- Places to go
- Things to do
- Book your trip
- More
Summer
MAY - OCTOBER
29°C
Average
Winter
NOVEMBER - APRIL
14°C
Average
Look everywhere for:
Beach Facilities
Boat Trips
Local Delicacies
Natural Activities
Water Sports
At the same time cosmopolitan and traditional, timeless and modern, simple and spectacular – Rhodes is an island in Greece that has so many faces and you’ll discover them all
What Rhodes is best known for
One of the best-known islands in Greece, Rhodes is famous for its medieval heritage, vibrant culture and golden beaches, making it a popular destination for families, friends and couples, both in summer and beyond. The medieval Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been continually inhabited since the Middle Ages, while the Acropolis of Lindos is a marvel of the 3rd century BC. It is said that the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood in the harbour of Mandraki, the main port. According to legend, ships sailed between its giant legs, and each night, the passage was closed with an enormous chain.
Rhodes is also known for its stunning beaches, traditional villages and a lush, mountainous interior. Its cultural influences span the Greek, Byzantine, Ottoman and Italian eras, reflected in both its architecture and cuisine, which can be enjoyed in gourmet restaurants as well as traditional tavernas. It is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and has all of the facilities to enjoy an unforgettable holiday in the Aegean Sea.
What to do in Rhodes
At the top of the places to visit in Rhodes, the medieval Old Town is a maze of cobbled streets, imposing stone walls and arched gateways. Monuments like the Palace of the Grand Master and Street of the Knights instantly transport you to the time of the Knights Templar. The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is found in the Hospital of the Knights of St John. Meanwhile, just outside the Old Town walls, Mandraki harbour is perfect for a waterfront stroll. At the Acropolis of Lindos, you’ll admire the Temple of Athina Lindia, and other ancient landmarks include the remains of Ancient Kamiros and Ialysos. Together with Lindos, they were the three city states of ancient Rhodes.
Rhodes has beaches to suit all tastes, while the countryside is dotted with olive groves and traditional villages. Highlight villages include Emponas (known for its wine and traditional costumes), Agios Isidoros (seemingly frozen in the 1960s), Archangelos (with a long tradition of ceramics and music) and Afandou (known for its skilful weavers), but there are plenty more to discover.
Children enjoy visiting the Valley of the Butterflies, while the Kallithea Springs, renowned in antiquity for their healing properties, are a haven of relaxation and Art Deco beauty. Rhodes was also one of the first islands in the Aegean to produce wine, a tradition that continues today at wineries and vineyards open to visitors.
Best beaches in Rhodes
Rhodes spoils its visitors with a spectacular variety of beaches. Tsambika, Lindos, Faliraki, Anthony Quinn Bay, St Paul’s Bay, Prasonisi… all perfect for long summer days in the sun. Not forgetting, of course, Agathi, with its golden shore and shallow waters, ideal for families and relaxation. And then there’s Kallithea Springs… an elegant seaside retreat with still waters and historic spa buildings.
Lindos Beach is a long stretch of sand below the ancient acropolis that gives it its name, while Prasonisi, where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet, is popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers. Anthony Quinn Bay is a dream for snorkellers and laid-back Pefkos and Kallithea offer calm, clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere. Meanwhile, Faliraki never fails to deliver with lively beach bars and water sports. Whatever your beach style, Rhodes has the perfect stretch of sand for you.
Best time to visit Rhodes
As one of the most popular Greek islands, Rhodes gets busiest in July and August, especially in the Old Town and on its most famous beaches. For a more relaxed experience, visit in May-June or September-October, when the weather in Rhodes is warm, the sea is ideal for swimming, and the crowds are smaller. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) are also great for outdoor activities like hiking and enjoying the island’s diverse landscapes and villages and for exploring the history of Rhodes. The Jersey tiger months in the Valley of the Butterflies are most abundant from June to September, with their peak usually in July and August. Winters are mild but can be rainy, with fewer tourist services available.
How to get to Rhodes
Travelling to Rhodes by air and boat is easy at any time of year.
By Air: Rhodes International Airport (Diagoras) has year-round flights from Athens, as well as seasonal direct flights from many European cities. The airport is about 14km from Rhodes Town.
By Ferry: Regular ferries connect Rhodes to Piraeus (Athens) (around 13-16 hours, often overnight) and there are services to Dodecanese islands like Kos, Symi and Patmos and to Crete.
