Rhodes is one of those destinations that perfectly combines history, beautiful beaches, charming villages, and relaxed Greek island life. While many visitors come for just a day or two, I believe Rhodes deserves at least 4–5 days to experience what makes it special.
This guide is based on the places I genuinely recommend and the things I wish I had known before my trip.
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Best Time to Visit
The best months are May to October.
If you’re visiting in July or August, expect hot weather, plenty of sunshine, and a lively atmosphere. However, one thing that surprised me was that the sea is cooler than I expected, even in July. It’s refreshing and perfect after a hot day, but don’t expect tropical water temperatures.
Where to Stay
One thing I quickly realized is that Rhodes isn’t a huge island.
If you’re staying in Rhodes Town, almost any well-located hotel or apartment is a good choice. It’s easy to reach the beaches, Old Town, restaurants, and most attractions by taxi, bus, or rental car.
You don’t need to spend extra money just to be in one specific area.
Avoid staying near Bar Street
Although it may seem convenient, I wouldn’t recommend booking accommodation next to Bar Street.
The nightlife there is quite touristy, can be noisy until late at night, and, in my opinion, isn’t the nicest area to spend your evenings—especially if you’re traveling alone or looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Instead, spend your evenings around:
Mandraki Harbour
the marina
beachfront cafés
beach clubs along the coast
The atmosphere is much more enjoyable.
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Day 1 – Rhodes Old Town
Start your trip by exploring the UNESCO-listed Medieval Old Town.
Walk through the narrow stone streets, admire the architecture, browse local shops, and enjoy dinner at a traditional Greek taverna.
Visit:
Palace of the Grand Master
Street of the Knights
Clock Tower
Mandraki Harbour
My Tip
One evening in the Old Town is usually enough.
It’s beautiful and absolutely worth visiting, but after you’ve explored the medieval streets, I recommend spending the rest of your holiday discovering Rhodes’ beaches and coastline.
Day 2 – Kallithea Springs & Anthony Quinn Bay
This was one of my favorite days on the island.
Start the morning at Kallithea Springs, a beautiful historic seaside complex with crystal-clear water and elegant architecture.
Later, head to Anthony Quinn Bay, one of the most famous beaches on Rhodes.
The bay is ideal for swimming and snorkeling thanks to its incredibly clear water.
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Day 3 – Choose Between Lindos or Symi
If you’re only staying for a few days, I recommend choosing either Lindos or Symi, rather than trying to fit both into your itinerary.
Option 1 – Lindos
Perfect if you enjoy:
history
panoramic views
whitewashed streets
rooftop restaurants
St. Paul’s Bay
Lindos combines sightseeing with a relaxing beach atmosphere.
Option 2 – Symi
If you prefer a relaxing boat trip and picturesque scenery, spend the day on Symi Island.
Its colorful harbor is one of the most beautiful in Greece and is perfect for wandering through quiet streets, enjoying seafood by the water, and taking in the island’s charm.
Important Tip
Many organized boat trips include a stop at St. George Bay, but they only stop for swimming.
You won’t be able to go ashore, so if you’re expecting to walk on the beach or explore the bay on land, make sure to check the itinerary before booking (or take a water taxi from Symi port).
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Day 4 – Boat Trip Around Rhodes
One of the best ways to experience Rhodes is from the sea.
Look for trips that include stops such as:
Anthony Quinn Bay
Ladiko Beach
Traganou Caves
Afandou Caves
A daytime cruise is, in my opinion, a much better experience than a sunset cruise.
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Beach Tips
Most beaches on Rhodes are pebbly rather than sandy, so bringing water shoes can make swimming much more comfortable.
Another interesting thing about Rhodes is that the island has two completely different coastlines.The east coast is usually calm, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the sea.
The west coast is much windier and often has stronger waves, making it popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers.
If you’re looking for calm, crystal-clear water, choose beaches on the eastern side of the island.
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Restaurants
One piece of advice I always give is don’t choose restaurants just because they’re famous on Instagram.
Many of the viral spots have long queues, higher prices, and don’t necessarily offer the best food.
Some of my favorite meals in Rhodes were at smaller local tavernas away from the busiest tourist streets. They’re often more authentic, more relaxed, and better value.
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Is a Sunset Cruise Worth It?
Personally, I don’t think so.
If you only have a few days on the island, I recommend booking a daytime boat trip instead.
You’ll have more opportunities to swim, enjoy the coastline in daylight, and spend time in Rhodes’ beautiful bays.
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My Final Thoughts
Rhodes isn’t a destination where you need to rush from one attraction to another.
The best memories come from swimming in crystal-clear water, enjoying long Greek dinners by the sea, wandering through quiet streets, and slowing down.
If I were planning the perfect first trip, I would choose:
One evening in Rhodes Old Town
A beach day at Kallithea Springs and Anthony Quinn Bay
Either Lindos or Symi
A daytime boat trip
Plenty of time to simply enjoy the sea and the relaxed rhythm of the island.
Rhodes is the kind of place that invites you to slow down—and that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable. 🇬🇷🌊
