There are certainly many reasons to visit this island, however below we will list 10 things to do in Rhodes during your visit to get an unforgettable experience.
Rhodes is an island that has been particularly loved by both Greeks and visitors from abroad. Each area of the island is a unique treasure with its own special charm.
What we could confidently say is that this is a tourist destination that will win over every visitor, since it literally combines everything. Beautiful beaches, quiet alleys that take you back to the Middle Ages, great food, entertainment and of course a beautiful landscape.
One of the main characteristics of the island is that it was the crossroads for sea routes between the Aegean Sea and the Middle East. This strategic position of Rhodes was a key factor in the overall development of the island over time. Thus, the largest island of the Dodecanese has become one of the most popular summer destinations in recent years.
So, if you are interested in escaping to this enchanting destination, see below some of our suggestions for things to do in Rhodes to make a wonderful memory of your visit.
Reasons to visit Rhodes
The reasons to visit Rhodes, as we mentioned above, are many. Rich history and culture, unique destinations for quiet getaways, excellent beaches and a multitude of activities will give you one of the best vacation experiences. So let’s see in detail the reasons to visit the island of Rhodes:
Visit to the Medieval City of Rhodes
The Medieval city of Rhodes is a magnet for tourists from all over the world. The city of World Cultural Heritage, as declared in 1998 by UNESCO, is a destination that will surely impress you. A huge variety of architecture from various periods in time, combined with a huge variety of entertainment options, commercial activity and of course places of historical and cultural importance.
It is impossible to visit the Medieval city without making a stop at the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes. Housed in the former Hospital of the Knights of the Order of Agios Ioannis, the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is one of the most popular in Greece. There, visitors will encounter archaeological findings of enormous cultural importance, from various periods both from Rhodes and from the surrounding islands.
Some of the most important exhibits of the Archaeological museum of Rhodes are the Colossian head of Helios, a huge collection of Roman and Hellenistic mosaics and sculptures, the statuette of bathing Venus, the Calliarista column, tombstones from the age of the Knights and many more sculptures and reliefs representations.
Another must-see destination in the Medieval city is the Grand Master’s Palace. One of the most important monuments of the order of the Knights of Saint John, which was destroyed in 1856 by a powerful gunpowder explosion and rebuilt by the Italians in 1940.
As you can see, the Medieval Town of Rhodes is one of the first things to do in Rhodes as it offers you a wealth of choices in attractions and tourist destinations.
Mandraki
Mandraki is a beautiful port outside the Medieval City and was probably the main port in ancient times. In fact, it was the spot where the war fleet of the Order of the Knights of Saint John anchored. Its name comes from the word “mandra” due to the fact that it is a closed and walled port.
Definitely one of the main things to do in Rhodes, since its impressive sights and the enchanting tour by the sea will give you an unforgettable memory of the island. And of course, there you will see one of the main elements of the island, Elafos and Elafina, the two cylindrical pillars where the famous Colossus of Rhodes was, one of the 7 wonders of the world.
After you have finished your tour of the port, you can make a stop opposite the marina, where you will find shops with local – traditional products and of course the mezedas with delicious serving options.
Aquarium of Rhodes
The Rhodes Aquarium is located on the northern tip of the island and is a great choice to visit alone or with your family. The aquarium is home to several species of fish and many more. Although it is a relatively small space, the aquarium of Rhodes is a historically preserved building, stone for the most part that you will surely love. If you visit with children, it is certain that the time you will spend will be particularly pleasant.
Valley of Butterflies
Butterfly Valley is one of the most popular attractions in Rhodes and of course one of the essential things you should do when you visit the island. In a beautiful environment with rich natural beauty from springs and waterfalls, vegetation, lakes, wooden bridges and many more hidden beauties.
The name of the specific area is due to the fact that from June to September, a large number of butterflies gather at this specific point to mate. If you are lucky enough to visit Rhodes during this period, the colorful sight you will see will surely enchant you.
Entry to the Valley is permitted from May 1st to October 31st, while it remains closed during the winter. In the same area, one can also visit a small museum of natural history, with a hatchery of butterflies and various specimens from the flora of the area. Finally, next to the river you can find the old mill which has been converted into a beautiful refreshment room for visitors to the valley.
Hippocrates Square
Hippocrates Square is also a popular destination on the island of Rhodes. Although this particular square is located within the Medieval City, we separated it from the rest of the Medieval City destinations due to the fact that it is perhaps the busiest part of the island. A reference point for visitors, Hippocrates Square is the heart of Rhodes when it comes to coffee, dining and shopping at commercial and local souvenir-tourist shops.
Of course, shops are not the only thing you will find in this location, since a visitor has the opportunity to admire one of the most important medieval buildings, the Castellania. A stone building at the most central point of the Square which was the result of the criminal court of the Knights during that period.
Monte Smith Hill
If you are a person who enjoys beautiful views, then Monte Smith Hill, or St. Stephen’s Hill, is a place you should definitely visit. At a distance of only 3 kilometers from the city of Rhodes, this specific hill got its name from the English general Cindy Smith, who set up an observatory to detect the movements of Napoleon’s fleet.
If you visit the hill, its view will surely be unforgettable, since you can gaze at the old and the new city and your gaze will travel to the shores of Asia Minor.
