Rhodes City Guide

This Rhodes City Guide features the UNESCO-listed Old Town and Street of the Knights. See the ancient Acropolis of Lindos and vibrant New Town beaches.

Rhodes offers a captivating blend of medieval grandeur and sun-drenched Mediterranean charm. The heart of the island beats within the walls of the UNESCO-listed Rhodes Old Town, one of the best-preserved medieval settlements in Europe. Walking down the cobbled Street of the Knights or exploring the formidable Palace of the Grand Master feels like stepping back into the era of the Crusades. Beyond the history, the modern city provides a vibrant contrast at Mandraki Harbor, where the legendary Colossus once stood, now replaced by elegant deer statues and bustling waterfront cafes.

For those seeking adventure beyond the city walls, the whitewashed village of Lindos is an essential stop. Perched high above a turquoise bay, the Acropolis of Lindos offers breathtaking views and ancient ruins that span centuries. The island's dramatic coastline is best explored by water; sea kayaking along the rugged Pirates Route or taking a private catamaran cruise to secluded coves allows for a deeper connection with the Aegean. Whether you are snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or enjoying a sunset sail, the maritime spirit of Rhodes is unmistakable.

The island’s interior is equally rewarding, where traditional villages host authentic cooking classes and world-class wine tastings. Sample local varieties like Athiri under the guidance of a sommelier, or head into the hills for an ATV quad tour to discover hidden landscapes. From the medieval fortifications to the golden beaches and flavorful traditions, Rhodes seamlessly combines its storied past with a welcoming, modern island lifestyle.

Beyond the medieval walls and golden sands of the popular resorts, Rhodes hides pockets of authentic island life. To experience the island as a local, head inland to the village of Apollona. This culinary heart of the island offers traditional wine tastings and tavernas serving slow-cooked stews that capture the essence of Rodian hospitality.

For a refreshing escape from the Mediterranean sun, Seven Springs (Epta Piges) provides a lush, shaded sanctuary. While visitors often stop for the scenery, locals know the real thrill is walking barefoot through the narrow, 186-meter dark tunnel that carries spring water to a small lake. It is a bracing, unique experience that feels worlds away from the coast.

Finally, for a sunset that rivals Lindos without the bustling crowds, find your way to Kritinia Castle. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean and the neighboring islands, this 16th-century fortress offers a quiet, majestic vantage point to watch the sky turn fire-orange over the Dodecanese.

Getting around Rhodes is most efficiently managed through a combination of walking and the island's reliable bus network. The historic Old Town is a pedestrian-only UNESCO World Heritage site, making exploration on foot the only way to experience its medieval charm. For longer journeys, two bus companies, RODA and KTEL, connect Rhodes Town to the rest of the island. RODA serves the city and the western coast, while KTEL handles the eastern routes toward major attractions. Most buses depart from the central stations located near the New Market (Nea Agora) in the city center.

Taxis are plentiful and can be found at designated stands or hailed via the Uber app, which functions as a service to request licensed taxis rather than private vehicles. For those seeking independence to explore secluded beaches and mountain villages, renting a car or scooter is a popular and practical choice. Main roads are generally well-maintained, though parking within the city limits can be scarce during the high season.

Travel costs are relatively consistent across the island. A public bus from Diagoras International Airport to the city center costs approximately €2.50 to €4.00, while a taxi for the same 20-minute journey typically ranges from €30 to €35. For a day trip from the capital to the scenic village of Lindos, expect to pay around €5.50 for a one-way bus ticket or roughly €60 to €70 for a taxi.

Shopping in Rhodes offers a captivating blend of history and modernity, catering to every budget. The atmospheric Medieval City is the heart of the experience, where narrow cobblestone alleys like Sokratous Street are lined with boutiques selling handmade leather sandals, intricate jewelry, and locally produced ceramics. For those seeking high-end fashion, the New Town around Cyprus Square hosts prestigious international brands and luxury designer labels, providing a sleek, contemporary retail environment.

The island is also famous for its artisanal treasures and culinary delights. Be sure to look for traditional Melekouni, a honey and sesame sweet, alongside aromatic olive oils and award-winning local wines. For a more unique find, head to the nearby village of Lindos to discover exquisite Lindian lace and embroidery, which remain some of the most sought-after authentic souvenirs in the Dodecanese.

For the ideal balance of sunshine and serenity, visit Rhodes during the shoulder seasons of May to June or September to October. During these months, the Aegean waters are invitingly warm and the weather is comfortable for exploring the medieval Old Town without the intense heat of mid-summer. You will benefit from lower prices on luxury accommodations and fewer crowds at iconic sites like the Acropolis of Lindos, all while the island’s vibrant landscapes remain at their most picturesque.

While July and August offer a high-energy atmosphere and peak swimming weather, they also bring the highest travel costs and significant crowds. Conversely, winter is the most affordable time to visit, providing a quiet, authentic look at local life, though many seasonal resorts and ferry routes operate on a limited schedule. For most travelers, the late spring and early autumn windows provide the quintessential Dodecanese experience with the best value for money.

Language: Greek

• Γεια σας (Yia sas) — Hello
• Καλημέρα (Kalimera) — Good Morning
• Καλησπέρα (Kalispera) — Good Evening
• Αντίο (Adio) — Goodbye
• Ευχαριστώ (Efcharisto) — Thank You
• Πού είναι ______; (Pou einai ______?) — Where is ______?
• Παρακαλώ (Parakalo) — Please
• Πού είναι η τουαλέτα; (Pou einai i toualeta?) — Where is the bathroom?
• Πού είναι ο Κολοσσός; (Pou einai o Kolossos?) — Where is the Colossus? (An optimistic question for a landmark missing since 226 BC.)