best islands to visit from rhodes

7 Truly Idyllic Islands To Visit From Rhodes, Greece

There’s no shortage of idyllic islands to visit from Rhodes, Greece. Nope, once you’re done exploring the great crusader castles, the cobbled streets of Rhodes Town, the pulsating party places of Faliraki, and the blinding beaches of Lindos, you can simply hop on a boat to sample somewhere completely different. It’s that easy.

What’s great is that Rhodes acts as a sort of transport hub for the Dodecanese islands. That means there are loads of ferries heading out to all sorts of wonderful places, but also that Rhodes is a fantastic starting point for yacht charterers looking to whiz across the easternmost islands of Greece . Oh, and don’t expect to be twiddling your thumbs on the journey from A to B here – there are swimming coves and marine safaris and even views of the Turkish mountains to enjoy as you go.

This guide aims to focus in on seven of what we consider to be the crème-de-la-crème of islands to visit from Rhodes, Greece. It’s got the multicolored harbors of Symi and the wild hedonism of Kos , along with a few islands that don’t hit the headlines so much. Ready? Grab the passport and the sunscreen and let’s go…

Table of Contents

Symi – one of the most popular islands to visit from Rhodes, Greece

Symi has risen and risen in fame in recent years. It’s established itself as something of a go-to place for celebrity chefs and Instagram influencers, and has even been hailed as one of the most enchanting spots in the whole Mediterranean. That’s mainly thanks to the gorgeous appearance of its pastel-painted marina, a place where old Italian-styled homes cascade down a steep hill into a pearly blue Aegean Sea where boats jostle for room by the tavernas. Lovely.

Symi is very small. You could fit it into Rhodes more than 10 times over. Symi also attracts a noticeably more monied crowd than its compadre to the south. So, expect those family resort hotels to be replaced by chic B&Bs and boutique lodgings. Expect, too, for the pace to slow a little and the prices to increase, as fine-dining restaurants and exclusive cafés come into play. Mainly, though, you’ll be here for rest and relaxation, to wander the donkey-trodden streets of the Chorio village, sail to empty beaches like Saint George Bay, read, paint, sleep, and eat.

Getting to Symi from Rhodes is a cinch. There are oodles of day trip options that will pick you up right at the door of your hotel, pop you on a boat, and get you back by evening. But they will never be as cheap as the public ferry, which takes a mere hour from start to finish and runs at least twice daily in the main season months (May to September).

The majority of travelers looking to explore this part of Greece will be deciding between Kos or Rhodes . They are the two most visited in this chain of islands, and both have loads going for them. The good news is that you don’t actually have to pick one over the other at all. They are close enough to be linked by regular ferry boat (a connection goes around three times daily from Rhodes Town in the main season) and there’s even a short-haul flight that takes just 30 minutes if you’re running out of time!

What Kos excels in is its nightlife and beaches. The first of those is taken care of by the hedonistic enclave of Kardamaina on the south shoreline. It’s a true 18-30s resort in the style of Faliraki and Kavos, complete with gyros stalls and a strip of pubs and clubs that go on until sunup. You’ll also get a very lively nightlife scene in Kos Town, fueled by Scandinavian shot bars and beach clubs that bring a bit of Balinese cool into the mix.

When it comes to beaches, let’s put it this way: Lonely Planet doesn’t hesitate to proclaim them the “finest beaches in the Dodecanese”. In a land so rich in sands and coves, that’s saying something. We’ll let you make up your own mind as you hop from the blustery windsurfing mecca of Mastichari Beach to the warm-water snorkeling coves of Thermes Beach to remote Marmari and Tigaki. All are lovely; all are different in their own way.

Karpathos squiggles through the southeastern edge of the Aegean Sea roughly midway between the end of Crete and the end of Rhodes. That makes it a perfect steppingstone for those wanting to explore Greece’s largest island (Crete) after they’ve seen the medieval wonders of the hub of the Dodecanese ( Rhodes ). But this is also much more than just a pitstop on the way from one sun-splashed spot to another…

It’s much loved by those who like to go off the beaten path, because big hotel chains and holiday brochure editors have yet to swing on by. There’s a whiff of old times in the salty airs, especially as you clamber up to villages like little Menetes and Othos, which cling to precipitous ridges in lush mountain ranges, often plumed in mists and rainclouds. Hikers, especially, are sure to find loads to get stuck into in that inland region.

Down on the coast as you leave the highlands of Karpathos behind, there are some pretty darn jaw-dropping places to sunbathe, snorkel, and swim. Look to the white-rock cove of Kyra Panaghia. Or choose Apella Beach for somewhere that would almost look right at home in the Caribbean. Oh, and there’s Afiartis, which is one of the world’s best windsurfing locations.

When it comes to rest, relaxation, and experiencing the sleepy joys of the untrodden Dodecanese, Tilos has to be one of the best islands to visit from Rhodes, Greece. It awaits right next door, about 49 miles directly west of Rhodes Town . There, it slithers in a lazy S-bend through the Aegean Sea, rising in a series of honey-tinged ridges that billow with dust clouds.

The shorelines below are threaded with a couple of very handsome villages. They are where most visitors choose to bed down. You’ve got Livadia, a cluster of cafés and white-painted hotels that spills straight into a protected bay. Then there’s Antonios, where some haunting Orthodox shrines shoulder above a pure blue lagoon between the mountains. Up higher you can still see the remains of Byzantine churches, some still adorned with dazzling mosaics and frescos that date from the 1400s.

Travels on Tilos today are mainly about ecotourism and seeing the untouched Greek island flora and fauna. The airs here are thick with wild herbs – thyme, oregano, oleander – and you can hike the donkey paths from lookout to lookout to take in 360-degrees, watching for dolphins or monk seals in the sapphire waters below as you go. Talk about a rejuvenating trip!

Kalymnos has long been on the radar of avid climbers. Like Greece’s answer to Railay Beach in Thailand, it sports dagger-like turrets of stone that are a joy for those who come with the harness and the ropes in tow. But it’s not just for those looking to scramble up the limestone crags. It’s also a very convenient island to visit from Rhodes, Greece, mainly because there are several daily ferries that link it to both Kos and Rhodes throughout the height of the summer months .

You’ll come into Pothia on the south coast. That’s a maze-like town that’s everything you’d expect of a Greek island hub. Look one way and the colored dome of an Orthodox church shoulders high. Look another and there’s an open plaza riddled with coffee joints where the locals slap down dominos. The town is also the place to find the fascinating maritime museum, which chronicles the seafaring past of the sponge fishers of Kalymnos. Oh, and don’t leave town without heading up to the Chrysocheria Castle, an old citadel raised by the Knights Hospitaller.

Probably the most famous beach on Kalymnos is Therma Beach. It’s not much of a looker but does have an intriguing geothermal spring that keeps the tide pools balmy all year round. The sands of Platis Yialos and Palionnisos are better for lazing and snorkeling, but they can be a chore to get to if you’re not much of an ATV pilot.

It can take up to six hours to swap Rhodes for Leros. The trip goes directly northwest through the very heart of the Dodecanese chain, so it’s a good option if you wanted to visit the tempting spots that are en route – Kos, Kalymnos, Symi. Alternatively, you can do the whole thing in a single sitting, taking one of the five-weekly boats that go from Rhodes Town direct.

When you arrive, prepare to step into a port town that’s arguably more Sicily than south Greece. It was actually inhabited by the Italians for much of the 20 th century (31 years to be precise), and there was a determined campaign run by the Italian fascist powers to make it more like home. They raised Art Deco mansions and fortified a new port called Portolago, which now showcases a striking (yet barely attractive) architectural style all of its own.

That intriguing past runs side by side with a rocky, rugged backcountry of high hills and carved cliffs. As the island drops into the Aegean, it also offers some of the region’s lesser-known diving spots, so expect to find a nascent scuba scene in the offing too. We’d say look to base yourself in Agia Marina. It’s the prettier and more charming of the villages on Leros.

Kastellorizo

Last but most certainly not least on our list of the most beautiful islands to visit from Rhodes, Greece, Kastellorizo is one of the region’s – nay, the whole country’s – most enchanting and enticing locations. So close to the Turkish coast that you could almost swing a shisha pipe across the strait, it’s got a strange fusion of Islamic, Ottoman, Italian, English, and homegrown Greek charm about it. That, coupled with the fact that it remains truly off the main tourist radar, means it’s one for the true intrepid globetrotters.

Officially called Megisti, this one’s rich in history. You can head out to explore the ancient dig site at Palaiokastro or see the Castle of the Knights, which is just another of the many crusader-era forts in this part of the Aegean. The main town hugs the eastern shoreline, delving just a few streets inland to zigzagging roads that host Italian-style homes and restaurants with views over to Turkey.

Exploring the island is a joy in itself. It’s basically void of cars, and there are some tree-fringed paths leading to old churches in the hills. You can also spend whole days on the shoreline. There aren’t many sandy beaches a la Rhodes there, but there are loads of rocky jump-off points with stepladders that let you descend straight into the sea. 

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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16 Incredible Islands Near Rhodes You Will Want To Visit

Most incredible islands in rhodes greece.

Rhodes, Greece is the largest of the Dodecanese island group, located in the Aegean Sea. In antiquity, it was home to the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

The island in the 21 st century caters well for tourists with a satisfying mix of gorgeous beaches and captivating archaeological and historical sites.  

As a result of its size, it’s relatively easy to reach, with direct flights from numerous cities across Europe.

Though many flights are offered by low-cost and charter airlines, several scheduled airlines operate flights with onward connections through major hubs such as Amsterdam, London, Paris, Frankfurt and of course Athens.

This means that if you’re planning a trip to one of the smaller Greek islands, you’ve a good chance that you’ll find yourself on Rhodes first.

Likewise, if you’re keen to arrange an island-hopping vacation, it’s not difficult to put together an itinerary that begins or ends with a Rhodes ferry. 

Let’s take a closer look at some of those island destinations.

Crete/Kriti (plane and ferry)

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands. Like Rhodes, it has a long history: this was the center of the Minoans’ trading empire more than 4000 years ago.

Today, tourists come here to admire the frescoes that survive in Knossos Palace, once home to King Minos.

It’s a stone’s throw from Heraklion, where the 16th-century Koules fortress overlooks the city’s Venetian port. But nature, too, is spectacular here.

