Why Visit Rhodes?
Rhodes enchants as Greece's medieval island where Knights Hospitaller fortifications enclose cobblestone lanes, Lindos Acropolis crowns whitewashed villages above turquoise bays, and 300 days of annual sunshine warm Aegean beaches from May to October. This Dodecanese island (pop. ~120,000) balances crusader history with package-resort energy—Rhodes Old Town (UNESCO) preserves the world's finest medieval walled city, while resort strips offer all-inclusive hotels and buzzing nightlife.
The Palace of the Grand Master (adult tickets now ~$22; EU under-25s & non-EU under-18s free with ID) showcases Knights' 14th-century stronghold rebuilt by Mussolini, Street of the Knights preserves Gothic inns, and Byzantine walls encircle 200 lanes hiding mosques, synagogues, and Ottoman fountains from successive occupations. Lindos village (50km south) climbs hillsides to Acropolis perch (adult tickets now around $22) where Doric temple columns frame Aegean panoramas and donkeys haul visitors up cobblestone paths. Yet Rhodes offers beaches for every taste: Tsambika's golden sand, Anthony Quinn Bay's crystal-clear cove, Prasonisi's windsurfing meeting of two seas, and Kallithea Springs' Art Deco spa complex.
The Valley of the Butterflies ($3–$5 depending on month, June-September) hosts millions of Jersey Tiger moths in shaded stream valley, while Filerimos monastery crowns hilltops with giant cross viewpoints. Food scene serves Greek classics plus Rhodian specialties: pitaroudia chickpea fritters, melekouni sesame honey bars, and fresh seafood at Mandraki Harbor. Package resorts concentrate in Faliraki and Ixia, while Seven Springs oasis offers cool forest respite.
Visit May-June or September-October for 23-30°C weather avoiding peak August crowds. With direct summer flights from Europe, medieval charm competing with beach relaxation, and affordable prices ($76–$130/day), Rhodes delivers Greek island versatility mixing history, sun, and sea.
What to Do
Medieval Heritage
Rhodes Old Town UNESCO Site
The world's finest preserved medieval walled city—200 cobblestone lanes within Byzantine walls. Walk the moat-side ramparts ($2), explore Street of the Knights with Gothic inns, and visit Palace of the Grand Master (adult tickets now ~$22; EU under-25s & non-EU under-18s free with ID)—a 14th-century crusader stronghold rebuilt by Mussolini. Get lost in the maze of shops, cafés, and hidden courtyards. Arrive early (8-9am) before cruise ship crowds.
Palace of the Grand Master
Imposing castle (adult tickets now ~$22; EU under-25s & non-EU under-18s free with ID) served as Knights Hospitaller headquarters from 1309-1522. Grand halls display medieval furnishings, intricate mosaics, and crusader artifacts. Dungeons and fortifications reveal military might. Skip the long day-visitor queues by arriving right at 8am opening or after 3pm. Audio guide recommended (included). Allow 1-2 hours.
Archaeological Museum
Housed in the Knights' 15th-century Hospital (around $6–$9; check latest prices), showcasing artifacts from Rhodes's ancient history—Hellenistic sculptures, classical pottery, the famous Aphrodite of Rhodes statue. Provides context for ancient sites you'll visit. Quiet escape from Old Town crowds. Combined ticket with Palace available.
Ancient Sites
Lindos Acropolis & Village
Spectacularly perched acropolis (adult tickets now around $22 with EU under-25s free and others reduced) crowns whitewashed village 50km south. Climb steep paths (30-40 min) or take donkey ride (around $5–$8 each way) to ancient Doric temple ruins with 360° Aegean views. Below, narrow lanes hide shops, rooftop restaurants, and St. Paul's Bay (crystal-clear swimming cove). Visit early morning (arrive by 9am bus from Rhodes) or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and crowds.
Ancient Kamiros
Lesser-known but well-preserved Doric city ruins on west coast (adult tickets about $11; EU youth under 25 usually free with ID). Walk through ancient streets, see public baths, temple remains, and residential quarters. Fewer tourists than Lindos. Panoramic hillside position overlooks coast. Combine with Filerimos Monastery visit (20 min drive). Best morning or late afternoon for soft light.
Beaches & Nature
Anthony Quinn Bay
Small, sheltered cove with crystal-clear turquoise water and dramatic rock formations—named after actor who fell in love with Rhodes while filming. Rocky entry (water shoes helpful), excellent snorkeling with fish and caves. Gets crowded mid-morning (arrive by 9am or after 4pm). Sunbeds $9–$13 or find free spot on rocks. 15km south of Rhodes Town.
