps on Sokratous Street and head to these gems:
To Marouli$ – $$
A popular salad and healthy food spot in the Old Town. Creative fresh salads, wraps, and smoothie bowls. A refreshing break from heavy taverna fare. The avocado-halloumi salad is a favorite.
Tamam$ – $$
A cozy restaurant in a quiet Old Town alley. Mediterranean and Greek dishes with vegetarian-friendly options. The mezze platters are generous and beautifully presented. Lovely courtyard seating.
Marco Polo Café$$
Set in the garden of a restored Ottoman mansion in the Old Town. Creative Mediterranean cuisine with Ottoman influences. The atmosphere is magical on summer evenings with candlelit tables under bougainvillea.
Nireas$$ – $$$
The best seafood restaurant in the Old Town, in a charming courtyard setting. Fresh fish, grilled octopus, and seafood pasta. The owner personally selects fish from the morning catch. Book ahead.
To Steno$ – $$
A tiny family taverna tucked in a narrow alley of the Old Town. Simple home-cooked Greek dishes — moussaka, stuffed peppers, and pastitsio. Generous portions and welcoming owners. Cash only.
Philosophia Beach Taverna$ – $$
Located on Pefkos Beach near Lindos, this laid-back taverna serves fresh grilled fish and traditional meze with toes-in-the-sand dining. Fair prices for the beachfront location. Try the shrimp saganaki.
Mama Sofia$
A beloved Lindos village taverna with rooftop terrace views. Classic Greek dishes at honest prices — Greek salad, souvlaki, and grilled lamb. Popular with both locals and visitors. Great for a casual lunch.