Beaches such as Elafonisi, with its pink sands and clear water; Balos, nicknamed the Cretan Caribbean; and Falassarna, known for its spectacular sunsets are the standouts amid stiff competition.

Inland, make time for a hike along the rocky trails that wind through the breathtaking Samaria Gorge in the White Mountains. 

Kos (plane and ferry)

Kos is the second most populous island in the Dodecanese. Its hot sunny summers draw many visitors to the island’s coast in summer; they pass the time sunbathing, surfing and diving.

At Agios Fokas, you’ll find thermal springs. The water has a temperature of between 42 and 50°C; when mixed with sea water it’s ideal for bathing.

Beyond the beach, Kos has much more to offer. In Kos Town, the 14th century Nerantzia Castle, also referred to as the Castle of the Knights, stands at the entrance of the port on the site of what was once a Byzantine fortress. Close by is the Ancient Agora.

Also of interest is the including the impressive Asklepieion, the ruins of a medical center which date from the 3rd century BC.

Inland, take a trip to the quaint village of Lagoudi Zia, overlooked by Mount Dikalos, whose pretty cobbled streets are lined with blue and white houses.

Santorini/Thira (ferry)

Santorini’s flooded volcanic caldera ensures that this island is one of the most photographed in Greece.

That’s especially the case at dusk when crowds of onlookers gather on the hillsides in Oia, Fira and Imerovigli to watch the sun puddle into the water.

The whitewashed houses that surround traditional windmills and churches with their signature blue domes turn a pretty shade of peach. Though you could be forgiven for simply wanting to idle away your time gawping at the view, there’s more to explore.

Don’t miss Akrotiri, nicknamed the Pompeii of Greece as it suffered a similar fate. Pyrgos, once the island’s capital, is very much alive and well.

Flanked by vineyards, you could learn about the Assyrtiko wine they produce. If you’re keen to catch one more ferry, the neighboring island of Anafi retains an authentic and unspoilt charm.

Leros (plane and ferry)

You’ll find the usual tavernas, fishing boats and ruins on this little island in the Dodecanese.

What sets it apart is the planned town that was constructed in the 1930s under the orders of the Fascist dictator Mussolini, with its distinctive architecture and wide boulevards.

The Italians called it Portolargo, though the Greeks refer to it as Lakki. After the war, its military barracks were repurposed to house political prisoners and as hospitals for those suffering from mental illness.

Today, the events of World War Two are covered in the museum on the edge of town. Within walking distance is the Parabolic Acoustic Mirror, a concrete structure used to listen for approaching enemy aircraft.

Astypalaia (plane and ferry)

This attractive island is nicknamed the butterfly as its two distinct halves, Mesa Nisi and Exo Nisi, are connected by a narrow strip of land. Astypalaia Town is authentic and has retained much of its original character.

Stroll uphill from Skala by the water’s edge to Hora with its eight windmills. As you climb, the buildings get older, some adorned with wooden balconies.

While you’re up here, make sure you visit the Guerini Castle, constructed by the Venetians in the 13th century; some of the area’s houses are built into the outer wall of the fortifications.

Two dazzling white churches, Panagia Evangelistria and Agios Georgios, are worth more than a cursory glance, as is the Panagia Portaitissa church down below, which boasts a remarkable wall of icons. 

Karpathos (plane and ferry)

This island combines a rich cultural heritage with outstanding natural beauty yet somehow managed to avoid the mass tourism of some of Greece’s other islands. Long and thin, a mountainous spine runs along its length.

A number of excellent beaches, such as Kyra Panagia and Apella, delight those tourists that make it here. It’s worth tearing yourself away to visit the village of Olympos; with its ancient dialect and customs, some class it as a living museum.

Watch the boats come and go at the fishing port of Diafani and take in the view from mountainous Aperi. Wander the alleyways of Volada whose whitewashed walls are covered with brightly colored bougainvillea. Venture up to Othos, the island’s highest village, where you’ll find a fascinating folklore museum.   

Samos (plane and ferry)

Though Greek, Samos is separated from neighboring Turkey by the Mycale Strait, less than a mile across.

In ancient times, it was a dominant maritime power and home to mathematician Pythagoras. Herodotus described its temple, the Heraion, as the largest in Greece; today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site although only one of its 155 columns still stands.

Agriculture was, and still is, important on the island. The fertile soils of this verdant island enable grape vines, olive groves and stands of pine trees to thrive and provide a gorgeous backdrop to those who come here to hike.

And of course, its sandy and pebbly beaches lure sun seekers throughout the summer months. 

Mykonos (plane)

Lively Mykonos is Greece’s answer to Ibiza, a party island that’s all about having fun. Crazy and cosmopolitan, it’s known for its hip hangouts and glitzy resorts. By day, beaches such as Paradise, Super Paradise and Psarou throng with tourists. A boat trip to Delos Sacred Island is a must for anyone with an interest in history; Rhenia Islet is another popular excursion.

There are myriad opportunities for scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming and a whole host of water sports.

As the sun sets, visitors crowd the area known as Little Venice and take selfies with a backdrop of the island’s landmark windmills. This is a place for night owls, as Mykonos is packed with bars and clubs. 

Kalymnos (plane and ferry)

Once, Kalymnos was known for its sponge fishing industry, a way of making a living on a barren island short on options.

To enable them to stay beneath the surface for longer periods of time, villagers developed a diving suit called a skafandro which had a bronze helmet.

The natural sponge market has declined but there’s still a factory in Pothia if you’re keen to learn more about the tradition – sponges are imported and processed here.

Elsewhere, the island’s limestone crags attract rock climbers from around the world, and several outfits run courses year-round. Routes vary in difficulty, so whether you’re a first-timer or experienced pro, you’ll enjoy climbing here. The island also hosts climbing festival, usually held in October.

Lesbos/Lesvos (plane)

The island of Lesbos has been attracting visitors for centuries, who come for the natural beauty of its beaches, mountains and forests.

Its two highest points, Mount Olympos in the south of the island and Mount Lepetymnos in the north, are officially the same height, though that’s disputed. Local rivalry dictates that each community must claim theirs is the tallest.

The capital, Mytilene, boasts a 14th century fortress, one of the largest in the Mediterranean. It was built on top of Emperor Justinian’s castle which stood here hundreds of years earlier. Another imposing fortification is the 11th century castle of Molyvos.

So close to the Turkish coast, it’s no surprise that you’ll also find some beautifully restored Ottoman baths, now preserved as a museum. Foodies will enjoy tasting the local produce, such as cheese, pomegranates, figs, quinces, oranges, almonds and ouzo. 

Naxos (ferry)

The largest of the Cyclades, Naxos boasts mountains interspersed with vineyards, orchards and lush valleys. This beautiful island is blessed with countless churches, monasteries and Venetian castles too.

Some of its many must-see sights include Bazeos Castle, which doubles as a cultural center.

Make a point of visiting at least a couple of its villages, such as Apeiranthos with its marble streets or tranquil Filoti, a convenient place to grab a coffee if you’ve walked up to Zeus’ childhood cave.

It’s worth trying to be in Naxos for carnival in February, when the noise of violins, tsabounas (instruments similar to bagpipes) and doubakia drums fills the streets and squares.

Lemnos/Limnos (plane)

A holiday on Lemnos, though endowed with lovely beaches, isn’t just about lazing around.

Give your legs a workout: one of the best views anywhere on the island of Lemnos is that overlooking the water from the castle of Myrina. It dates from Byzantine times but the Venetians put their own stamp on it in the 13th century.

Another lofty landmark, this one reached after a 20 minute walk up a dirt track, is the chapel of Panagia Kakaviotissa. Partially concealed in the rocks, it once housed monks and hermits.

It’s also worth checking out the archaeological site of Hephaistia, where you’ll find a ruined palace, theatre and ancient baths.

Patmos (ferry)

Patmos has no airport, but this small island receives a surprisingly high number of visitors in spite of that. The clue is in its nickname, the island of the Apocalypse, for this is where the Book of Revelation was written and as such it’s a place of Christian pilgrimage.

The faithful come here to step inside the cave in which John of Patmos gained his inspiration and also visit the monastery dedicated to him in the island’s capital, Chora.

The town isn’t a one-trick pony, however, and its narrow alleyways flanked by whitewashed homes open out to breathtaking views over the Aegean Sea. It makes this place a joy to explore on foot, whether you’re religious or not.

Ikaria (ferry)

Glorious turquoise water sets off the yellow rocks of Ikaria perfectly. This picture perfect place is renowned for the longevity of its inhabitants.

People say this is the place where people forget to die, and as around a third live beyond 90 years old, they’ve probably got a point. Those who call this isolated island home typically enjoy a relaxed pace of life, plenty of fresh and ample opportunities to exercise over the rugged terrain.

Ask them what their secret is as they play dominoes late into the night and they’re likely to recommend an afternoon nap.

If you’re set on staying awake, then there’s not a lot to do save for swimming or taking long walks in search of the island’s characteristic stone houses, which sounds like the ideal way to spend a vacation somewhere as beautiful as this. 

Symi (ferry)

Arrive into Symi’s harbour and the first thing that strikes you is the array of colours. Instead of the whitewashed walls you might be greeted with in places such as Santorini, the Neoclassical mansions that line the waterfront are painted in a variety of shades.

They rise steeply from Gialos to Chorio higher up; looking down over all of it is the historic kastro, or castle, erected in 1407 by the Knights of the Order of Saint John.

When planning your trip, it’s worth avoiding the heat of midsummer, as one of the best ways to explore this island is on foot. Hikers can tackle paths that lead to tiny chapels, secluded beaches and sleepy villages.

Don’t miss the Holy Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis, first documented in the 15th century.

Fournoi (ferry)

Fournoi is one of two inhabited islands in the archipelago of the same name.

In medieval times, it was known for its pirates, who could tuck their vessels and illicit cargo out of sight in its inlets, fjords and isolated beaches.

Today, those seeking an authentic and traditional slice of rural Greece will find what they are looking for. Islanders have made a living from fishing for centuries and the place retains a significant fleet.

Tourists benefit from whatever the day’s catch is when they dine at the cluster of restaurants that crowd the harbor.

Be sure to also taste the local honey; there are plenty of beekeepers here who capitalize on the island’s wild thyme and sage as they maintain a longstanding tradition.  

Tilos (ferry)

Tiny Tilos is an ecotourism gem. Its population has worked hard to legislate to protect their home from negative impacts of mass tourism.

