The Best Unmissable Things to Do in Rhodes

Rhodes is one of the largest and most popular islands in Greece, and for good reason! Rhodes is a captivating island steeped in history and brimming with natural beauty. From ancient wonders to sun-kissed beaches, Rhodes offers a blend of experiences making it appealing to all kinds of travel lovers, from sun seekers to history buffs. There is so much to do on this beautiful island in the Aegean Sea. In this guide, I will walk you through the very best things to do in Rhodes!

Climb the Acropolis of Lindos

Lindos Acropolis is a prominent archaeological site perched atop a hilltop overlooking the town of Lindos and the Aegean Sea. The Acropolis is an ancient citadel that dates back to various periods of Greek and Roman civilisation. At its heart lies the Temple of Athena Lindia, an iconic structure dedicated to the goddess Athena. Though much of the temple is in ruins today, its Doric columns and remnants offer glimpses into its former grandeur. The temple’s construction is believed to have begun around the 4th century BCE, although the site itself has evidence of much earlier occupation.

To reach the Acropolis, you have two options:

• Walk: You can hike up the cobblestone path to the Acropolis from the village center. It’s a steep but manageable climb, offering scenic views along the way. This walk could be challenging on particularly hot days or in the midday sun.
• Donkey Ride: For those who prefer not to walk, there are also donkeys available for hire to carry visitors up to the Acropolis. Be mindful that there are animal welfare concerns regarding this. Personally, I would not choose this option.

Tickets cost €12 and can be purchased on-site or before visiting. When I visited there were significant queues to enter so prepare for this if you’re visiting at peak season.

Once you’ve purchased or shown your tickets you’ll enter the archaeological site of the Lindos Acropolis. Take your time to explore the ruins, including the Temple of Athena Lindia, the ancient theater, and the fortifications. From the Acropolis, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Lindos village, the surrounding coastline, and the sparkling Aegean Sea.

Tips:

• Bring water
• Wear Comfortable Shoes
• Wear Suncream
• Avoid climbing in the midday sun

Lindos Village

Lindos village is a picturesque gem packed full of Greek charm with its whitewashed buildings, labyrinthine streets, and stunning coastal views. The narrow cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, tavernas, and cafes. The village also has many rooftop bars and restaurants where you can relax, eat, and drink with stunning views of the sea after the steep climb to the Acropolis!

The narrow cobblestone streets are lined with quaint shops, tavernas, and cafes. Here you can admire the traditional Greek architecture adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, and discover hidden courtyards and charming squares.

Lindos Beach

Lindos Beach offers golden sand, crystal clear waters, and a relaxing atmosphere setting for sunbathing and swimming. There are several beachfront cafes and tavernas where you can stop for food and drink. There are several other beaches in Lindos but this is the main beach of Lindos.

Rhodes Old Town

Rhodes town is a well-preserved medieval old town encircled by imposing fortified walls. The town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The old town is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and picturesque squares. When visiting the town you can explore ancient landmarks such as the Palace of the Grand Master, the Street of the Knights, and the medieval city gates. There are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy and an abundance of small shops selling crafts and souveniers. A day in the town should be plenty enough to thoroughly explore what the town has to offer.

Visit Symi Island

Symi Island is a postcard-perfect island located in the Dodecanese archipelago around 42 kilometers from Rhodes. Symi is known for its picturesque harbor, colourful buildings, and stunning natural landscapes. In under an hour and a half, you can reach Symi by boat from Rhodes making it perfect for a day trip. Symi’s main harbor is one of the most picturesque in Greece, with colorful neoclassical buildings lining the waterfront.

There are several options for travelling to Symi Island from Rhodes. Ferries run every day from Rhodes to Symi and back and take around one hour and 10 minutes. The ferry companies that usually operate between Rhodes and Symi are Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways, Sea Dreams, and Sebeco Lines. You could also book a day trip through a tour company.

If you don’t fancy taking the ferry you can book a boat via a tour operator such as Get Your Guide or Viator. If you plan to do this, I’d recommend booking a fast boat as these take just over an hour. 

Take a Boat Trip

For me, no trip to Greece is complete without a relaxing boat trip! There are plenty of options available for boat trips that allow you to swim and snorkel amid scenic bays, savor lunch on board, and enjoy the sights of the East Coast!

Visit Butterfly Valley

Butterfly Valley, also known as Petaloudes Valley, is located in the western part of Rhodes, near the village of Kalamonas. The valley has valley a network of well-marked trails that wind through lush forested landscape and of course, as the clue is in the name, thousands of fluttering butterflies! The valley feels like a wonderland as it comes alive with countless colorful butterflies, creating a magical spectacle that must be seen to be believed. The best time to visit to see the valley come fully alive is from late June to early September when the butterflys are in full migration. Be prepared that to walk the full length of the valley is around 6 kilomters and does involve some steep stairs so you will want to wear comfortable footwear and bring some water. Tickets to enter are €5 and it’s totally worth it. I would definitely recommend a visit as it was unlike anything I’ve ever seen and I’m sure you’ll be blown away too!

Visit Kallithea Springs

The Kallithea Springs date back to ancient times when they were revered for their therapeutic properties. The springs are renowned for their mineral-rich waters, which are believed to have healing properties beneficial for various health conditions. Set against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea, Kallithea Springs offers breathtaking views of the coastline and crystal-clear waters. The surrounding landscape is dotted with palm trees, olive groves, and lush vegetation, creating a serene and picturesque ambiance. I haven’t yet had a chance to visit the springs myself but it’s definitely on my list for my next visit!

Hike to the Tsambika Monastary

The Tsambika Monastery is situated a top of a hill overlooking the eastern coast of Rhodes, near the village of Archangelos. The monastery’s elevated position provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Aegean Sea and nearby beaches. The climb can be quite strenuous, especially on hot days and it involves and a lot of steep stairs but it’s absolutely worth it for the view from the top. I chose to begin my hike at around 5 am to get a fantastic view of the sunrise from the summit and also because it was cooler than later in the day. I would recommend doing the same if you’re open to an early start!

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide on the best things to do in Rhodes! Overall Rhodes is captivating Greek island destination that offers a huge range of activities and experiences for all kinds of travellers! From exploring its rich history in the medieval Old Town to relaxing on its beautiful beaches, there is something for everyone to enjoy. I would definitely make a return visit! If yoi’ve enjoyed this guide, please check out my other guide that details plenty more amazing places you can visit in Rhodes with access to a car!

Read More About Greek Islands:

10 Cheapest Greek Islands

Additional Resources

https://viajerosactivos.com/en/cheapest-greek-islands