Exploring Rhodes, Greece: A 6-Day Itinerary for the Greek Isle of Rhodes

Rhodes Island in Greece is one of the most beautiful Greek Islands, dating back to 400 BC, though it can often get overlooked. Rhodes is the 4th largest Greek Island, yet it’s only 50 miles long and 25 miles across. This makes Rhodes an awesome travel destination because you can easily see all the island has to offer being you can drive around the entire island in just a matter of hours. This 6-day itinerary for Rhodes will provide an example of the many things Rhodes has to offer, including history, culture, food and of course a few of the 42 beaches Rhodes has!

How to Get to Rhodes, Greece:

Start your trip to Rhodes in one of two ways:

Flying to Rhodes: You can fly into Rhodes International Airport, Diagoras, which offers many convenient connections to major European cities. Taxis and buses are readily available at the airport, providing a hassle-free transfer to your chosen accommodation, however, I do recommend renting a car to easily access the entire island on your own.

Taking a ferry to Rhodes: The Greek Island travel experience is known for the ferry system that connects the islands. It’s a practical and easy way to island hop. The ports are simple to navigate, and the Rhodes ferry port will drop you right at the entrance to Old Town. Again, I do recommend renting a car to be able to see the entirety of the island, and you can book a rental car for pick up right at the ferry port.

Booking ferry tickets: You can book your ferry tickets online or with the mobile app in advance. Additionally, you can book them directly at the port office if you aren’t traveling on a schedule and have flexibility. You will get the best price by booking ahead, however. The downside of traveling by ferry in Greece versus flying is that the ferries are subject to abrupt schedule changes due to weather and sea conditions, in which case the ferry company will rebook you on the next day’s ferry, but you will be on your own for extending your accommodation.

Eurail ferry pass is the most cost effective way to travel by ferry if you are planning to take more than two ferry routes. Otherwise, it’s best to book directly through the ferry company (either their website, app, or port counter) you are wanting to use instead of a third party.

We took a quick 30 minute ferry over from Turkiye. You can read my posts about traveling in Turkiye here.

Where to Stay in Rhodes:

Rhodes has wonderful resort hotels along the coast of the island, as well as many beautiful options within the vicinity of Old Town. There are pros and cons to consider when deciding to stay within Old Town, or staying further out and along the coast.

Rhodes Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and staying around this area offers a bit more of an immersive experience instead of staying at a resort hotel along the coast. For Old Town, I recommend staying at Avalon Boutique Suites Hotel. For a truly immersive experience, consider staying in the heart of Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Avalon Boutique Suites Hotel, with its blend of modern comfort and medieval charm, is an excellent choice.

Staying outside of Old Town, further down along the coast, offers some benefits that you can’t get in Old Town. There are a plethora of incredible resorts that have more amenities such as multiple pools, oceanfront rooms, beaches, a few different restaurant options on-site and spas.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing vacation where you can spend a few days or half days just enjoying the sun and water, this may be a good choice. When we had our baby with us, we opted to stay at Kresten Palace Resorts and had an excellent experience and had more space and privacy than hotels in the heart of Old Town can usually provide.

Day 1: Arrival in Rhodes

After you’ve arrived into Rhodes and settled in, spend the rest of the first day exploring Old Town.

Historical Stops: To familiarize yourself with Old Town, take a walk through the enchanting maze of cobbled streets. Head towards the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, a medieval castle and surrounding fortress. You can enter for 8 euros and learn about the island’s history at a leisurely pace.

Points of Interest in Old Town:

1. Street of the Knights: Explore the Street of the Knights, a well-preserved medieval street lined with inns that once housed the knights of the Order of Saint John.
2. Archaeological Museum of Rhodes: Delve deeper into the island’s history by visiting the Archaeological Museum, showcasing artifacts from various periods, including the Hellenistic and Roman eras.
3. Roloi Clock Tower: Climb the Roloi Clock Tower for panoramic views of Rhodes Town and the surrounding sea, offering a picturesque perspective of the island.
4. Ippokratous Square: Experience the lively atmosphere of Ippokratous Square, a central hub surrounded by cafes, shops, and the Mosque of Suleyman, a reminder of Rhodes’ Ottoman past.
5. Jewish Quarter: Wander through the Jewish Quarter, where the Kahal Kadosh Shalom Synagogue and the Museum of Jewish Synagogue offer insights into the island’s Jewish heritage and treatment during WWII.

Additional Dining Recommendations in Old Town:

1. Taverna Kostas: A family-run taverna known for its warm hospitality and traditional Greek dishes.
2. Marco Polo Mansion Restaurant: Dine in a historic setting at Marco Polo Mansion, where the menu features a fusion of Greek and Mediterranean flavors.
3. Laganis Taverna: Experience a taste of Rhodes with a meal at Laganis Taverna, known for its seafood and local specialties.
4. Koukos Traditional Cuisine: Discover authentic Greek cuisine in a charming courtyard setting at Koukos, offering a diverse menu with a modern twist.

Day 2: Acropolis of Rhodes

Historical Stops: Embark on day two with a visit to the Acropolis of Rhodes, an ancient city that whispers tales of its classical past. Explore the remnants of temples and amphitheaters, including the awe-inspiring Temple of Apollo and the well-preserved Stadium.