Beyond the picturesque beaches, flower-strewn valleys littered with pine, oak and almond trees are connected to craggy peaks by restored cobbled mule paths.

The island attracts birdwatchers, who come here in the hope of spotting species such as Eleonora’s Falcon, Bonelli’s eagle, goldfinches, herons, hawks, nightingales and bee-eaters.

But it’s not all nature: a wealth of Byzantine chapels, Crusader castles, a monastery and ruined villages add interest to walks.

Don’t miss the chance to check out a cave which proved the island was home to dwarf elephants, the last such place in Europe.

Amorgos (ferry)

Even in peak season, a trip to Amorgos feels like you are stepping back in time. One of the sleepiest corners of the Cyclades, it’s a haven for flora and birdlife.

The water that laps its shores is crystal clear and it boasts some splendid beaches. Part of the 1988 Luc Besson film about divers, The Big Blue, was shot here.

Chora, the capital, is simply charming, its whitewashed buildings a delightful contrast to the earthy ground against which they nestle.

Follow the cobbled donkey path to the monastery of Hozoviotissa that appears to hang from the cliff face 300 meters above the sea.

It was constructed in 1017 and renovated in 1088, making it the second oldest in Greece. Today, a small population of resident monks welcome respectful visitors.

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Greek Islands Near Rhodes You Can Get To By Ferry

The most popular islands near Rhodes you can take a ferry to include Symi, Halki, Tilos, Karpathos, Kastelorizo, and Kos.

Want to put together your own Greek Odyssey by traveling to more islands after spending time in Rhodes? This guide will show you which islands close to Rhodes you can reach by ferry. Includes a few insights from my own experiences Greek island hopping in the Dodecanese you might find useful.

Ferry Connections from Rhodes to other Greek Islands

The Greek island of Rhodes is a popular destination for summer holidays. As one of the largest islands in Greece, it has plenty of activities, historic sites and beautiful beaches. 

Related: Is Rhodes worth visiting?

Rhodes also makes a good start or end point for a Greek island hopping adventure. It has many ferry connections to other islands in the Dodecanese chain, and is also connected by ferry to Crete , and some Cyclades islands .

Typically, travelers will tend to travel by ferry from Rhodes in Greece to islands close by. Symi is a popular island to take a ferry to from Rhodes for example, along with other nearby islands like Halki and Tilos.

Closer islands to Rhodes tend to have more ferry connections, but you can also reach further away Greek islands such as Kos, Karpathos and Kastelorizo.

Check ferry timetables and ticket prices at: Ferryscanner

List of Islands To Visit From Rhodes By Ferry

Most ferries leaving from Rhodes island in Greece depart from the main ferry port in Rhodes. You can reach the following islands from Rhodes by taking a ferry:

• Amorgos (Katapola Port)
• Arkyi (Also spelt Arki, Arkioi, Arkoi, and Arki!)
• Chalki (Also spelt Halki. Departs sometimes from Rhodes main port and also Skala Kameiros)
• Crete (Heraklion and Sitia ports)
• Ikaria (Ag.Kirikos and Fourni ports)

Kastelorizo

• Samos (Pythagorio and Vathi ports)

Check ferry schedules and book ferry tickets online at: Ferryscanner

Note, at one time direct ferries from Rhodes to Milos may have been running. At least for 2023, that is no longer the case. Rhodes also has ferries to and from Piraeus Port of Athens and Bodrum and Marmaris in Turkey.

Choosing which islands to visit after Rhodes by ferry

This depends very much on what type of Greek vacation you are after. Some people have very specific places in mind that they want to visit, and so for example will want to go to Patmos or Santorini after Rhodes regardless.

Others who want to put a Greek island hopping trip together would be better looking at ferry routes to other nearby Dodecanese islands. Here's a look at some of the islands I think are ideal to visit next after Rhodes:

Symi is a charming island located near Rhodes, easily accessible by ferry. The island boasts gorgeous architecture, stunning beaches, and hiking trails where visitors can explore the natural beauty of the Aegean Sea.

At the harbor, you can find traditional boats and restaurants serving fresh seafood and local wine. This peaceful and picturesque island is perfect for those looking to escape crowded tourist hubs.

Note that you can also visit Symi as a day trip from Rhodes .

Halki is a secluded island located close to Rhodes and best reached by local ferry from Kamiros Skala port. The island is known for its breathtaking beaches, crystal clear waters, and traditional architecture

Visitors can explore the charming fishing boats, taste local delicacies, and take in the authentic Greek vibe. Halki’s tranquility and beauty make it an ideal destination for those eager to unwind and relax.

This is another island that can just about be visited as a day trip from Rhodes, but it's best to spend a night or two.

Located in the Dodecanese island group, Tilos is an off-the-beaten-path island that takes around 3.5 hours on average to reach by ferry from Rhodes. The island is known for its unspoiled and pristine nature, where visitors can revel in the stunning beaches, clear waters, and traditional villages.

Tilos is a haven for hikers who can explore its rugged terrain and hidden gems, such as ancient ruins and abandoned castles. It's an ideal island for nature and ancient history enthusiasts who want to avoid the crowds.

Karpathos is the second-largest island in the Dodecanese and there are regular ferries from Rhodes. The island is famous for its breathtaking scenery, hidden beaches, and traditional villages. Its impressive landscape, that includes mountain ranges and valleys, attracts hikers and nature lovers from various corners of the world.

Karpathos is also home to unique cultural traditions, with a great variety in local cuisine. It's a big island, so you might want to rent a car to get around to see more – oh, and spend a few days there, preferably a week!

Related: What you need to know about renting a car in Greece

Kasos, located south of Rhodes, is a secluded island accessible by ferry. The island is known for its picturesque beaches, charming villages and traditional way of life.

Visitors can explore the island’s natural beauty, including its traditional architecture and fresh sea-food. Kasos is perfect for those looking to delve deeper into local Greek culture in a genuine, off-the-beaten-path destination.

Kastelorizo, also known as Megisti, is a small island situated in the Aegean Sea and is accessible by ferry. The island is famous for its stunning coastline, colorful architecture, and traditional fishing village charm.

Visitors can explore ancient ruins, hidden beaches and enjoy authentic Greek cuisine. Kastelorizo is a perfect spot for a relaxing and peaceful holiday, with day trips available to the nearby Blue Cave and Turkish coast.

Kos is a vibrant and popular island located in the Dodecanese. There are regular ferry trips from Rhodes.

Kos is an ideal destination for those eager to enjoy stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and lively nightlife. Visitors can lounge on the island's beaches, explore ancient ruins, and revel in the island's vibrant towns and villages.

Kos is an ideal island for those who want a bit of both relaxation and entertainment on their holiday.

Nisyros is another off-the-beaten-path island located southwest of Kos and is accessible by ferry. Known for its impressive volcanic landscape, a trip to the volcano itself is one that you will remember for many years to come.

I found it to be a real highlight of island hopping in the Dodecanese!

The island is known for its strong cultural heritage, as well as outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hiking and diving.

Traditional climbing was born on the island and modern versions of the century-old tradition can be found here. The island’s beautiful coastline offers perfect conditions for water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Related: Ferries in Greece

FAQ About Ferry Trips From Rhodes

Some of the most commonly asked questions people have when planning to travel from Rhodes to another island nearby include:

Is there a ferry from Rhodes to Mykonos?

There is no direct ferry service from Rhodes to Mykonos. However, you can take a ferry from Rhodes to the port of Piraeus and then take another ferry from Piraeus to Mykonos.

Where is the ferry port in Rhodes?

The main ferry port in Rhodes is located on the northern part of the island in Rhodes Town. It is easily accessible and provides regular ferry services to various destinations in Greece as well as Turkey.

Which islands are closest to Rhodes?

The closest islands to Rhodes are those of the Dodecanese such as Halki, Tilos, Symi, and Karpathos. These islands all have ferry connections with Rhodes.

What islands can you get to by ferry from Rhodes?

You can take ferries from Rhodes to many of the Greek islands, such as Karpathos, Kasos, Kastelorizo, Kos, Nisyros and Kalymnos.

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• Day trips from Rhodes to nearby islands

Easy and fun day trips!

• Ferry Tickets

The island of Rhodes is a world-renowned holiday destination, famous for its history, nightlife, idyllic beaches, and breathtaking views. Being the largest of the Dodecanese and the most easterly island in the Aegean Sea, Rhodes is ideal for island hopping !

So, where can you go on a day trip from Rhodes? Find the best Rhodes island-hopping options below and book your ferry tickets online on Ferryhopper!

The crystal-clear waters of Achata beach in Karpathos

Island hopping from Rhodes: our top suggestions

During your visit to Rhodes , you can easily hop on a ferry to the nearby islands. 

You can reach more islands in the Dodecanese and Crete all year round, and the Cyclades during summer. Whether you’re interested in a one-day trip from Rhodes or you’re looking forward to the ultimate Rhodes island-hopping adventure , there are many options for ferry trips from the cosmopolitan island. 

On Ferryhopper, you can find all ferry routes to plan your island hopping from Rhodes.

Have a look at the best Rhodes island-hopping tours and enjoy your Greek adventure!

• Kastellorizo

Rhodes to Symi day trip

Since Rhodes and Symi are so close to one another, traveling from one island to the other by ferry is very simple. When you arrive, you will probably dock in Ano Symi , the charming main town of the island. 

It’s definitely worth walking past the neoclassical and colorful houses that line Symi's harbor. In fact, the island is renowned for its architecture, particularly for the Holy Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis . 

Symi is not only distinguished for its monuments and religious sites, however. There are many cultural festivals taking place in the summer. The island is also world-renowned for its unspoilt beaches and luxury experiences. 

Ferries serving day trips from Rhodes to Symi are available up to 13 times daily during the summer. The Rhodes to Symi ferry takes about 1-2.5 hours and tickets usually start at €8 .

The beautiful town of Symi

Go on an adventure to Karpathos from Rhodes

Another island where you can go by ferry from Rhodes is Karpathos. Karpathos is the perfect destination for those who like to go off the beaten path . With an almost untouched nature, Karpathos is a hiking paradise . Make sure to climb up to villages like little Menetes or Olympos. 

Down on the coast, you will come across some magnificent places for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing . Our favorites are Achata beach and Amoopi bay. Oh, and let's not forget about Afiartis, one of the top windsurfing locations in the world. There are also 18 dive sites near Karpathos, including underwater arches, wrecks, reefs, and caverns like the enchanted St. Peter's Cathedral.

