Things to do in Rhodes - best places to visit on the island

Visiting Rhodes - what to know before you go?

Rhodes is located in the Aegean Sea, in the Dodecanese archipelago, close to the coast of Turkey. It is one of the largest Greek islands and a popular holiday destination for people who like to combine beach relaxation with sightseeing. Rhodes attractions are so diverse - from ancient ruins and castles to beaches, resorts, bays and cruises to nearby islands.

The currency in Rhodes is the euro, and the official language is Greek, though you can easily communicate in English in tourist areas. In high season, the island is well-prepared for travellers: car rentals, local buses, taxis, cruises and optional trips are all available. If you plan to explore on your own, a car gives you the most freedom, especially for routes to Lindos, Prasonisi, or less-popular beaches.

The best time to explore Rhodes is spring, early summer and early autumn. In July and August, temperatures can be high, so it is best to plan more intensive sightseeing in the morning or late afternoon.

Discover Rhodes conveniently, without having to plan your route. Choose an excursion and see the island's most beautiful sites: Lindos, Rhodes Town, picturesque bays, viewpoints, and local attractions.

Rhodes Town

Rhodes Town is the island's capital and one of the best places to start sightseeing. This is where you will find the famous Old Town of Rhodes, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Mandraki Harbour; medieval walls; monuments from the time of the Knights Hospitaller; and traces of Ottoman rule. In practice, it is a great place for a full-day walk, as many attractions are located close to one another.

Old Town of Rhodes

The Old Town of Rhodes is one of the best-preserved medieval urban areas in Europe. It is surrounded by powerful walls, and inside you will find a maze of cobbled streets, stone buildings, squares, gates and narrow alleys. It is a great place for both history lovers and those who simply enjoy walking without a strict plan.

During the day, you can visit monuments and museums, and in the evening return for dinner, shopping or a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets.

Street of the Knights

The Street of the Knights leads towards the Palace of the Grand Master and lets you feel the atmosphere of the time when Rhodes was an important seat of the Knights Hospitaller. Along the street, there were once residences of knights belonging to different groups of the order.

It is not a long journey, but it is definitely worth walking slowly along it. The stone façades, coats of arms and austere architecture make the Street of the Knights look more like a scene from a historical film than a typical tourist route.

Palace of the Grand Master

The Palace of the Grand Master is one of the most significant monuments in Rhodes Town. The monumental building looks more like a fortress than a palace, and for centuries it was a symbol of the Knights Hospitaller's power on the island. Inside, you can see representative halls, mosaics and historical exhibitions.

It is worth noting that the palace's current appearance is partly the result of reconstruction during Italian rule in the Dodecanese. This makes the place interesting not only as a medieval monument but also as an example of how the island’s history was interpreted and rebuilt in the 20th century.

Suleymaniye Mosque

The Suleymaniye Mosque is a reminder of the Ottoman period in Rhodes' history. It stands out with its pale pink façade and distinctive shape. It was built after the Ottomans captured the island in the 16th century and remains a trace of their presence in the city.

Likewise, it is a good example of how layered Rhodes's history is. During one walk, you can see the influence of the Knights Hospitaller, Byzantium, the Ottomans, the Italians, and modern Greece.

Mandraki Harbour

Mandraki Harbour is located right next to the Old Town, and according to tradition, this is where the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was supposed to have stood at the entrance to the port. Today, the entrance is guarded by statues of a stag and a doe, while excursion boats, yachts and characteristic windmills line the waterfront.

It is a good place for a walk, especially in the morning or around sunset. Cruises and tours often depart from Mandraki Harbour, making it a practical starting point for further sightseeing.

Fort of St. Nicholas

The Fort of St. Nicholas is located at the entrance to Mandraki Harbour and served a defensive function for centuries. It was built by the Knights Hospitaller to protect the harbour and the city from the sea.

Today, it is one of the most photogenic spots in this part of Rhodes, especially with views of the windmills and the waterfront.

Lindos - the white town

Lindos impresses above all with its location. The town lies on the eastern coast of Rhodes, with its buildings climbing beneath a rocky hill. In the centre, you will find cobbled streets, small shops, tavernas, and terraces overlooking the bay.

It is best to come here in the morning or late afternoon, especially in high season. This makes it easier to avoid the strongest heat and the biggest crowds.

Acropolis of Lindos

The Acropolis of Lindos is located high above the town, so the climb itself is part of the experience. From the walls, there is a view of the white houses of Lindos, the bays and the blue sea.

On site, you can see the remains of ancient buildings, including the Temple of Athena Lindia. This place shows how important Lindos was in antiquity - not only as a settlement, but also as a religious centre and a strategic point on the coast.

Discover two sides of Rhodes in one tour: white Lindos with its panoramic Acropolis, and the medieval town of Rhodes with its atmospheric streets and monuments. This is the perfect option if you want to see the island's most significant sites without having to plan your route.