⛴ Ferry Schedules to Rhodes
Rhodes, the largest island of the Dodecanese, is connected to Athens through Piraeus Port, with year-round ferry routes.
From Piraeus:
- Conventional ferry: ~15–17 hours (usually overnight)
Ferries to Rhodes typically offer cabins, numbered seats, and vehicle decks for long-distance comfort.
Luggage is included in the ticket price, with storage areas available onboard.
In summer, ferry schedules become more frequent, and Rhodes also has direct ferry connections to other Dodecanese islands like Kos, Symi, and Kalymnos.
What to see in Rhodes
Loading...
Loading...
Loading...
Create your Itinerary in Rhodes
Part of the magic of Rhodes is that you can combine your trip with an escape to a neighbouring Dodecanese island. Your island-hopping adventure starts here!
Tours & Activities in Rhodes
Discover authentic local experiences and secure your booking for tours and activities in Rhodes with our official online rates.
Tours
1.5 hours
Wing foil courses in Rhodes
Tours
9 hours
Rhodes: Full Day Cruise to Halki Island
Tours
Tours
6 hours
Accessible Tour in Rhodes: Kamiros and w...
Tours
5 hours
Rhodes: Half-day Tour to Filerimos Hill ...
Tours
3 hours
Wine Tasting & Cooking Class in Rhodes
Where to stay in Rhodes
Find your accommodation with our extensive list of hotels, villas and guest houses and book now to make your dream holiday in Rhodes a reality.
Rhodes
Lindos Sun Hotel
Rhodes
Naillac Boutique Hotel
Rhodes
Atalanti Hotel Rhodes
Rhodes
Savoy City Hotel
Book your transfer now
Discover the highest-rated ground transportation services for travelers, based on reviews across Google, Tripadvisor, and Trustpilot.
Welcome Pickups offers a seamless, safe, and enjoyable experience for travelers
Trained Drivers
Hand picked & trained drivers
Low prices
Same price as a regular taxi from the line
Arrival monitoring
Drivers are always on time
Quality support
24/7 email & phone support
powered by
Events
All the diary items to light up your stay
Useful Info
Accommodation
Rhodes offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. Mandraki has plenty of hotels close to cafes, restaurants and nightlife spots and is convenient for visiting the medieval Old Town. There are also elegant hotels and apartments in the Old Town itself.
Along the coast, luxury beach resorts, family-friendly hotels, and self-catering apartments can be found in well-developed areas like Lindos, Ixia, and Kallithea. Faliraki is a hotspot for younger travellers, offering an energetic atmosphere, lively nightlife and plenty of activities. For a more tranquil experience, traditional villages and countryside guesthouses provide a peaceful retreat, often surrounded by olive groves. Budget travellers can find affordable options, while those seeking privacy can choose private villas with sea views.
More information is available on our accommodation page.
Food and Dining
Rhodes has a rich culinary heritage influenced by its many settlers (including Asian, African, and European influences) as well as its plentiful Mediterranean products. Cheese, olive oil, fruit & vegetables, honey, wild greens, berries and pulses are all produced locally and meat dishes are often flavoured with cumin, a rare spice in Greek cuisine. Bulgur wheat is found in many local dishes. Specialties include pitaroudia (chickpea fritters with onion, tomato, mint and cumin), lakani (slow-cooked meat with wheat known as chondros), and melekounia (a honey and sesame treat).
Dining in Rhodes ranges from traditional tavernas serving homemade dishes to upscale restaurants offering modern takes on local flavours. Whether you're after a casual seaside meal or a fine dining experience, there’s something for every taste and budget. Rhodes is also home to numerous wineries, growing indigenous grapes such as Athiri (white) and Mandilaria (red), along with other Greek and European varieties.
Climate
Rhodes has a Mediterranean climate, with long, hot summers and abundant sunshine from April to October, making it ideal for beach holidays and exploring the island. Summer temperatures often reach the mid-30s°C, but can be higher. The climate in Rhodes remains mild in the cooler months, with most rainfall occurring between November and March, helping to maintain the greenery and local agriculture. Spring and autumn provide the perfect weather in Rhodes for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring historical sites, with warm temperatures, fewer crowds and a great balance between relaxation and adventure. Winters are mild but wetter, with fewer tourist services available, making it a quieter but less typical time to visit Rhodes.
