Rhodes is one of the most popular Greek islands, attracting millions of visitors every year. It offers a rich historical and cultural heritage, stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and a variety of activities for all tastes and ages. Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday, a cultural trip, or an adventurous experience, Rhodes has something for you!
In this blog post, we will explore some of the best things to do in Rhodes, from historical sites to natural wonders, from boat trips to water sports. We will also give you some tips on how to plan your itinerary, where to stay, and how to get there. So, let’s get started!
The Medieval City of Rhodes
The Medieval City of Rhodes is the island’s must-see attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the largest and best preserved fortified city in Europe, built by the knights of Saint-John in the 14th century. You can walk along the 4-km long walls, admire the impressive gates and towers, and visit the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, a majestic castle that houses a museum and a luxurious apartment.
The Medieval City of Rhodes is also a lively place, full of taverns, restaurants, shops, and museums. You can stroll through the charming cobblestone streets, discover the medieval churches, mosques, and synagogues, and enjoy the atmosphere of this unique historical site.
Lindos
Lindos is another highlight of Rhodes. It is a beautiful village located on the east coast of the island, about 50 km from Rhodes city. Lindos is famous for its whitewashed houses, its narrow alleys, and its stunning views over the bay. It is also home to one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece: the Lindos Acropolis.
The Lindos Acropolis is perched on a hill above the village and offers a panoramic view of the sea and the surrounding countryside. It dates back to ancient times and features several monuments, such as the Temple of Athena Lindia, the Propylaea, and the Stoa. You can reach the acropolis by foot or by donkey ride from the village.
Rhodes’ best beaches
Rhodes is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Whether you prefer sandy or pebbly beaches, calm or windy waters, secluded or crowded spots, you will find your perfect beach in Rhodes. Here are some of the best beaches in Rhodes:
- Tsambika Beach: a long sandy beach with crystal clear water and a stunning view of the Tsambika Monastery on top of a hill. It is ideal for families with children and offers many facilities and water sports.
- Kalithea Springs: a small cove with turquoise water and rocky formations. It is famous for its thermal springs that were used since ancient times for their healing properties. You can also visit the Kalithea Springs complex, a restored Italian building with gardens, fountains, and mosaics.
- Anthony Quinn Bay: a picturesque bay named after the famous actor who filmed “The Guns of Navarone” here. It has a pebbly beach with clear blue water and lush greenery. It is perfect for snorkeling and diving.
- Prasonisi: a sandy spit that connects Rhodes with a small island. It is a paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers, as it has two different sides: one with calm water and one with strong wind and waves.
Rhodes’ castles
Rhodes has many castles that testify to its rich history and strategic importance. Besides the Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes city, you can visit several other castles around the island. Some of them are:
| Castle | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kritinia Castle | West coast | A medieval castle built by the knights on a hill overlooking the sea. It offers a magnificent view of the sunset and the nearby islands. |
| Monolithos Castle | Southwest coast | A medieval castle built by the knights on a rocky cliff above Monolithos village. It is surrounded by pine trees and has two chapels inside. |
| Feraklos Castle | East coast | An ancient castle that was used by the Byzantines, the knights, and the Ottomans. It is located near Haraki village and has a view of the bay. |
| Asklipio Castle | South coast | A medieval castle built by the knights on a hill above Asklipio village. It has a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary and a small museum. |
Ancient site of Kamiros
Kamiros is one of the three ancient cities of Rhodes, along with Lindos and Ialyssos. It was founded in the 7th century BC and was a prosperous and cultured city until it was destroyed by an earthquake in the 3rd century BC. You can visit the archaeological site of Kamiros and see the remains of the city, such as the agora, the temple, the fountain, and the houses. You can also admire some of the artifacts found in Kamiros at the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes.
The Valley of the Butterflies
The Valley of the Butterflies is a natural park located in the inland of Rhodes, about 26 km from Rhodes city. It is a green oasis with a river, waterfalls, bridges, and paths. It is famous for its thousands of butterflies that gather here from June to September. They are attracted by the resin of the oriental sweetgum trees that grow in the valley. You can walk through the valley and observe the butterflies, but be careful not to disturb them or touch them.
Kallithea Springs
Kallithea Springs is a small cove with turquoise water and rocky formations. It is famous for its thermal springs that were used since ancient times for their healing properties. You can also visit the Kallithea Springs complex, a restored Italian building with gardens, fountains, and mosaics.
Tsambika Monastery
Tsambika Monastery is a small church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, located on top of a hill overlooking Tsambika Beach. It is accessible by a steep staircase of 300 steps from the main road. It is said that the monastery grants fertility to women who pray there. The view from the monastery is breathtaking and worth the climb.
Seven Springs / Epta Piges
Seven Springs or Epta Piges is another natural attraction in Rhodes. It is a park with seven springs that form a small lake. You can walk around the lake, cross a wooden bridge, or enter a dark tunnel that leads to the other side of the lake. The water is cold and refreshing, and you might see some peacocks and ducks in the park.
The other best villages to visit in Rhodes
Rhodes has many charming villages that are worth visiting. Some of them are:
- Archangelos: a traditional village with colorful houses, narrow streets, and a medieval castle. It is also known for its pottery workshops and its folklore museum.
- Afandou: a large village with a long sandy beach, a golf course, and a folklore museum. It is also famous for its carpets and its church of Panagia Katholiki.
- Embonas: a mountain village with vineyards, olive groves, and pine forests. It is renowned for its wine production and its traditional taverns.
- Koskinou: a picturesque village with colorful houses decorated with ceramic plates and flowers. It has a folklore museum and a pebbly beach.
- Lachania: a quaint village with whitewashed houses, stone-paved alleys, and windmills. It has a peaceful atmosphere and a beautiful beach.
Full-day trip to Symi Island
Symi Island is one of the best day trips from Rhodes. It is a small island located about 40 km north of Rhodes. It is famous for its neoclassical architecture, its sponge diving tradition, and its monastery of Panormitis.
You can take a boat from Rhodes city or Mandraki port and enjoy a scenic cruise along the coast of Rhodes and Symi. You will stop at Symi town, where you can admire the colorful houses that line the harbor, visit the naval museum and the clock tower, and taste some local delicacies.
Then, you will continue to Panormitis Bay, where you can visit the monastery of Panormitis, dedicated to Archangel Michael. The monastery has an impressive bell tower, a museum, and an icon gallery. You can also swim in the bay or relax on the beach before returning to Rhodes.
