Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands in Greece and is often misunderstood. While famous for its nightlife, it’s also rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. You’ll find beaches, hiking trails, natural springs, and Greece’s largest butterfly reserve, all in one place.
“Rhodes is special because it offers a mix of relaxation, vibrant parties, calm beaches, and adventure sports,” says Panos Constantinidis, CEO of Swot Hospitality Management Company.
Best Hotels & Resorts
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Lindian Village Beach Resort (Hilton) – Beachfront resort with five restaurants, private beach, and peaceful bungalows.
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Allegory Boutique Hotel – Located in Old Town with six suites, restored medieval design, and personal service.
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Trinity Boutique Hotel – Former Knights’ building in Old Town with private courtyard and balcony rooms.
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Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel & Suites – Adults-only hotel near Lindos Acropolis with infinity pool and sea views.
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Melenos Art Boutique Hotel – Luxurious 12-suite hotel with rooftop restaurant and artful interiors.
Things to Do
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Tour the Jewish Quarter – Learn the history of Rhodes’ Jewish community on guided walking tours.
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Visit the Muslim Library of Hafiz Ahmed Agha – See rare religious books and historic texts.
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Take a boat tour – Explore nearby islands like Symi with private or glass-bottom boat tours.
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Go windsurfing – Best on Rhodes’ southwest coast, suitable for beginners and experts.
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Hike in the Valley of the Butterflies – Stunning forest park with waterfalls, streams, and butterfly colonies in July–August.
Best Restaurants
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Niku Restaurant – Japanese cuisine with Greek ingredients at Lindian Village.
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Paraga – Traditional Rhodian dishes like trahana soup, local honey, and fresh vegetables.
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Avantis – Fresh seafood, including lobster and daily catch.
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Old Town Corner Bakery – Takeaway breakfast with savory pies, croissants, coffee, and juices.
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Taverna Platanos Lachania – Greek classics under platanos trees, plus baklava and thick Greek coffee.
Best Time to Visit
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April–June or September–October – Mild weather, fewer crowds, and better prices.
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July–August – Hot and crowded; beware of wildfires.
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April (Orthodox Easter) – Beautiful celebrations and candlelit midnight mass.
How to Get There
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By plane – Rhodes International Airport (Diagoras) has daily flights from Athens, Thessaloniki, and other European cities.
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By ferry – Ferries from Athens take 13–24 hours; overnight cabins are recommended.
Areas to Explore
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Old Town – UNESCO World Heritage site with cobbled streets, Gothic architecture, and historic Jewish Quarter.
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Lindos – Picturesque town built around the Acropolis, with Cycladic-style houses and bougainvillea-lined streets.
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West Coast – Less touristy, windy beaches for windsurfing, hiking trails, and a small wine region.
Getting Around
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Car rental – Best option for freedom to explore the island.
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Buses – Public buses (KTEL) available, but schedules change seasonally.
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Taxis – Plenty available, but expensive.
Rhodes is perfect for travelers seeking history, adventure, nature, and relaxation all in one sunny Greek island.