There are frequent ferries from Rhodes to Karpathos throughout the year. In the summer, there are usually 6 weekly sailings to Karpathos from the port of Rhodes. The duration of the trip ranges from about 3.5 to 5 hours , with ferry tickets costing approximately €17-18 .

Tip : if you have time to spare, from Karpathos you can also take a boat trip to Kasos . It will only take you about 1 hour.

Have the best day-trip to Kos

Kos is the third largest island in the Dodecanese and one of the easiest to get to from Rhodes.

It is a fascinating destination to explore, with a history rich in Roman and Greek landmarks, as well as castles, ruins, shrines, and temples from the 15th century. Kos is also renowned for its incredibly picturesque and sandy beaches , which might as well be the finest in the Dodecanese. 

You can go on a one-day trip from Rhodes to Kos daily with at least 2 ferry crossings . The earliest ferry from Rhodes to Kos departs at 04:00 from the port of Rhodes, arriving at around 08:45 in Kos. The fastest ferry takes around 2 hours . As for the ticket price, it normally starts at around €15 .

The Asklepieion at the top of a verdant hill in Kos

Hop on a ferry from Rhodes to Kalymnos

Going island hopping from Rhodes to Kalymnos is a great experience! Kalymnos is distinguished by its amazing rock formations , dreamy beaches and ancient monuments. It is famous for its natural sponges and it’s also a favorite among rock-climbing and bouldering enthusiasts. 

During your stay in Kalymnos, we recommend that you visit the beautiful Mirties beach, discover the island’s caves such as Kefalas, attend the Climbing Festival , and explore the villages of Emporios, Myrties, or Vathy. 

There is at least 1 daily   ferry crossing to the island of Kalymnos during the summer. The duration of the trip ranges from 2 hours 45 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes . Ticket prices start at €18.50 .

Explore the beauty of Halki

Halki is a stunning small island that is located just a stone’s throw away from Rhodes. It is a great escape if you’re seeking peace and privacy. You will be astonished by the island’s traditional vibe, stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality .

Ferries to Halki depart from the port of Rhodes up to 7  times per day . Most ferries from Rhodes reach the port of Halki in about 50 minutes . Tickets for the Rhodes - Halki ferry crossing range from €4 to €21 , depending on the type of vessel you’ve chosen.

Tip : check out our relevant blog post for more info about the day trip from Rhodes to Halki .

The colorful and peaceful town of Halki

Discover Kastellorizo from Rhodes

Kastellorizo is also known as Megisti, which means largest – despite this being one of the smaller Dodecanese islands . Similar to Halki, this is a fantastic place to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and experience the true island lifestyle. 

Visit the Castle of the Knights, explore the coast of Kastellorizo by boat, and discover the Blue Cave on the south part of the island. Don’t forget to try mouthwatering desserts such as katoumaria and halvas .

In the summer, ferries from Rhodes to Kastellorizo are in operation daily with 1-2 crossings . The ferry from Rhodes to Kastellorizo takes about 2.5 to 5 hours and tickets start at €15 .

Bonus : check out our dedicated blog about a 2-day trip from Rhodes to Fethiye . We know we know, it might not be an island, but Fethiye is one of the most beautiful towns on the Turkish coast.

Castle at the port of Kastellorizo lit up at night

For more Rhodes island hopping ideas, you can check Ferryhopper’s Map of ferries . Find up-to-date ferry routes, travel tips for 3-day cruises or day trips from Rhodes, and book cheap ferry tickets with no hidden fees !

Good to know : discover all ferry schedules for the Greek islands in 2023  and plan your trip with confidence!

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10 Most Beautiful Islands Near Rhodes

Which rhodes island is right for you.

The islands of Rhodes and Kos are relatively well known among those who have long been dreaming of visiting the Dodecanese Islands. But this section of the South Aegean Sea also has numerous other islands that offer equally impressive coastal landscapes and gastronomic experiences.

Thanks to a well-connected network of ferries, it's not difficult to plan out a trip that makes the most of these incredible escapes. To help you decide which picture-perfect destinations to visit, we've highlighted idyllic Greek islands that will impress you with their unmistakable beauty, culture and history.

For a breathtaking Greek island experience

The tiny island of Symi is famous for its ancient shipbuilding traditions and wine culture. Situated close to the Turkish border, the island's central town of Gialos features an array of striking townhouses that look like something you'd find on a postcard. Together, these multi-colored facades combine to create a truly picturesque hillside community.

Symi's idyllic port is where you'll find a thriving selection of cafés, bars and restaurants, which provide a great vantage point to enjoy the seaside scenery. For something a little more strenuous, climb Kali Strata's 500 steps, leading upwards past a variety of historic monuments and finishing with some wonderful panoramic views.

The island where old and new combine

For decades, the island of Kos has been one of the most popular vacation destinations for Greeks and Turks alike. Sprawling resorts and hotels have opened up along the heavenly coastline in recent years. Alongside these modern additions, Kos' enduring past remains clear, as age-old mosques, citadels and basilicas in various states of ruin are there to be explored.

The bustling Eleftherias Square is where you'll find cafés and bars surrounded by historic city walls, while the seafront Neratzia Castle dates back to the time of the Crusades. The natural hot springs of Ebros Thermes are another relaxing highlight, plus beaches like Kardamena and Psalidi are ideal for cooling off during the blistering summertime.

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Roam the island's famous neoclassical buildings.

Halki, set only 6 km from Rhodes, is an island getaway that's ideal for both daylong and overnight trips. The main town of Nimporio is where much of the island's action revolves, with ferries from Rhodes docking in the quaint port. Once you disembark, head along the waterfront and admire the colorful collection of neoclassical structures. Be sure to take a tour of the Church of Agios Nikolaos, which makes for an outstanding centerpiece.

Beyond Nimporio, there are loads of opportunities to relish the coastal landscape. The beaches of Potamos and Kania are found not far from town, while the Halki Medieval Castle sits atop a soaring hillside overlooking the rest of the island.

Kastellorizo

Greece's most far-flung island getaway.

Kastellorizo is tucked away along the eastern edge of Greece, hidden among its Turkish neighbours. However, the island's Greek heritage is clear for all to see, as distinctly Hellenic landmarks dot the landscape. The harbor's surrounding alleyways are lined with brightly decorated houses, while the waterfront features a selection of top-notch tavernas and bars that look out across the water.

Kastellorizo is just a tiny speck on the map, with a population of around 500 permanent residents, but that makes it a dream destination for a genuinely peaceful vacation. Don't miss the island's many diving spots, with the likes of Plakes and Faros offering gorgeous scenes.

A top-notch destination for exploring nature

Karpathos is the second-largest island of the Dodecanese, positioned between Rhodes and Crete. The mountainous landscape has 12 distinct villages, each offering their own incredible highlights. Upon arriving by ferry at the island's capital of Pigadia, you’ll be greeted with whitewashed buildings that contrast wonderfully against a mountaintop that rises above the town.

Perched atop this lofty position, the 14th-century Karpathos Acropolis of Arkassa is a must-see landmark. For travelers who love hiking, Karpathos offers a well-connected network of trails that lead to remote spots like Tristomo, Kali Limni and Achata Beach. Begin the day early with a scenic walk before heading into town and cooling off at one of the many traditional tavernas serving Karpathian cuisine.

Experience spectacular beaches and wildlife

For nature lovers, Tilos is one of Rhodes' nearby neighbours you have to tick off your bucket list. Home to a special assortment of fauna and flora, the entire island is designated a protected ecological park, ensuring seemingly endless unspoiled landscapes to explore. Tilos' beaches are also regarded as some of the best in the region, showcasing brilliant turquoise water thanks to a lack of widespread tourism.

Other highlights on Tilos include the Medieval Castle of Tilos, the 15th-century Taxiarchis Church, and the Monastery of Agios Panteleimonas, each of which has stood for hundreds of years. For something a bit different, the abandoned village of Mikro Chorio is a must-see.

Discover the island's incredible religious history

In terms of history, Patmos is hard to match even among the rest of the storied Dodecanese Islands. That's because St John wrote the Book of Revelations when he was exiled on Patmos, leading to the island becoming an important location for Christian pilgrims. As such, there are numerous significant religious landmarks to visit, including St John's Cave of the Apocalypse and the ancient monasteries built throughout the island's capital of Hora.

Elsewhere on Patmos, the charming port town of Skala provides a host of delightful bars and restaurants serving the region's renowned seafood. Further south, Petra Beach not only offers a sandy shoreline but also a giant rock formation that punctuates the end of the coastline.

An old-world island escape

Leros' rough, hilly landscape is covered with pine and olive groves, while the coastline is rich in pristine bays and concealed coves. The 2 most populous towns on the island are known as Agia Marina and Alinda, both of which offer a series of impressive hotels and resorts. Agia Marina is also home to a much-loved flour mill, an old-world structure that's located within the port's shallows.

As you make your way to either side of the island, you'll inevitably come across the Church of Agios Isidoros. Set on an inlet off the coast of Alinda, the monument is connected to Leros by a long walkway. Meanwhile, the Church of Prophet Elias provides an unbeatable hilltop setting to watch the sunset from.

World-class climbing and scuba diving

Kalymnos is recognized around the globe as a top rock-climbing destination, with people flocking to Kalymnos to summit the jagged limestone formations. The island is also celebrated as one of Greece's best places for scuba diving, with beautiful reefs and shipwrecks waiting to be explored.

Beyond these extreme activities, the island's capital of Pothia includes a series of charming streets with market stalls selling the island's famous sea sponges. There are also numerous imposing former estates – the Vouvalis Mansion offers a glimpse into the island's affluent history in the 19th century.

Wander the island's active volcano

The island of Nisyros includes some incredible sightseeing possibilities, but the obvious highlight remains the Nisyros Volcano. Following the last eruption in the 1880s, the site continues to bubble with activity – you can walk past the boiling holes and see hot lava flowing just beneath the surface.