Tsambika Beach
Rhodes's finest long sandy beach (3km) with shallow golden sand and family-friendly waters. Less developed than resort beaches. Hilltop monastery above offers panoramic views (short steep climb). Beach facilities include sunbeds ($9), tavernas, and water sports. East coast, 26km south of Rhodes Town. Public transport accessible.
Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes)
Shaded stream valley ($3–$5 depending on month, June-September only; peak season late Jun-mid Sep $5–$6 shoulder months $3) hosts millions of Jersey Tiger moths during summer. Wooden walkways wind through forest—peaceful escape from beach heat. Most butterflies July-August. Early morning or late afternoon best for active moths. 24km southwest of Rhodes Town. Combine with wine tasting at nearby wineries.
Gallery
Travel Information
Getting There
- Airports: RHO
Best Time to Visit
May, June, September, October
Climate: Warm
Weather by Month
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 13°C | 9 | Good |
| February | 15°C | 13°C | 13 | Wet |
| March | 16°C | 14°C | 8 | Good |
| April | 18°C | 16°C | 5 | Good |
| May | 21°C | 19°C | 4 | Excellent (best) |
| June | 23°C | 21°C | 2 | Excellent (best) |
| July | 27°C | 25°C | 0 | Good |
| August | 28°C | 26°C | 0 | Good |
| September | 27°C | 26°C | 0 | Excellent (best) |
| October | 24°C | 22°C | 5 | Excellent (best) |
| November | 21°C | 18°C | 4 | Good |
| December | 18°C | 16°C | 17 | Wet |
Weather data: Open-Meteo Archive (2020-2024) • Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0) • Historical avg. 2020–2024
Budget
Excludes flights
Visa Requirements
Schengen Area
💡 🌍 Traveler Tip (November 2025): Best time to visit: May, June, September, October.
Practical Information
Getting There
Rhodes International Airport (RHO) is 14km southwest. Buses to Rhodes Town cost $3 (25 min). Taxis $27–$32 Summer sees direct charter international flights. Year-round connections via Athens. Ferries from Piraeus (15-17hr overnight, $43–$86), plus island-hopping to Kos, Santorini. Most arrive via direct flights.
Getting Around
Rhodes Town is walkable—Old Town to New Town 20 min. KTEL buses connect villages and beaches ($2–$6 depending on distance). Lindos $5 Faliraki $3 Buy tickets on board or at station. Rent scooters ($16–$27/day) or cars ($38–$54/day) to explore island—drive on right. Taxis available. Old Town pedestrian. Most island attractions require wheels or tours.
Money & Payments
Euro (EUR). Cards widely accepted. ATMs in Rhodes Town and tourist areas. Beach tavernas sometimes cash-only. Tipping: round up or 5-10% appreciated. Beach sunbeds $9–$16/day. Prices moderate—cheaper than Santorini, typical for Greek islands.
Language
Greek is official. English widely spoken in tourist areas—Rhodes sees millions of visitors. German also common (many German tourists). Menus have English. Younger generation fluent. Learning basic Greek appreciated: Efharistó (thanks), Parakaló (please). Signs bilingual in tourist zones.
Cultural Tips
Medieval heritage: Knights Hospitaller ruled 1309-1522, Old Town reflects crusader architecture. Package tourism: resorts filled with British/German tourists, all-inclusive culture dominates some areas. Beach culture: sunbeds usually $9–$16 free areas exist. Siesta: 2-5pm, shops close, beaches busiest. Meal times: lunch 2-4pm, dinner 9pm+. Greek hospitality: friendly, generous, loud conversations normal. Ferry schedules: check in advance, weather-dependent. Scooters: popular but accidents common—wear helmet, avoid night riding. Sunday: shops closed, tavernas open. Greek salad: no lettuce (tomatoes, cucumber, feta, olives). Ouzo: anise spirit, drink with meze. August 15 (Assumption): huge Greek holiday, everything booked.
Perfect 3-Day Rhodes Itinerary
Day 1: Medieval Rhodes
Day 2: Lindos Day Trip
Day 3: Beaches & Nature
Where to Stay in Rhodes
Old Town
Best for: Medieval walls, Palace, Street of Knights, hotels, restaurants, UNESCO core
New Town/Mandraki
Best for: Harbor, modern Rhodes, shopping, cafés, accommodation, waterfront
Lindos
Best for: Acropolis, white village, beaches, day trip destination, 50km south, charming
Faliraki
Best for: Beach resort, nightlife, package tourism, water park, party scene, all-inclusive
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