St. Paul’s Bay

St. Paul’s Bay is located right next to Lindos. According to tradition, this is where St. Paul arrived during his journey. Today, the bay attracts visitors mainly for its calm water, rocky surroundings, and views of the Acropolis.

It is a good place for a swim after visiting Lindos. The bay is small, so it quickly becomes popular in high season. If you want a quieter atmosphere, it is worth coming earlier in the day

Tsambika - beach and monastery

Tsambika is a name you will come across in two contexts in Rhodes: a wide beach and a monastery located high on a hill. Together, they make one of the more interesting half-day ideas - a bit of relaxation, a bit of views and a touch of local history.

Tsambika Beach

Tsambika Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Rhodes. It is wide, sandy and works well both for families and for people who simply want to spend a day by the sea. The water is usually calm, and there is more space here than in many small bays.

There are beach bars and sunbed rentals on site, making it a convenient beach for a longer stay. In high season, it can be popular, but thanks to its size, it does not feel as crowded as smaller bays.

Tsambika Monastery

Tsambika Monastery is located on a hill above the beach. To reach the chapel, you need to climb the steps, but the reward is beautiful views of Rhodes' eastern coast. From the top, you can clearly see the beach, the sea and the surrounding hills.

The place also has religious significance. Panagia Tsambika is important to the island’s residents, and the monastery is connected with local traditions and stories. For tourists, it is mainly a peaceful viewpoint that complements a beach day perfectly.

The best beaches in Rhodes

The beaches in Rhodes are very diverse: from wide, well-developed stretches of coastline to intimate bays hidden among rocks. It is worth seeing several of them, as each has a wholly different character.

• Anthony Quinn Bay - one of the most famous bays in Rhodes. It is surrounded by rocks and greenery, and the clear water makes it a great place for swimming and snorkelling. In high season, it is best to come in the morning, as the bay is small and fills up quickly.
• Ladiko Beach - a calmer beach near Anthony Quinn Bay. It has an intimate atmosphere, beautiful surroundings and good conditions for a short rest by the water.
• Faliraki Beach - a long, popular and well-developed beach next to one of the island’s well-known resorts. It is a good choice if you want bars, restaurants, water sports, and full holiday infrastructure nearby.
• Afandou Beach - a long beach with more space and a calmer atmosphere than Faliraki. It is partly pebbly, and the water gets deeper rapidly in places, so it is worth keeping this in mind when travelling with children.
• Agathi Beach - a bright, sandy beach with a gentle entrance to the water. It is often recommended for families and individuals seeking a quieter place to relax on the beach. Feraklos Castle is located nearby, so you can combine beach time with a short bit of sightseeing.
• Prasonisi Beach - wide, sandy and entirely different from the small bays near Faliraki or Lindos. It is an active, windy place, very popular among water-sports enthusiasts.

Popular resorts in Rhodes

Rhodes has many tourist towns, but each of them has a slightly different character. Some are quieter and good as a base for exploring, while others are livelier, with long beaches and plenty of facilities. It is worth choosing a resort that aligns with how you want to spend your holiday.

Kolymbia

Kolymbia is a calmer resort on the eastern coast of Rhodes, located between Rhodes Town and Lindos, which makes it a convenient base for exploring the island. In the area, you will find beaches, hotels, tavernas, and the popular eucalyptus avenue.

It is a good choice for people who want to relax while also having easy access to the most important attractions. From Kolymbia, you can conveniently head towards Lindos, Tsambika, Seven Springs or Faliraki.

Faliraki

Faliraki is one of the best-known resorts in Rhodes. It is associated with a long beach, entertainment, bars, water sports and a wide choice of hotels. This is a place for people who like plenty of things to do close to their hotel.

Faliraki also works well for families, as it offers a popular water park in addition to the beach. At the same time, it is worth remembering that in high season it is a very busy place.

Afandou

Afandou has a more local character than typical seaside resorts. The town lies slightly inland, and the long beach is within a few minutes' walk. It is a good place for people who want to be close to the coast, but prefer a quieter base.

There is also a golf course and a large beach nearby, offering more space than the popular bays. Afandou works well for those planning to explore the island by car.

Historical places in Rhodes worth visiting

Rhodes has a rich history that extends beyond the Old Town. Across the island, you can see the ruins of ancient cities, historic complexes from the Italian rule period, and green areas that have been associated with leisure for locals for centuries.

Kamiros

Kamiros was one of the three ancient cities of Rhodes, alongside Lindos and Ialyssos. Today, you can visit ruins located on a hill overlooking the western coast. Parts of houses, streets, temples, and the water system have survived.

This place is less spectacular than the Acropolis of Lindos, but very interesting for those who enjoy archaeology. Kamiros helps you better imagine the everyday lives of the island's ancient inhabitants.

Kallithea Springs

Kallithea Springs is a complex built during Italian rule on the island. It stands out with its architecture, mosaics, rotunda and seaside location.