The attractive harbor town of Mandraki hosts an abundance of top-notch restaurants, bars and shopping boutiques. Like most of the Dodecanese Islands, Nisyros comprises a maze of pebbled streets, where you can admire the historic houses painted in radiant tones. Plus, don't miss the black pebble beach of Chochlákia, a must-visit spot for those who want to snorkel or windsurf.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Islands near Rhodes

Rhodes is among the top destinations for summer holidays in the Dodecanese thanks to its cosmopolitan & romantic atmosphere, medieval castles and buildings, and rich history. Indeed, there’s quite nothing like an evening stroll in The Old Town of Rhodes, with the incredible Palace of Grand Master situated at the end of the Street of the Knights.

And yet, Rhodes is ideal for vacation for another reason; you can go island hopping to several other islands near Rhodes, and enjoy day trips or weekend getaways.

Here’s a detailed list of the best islands near Rhodes and what to do there:

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

7 Islands to Visit near Rhodes

Just opposite the coast of Turkey, the quaint island of Symi is a remote paradise. This beautiful island near Rhodes has a wild, rocky landscape, contrasting with pastel-colored and well-preserved mansions built most of the time amphitheatrically.

The best beaches to visit are Ai Giorgis Dyssalonas, or Nanou, Marathounda, and Toli, where you will find peace and quiet.

You can learn more about the history of Symi by visiting the Archaeological Museum with its nautical artifacts, or Hatziagapitou Hall, a preserved mansion and part of the museum. You can also visit the wonderful monastery of Panormitis.

Alternatively, spend your day there, strolling by and marveling at the neo-classical buildings. Don’t forget to try out fresh seafood! If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss tasting ammoniakena cookies and ravani.

Check here: A Guide to Symi Island.

How to get there: Take the chance to visit Symi on a one-day or multiple-day trip. It is situated just 39 km away from Rhodes and you can book a boat trip there to explore its remote beauty, impressive architecture, and raw steep landscape. There are about 2-4 ferry crossings from Rhodes to Symi daily, lasting for about 1 to 1.5 hours. You can find further details and book tickets via Ferryhopper with 3 clicks!

Book here an organized day trip from Rhodes to Symi Island.

The untouched nature of Chalki island near Rhodes is the perfect getaway for people who like to avoid the crowds and enjoy virgin nature. The quaint little capital of Nimporio is built around the island’s port, with many traditional dwellings of the Dodecanese architectural style.

Don’t miss strolling around Nimporio and visiting the Church of Agios Nikolaos, the protector of the island. In Chorio, you can find a medieval Castle, built upon a rocky hill around the 14 th century, where the ancient acropolis used to lie. If you want to go swimming, choose Potamos beach, organized and crystal-clear, or Kania and Trachea for a bit of privacy.

You can also explore Alimia, a small islet, now uninhabited, with a rich history and divine nature. You can get a boat from the port of Nimporio and go on a daily trip.

How to get there: Getting to Chalki from Rhodes is convenient and fast, as the journey lasts from 35 minutes up to 2 hours depending on the ferry. In addition, the crossings are quite frequent. Prices are very cheap, starting at only 4.5 Euros for a single trip, and you can book your tickets easily via Ferryhopper .

Tilos, another gem of the Dodecanese, is a small island near Rhodes, with beautiful, wild nature and a picturesque port named Livadia. Livadia is most cosmopolitan, with cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops, but Mikro Chorio, the abandoned village is surely worth exploring! The medieval castle located there was built by the end of the Byzantine period, a living monument of a glorious past.

In Megalo Chorio, you will find the beautiful Monastery of Agios Panteleimon, as well as Charkadio Cave, a site of paleontological significance. If you want to learn more about the history of Tilos, visit the Archaeological Collection and the Paleontological Collection in Megalo Chorio. You will get to see the fossils of dwarf elephants (one of the few found in Europe)!

If you want some leisure by the seaside, head to Agios Antonios beach, which is unorganized and secluded, with pebbles and vibrant turquoise & blue waters. Other options include Eristos, Livadia, and Plaka beaches.

How to get there: Tilos is located approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes away from Rhodes if you take Blue Star Ferries and about 2 hours if you choose Dodecanisos Seaways. During high season, there are various ferry crossings you can find, prices starting at only 9.50 Euros, depending on the ferry company. Click here for the ferry schedule and to book your ferry tickets.

Karpathos, the remote and virgin island of the Dodecanese, is another island near Rhodes that has lots to offer; from history, tradition, and great cuisine, to amazing beaches and shipwrecks.

To get to know the history of Karpathos, visit The Acropolis of Arkassa, built upon a hill with a great view of Arkansas. Alternatively, head to the remains of Ancient Potideon in Pigadia village.

In the vicinity, you can also explore the mythical Cave of Poseidon, the sanctuary to the god of the sea and to some others, also to the god of love, Aphrodite. In Pigadia, you can take the boat to Saria Islet, the pristine historical place with remains from ancient times.

While in Karpathos, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy wild, pristine beaches with emerald and turquoise waters, such as the ones found at Apella Beach, Amoopi Beach, Damatria Beach, and Achata Beach, among others.

How to get there: There are about 2 ferry crossings weekly from Rhodes to Karpathos. With Blue Star ferries, the crossing lasts about 3 hours and 40 minutes, and with ANEK Lines it is almost 6 hours long. Ticket prices vary according to season and availability but generally start from 28€. Click here for the ferry schedule and to book your ferry tickets.

Kasos, the forgotten gem of the Dodecanese, with rarely any tourism as we know it on the Greek islands, is a place to visit and enjoy. The warm hospitality of the locals and stunning nature are the distinctive elements that mark its beauty.

In Kasos, you should discover the town of Fry with its narrow, quaint alleys and traditional architecture. In Fry, you can also find the Archaeological Museum of the island, with findings dating as back as the prehistoric era. Most of the artifacts were found in Ellinokamara Cave, near the town of Agia Marina, which you can visit.

Kasos has a rich history of churches, with gems such as Agia Kyriaki, Pera Panagia, and Agios Spyridon. In addition, it has a Traditional Flour Mill in the village of Arvanitochori, where you have the opportunity to learn some about the island’s folk elements.

If you want to go for a swim, head to Ammouas beach or Antiperatos beach. For wild landscapes and exploring, go to Helathros rocky beach instead.

Check out my guide to Kasos Island.

How to get there: Crossings from Rhodes to Kasos happen 3 times weekly on average, mostly with ANEK Lines. The average duration of the ferry trip is 7 hours and 50 minutes. Blue Star ferries also offer a crossing per week, with a trip duration of 5 hours and 10 minutes. Prices start from around 23€. There is also the option of flying to Kasos from Rhodes, which only lasts 1 hour and 20 minutes, although prices vary. Click here for the ferry schedule and to book your ferry tickets.

Kastelorizo

The remotest island of Greece, the renowned Kastelorizo, lies just 800 meters west of the Turkish coasts but preserves a strong Greek character. Thankfully, the island is relatively close to Rhodes, so you can visit it if you are on holiday there.

The capital of the island, Megisti, is a mosaic of cobalt blue- and pastel-colored, neoclassical dwellings. Stroll through the settlement and discover warm hospitality, amazing tradition, and great beauty in its narrow alleys.

Get to know the history of Kastelorizo, by visiting the Acropolis of Paleokastro, built around the 4 th century B.C, or discover the Asian Minor influence by visiting the Lycian Tomb, at the foothills of the Castle of Knights. The latter was built during the 14 th century by the Knights of Saint John.

The Blue Cave is one of the largest underwater caves in Greece, perfect for diving but also accessible via boat trips from the Mandraki harbor. The Isle of Ro, a rocky islet, is a historic place of resistance and can be reached with a boat excursion daily.

For beach hopping and boat trips in crystal-clear waters, you can also go to the islets of Agios Georgios and Strongyli.

How to get there: The port of Rhodes is well-connected to remote but beautiful Kastelorizo all year round. There are 2-6 crossings weekly, according to season, provided by Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways, and SAOS ferries. The average duration of the trip is 3 hours and 33 minutes, and ticket prices start from 17.60€ on Ferryhopper.

Another famous island near Rhodes is Kos. The island is the legendary birthplace of Hippocrates, the famous father of medicine as we know it today. You can actually visit the Plane Tree of Hippocrates in the main town, visited by thousands each year.

Visit the Sanctuary of Asclepius (also known as Asklepieion) or explore the Ancient Agora. For “medieval” fans, Palio Pyli is an amazing space to explore. And there is always the Venetian Castle in Kos Town and the Fortress in Antimachia. You can even go on a tour of a ghost village named Haihoutes or Agios Dimitrios, and marvel at the deserted dwellings.

There are countless more sights to see, including the Casa Romana mansion, Nerantzia Castle, the Archaeological Museum, and the Ottoman Mosques in Town.

For some swimming, you can head to Psalidi Beach, Paradise Beach, or Lambi Beach. Thermes Beach (thermal springs) is also a great alternative with medicinal qualities. You can also get to visit the Kastri islet and its monuments by boat, and also dive there.

Check here: The best things to do in Kos.

How to get there: Kos is easily accessible from Rhodes all year round, both by sea and by air. It is located about 52 nautical miles away. You can find ferry tickets for only 17.50€ with 1-2 crossings. The fastest option is Blue Star Ferries with an average duration of 2 hours and 50 minutes. Other ferry company choices include SAOS Ferries and Dodekanisos Seaways, with trips that last anywhere between 3 hours to 5 hours. You can find further details and book ferry tickets here .

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Greek Island

Islands Near Rhodes: Exploring Hidden Gems and Idyllic Escapes

posted by Charmaine Cortes on July 20, 2023 // last updated on July 20, 2023

Rhodes, the sun-drenched gem in the Aegean Sea, is a popular travel destination boasting rich history, pristine beaches, and a vibrant nightlife. However, the allure of the region does not end with Rhodes itself: the surrounding islands are scattered like hidden treasures, just waiting to be explored. Each island presents its unique charm, offering visitors a diverse range of experiences and unforgettable memories.

Island hopping from Rhodes is a remarkable way to venture beyond the beaten path and discover some of Greece’s lesser-known yet equally captivating islands. From the picture-perfect pastel homes of Symi to the thrilling water sports in Kos, these idyllic destinations provide an array of activities for all tastes and preferences. Equally important are the culinary delights that await travelers in each island’s local tavernas, providing an authentic taste of the region’s rich gastronomic tradition.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the distinctive charm of islands near Rhodes, each offering unique experiences to visitors
• Embrace the opportunity for adventurous island hopping, exploring the likes of idyllic Symi and bustling Kos
• Immerse yourself in local culture by partaking in activities, relishing the regional cuisine, and enjoying various accommodation options

Rhodes Neighbouring Islands

Symi is a quaint island located near Rhodes and boasts a wild, rocky landscape. The island’s charm lies in its pastel-coloured, well-preserved mansions that are often built amphitheatrically. Symi is the perfect remote paradise for travellers seeking an escape from bustling tourist destinations.

