Rhodes holidays

As the fourth largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, Rhodes offers more than just an endless coastline. A holiday in Rhodes will find you meandering medieval streets, archaeological wonders and brilliant Byzantine churches. At the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll find the beating heart of an island that can’t wait to welcome you — so step through the gate and allow yourself to be transported back in time.

Rhodes holiday highlights

History on display

This is Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited medieval town. Kick off your holidays to Rhodes by exploring the labyrinth of more than 200 streets, often unmarked, where you’ll find classical, Ottoman and Italian influences. A combined ticket pass covers key attractions, including the Palace of the Grand Master and Archaeological Museum of Rhodes. Relax over a glass of wine while you do some people-watching on Hippocrates Square.

Archeological treasures

From Ancient Kamiros to Monolithos Castle, a holiday to Rhodes is a history buff’s dream. The crowning glory of ancient Rhodes is the Acropolis of Lindos, perched high on a cliff above the Aegean Sea. To enjoy the place in relative peace, wait until the mid-afternoon, when visitors from cruise ships have gone.

Beaches in abundance

No holiday to Rhodes is complete without a dip in the sea. One of the most popular beaches is Anthony Quinn Bay, named after the Hollywood actor — just arrive early for a sun lounger. The double beach at Prasonisi is beautiful but best suited for kite surfers, while the soft sand and shallow waters at Agathi are ideal for families.

Rhodes: Know before you go

Language

Greek

Currency

Euro (€)

Time zone

UTC+2 (EET) and UTC+3 (EEST)

High season

July – August

Low season

November – February

Find the best time to go to Rhodes

Weather in Rhodes

March – May: Spring temperatures max out at about 24°C. This is the time for comfortable city strolls and beach days without the crowds.

June – August: Summer heats up with temps in the 30s°C. This is the island’s peak season, so expect attractions and restaurants to be busy. Book ahead when possible.

September – November: Crowds thin as autumn settles in and the weather cools. You’ll still have some balmy days, but be prepared for a rain shower or two. And pack layers for chilly nights.

December – February: Winters get cold but not freezing. On wet days, hide away in the island’s museums.

Events in Rhodes

Rhodes and South Aegean International Jazz Festival (June): See some of the world’s best jazz musicians perform in a medieval castle. Programmes explore the links between jazz and poetry, democracy and even artificial intelligence.

Embonas Wine Festival (August): For over 60 years, this festival has honoured the wines of Rhodes’ sun-soaked Embonas region. Enjoy local tastings, traditional dances and live music.

Medieval Rose Festival (October): The island transforms into a medieval kingdom with locals dressed as knights, peasants and royalty. Sample traditional bites at the food stalls and watch history come to life with jousting, parades and mosaic workshops.

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The best neighbourhoods in Rhodes

Old Town

The medieval Old Town remains the beating heart of the island, making this one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Rhodes. Base yourself here to enjoy key historic sites, traditional tavernas and artisan souvenirs. Wander beyond the fortress for coastal pathways and Mandraki Harbour. Ancient sites nearby include the Stadium of Diagoras, Acropolis of Rhodes and Temple of Apollo.

Good for: Medieval charm, historic sites, cobblestone streets

Lindos

Lindos is where to stay in Rhodes if you crave that classic Greek aesthetic. You’ll find bright white buildings, sea blue shutters and fuchsia bougainvillea blooming above the doorways. Located on the east coast of the island, Lindos is a laid-back fishing village with easy access to the island’s most important archaeological site. It’s also home to three outstanding beaches, as well as secluded snorkelling spots.

Good for: Acropolis, local architecture, seaside dining

Kallithea

The most romantic spot in Rhodes for a couple’s getaway is Kallithea. Historically known for its healing thermal baths, today the art deco structure of Kallithea Springs has been lovingly restored so visitors can absorb the nature, architecture and history of this unique place. Surrounded by pine and palm trees, the area has bays, coves and caves aplenty, making this one of the best neighbourhoods in Rhodes.

Good for: Thermal springs, gardens, art deco architecture

Things to do in Rhodes

Old Town of Rhodes

Family friendly things to do

Looking for things to do with family in Rhodes? This is the island where nature comes alive. At the Valley of the Butterflies, spot the thousands of insects that reproduce here in the high season. Or book a horseback riding excursion that ends with a dip in the sea at sunset. Finish the day at the Astronomy Cafe with dazzling telescopic sights.