Additional Points of Interest in Rhodes Town:

1. Museum of Modern Greek Art: Immerse yourself in contemporary Greek art at the Museum of Modern Greek Art, housed in the historic Governor’s Palace.
2. Rodini Park: Take a leisurely stroll through Rodini Park, one of the oldest parks in the world, known for its lush greenery, peacocks, and a small pond.
3. Fortifications of Rhodes: Discover the intricate fortifications of Rhodes, including the Fort of St. Nicholas and the Windmills of Mandraki, providing a glimpse into the island’s medieval defenses.
4. Medieval Moat and Gates: Walk along the medieval moat that surrounds the Old Town and pass through the impressive gates, such as the Gate of Saint Athanasios and the Gate of Amboise.

Food and Culture: For a midday reprieve, head to Tamam, a modern restaurant in the city center offering a fusion of traditional and contemporary Greek cuisine. After lunch, meander through Mandraki Harbor, framed by medieval windmills and the remnants of the Colossus of Rhodes, and around the corner you can check out the

Additional Dining Recommendations in Rhodes Town:

1. Kafenes Mia Pirounia: This was our favorite authentic Greek restaurant experience. It’s super affordable, one of the best “ouzerias”, or type of Greek tavern serving ouzo, and had an amazing meze menu (Greek tapas). It’s a bit out of the city center and has a cute inside dining area and outdoor seating as well.
2. Ta Kioupia Taverna: Enjoy a meal at Ta Kioupia Taverna, known for its rooftop terrace with panoramic views and a menu featuring Greek and Mediterranean dishes.
3. To Marouli: Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Rhodes Town with a visit to To Marouli, a traditional ouzeri serving mezedes (small dishes) and ouzo.
4. Kahal Kadosh Shalom: Experience a taste of Sephardic Jewish cuisine at Kahal Kadosh Shalom, offering a unique culinary journey in a historic setting.

Day 3: Lindos and the Temple of Athena

How to Get There: Embark on a scenic drive or opt for a comfortable bus ride to Lindos, situated about 30 miles south of Rhodes Town.

Historical Stops: Lindos unfolds its treasures with the ancient Acropolis, dominated by the majestic Temple of Athena. Take in panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the whitewashed village below, offering a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

Additional Points of Interest in Lindos:

1. Lindos Beach: Relax on the sun-kissed shores of Lindos Beach, where crystal-clear waters invite you to unwind by the sea.
2. Saint Paul’s Bay: Visit Saint Paul’s Bay, a picturesque cove with turquoise waters and a quaint chapel overlooking the tranquil bay.
3. Lindos Village Center: Explore the charming village center of Lindos, filled with narrow alleys, traditional houses, and artisan shops offering local crafts.

Food and Culture: As the sun sets, unwind in a seaside taverna, indulging in grilled octopus and local delicacies. Many of them have rooftop dining options, which makes an ideal dinner or date night. Stroll through the narrow alleys of Lindos, where traditional homes and charming shops give plenty of opportunity to find local crafts or souvenirs.

Make sure to check out a traditional pottery shop. I recommend Savvas Ceramics, where you can often catch a demonstration from the owner. This is a great stop on your way to Lindos or on your way back towards Old Town, as it’s located right off the highway about 5 miles outside of Lindos Old Town.

Additional Dining Recommendations in Lindos:

1. Melenos Lindos Restaurant: Dine in a romantic setting at Melenos Lindos Restaurant, known for its panoramic views and a menu inspired by Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
2. Olive Street Food & Wine: Experience a fusion of traditional and modern Greek flavors at Olive Street Food & Wine, located in the heart of Lindos.
3. Broccolino Lindos: Indulge in Italian cuisine with a Greek twist at Broccolino Lindos, offering a diverse menu in a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 4: Ancient Kamiros

Historical Stops: Venture northwest to Ancient Kamiros, an archaeological site preserving the remnants of the first city on Rhodes, dating back over 3,000 years. Explore the well-preserved structures that offer a fascinating glimpse into daily life in classical Greece, including a marketplace, villas and temples.

We loved this stop and enjoyed learning about the ancient city. There are stunning views of the sea being the ancient city was built high up on the island. Parking is free but there is a small entrance fee of 6 euros to enter. Children are free, and if you have small babies, I recommend making sure you have a carrier you can wear them in as the site is not accessible for strollers.

Additional Points of Interest in the Northwest:

1. Monastery of Kalopetra: Visit the Monastery of Kalopetra, a serene retreat surrounded by lush greenery, known for its peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views.
2. Profitis Ilias: Ascend to the summit of Profitis Ilias, the highest mountain on Rhodes, for breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding Aegean Sea.
3. Filerimos Hill: Discover Filerimos Hill, where the ancient city of Ialysos once stood. Explore the Monastery of Filerimos and the imposing Cross of Filerimos.

Food and Culture: In the nearby village of Embona, immerse yourself in local traditions at a traditional kafeneio. Sample the region’s renowned wines and savor a hearty dinner at a family-run taverna, where dishes like moussaka and pastitsio showcase the island’s culinary prowess.