Halki is another neighbouring island worth visiting from Rhodes. With a travel time of approximately 2 hours by ferry, Halki boasts stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes that are perfect for a day trip. Platis Yialos Beach is a must-see attraction on the island for sunbathers and swimmers alike.

Tilos is a peaceful retreat for those looking for a break from the busier islands near Rhodes. Offering a serene atmosphere and unspoiled landscapes, the island is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking ultimate relaxation. While visiting Tilos, be sure to explore both its charming villages and beautiful beaches.

Nisyros is an off-the-beaten-path island with unique geological features, making it a fantastic destination for travellers looking to explore natural wonders. Plan a visit to the famous volcano on the island and immerse yourself in this truly unique landscape.

Island Hopping Options

Island hopping is a popular activity for travellers looking to explore multiple islands near Rhodes. This section will cover two types of island-hopping experiences: day trips and multi-day tours.

For those short on time or wanting just a taste of nearby islands, day trips are an excellent choice. Some of the more popular day trip destinations include:

• Symi : A quaint and picturesque island just off the coast of Turkey, known for its pastel-coloured mansions and rocky landscapes.
• Karpathos : A dramatic island only 40 minutes from Rhodes by plane, offering extreme mountainous terrains and the impressive village of Olymbos.
• Kos : Another famous Dodecanese island with stunning coastal landscapes and a rich gastronomic scene.

Travelling between these islands can typically be done via ferry, with durations ranging from 50 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the destination.

Multi-Day Tours

For travellers who have more time to spare and want a deeper experience of the islands around Rhodes, multi-day tours are the way to go. These tours often combine transportation, accommodation, and sightseeing, allowing you to explore multiple islands at a relaxed pace. Some popular islands to consider for multi-day tours include:

• Symi : Spend a few days admiring the architecture, wandering the narrow streets, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
• Karpathos : Take the time to explore its breathtaking landscapes, traditional villages, and stunning beaches like Achata beach.
• Kos : Discover the rich history, beautiful beaches, and indulge in the vibrant local food scene.

Customising your multi-day tour to include other lesser-known islands in the South Aegean Sea can also provide unique and memorable experiences worth considering.

While planning your island-hopping adventure, make sure to consider factors such as travel time, activities available, and the specific interests of your travel companions to ensure a memorable and satisfying experience.

Activities on Nearby Islands

Historic sites.

One of the fascinating islands near Rhodes is Crete, which has a rich history dating back over 4,000 years. Here, you can visit the ancient Knossos Palace, home to King Minos, and admire the stunning Minoan frescoes. Similarly, the island of Kos boasts Antimachia Castle and the ancient city of Kos, both worth exploring.

Numerous islands near Rhodes offer beautiful beaches for relaxation and recreational activities. If you’re visiting Symi Island, take time to relax at one of its picturesque sandy beaches. Kos Island offers several options such as Psalidi Beach, where you can indulge in windsurfing and kitesurfing. Meanwhile, Therma Beach on Kos boasts thermal springs and is considered one of the best beaches in the Dodecanese Islands.

Outdoor Adventures

Nature lovers can enjoy outdoor adventures on several nearby islands. For instance, Karpathos Island has a wild and rugged landscape perfect for hiking and exploring, while Tilos Island boasts beautiful flora and fauna for birdwatching and trekking. Additionally, islands like Kalymnos and Nisyros are known for their volcanic terrain, providing unique opportunities for adventurous travellers seeking to discover the geological wonders of the area.

Accommodation and Dining

When visiting the islands near Rhodes, you can find a variety of accommodations to suit your needs. In the capital of Chalki, the island near Rhodes known for its untouched nature and pristine beaches, there are several traditional dwellings that offer a comfortable stay. On other islands like Symi, you will find a mix of boutique hotels and guesthouses that cater to a range of budgets.

In addition to smaller islands, Rhodes itself has many hotels to offer. High-rise hotels line the northern and eastern coastlines, providing guests with stunning views and easy access to the beaches. In the medieval city of Rhodes, you will find charming boutique hotels and restored mansions that offer an authentic stay in the historic city.

Restaurants

The islands near Rhodes have a rich culinary scene, drawing inspiration from Greek and Mediterranean cuisines. In Chalki, you can dine in the quaint capital of Nimporio, where local tavernas serve fresh seafood dishes and traditional Greek fare. You will also find charming cafes and bakeries offering homemade pastries and refreshing beverages.

On other islands like Symi, visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants, including waterfront seafood spots, modern Mediterranean cafes, and traditional Greek tavernas. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, classic Greek dishes, or a taste of international cuisine, the islands near Rhodes offer a diverse dining experience for everyone.

During your stay in Rhodes itself, be sure to explore the local culinary scene. From upscale fine dining establishments in the medieval city to casual beachside tavernas on the coast, you will find an array of choices that cater to all tastes and preferences. Make sure to try some local delicacies, such as meze platters, souvlaki, and mouth-watering baklava for dessert.

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15 of the best Greek islands to visit

The choice and variety of greek islands is staggering. not sure where to start these are the isles you need to know about.

M ykonos and Santorini may be the obvious stars of the show, but the scattered isles of Greece play host to plenty of other headline acts. From the Cyclades to the Dodecanese and across to the Ionian, each and every island group has standout attractions to put it on any must-visit list. The secret to their unfailing appeal is diversity; no matter what type of sunshine-filled holiday you seek, you’ll find it somewhere among the forest-backed beaches of Skiathos, the car-free calm of Hydra, the clifftop vistas of Santorini or the non-stop buzz of Mykonos. And with less well-known Ios and Evia alongside tourist hotspots such as Kos, your pick of the best Greek islands to visit can be as lively — or as peaceful — as you please.

Main photo: the shipwreck beach on Zakynthos (Getty Images)

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1. Skiathos

Best for beautiful beaches Petite Skiathos punches above its weight in terms of coastal chic. Home to some of Greece’s most picture-perfect beaches, this is a place where bottle-green pines descend from the hilly interior to meet the Aegean, casting natural shade for bohemian days beside the sea. Four of the island’s best beaches — Big Banana, Little Banana, Ampelakia and legendary Koukounaries — lie within walking distance of Elivi Skiathos, making this high-end hideaway an ideal place to stay. Mix things up with trips into Skiathos Town, where harbour-view cocktail bars and gourmet restaurants are the scene of lively street parties pretty much every summer night.

• Best hotels in Skiathos

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Best for sand between your toes With its 180-mile coastline, Kos — the third-largest Dodecanese Island — has plenty of seaside appeal. From the white sands of Tigaki beach to the crystal-clear waters of Paradise beach, there’s a stretch of sandy shore to suit everyone. Even Kos Town has its own lovely beach at Lambi, which is walking distance from the adult-only Lango Design Hotel & Spa, a boutique retreat that’s a world away from the island’s many mass-market resorts. Don’t forget to head inland to find ancient temples at Asclepeion or the mountain village of Zia for local tavernas and sunset views.

Best for sophisticated stays Ios may have a reputation for youthful, all-summer-long partying, but it’s easy to bypass the big nights out in favour of classier experiences. Much of the raucousness takes place at the far end of Mylopotas beach, but its quieter end has upmarket beach clubs and, above them, the hillside Hideout: a 12-strong collection of luxury suites and villas with private verandas and infinity pools. Boat trips can zip you down the coast for swims at lonely, wild beaches, while Ios Town’s characterful jumble is great for sunset drinks, lively restaurants and ferries to Paros, Santorini and Mykonos .

Best for hiking and history Greece’s largest island, Crete, is very well known, but Evia, the next in line, flies rather more under the radar. Though popular with weekending Athenians (for whom it’s easily reached by car), foreign visitors are fewer here, so it feels authentically Greek. Euboea in the north is known for its mineral-rich hot springs; or look to the south, where Eretria offers temples, ruins, the House of Mosaics and a tonne of seaside tavernas. Elsewhere, there are walking trails that pass waterfalls and mountain heights; plus comfortable places to stay, such as Brown Beach Evia Island, a luxury all-inclusive resort.

Best for variety As Greece’s biggest island, Crete essentially ticks every box. It has sandy beaches, serious mountains and myth-laden archaeological sites, plus accommodation from boutique hotels to all-inclusive resorts with sports facilities and kids’ clubs. Its southerly position gives it the longest summer of any Greek island and some of the warmest winters in Europe. From built-up seafronts to pristine coves, there are shores to suit every sunseeker, alongside mountains and gorges for active pursuits and the palace at Knossos for antiquity buffs. Find the best of all worlds at Asterion Suites & Spa: a boutique retreat with design-led rooms and an excellent Cretan restaurant that’s close to historic Chania and touristy Platanias with its shops, bars and restaurants.

• Best things to do in Crete • Best all-inclusive hotels in Crete • Best family hotels in Crete

Best for lush landscapes Easily reached via direct flights from Britain, Corfu is one of the greenest Greek isles. Beyond its rugged slopes dressed in olive trees, pencil-thin cypresses and some 400 types of wildflower, this Ionian island is scattered with nearly 60 stunning beaches and hidden coves. Dassia and Kontokali are a hit for family holidays, or try wilder Rovinia: accessible only by boat or on foot. For a cultural fix, head to Corfu Town and its hotchpotch of Venetian, British, French and Greek architecture, history and cuisine. Or get away from it all by checking into the peaceful Olivar Suites — complete with a beach bar and 300-year-old olive grove.

• Best things to do in Corfu • Best all-inclusive hotels in Corfu • Best villas in Corfu

Best for families Rhodes is by far the best Greek island for families. As well as calm beaches offering safe swimming, there are oodles of days out away from the sand and plenty of convenient flights from the UK. In mythology, this was the island of the sun god Helios, a statue of whom (the Colossus of Rhodes) was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Roman, Ottoman and Venetian occupations have all left their mark on Rhodes Town, one of the most atmospheric island capitals in Greece. Not travelling with kids? Stay at adult-only Sentido Port Royal Villas & Spa, whose position on a headland gives it both sunrise and sunset views.

• Best hotels in Rhodes • Best villas in Rhodes

Best for summer hedonism Mykonos has been the Aegean’s top spot for the jet set since the 1960s, when Brigitte Bardot, Grace Kelly and Jackie Onassis holidayed here. Today’s high-rollers splash cash at expensive beach clubs such as Nammos and Scorpios, but if that’s not your scene there are plenty of spots where the lunch bill won’t make your eyes water. Come the evening, attention turns to gorgeous Mykonos Town, which is home to Semeli Hotel — a luxurious retreat with gourmet dining, friendly staff and a lovely pool that’s only a ten-minute walk from the waterfront and its famous windmills.

• Best things to do in Mykonos • Best luxury villas in Mykonos • Best hotels in Mykonos

Best for ferry-free island-hopping You don’t have to be a seafarer to consider a trip to Lefkada. This Ionian isle can be reached from the mainland by driving over a floating bridge, which makes it super-straightforward to access from nearby Preveza airport. Unspoilt mountains, untouched villages and plenty of adventures await (such as world-class windsurfing and sailing off stunning beaches). Explore it all from the comfortable base of Papadria Villas, three contemporary units on a private compound near a beach and lively Lefkada Town. There’s a pool, outdoor dining and support from a concierge team.

10. Santorini

Best for romantic retreats Sugar-cube houses, blue-domed churches and epic volcano views: is it any wonder that Santorini is such an enduring Greek icon? From sunsets in Oia and nights out in Fira to lazy days by your own private plunge pool, this is an island that’s best experienced à deux. Sure, there are beach hotels on the island’s gentler eastern shore, but the most memorable Santorini stays are in cave hotels carved into the flooded caldera’s steep cliffs. Among the many options is Ikies Santorini, where 13 luxury suites on the fringes of Oia have exquisite sea views.

• Best things to do in Santorini • Best cave hotels in Santorini • Best villas in Santorini

Best for car-free cool In-the-know Athenians love Hydra , an unrushed island that’s close to the city (just two hours away by ferry). Its one town has been inspiring artists and writers since the 1950s, including Leonard Cohen (who wrote Bird on the Wire here) and has long drawn famous faces ranging from pop stars to Princess Diana, earning it the nickname of the “St Tropez of Greece”. The town’s stone mansions and whitewashed houses cascade down to the port, which is free from the noise of cars and motorbikes (both are banned here). Stay shoreside at Mandraki Beach Resort, a five-star boutique property beside a bay.

12. Skopelos

Best for Abba fans Sand may be comfortable to lie on, but if you’re not a fan of it getting into everything you own, the pebble beaches of Skopelos are for you. Better still, the absence of sand means that the sea is clear and aquamarine, making for incredibly memorable dips. Though best known as a setting for the movie Mamma Mia! , the island thrills with its two red-roofed towns, Skopelos Town and Glossa, and an interior that’s emerald with forests. Stay in step with nature by booking into Natura Luxury Boutique Hotel, where rooms come dressed in earthy tones and up-to-date furnishings.

13. Cephalonia

Best for spotting sea turtles Home to Myrtos beach and the setting for Captain Corelli’s Mandolin , Cephalonia has to be one of the best Greek islands to visit. Beyond lazy days at its busy beach resorts or sleepy villas tucked into the countryside, there are ruined villages to explore (a legacy of the 1953 earthquake) and, in Argostoli, the chance to spot loggerhead turtles swimming in the harbour. The unhurried approach to island life lends itself to relaxing escapes: an ethos that’s fully embodied at F Zeen Retreat, an adult-only haven with its own spa, open-air cinema and private beach.

• Best villas in Cephalonia • Best hotels in Cephalonia

Best for yesteryear appeal This rocky Dodecanese island of former boat-builders, merchants and sponge divers was once the wealthiest in the archipelago. Today it’s home to just a tenth of its 19th-century population, but numbers swell with day-trippers arriving by ferry from nearby Rhodes. Peace returns when they depart, save for the laughter and tinkling of glasses on the waterfront of Gialos and the upper village of Chorio, whose labyrinth of narrow streets was designed to befuddle sea pirates. Symi’s horseshoe bay and neoclassical buildings in sorbet shades are lovely. One such mansion has been reborn as the 1900 Hotel, where the vintage elements and charming ambience evoke another era.

15. Zakynthos

Best for that world-famous shipwreck Its south-coast resorts may be known for cheap drinks and an all-night party scene, but Zakynthos (or Zante) is magical to visit. Its biggest beach, Laganas, is home to the loudest built-up resort, but even here there are surprises in the form of a National Marine Park. There’s another, more famous beach at the other end of the island, however: Navagio, upon whose white pebbles sits a picturesque shipwreck that’s one of the most iconic images of Greece. Equally memorable is the food at Anadalis, one of Zakynthos’s best restaurants, located in the seaside resort of Argasi’s Windmill Bay Hotel.

• Best villas in Zakynthos • Best hotels in Zakynthos

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Rhodes vs Crete: The Honest Comparison You Need!

M any people dream about visiting a Greek island for their vacation, but with so many great islands to choose from it can be difficult to make the final decision about which one to pick. And the decision between Rhodes and Crete is especially difficult because they are two of the most popular and iconic islands.

They’re also both stunningly beautiful and full of things to do. However there are key differences you need to know.

For example, Crete is around eight times bigger than Rhodes and as a result has more places to see, things to do, and is arguably the more beautiful island as well. However that makes Rhodes more manageable and possibly better for a shorter holiday – it has a fantastic nightlife too.

But that’s just scratching the surface when it comes to how similar – and different – these two islands are.

Luckily we know the Greek islands well! So below we compare Rhodes vs Crete, looking at which has the better beaches, resorts, nightlife, activities and more!

Let’s get started!

• Which Has The Better Beaches
• Which Has More Attractions & Things To Do
• Which Has Better Nightlife
• How Does The Cuisine Compare
• Which Has The Better Resorts
• Which Is The Better Choice

Which Has The Better Beaches?

Rhodes: the beaches.

Both islands have great options as far as beaches go, and Rhodes’ coastline is almost entirely made up of beaches so you will have plenty of beautiful options to visit.

Expect soft sand and gorgeous turquoise water on many of the beaches, while the southernmost part of Rhodes is a haven for water-sports like kitesurfing.

The good thing about Rhodes is that it’s around eight times smaller than Crete, so if you’re looking to beach hop, or want to see most of the island and do several different activities in just a few days, that tends to be easier and more manageable in Rhodes than Crete.

Although that said, Crete has more beaches, and subsequently many secluded more private stretches of sand. Which is a big plus point for Crete.

In comparison, Rhodes – which is a favourite haunt of huge cruise liners – often has very busy beaches. So if you’re looking for a more private beach experience you likely find that in Crete more than Rhodes.

If you do go to Rhodes then Prasonisi is one of the best options for kitesurfing. This beach is very windy which makes it ideal if you’re there for kitesurfing, but slightly less ideal if you’re want to sunbathe. Either way, it’s a beautiful spot.

Another great beach on Rhodes is Pefkos . It can get a little busy, but it has some of the best sand you’ll find on the entire island.

Crete: The Beaches

Crete has some really popular and noteworthy beaches to choose from, and has some unique options that you can’t find anywhere else in Greece.

When you’re in Crete you should definitely visit Elafonisi . This beach is extremely popular (as well as busy) and you may have seen pictures of it before due to its beautiful pink-tinged sands and shallow waters.

Another must-visit beach in Crete is Vai . Vai has a very special backdrop made up of Creten date palms. There’s a small pretty lake nearby as well. All in all this place is a great day trip.

Because Crete is much bigger than Rhodes, it does mean getting from one side of the island to the other is more time consuming. It also means some of the best beaches are more spread out too.

However the upside to that is that it’s still possible to find remote secluded beaches in Crete that you can have all to yourself. For that reason, we prefer Crete for a beach-focused vacation.

Winner: Crete

Which Has More Attractions & Things To Do?

Crete has more to do considering it’s a larger island, but we’ve found Rhodes has plenty of activities as well.

Of course the advantage to Rhodes is that it’s smaller, so it’s easy to hire a rental car and explore the island within a week.

However to really get a good sense of Crete, and see the island at its best, you will need at least two weeks.

Below we look at some of the things you can do in each island, so you can see whether either is a good fit for you:

Rhodes: Things To Do

Both islands have the usual beach activities, but also some incredible historical spots. In fact Rhodes even has a medieval city – Rhodes Old Town – that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is astoundingly beautiful.

Alongside beach activities, if you’re visiting Rhodes between June and September then definitely head to the Valley of Butterflies . This valley is a beautiful place to take a stroll at any time of the year, but between these months you’ll come across thousands of butterflies that cover the trees.

If you’ve not had enough of a historical fix in Rhodes’ Old Town then there’s plenty of castles to explore on the island. Monolithos Castle is a great place for a photo op due to its elevation which offers panoramic views of the bay and surrounding mountains.

You should also visit the pedestrian-only town of Lindos . It is classified as a major archaeological site and is a gorgeous part of Greece.

There’s some good hiking trails around Lindos too, and Rhodes itself has plenty of hikes that will take you through gorges, up mountains, and around castles.

Recommended: Hiking and Walking in Rhodes

Crete: Things To Do

As promised, Crete does have plenty of ruins and ancient towns to explore as well.

In fact, Crete is home to Knossos which is considered by many to be Europe’s oldest city. The Minoan Palace in Knossos is well worth a visit.

Crete’s Chania , with its medieval buildings and cobbled streets, is another city everyone should visit in their lifetime. So if you’re looking for beautiful historic cities, you’ll be spoiled on both islands.

It’s also worth taking a boat trip over to the island of Spinalonga which sits just off the coast of Crete. This was a leper colony up until 1957, but is now a ghost town since being abandoned. It’s an eerie place.

We’ve also found that Crete is probably the best island in Greece for hiking – even better than Rhodes! So if you’re looking to get out into nature then Crete may be the better choice.

Alongside mountains, gorges, lagoons and valleys, the famous E4 trail runs through the island. This is a European long distance path that starts in Spain and ends in Cyprus, but makes it way through some of the most beautiful parts of Crete!

Recommended: Hiking and Walking in Crete

While Rhodes is a more manageable island due to its size, the wealth of activities, things to do, superb hiking and places to see on Crete, means it wins this mini battle.

Which Has Better Nightlife?