Among the important attractions of the Hill are the ruins of the ancient Acropolis of Rhodes, the theater which in ancient times hosted numerous performances, the famous Stadium of Diagoras and of course at the top of the hill the ruins of the temple of Pythian Apollo, Poliada Athena and Zeus.
Springs of Kallithea
Another one of the things you must do in Rhodes is visiting the springs of Kallithea. A place where special architecture comes together with high aesthetics and gives you a magical destination.
The specific springs have been famous since ancient times for their healing properties and attracted visitors both from the surrounding islands and of course also from the East. Even today, many people visit the Springs for the healing properties, since as many report they help drastically in diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, various skin diseases, etc.
The springs of Kallithea are located at a distance of about 9 kilometers from the city, which makes your visit quite easy. Upon your arrival, the magnificent sight you will see with impressive mosaics, elaborate decoration and a very impressive dome about fourteen meters high will surely be etched in your memories. A Rhodes destination that you should definitely not miss when you visit the island.
The Seven Springs
Although the Kallithea Springs are the most popular springs, it is definitely worth visiting the Seven Springs as well. An area where greenery abounds under the huge plane trees and the splashes of ducks and peacocks in the water provide a wonderful melody.
If you even want to enjoy a coffee or a meal, you can relax in the traditional tavern – cafe that you will find under the shadows of the trees.
Beaches of Rhodes
It is impossible to talk about attractions and popular destinations in Rhodes and not dedicate a large part to the island’s beaches. After all, the island of the Knights is famous for its wonderful organized and non-organized beaches, which attract visitors from all over the world every year. Beaches with golden sand or fine pebbles, crystal clear waters, rocks and caves and of course plenty of options in beach bars and taverns.
Certainly the number of remarkable beaches is large, however we will focus on those that you should not miss in any case, if you want to form a beautiful experience from your visit to the island.
Kallithea beach
As we mentioned above, the Springs of Kallithea are a magical destination in Rhodes that you should definitely visit. So if you find yourself there, make sure you make a stop at one of the most popular beaches of Rhodes. The beach of Kallithea is located next to the springs and combines a beautiful landscape with pine trees that will offer you their abundant shade, a sandy beach and crystal clear waters.
Traganou beach
One of the best beaches if you want to enjoy crystal clear waters. The organized beach of Traganou attracts a large number of tourists, since it offers an excellent opportunity to explore the caves that exist around it. This particular beach is paved with small pebbles.
Pefkos
If you are one of those who when looking for a beach, sand is a key factor, then Pefkos Beach is probably the most ideal choice you could make. This particular beach has perhaps the best sandy beach on the island. Soft golden color next to the shallow blue-green waters of the sea.
Agathi Beach
Another excellent beach of Rhodes with fine golden sand. Many people choose it to camp thanks to the wonderful waters and the shade provided by the trees, creating excellent conditions. On this particular beach you will find the small church of Agia Agathi, a small cave and some taverns that will give you traditional tastes. It is important to emphasize that this particular beach is one of the top choices for family vacations.
Agios Pavlos beach
In the area of Agios Pavlos and Lindos you can find several beaches that will win your interest. However, one of them is the most beautiful beach and it is none other than the one on the edge of Agios Pavlos. This particular beach is characterized by the picturesque little church, the wonderful waters of the sea and the magnificent view. In fact, the Beach bar that you will find at the spot, where you can enjoy your coffee or cool cocktails, contributes to your overall entertainment.
Tsambika
The last beach on our list is Tsambika, which owes its name to the monastery located just above the rock. A beach that will give you a wilder beauty, since although slightly organized, it maintains its naturalness.
Visit to Symi
For the end we left perhaps our best suggestion among those that you should do if you visit Rhodes. A walk in Symi is sure to be unforgettable, since although it lives a bit in the shadow of other popular destinations, Symi is a destination that will give you wonderful moments during your vacation.
The main reasons to visit Symi are definitely its wonderful architecture with the colorful mansions, which are crammed into this small island to create excellent narrows to navigate. Many people describe Symi as a fairytale place straight out of a dream. We can confirm that. And of course we must not forget that the distance from Rhodes is not big. It is therefore impossible to spend your holidays in Rhodes and not spend some time for a visit to Symi.
Do you want to visit Symi? Book Tickets for a one-day cruise easily and quickly
What other activities can I find in Rhodes?
As you can easily understand from the above 10 things that someone can do in Rhodes, the holidays on this particular island will certainly be unforgettable.
However, as we mentioned at the beginning, Rhodes is one of the most popular islands in Greece and the reasons are many more.
In order to get to know the culture and history of the island better, just visiting the popular tourist destinations is not enough. If you have several days at your disposal, we would recommend that you explore as many of the island’s destinations and locations as possible.
After all, small villages and various remote locations also hide impressive hidden treasures. Rhodes, an island that if you explore it from end to end, you will discover unique locations and be able to enjoy pleasant activities.
And of course let’s not forget the wonderful boat trips where, in addition to the beauties of the sea, you can try some diving or relax on the deck and enjoy excellent local flavors. And speaking of local flavors, if you want to get the most out of your Rhodes experience, be sure to look into food and wine tasting experiences.
What is certain is that if you visit Rhodes, you will soon want to return.