Discover the wonder of Lindos on Rhodes
OVERVIEW
Discover the wonder of Lindos on Rhodes
No holiday in Rhodes is complete without visiting Lindos. Not just because of the 3rd century BC acropolis found there, or even because of the sugar-cubed houses and labyrinth of alleyways of the town loved by everyone who passes through.
It’s because climbing to Lindos’ temple, 116m above sea level, you follow exactly the same path as the ancients who built the acropolis and the knights that used it as a place of worship and defence. That incredible vista of the Aegean Sea and St Paul’s Bay below … it’s exactly the same view that would have inspired them back in the day.
So when you are in Rhodes, make sure to put Lindos on your holiday wish list. The archaeological site; the shops, cafes and restaurants of Lindos village; and the beaches that you can pick out from the temple will reward you for it. And if you want an insider’s tip: Stay till sunset and have dinner at a rooftop terrace in town. The light is incredible.
DON'T MISS
Highlights of Lindos in Rhodes
The medieval fortifications
One of the first impressions you’ll have of the Acropolis of Lindos is how the constructions of antiquity and later generations have merged to become one. Just by the Hellenistic exedra (seating area) is the Administrative Building of the Knights (from the Knights of St John) and the Byzantine Church of Agios Ioannis.
The Propylaea
Near the entrance, you’ll find a 280 BC relief of the prow of a ship – a nod to Rhodes’ naval prowess which continued until long after the knights of the Middle Ages had moved on. Climbing a grand staircase, you reach the Propylaea (temple entrance) and the remains of a Hellenistic stoa (pillared hall).
Temple of Athina Lindia
The crowning glory of the Acropolis of Lindos is its temple, built in around 300 BC on the site of an older temple. From here, you can look down on a theatre and contemplate the myth of the temple being founded by Danaus, who came to the island with his 50 daughters to escape the rage of the goddess Hera. Unless that is, you’re preoccupied by those astonishing Aegean views … or the beach you’re about to head to … or Lindos village… or the rooftop restaurant you’ll choose for dinner.
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How long do you need to visit Lindos on Rhodes?
- To fully understand the mythology, history and architecture of Lindos' archaeological site, it’s worth joining an organised tour, which lasts 2-4hrs.
- With everything to enjoy in the area, try to stay for the day.
Buy your tickets - Acropolis of Lindos
How do you get to Lindos on Rhodes?
- Lindos is around 47km (55 mins) by car or taxi from the Old Town and the airport. For bus services, see here.
When is the best time to visit Rhodes?
- Rhodes is a popular Greek island, so avoid the busiest summer months (July-August) if you can, and certainly the midday heat.
- May-June and September-October are wonderful months to visit Rhodes.
- Seasonal opening hours apply. From April-October, the Acropolis of Lindos is open from 08:00 to 20:00 and tickets are €12 per person (€6 reduced). It is closed on some national holidays.
Acropolis of Lindos info and opening hours
- Autumn
- Spring
- Summer
- Winter
- You’ll find all the basics (snacks and drinks, toilets etc) but there’s very little shade around the archaeological site and the walk up to the temple is quite steep, so make sure you’re prepared (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and water bottle) and wear comfortable footwear.
- There are plenty of hotels in Lindos, so you can choose to stay here for all or part of your stay
- Due to the hill, access to the archaeological site is not suitable for visitors with mobility difficulties.