Safety and Health
Rhodes is generally safe for travellers, although it’s always advisable to stay aware and keep your belongings secure, especially in busy areas. The emergency number for all services, including medical assistance, is 112. Rhodes has a hospital and several health clinics providing medical care. Pharmacies are widely available and offer both over-the-counter and prescription medications. Bottled water is widely available and food safety standards are high, so you can confidently enjoy the local cuisine. For more health and safety tips, visit our practical info page.
⛵ Rhodes Cruises
Explore the wonders of Rhodes from the water
FAQs about Rhodes
Where is Rhodes in Greece?
The location of Rhodes in the southeastern Aegean Sea has made it a significant cultural and historical hub over the centuries. It lies about 430 km (270 miles) southeast of Athens and is the largest of the Dodecanese islands.
How do you get around Rhodes?
There are various local transportation options in Rhodes to suit different travel needs. Renting a car or scooter is a popular choice for exploring at your own pace. Public buses frequently run between the main town and major beaches and attractions, with regular services from Rhodes Town to key destinations. Taxis are widely available but can be pricey for longer distances. Boat trips offer a scenic way to visit coastal spots. Bicycles are available to rent, and the Old Town and other historic areas are easy to explore on foot.
What are the must-see attractions in Rhodes?
World-famous landmarks such as the medieval Old Town (A UNESCO World Heritage Site) go a long way to answering why Rhodes is so famous. But beyond the Palace of the Grand Master and the Street of the Knights of the Old Town and the beauty of the Acropolis of Lindos (dating to 300 BC), there are plenty of other must-see attractions in Rhodes. Ancient Kamiros and Ancient Ialysos were (along with Lindos, the ancient city states of Rhodes) and mountain villages like Embonas, Monolithos, Vati, Lahania and Horaki ooze authenticity. If you are searching for where to go in Rhodes as a nature lover, you will enjoy the Valley of the Butterflies and Rodini Park, near the Old Town. And be sure to include a visit to a winery during your stay.
Is Rhodes a good destination for families?
Yes, Rhodes is a fantastic destination for families, combining history, beaches and outdoor adventures. The medieval Old Town feels like a storybook setting, with castles, knights and winding streets to explore, while the shallow, calm waters at Lindos, Tsambika and Faliraki make for perfect family beach days. Kids will love nature spots like the Valley of the Butterflies and Seven Springs, as well as water parks and boat trips. Many hotels and resorts cater to families with kids’ clubs, pools and child-friendly dining, ensuring a stress-free holiday with plenty to see and do.
How long should I spend in Rhodes?
There is so much to see in Rhodes that five days is the minimum to truly experience the island. This gives you enough time to explore the medieval Old Town, visit ancient landmarks like the Acropolis of Lindos, relax on some of its beautiful beaches, and enjoy the local cuisine. If you want to venture beyond the main sights, a week or more is ideal. You can take a boat trip, visit traditional mountain villages, and explore nature spots. Whether you visit for a short escape or an extended holiday, Rhodes’ mix of history, beaches and outdoor adventures will make you want to stay even longer!
What to do in Rhodes in one day?
If you have just one day in Rhodes, make sure to explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, which lets you experience both the medieval history and vibrant local life of Rhodes. Start at the Palace of the Grand Master, then stroll down the Street of the Knights and visit the Archaeological Museum for a journey through the island’s rich past. You can then unwind at a nearby beach. Elli Beach is just a 15-minute walk away. Alternatively, Kallithea Springs (9 km) and or Anthony Quinn Bay (16 km) are nearby options by bus or taxi. You can finish your day with a seaside taverna meal.
What are the Greek islands near Rhodes?
The Greek islands near Rhodes include Kos, Karpathos, Nisyros, Halki, Symi and Tilos —all great options for island hopping. You can even take day trips to Halki and Symi, exploring their picturesque harbours and colourful houses before returning to Rhodes. Whether you're after a quick escape or a multi-day adventure, there is a choice of nearby islands that offer a perfect blend of traditional charm and stunning beaches.
Is Rhodes expensive?
Rhodes caters to a range of budgets, from luxury to affordable travel. While high-end resorts, fine dining, and private villas can be pricey, there are plenty of budget-friendly options, including self-catering apartments, guesthouses, and traditional tavernas serving great value meals. Hotel prices tend to be higher in July and August, especially in Rhodes Town, Lindos, and popular beach resorts, while May-June and September-October offer better deals on accommodation and activities. Overall, Rhodes can be as affordable or luxurious as you choose, making it a great destination for all types of travellers.