Shopping

Socrates Street is the Old Town’s main shopping region, but round any corner and you’ll stumble upon some unexpected artisan’s work. Shopping in Rhodes centres around jewellery workshops, pottery that’s synonymous with ancient Greece, and carpets — a legacy of the Ottoman invasion. Don’t forget bottles of golden olive oil as souvenirs.

Take in the culture

Remember that this is just the latest era in the island’s rich history. While visiting the museums in Rhodes, give time to the Museum of Modern Greek Art and the artists working in the Old Town. Drop in on George Triantafyllou, an iconographer who paints and repairs the island’s churches and offers workshops teaching the techniques of the Byzantine fresco painters.

Nightlife

Find some of the best nightlife in Rhodes in Lindos. Fell asleep on your sunbed? The Lindos Ice Bar (where the bartop is made of ice) will soothe that sunburn. Or dance all night at Dreams Cocktail Bar, with views of the Acropolis. Old Town Rhodes is surprisingly lively, while those wanting something low-key will enjoy Kiotari and Gennadi’s beach bars.

Places to eat

Greek food is a balm for the soul, so opt for a family-run taverna for a taste of the good life — think freshly caught squid, stuffed grape leaves and the ubiquitous Greek salad, all drizzled with lashings of locally pressed olive oil. Mageirotechneio Paraga, San Allote and Costas and Elena are considered some of the best restaurants in Rhodes.

Free things to do

A cheap holiday in Rhodes is easy since you’re never far from a beach, and though you’ll have to pay for a sunbed, entry to the beach itself is free. Other free things to do in Rhodes include some terrific hikes — be sure to visit Monastery Tsambika, in particular, for views over Tsambika Beach and across to Falaraki.

Plan your holiday to Rhodes

Budget

For a cheap holiday to Rhodes, start by travelling in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. The weather is still pleasant, and there aren’t as many tourists. Plan to spend about 15 euros (€) on an inexpensive meal in Rhodes. A domestic beer costs about €5, and a cappuccino is under €4. A short taxi ride starts at close to €7.

Day trips from Rhodes

Spend a day hopping around some of the nearby islands. About an hour’s ferry ride away, the gorgeous island of Symi boasts a coastline full of Neoclassical mansions connected by cobblestone alleyways. Further south, the laid-back island of Halki is a serene getaway. Make the most of its postcard beaches, medieval ruins and waterfront tavernas selling grilled fish and fig ice cream.

Getting around Rhodes

Hiring a car is best for reaching remote beaches, castles and mountain villages. Buses connect major towns and tourist sites. Taxis are available but can be pricey for longer trips. Cycling, a tradition since Italian rule, is popular. Find hires available across the island for a scenic, active way to explore.

FAQs about Rhodes holidays

Rhodes enjoys one of the longest tourist seasons in Europe, with more than 300 days of sunshine a year. If fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures and cheaper accommodation sound appealing, the best time to visit Rhodes will be the shoulder seasons, though be aware that much of the island shuts to tourism during the coolest part of the year.
Conversations here are usually in Greek. Brushing up on some local greetings and phrases can be a great way to spark conversations and get to know people during your city break in Rhodes.
The euro (EUR) is the currency you'll use for everyday expenses and activities during your trip to Rhodes.
Yes, it’s generally safe to visit Rhodes, though the potential for wildfires during the summer season may make a shoulder season visit more appealing.
With temperatures hitting a maximum of 29ºC (84ºF), August is the hottest month in Rhodes.
While you could zip through the island’s key sites in three days, Rhodes is a place to take it easy. Skimp on those beaches and you’ll regret it — so grab a sunbed, slop on some sunscreen and order a cocktail for the ultimate holiday to Rhodes.
January brings the coolest conditions for a Rhodes holiday. Book your trip sometime then and you'll experience lows of 10ºC (50ºF).
With an average rainfall of 15 cm, January is the rainiest month to go on a Rhodes holiday. When the weather turns, venture indoors and enjoy the city's restaurants, shops, museums and more.
The airline you prefer, where you leave from, and when you go all influence the cost of a city break in Rhodes. Prices for Rhodes flights and hotels can vary greatly, but planning in advance and keeping your travel dates flexible can help you bag savings.
Whether you're interested in sightseeing, shopping, or anything in between, there are plenty of things to do in Rhodes. Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes and Acropolis of Rhodes Ακρόπολη της Ρόδου exhibition are only a glimpse of what this city has in store.

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