Today, the place combines sightseeing with relaxation. You can walk around, take photos, go down to the water or stop for a coffee. Kallithea Springs is a good choice for people who enjoy architecture and a calmer atmosphere.

Rodini Park

Rodini Park is located near the centre of Rhodes Town and is one of the island's green attractions. It is a good place for a short break from the sun, especially if you are exploring the city and want to change your surroundings for a moment.

The park is known for its paths, shade, streams, and peacocks, which are often spotted during a walk. It is not an attraction for the whole day, but it works well as a peaceful stop.

Best viewpoints and sunset spots in Rhodes

The western part of Rhodes hides several places worth visiting for the views and quieter atmosphere. The castles in Rhodes are not extensive museums, but their location on hills and rocks makes a strong impression, especially towards the end of the day.

• Monolithos - a small village in the western part of the island, known mainly for its castle perched on a rock. The surrounding area is calmer and less touristy than the popular resorts on the eastern coast.
• Monolithos Castle - ruins of a castle built by the Knights Hospitaller, offering beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding coast. A short climb to the top makes it worth bringing comfortable shoes. It is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Rhodes.
• Kritinia Castle - another castle of the Knights Hospitaller on the western coast. It does not take long to visit, but the sea and nearby islands make the short stop worthwhile. It fits perfectly into a road trip through a less obvious part of Rhodes.
• Filerimos Hill - a peaceful place near Ialyssos, with a monastery, paths, ruins and a large viewing cross. It is a viable option for people who want to see something historical without the crowds typical of Lindos or the Old Town.

Tour to Symi Island from Rhodes - what to see?

Symi Island is well worth visiting on a day trip from Rhodes. The cruise lets you experience an entirely different side of the Dodecanese: colourful houses, a slower pace and a harbour that looks like a postcard.

Symi is much smaller than Rhodes, but it has a unique charm. Its most recognisable feature is the colourful neoclassical houses climbing around the harbour. It is a good place for a walk, photos, coffee by the water and a short break from larger resorts.

An excursion to Symi is a good choice for those who want to see something beyond Rhodes without the need for complicated organisation. Cruises often include spare time in the harbour and a visit to Panormitis Monastery.

What is worth seeing on Symi Island?

• Gialos Harbour is the most famous view on Symi. Colourful façades, boats, steps, and hills create one of the most beautiful harbour landscapes in Greece. This is usually where island sightseeing begins.
• Panormitis Monastery is located in the south-western part of Symi and is an important pilgrimage site. It is dedicated to Archangel Michael.

Set sail to Symi and discover one of the most colourful islands in the Dodecanese. Spend a relaxing day admiring the Aegean Sea and soaking up the Greek atmosphere.

What to do in Rhodes with kids?

Rhodes works very well for family holidays because it combines beaches, short trips, water parks, and places that do not require extensive sightseeing. Families typically choose the areas around Faliraki, Kolymbia, Tsambika or Agathi, where it is easier to combine relaxation with attractions.

Faliraki Water Park

Faliraki Water Park is one of the most popular family attractions in Rhodes. It is located near the resort of Faliraki and offers slides, pools, and zones for different age groups. It is a good idea for a break from sightseeing and beach days.

It is best to plan the water park as a separate attraction, especially in high season, when high temperatures are perfect for water fun. For families with children, it is one of the simplest ideas for an active but not too demanding day.

Best Rhodes tours - cruises, sightseeing trips and local attractions

Rhodes is diverse, but also huge, so it is not always easy to see everything on your own. You need to plan the route, transport, parking, sightseeing times and transfers between attractions. That is why excursions in Rhodes are a convenient solution for people who want to make the most of their holiday without spending hours organising everything.

Available options include, among others, tours to Lindos and Rhodes Town, island sightseeing tours and evening tours of the capital. You can also choose a cruise to Symi with a stop in Gialos Harbour and Panormitis Monastery, a cruise to Chalki, or a trip along the eastern coast.

For those who are keen to discover the island's local atmosphere, culinary tours are a good choice, for example, tastings of olive oil, cheese, and other local products. If you prefer active leisure, check out trekking on Profitis Ilias or Mount Akramitis.

What is worth visiting in Rhodes?

Rhodes has so much to offer that it is best to match your sightseeing plan to your travel style.

• If you are interested in history, start with the Old Town of Rhodes, Lindos, Kamiros and the castles of Monolithos and Kritinia. These places best show the many layers of the island’s past.
• If you dream of beaches and beautiful bays, choose Tsambika, Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko Beach, Agathi or Prasonisi. Each of them has a different atmosphere - from family-friendly relaxation to raw, windy landscapes perfect for water sports enthusiasts.
• For families, good choices include Faliraki Water Park, Faliraki Beach, Tsambika, and calmer beaches with a gentle entry into the water. And if you want to see something beyond Rhodes, plan a day trip to Symi or a sightseeing route around the island’s most interesting places.

Everyone can find something for themselves in Rhodes!