Additional Dining Recommendations in the Northwest:

1. To Steno: Enjoy a rustic dining experience at To Steno, a traditional taverna in Embona known for its grilled meats and local wines.
2. Gefyra Taverna: Indulge in Greek cuisine at Gefyra Taverna, situated in the picturesque village of Kritinia, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
3. Oasis Taverna: Discover Oasis Taverna in Monolithos, a family-owned restaurant serving homemade Greek dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.

Day 5: Seven Springs and Kallithea Springs

Seven Springs: Start the morning driving to Epta Piges Nature Reserve where Seven Springs is located. Parking and admission is free, and here you’ll enjoy a nature walk through an ancient tunnel that leads to the springs. There’s a beautiful lake fed by the spring water that you can swim in and spend some time relaxing at. The trail is not paved, though it is well-worn and easy, and it’s about a 1-mile loop from the parking lot and back.

On your way back, you can stop at the Seven Springs Tavern for a bite to eat or some of their homemade ice cream before getting back into the car. We did eat here, outside on the multi-tiered patio in the woods and over the streams, and the food was really great. The owner was lovely and kind and even brought out ice cream on the house for our baby!

Kallithea Springs: Continue your journey to Kallithea Springs, known for its therapeutic waters and exquisite architecture. Enjoy a swim and savor a seaside lunch at one of the nearby beachfront tavernas, where the combination of sun, sea, and local cuisine is a great way to spend an afternoon. There is a small fee of a few euros to enter, and there is parking on-site.

Additional Points of Interest in the Southeast:

1. Tsambika Monastery: Visit Tsambika Monastery, perched atop a hill with panoramic views. Legend has it that couples hoping to conceive can find fertility blessings here.
2. Fourni Beach: Relax on Fourni Beach, a secluded paradise with crystal-clear waters and a serene atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing swim.
3. Mussolini’s Villa: A must-see for any history buff, Moussolini’s villa can fit in as a stop during your visit out to this part of the island. The views are stunning, but the villa itself is in major disrepair. The story goes that there was great debate as to whether Greece should keep up with maintenance on it, but it was instead decided to let it fall to ruin as a show of what failed, hateful ideology will always become. You have to park below the villa and hike a bit up, and the state of the villa creates a bit of an eerie feel.

Additional Dining Recommendations in the Southeast:

1. Antonis Taverna: Experience traditional Greek hospitality at Antonis Taverna, located near Kallithea Springs, serving fresh seafood and local specialties.
2. Golden Fleece: Indulge in a beachside dining experience at Golden Fleece, a family-run taverna with a diverse menu featuring Mediterranean and Greek dishes.
3. Mezedopoleio Ouzokouti: Discover Mezedopoleio Ouzokouti, a charming meze taverna near Faliraki, offering a variety of small dishes and ouzo.

Day 6: Relaxing Beach Day and Departure

Spend your last day in Rhodes with a leisurely day on one of its pristine beaches. Tsambika Beach or Faliraki offer crystal-clear waters, providing a perfect setting for relaxation and swimming in the sea.

Additional Beaches and Points of Interest:

1. Anthony Quinn Bay: Experience the unique beauty of Anthony Quinn Bay, a picturesque cove named after the famous actor who fell in love with Rhodes while filming “The Guns of Navarone.”
2. Prasonisi Beach: For a more adventurous beach day, head to Prasonisi Beach, known for its unique geography where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet.
3. Ladiko Beach: Unwind on the shores of Ladiko Beach, a small bay surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery.

Additional Dining Recommendations:

1. Limanaki Restaurant: Enjoy dinner at Limanaki Restaurant in Rhodes Town, a waterfront establishment with a menu focusing on fresh seafood.
2. Nimmos: This restaurant was one of our favorites. They have one of the best fish meze that we ate all week.
3. Tamam: Tamam in the city center offers a combination of traditional and modern Greek flavors.
4. Aegean Restaurant: Aegean Restaurant’s romantic ambiance makes it perfect for a dinner date. Their menu is a great fusion of Mediterranean and Greek cuisine.

Guided Tour Ideas:

If you like to include a tour or two into your free time at a destination, these are our recommendations. Doing a tour can give you the opportunity to do activities you wouldn’t normally get to do and offer a great way to meet other travelers, and get to ask questions or hear cultural information from a local guide. These two tours offer fun ways to see the island from the water!

1. For the adventurer: Half Day Sea Kayak and Cave Tour
2. For relaxing: 3 Hour Sunset Greek Dinner Cruise

Of course this guide to Rhodes Greece is just an example of how you could plan your trip, and can be a starting off point to fully customize your Rhodes itinerary so it best fits your interests, time and goals for your Greek vacation. No matter what you do or where you venture to on Rhodes Island, you are sure to have an incredible trip!

This guide to Rhodes, Greece may contain some links that are affiliate links, though products or services are ones I use personally and recommend. When you purchase anything using my links, it costs you absolutely nothing extra, but it does give carryonbailey.com a little financial support which helps to keep this website running. Thank you for your continued support, both with your dollars and your interest.