Why Should You Visit Rhodes?

Known as the “Island of the Sun”, Rhodes is one of Greece’s most beloved destinations and the crown jewel of the Dodecanese Islands. It’s a place where golden beaches stretch for miles, ancient ruins whisper stories of gods and knights, and the island’s lively spirit fills every cobbled street and seaside café.

Rhodes has a little bit of everything Greece is famous for — a beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, a coastline dotted with inviting coves, and a blend of cultures shaped by centuries of Greek, Byzantine, and Venetian influence. Spend your days exploring the Palace of the Grand Masters, wandering the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, or simply soaking up the Aegean sun along its turquoise shores.

Whether you’re drawn by history, romance, or the promise of long, sunlit days by the sea, Rhodes offers a rare mix of elegance and energy — the kind of island that stays with you long after you leave.

Where is Rhodes Located?

Just 18 km (11 miles) off the Turkish coast, Rhodes sits between mainland Greece and Cyprus, making it the largest and most visited island in the Dodecanese. Its capital, Rhodes Town, lies on the northern tip — home to the famous Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to Get to Rhodes

By Air

Direct flights connect Athens to Rhodes’ Diagoras International Airport (RHO) in about 45 minutes. Domestic flights also connect Rhodes with Thessaloniki several times per week, operated by Aegean Airlines and Sky Express.

During summer, the island receives seasonal flights from many European cities, with low-cost carriers such as Ryanair, easyJet, and Jet2, alongside full-service airlines like Aegean Airlines.

Travelers from the U.S. or other long-haul destinations usually connect via Athens or other major European hubs (London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Paris) to reach Rhodes.

Tip: Summer is peak season, so book early for the best fares and availability.

By Ferry

Daily ferries link Piraeus (Athens) with Rhodes, with stops at islands such as Patmos, Leros, Kos, and occasionally other islands along the way. Operators include Blue Star Ferries and other lines. -> Ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Rhodes

Ferries also connect Rhodes with nearby islands like Symi, Kos, and Kastellorizo, as well as longer routes from the Cyclades — for example, Santorini to Rhodes takes between 15 and 24 hours via Aegeon Pelagos.

In summer, fast ferries run between Rhodes and Marmaris, Turkey, in about one hour and passports are required for border control.

Tip: Check timetables carefully, especially for multi-island or cross-border routes, as durations and frequencies vary by season.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Rhodes

Rhodes enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year — one of the sunniest places in Europe.

• Summer (June–August) brings hot, dry days averaging 29°C, cooled by the Meltemi winds — ideal for beach lovers and windsurfers.
• Spring and autumn (March–May, September-November) offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and great conditions for exploring.
• Winter (December-February) is mild but humid; many resorts close, but Old Town Rhodes remains charmingly quiet.

>> Read more: Weather in Greece

What to Do in Rhodes

Historical, Cultural & Natural Highlights

• The Colossus of Rhodes – One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Colossus was a towering statue of the sun god Helios guarding the harbor entrance. Though it stood for just 56 years before being destroyed by an earthquake, its legend still looms large.
• The Medieval Old Town – Encircled by thick stone walls, the Old Town of Rhodes is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. Stroll along the cobbled Street of the Knights (Ippoton), visit the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Byzantine Museum, and the Mosque of Suleiman, and explore the lively Ippokratous Square — a mix of history and vibrant café culture.
• Ancient Lindos – Home to a dramatic acropolis perched above a whitewashed village, Lindos is both scenic and historic. The climb rewards you with breathtaking views over St. Paul’s Bay and the Aegean.
• Valley of the Butterflies – A lush sanctuary west of the island, best visited between late May and September, when thousands of butterflies gather in the forested gorge — a peaceful contrast to the island’s beaches.

Activities & Tours

There’s more to Rhodes than sunbathing — from sailing to wine tasting, history walks to off-road adventures.

• Culture & History Tours – Guided walks in the Old Town bring medieval and Ottoman layers to life, while full-day island tours include Lindos, ancient Kamiros, and hidden mountain villages.
• Nature & Adventure – Join a 4×4 jeep safari or hiking tour through pine forests and olive groves, or paddle along the coastline by kayak or SUP.
• Boat Trips & Island Hopping – Cruises to Symi Island and Lindos by sea are among the top day trips. You can also find sunset catamaran tours with swimming stops in secluded bays.
• Food & Wine – Sample local wines like Athiri and Mandilaria on vineyard tours, or join a cooking class to learn meze favorites — a great way to taste Rhodes beyond the tavernas.

Day Trips from Rhodes

Rhodes makes a great base for short sea escapes and scenic cultural detours. Whether you want to explore neighboring islands, cross into Turkey for the day, or discover hidden corners of Rhodes itself, there’s plenty to see beyond the main town.

• Symi Island: One of the most popular day trips from Rhodes. Ferries run several times daily in summer, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours each way. Stroll through Symi’s colorful harbor, visit the Panormitis Monastery, and linger over coffee or seafood by the water before returning.
• Marmaris, Turkey: A classic cross-border hop, perfect if you want to add a taste of Turkey to your trip. In summer, fast ferries link Rhodes and Marmaris in about an hour. Expect lively bazaars, Turkish sweets, and plenty of cultural contrast — just don’t forget your passport for border control.
• Inland & Local Escapes: Stay on the island and explore its quieter side. Visit the wine villages scattered across the countryside, wander through the medieval charm of Lindos, or explore the ancient ruins of Kamiros for a peaceful glimpse into Rhodes’ past.

Beaches

With its long coastline, Rhodes offers beaches for every mood.

• Faliraki Beach: the island’s most famous, with a vibrant scene and water sports.
• Kalithea Springs: historic spa site with clear waters and restored art-deco architecture.
• Tsambika Beach: golden sand, shallow sea, and a monastery viewpoint above.
• St. Paul’s Bay (Lindos): romantic setting below the acropolis.
• Prasonisi: where the Aegean and Mediterranean meet — a hotspot for kite- and windsurfing.

Tip: Renting a car makes beach-hopping easy, especially if you want to mix popular bays with quieter spots like Agathi or Traganou.

Where to Stay in Rhodes

Rhodes has accommodations to suit every type of traveler, from history buffs to beach lovers and couples seeking a romantic getaway.

• Rhodes Town: Perfect for first-timers, with beaches, restaurants, and historical sights all within easy reach.
• Lindos: Offers a more relaxed atmosphere, boutique stays, and stunning views of the Acropolis.
• Faliraki & Ixia: Popular resort areas with hotels, nightlife, and easy access to sandy beaches.
• Monolithos & Embonas: Quieter western side of the island, ideal for nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those seeking a slower pace.

Note: This article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission.