Sights and activities in Rhodes
Rhodes Old Town – explore a UNESCO-listed medieval city of stone walls, cobbled streets and historic gates. Small squares, courtyards and preserved buildings show how the city has evolved over centuries.
Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes – visit the Old Town’s most prominent landmark, a large castle that was once the political and administrative centre of medieval Rhodes. Inside, you can discover mosaic floors, medieval furniture and historical exhibitions.
Street of the Knights – walk along a well‑preserved medieval street lined with former inns of the Knights of St John, an order who occupied Rhodes during the Middle Ages.
Archaeological Museum of Rhodes – see ancient sculptures, mosaics and artefacts displayed inside the former Hospital of the Knights, covering key periods of Rhodes’ history.
Mandraki Harbour – take in scenic views of the historic harbour, where windmills and seafront paths frame the waterfront. This is where the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is believed to have stood.
Monolithos Castle – discover the remains of a 15th-century castle set high on a rocky hill, accessible by footpaths and known for its open coastal views.
Lindos Acropolis – climb above the village of Lindos to discover historic ruins. The site includes the Temple of Athena, which was an important sanctuary in ancient Lindos. The hilltop location also provides beautiful views over the azure sea.
Kallithea Springs – take a walk through former spa buildings and seaside terraces overlooking a small bay. Once valued for its healing springs, the site is now enjoyed for its scenic settings.
Valley of the Butterflies – follow shaded trails through the nature reserve where thousands of Jersey tiger moths gather during the summer months. Watch the butterflies in their natural habitat and take in the picturesque setting featuring waterfalls, small ponds and wooden bridges.
Ancient Kamiros – explore the ruins of an ancient city on the west coast. With its original street layouts and building foundations still visible, it offers an exciting opportunity to imagine what life there looked like more than two thousand years ago.
Beaches – Rhodes offers many long, sandy beaches and some rocky bays, all known for their clear water. Elli Beach sits close to Rhodes Old Town and offers easy access to the sea, while Faliraki Beach stretches along the east coast with soft sand and shallow water. Anthony Quinn Bay is set in a small cove, offering a memorable swim in clear water framed by rocky cliffs. At the southern tip of the island, Prasonisi presents a rare view where two seas meet.
Tavernas – your taste buds will be spoiled in Rhodes, with many tavernas and local restaurants across the island offering traditional Greek food. Enjoy dishes such as grilled fish and meat, salad with local olive oil, meze plates for sharing and classics like tzatziki.
Seven Springs (Epta Piges) – follow shaded forest paths through one of the island’s greenest inland areas, where freshwater springs flow year‑round and gather in a small reservoir. Wooden bridges, trickling water and cooler air make this a refreshing stop.
Things to see and do near Rhodes
Symi Island – visit a small harbour island known for its colourful houses and calm atmosphere. The town is centred around a bay and easy to explore on foot, with cafés and swimming spots close by. Ferries from Rhodes to Symi take around 1–1.5 hours.
Chalki Island – discover one of the smallest inhabited islands in the region. Chalki is known for its clear water and pastel‑coloured houses, with small churches and old windmills dotted around the island. The ferry ride from Rhodes to Chalki takes around 1–2 hours, depending on the operator.
Kos – travel north to the island of Kos to explore ancient sites and coastal scenery. Highlights include the ruins of Asklepion, the historic areas of Kos Town and beautiful beaches close to town. The ferry journey to reach Kos takes about 2–3 hours.
Marmaris, Turkey – a one‑hour ferry ride across the Aegean Sea brings you to the Turkish coastal town of Marmaris, known for its marina, old town and local markets.