Crete may be the bigger island, but Rhodes packs a bigger punch when it comes to nightlife and having fun when the sun goes down!

However with Mykonos being the most famous Greek party island, Rhodes is often forgotten about when it comes to the Greek island party scene.

But we’ve found that Rhodes starts rockin’ the later in the evening it gets, and the popular bars and nightclubs don’t close until the sun begins to rise the next day.

Rhodes Town is the main nightlife draw and its epicenter is Orfanidou Stree t in the Old Town, which is colloquially known by locals as ‘Bar Street’.

This narrow street is packed with over 40 pubs, bars and nightclubs and is the best place to party late, meet other revelers and make decisions you’ll later regret!

The pretty Rhodes seaside resort of Faliraki also has a lively evening scene with its own ‘Bar Street’ and ‘Club Street.’ These two streets tend to attract the 18-30 crowd who are looking to let loose! There’s many bars, live music joints, nightclubs and more.

However while Faliraki used to have a reputation as being quite wild, there’s a tamer side these days and you can find some classy cocktail bars and beachside restaurants here t o o.

You can find many nightlife options in Crete too, particularly in the bigger cities. However it’s a far more laid-back island when it comes to evening pursuits, and is more of a place for an ouzo in a local taverna, rather than beach parties at sundown.

So if you’re looking for an island with an energetic nightlife scene, Rhodes would be the better choice.

Winner: Rhodes

How Does The Cuisine Compare?

This may seem like a relatively small detail, but let’s be honest -we all love good food! It’s something that is often overlooked when it comes to travel, but it’s important to know what to expect when it comes to cuisine.

The good news is that both islands have great food to choose from, which is what you’d hope for considering Greece is known for having delicious food! Although there is no “loser” here, we do think there is a winner….

In Rhodes there are five star fine dining opportunities available, as well as some more cozy and cultural options. There’s great fresh seafood to be had too, especially in the many family-run tavernas in the coastal towns.

In fact if we have any tip when it comes to food in Rhodes or Crete, it’s getting out of the bigger cities and resort areas and into the towns and villages.

The bigger cities don’t always have that unique and authentic Greek taste since restaurants are aimed towards tourists. Instead, what we’ve found is that the smaller the town or village, the bigger and better the taste!

However when it comes to cuisine Crete is the winner for us. Creten food does share some similarities with the rest of Greek cuisine, but there’s often an island twist to it.

So on Crete you can find dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in Greece as they’re unique to the island.

And since Crete is so large, there are so many small villages with their own unique cuisine, making Crete perfect for foodies. As a bonus there’s many vineyards on Crete that make some very good wine too.

Which Has The Better Resorts?

When it comes to this category, there’s no clear winner in our mind.

You will find a resort or hotel that is perfect for you on either island, as both have plenty of options that cover a range of budgets.

However what we have found is that since Crete is a bigger island, there are more options than in Rhodes. Although that said, both have a fantastic range of luxury resorts, low budget hotels, and family friendly hotels.

Therefore choosing a place to stay will depend heavily on your personal circumstances. But we do have a few recommendations.

In Rhodes one excellent and surprisingly affordable option are the Bellevue Suites (see photos and rates) which overlooks the water! Expect luxurious suites and gorgeous views that have been designed to give you a mini fully-functioning home while you’re visiting the island.

Another great option is the adult-only guest house at Koukos . This stunning traditional Greek guest house Koukos is a restaurant and tavern too, but they have several suites that are well worth reserving. Great food too.

In Crete, Anemos Luxury Grand Resort (see photos and rates) is a great family friendly option right by the beach with a beautiful pool and world-class service. They also have a certified childcare service and a kid’s club and play area, which means parents can easily get a well deserved break!

Another worth looking into is Agapi Beach Resort (see photos and rates) which is an all-inclusive resort set that has almost everything you can think of – spa sessions, a private beach, several pools, tennis, and even cooking classes are all included. If you’re looking for complete relaxation and everything to be taken care off, this is a great option!

Winner: Draw

Rhodes Or Crete: Which Is The Better Choice?

We’re sure you will have a great holiday whichever island you choose, however there are definitely notable differences between the two.

Crete is around eight times bigger than Rhodes and as a result has more places to see, things to do, and is arguably the more beautiful island.

The beaches are gorgeous too, and the cuisine on the island is unique and some of the best in Greece. However because it’s so big it’s suited to holidays longer than a week.

Rhodes is a beautiful island as well with some fantastic beaches, but what might make it a better choice than Crete is the fact it’s a much more manageable size. That makes seeing the sights easier, as well as visiting the best beaches, bars, and activities.

The nightlife scene is one of the best in Greece too, but you’ll find the beaches can get quite busy in Rhodes, unlike laid-back Crete, where it’s still possible to find empty stretches of coastline.

Recommended For Your Trip To Crete Or Rhodes

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By far the largest and historically the most important of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes (ro-dos) abounds in beaches, wooded valleys and ancient history. Whether you’re here on a culture-vulture journey through past civilisations, or simply for some laidback beach time, buzzing nightlife, or diving in crystal-clear waters, it’s all here. The atmospheric Old Town of Rhodes is a maze of cobbled streets that will spirit you back to the days of the Byzantine Empire and beyond. Further south, in the picture-perfect town of Lindos, capped by an ancient Acropolis, sugar-cube houses spill down to a turquoise bay. While both Lindos and Rhodes Old Town get very crowded in summer, Rhodes is large enough to allow plenty of room to breathe that pure Aegean air.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Acropolis of Lindos

A short, steep-stepped footpath climbs the rocky 116m-high headland above the village to reach Lindos’ beautifully preserved Acropolis. First fortified in…

Archaeological Museum

Rhodes Town

A weathered, sun-kissed stone lion, visible from the street, invites visitors into the magnificent 15th-century Knights' Hospital that holds Rhodes’…

Ancient Kamiros

Cradled in a natural hillside amphitheatre 1km up from the sea, the remarkably complete ruins of ancient Kamiros stand 34km southwest of Rhodes Town…

Knights’ Quarter

Essentially an occupying army, the Knights of St John transformed the northern segment of the Old Town during the 14th and 15th centuries, to create what…

Palace of the Grand Master

From the outside, this magnificent castle-like palace looks much as it did when erected by the 14th-century Knights Hospitaller. During the 19th century,…

Street of the Knights

Austere and somewhat forbidding, the Street of the Knights (Ippoton) was home from the 14th century to the Knights Hospitaller who ruled Rhodes. The…

The Old Town’s central commercial and residential district, south of the Street of the Knights, is known as the Hora. Having acquired its current…

Valley of the Butterflies

The so-called Valley of the Butterflies, 7km up from the west coast, and 32km southwest of Rhodes Town, is a major day-trip destination for package…

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Rhodes and beyond

Rhodes – An Unspoilt Island Guide

The Greek island of Rhodes in the Dodecanese island chain in the Aegean Sea is one of the grand dames of the tourist circuit in Greece. With blockbuster historic sites, sandy beaches and pretty villages, it’s no wonder that Rhodes is one of the most popular destinations in Greece. As well as the showstopping medieval city, the rest of the island has a great mix of things to do and one of the best climates in the Mediterranean. Little wonder it’s so popular.

Get the lowdown here on the island’s vibe, beaches, food and drink, unmissable sights, activities and hidden gems.

Here’s how to find the best of Rhodes – both on and off the beaten track. 

This travel guide covers:

• What’s the vibe like?
• Rhodes Town
• Where to Stay on Rhodes
• Food and Drink
• Best Beaches on Rhodes
• What to Do and See on Rhodes
• Best Activities for Kids
• Off the Beaten Track
• Getting There and Around

WHAT’S THE VIBE?

Rhodes is the third largest Greek island, but still a manageable size so you can explore it in one day. Synonymous with the Crusades, it was occupied by the Knights of St John from 1309 to 1522.  The extensive medieval walled city that they left is one of the best preserved (and largest) in Europe and the star attraction here, but there are castles dotted around the island too.

Lindos is the other highlight; an immaculately maintained elegant whitewashed town with an ancient acropolis and lovely beaches. 

The Swedes and the Brits popularised package tourism here in the 1960s and there are still plenty of both here today alongside the cruise ship passengers who pour in. If the name ‘Rhodes’ brings to mind the seedy resort of Faliraki and its worst excesses then don’t worry, the notorious behaviour confined to the one resort and has calmed down a lot in recent years. It still has a lively nightlife but also has a large family-friendly beach.

The crowds and the heat in July and August can be brutal. May and late September are perfect. Rhodes one of the most southerly islands in Greece and has one of the longest tourist seasons – the sun is still shining into late October. Lindos has its own little microclimate which makes it one of the best places to go for autumn sun in Europe.

The east side of the island is scrubby but punctuated with great beaches. This is where you’ll find the main resorts. There’s another cluster on the other side, nearer to Rhodes Town.

The west side of the island is steeper and heavily wooded. Beautifully shady, the smell of pine resin hangs in the air. Head to this side of the island to escape the crowds and the heat, and for stunning sunsets with the Turkish coast on the horizon. The south of the island is windswept and quiet, popular with kitesurfers. If you’re renting a car take a clockwise loop from Rhodes Town.

RHODES TOWN

When I first visited UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhodes Town, island hopping as a teenager, I found it hot, dusty and exotic. The medieval bustle of the Old Town, flanked with palm trees and dotted with minarets, seemed to have more in common with the bazaars of nearby Turkey than the Greek islands.

These days it seems tidier and more sedate. Perhaps it’s because I’ve travelled widely since then, or perhaps its been tarted up for the cruise ship crowd. I suspect a bit of both. The centre of the Old Town is filled with trinkets and souvenir sellers, and dodgy-looking cafes with photo menus.

The backstreets streets are a joy to wander, though. As with any labyrinthine town, you can always find a quiet spot (try the Jewish quarter). There are swirls of Byzantine and Ottoman history, churches beside mosques and hammams, . Don’t miss the walk around the outside of the city walls 4km – it’s refreshingly green and serene. 

Crusader history is the key thing here on Rhodes, which was the main base from which the Christian West attacked the Ottomans.

The Palace of the Grand Masters of Rhodes is one of the main points of attraction within the walled Old Town. The Gothic construction was various points it was a citadel of the Knights Hospitaller, a palace, and a fortress, an Ottoman command centre, and a holiday residence for Mussolini. 

The old city was reconstructed by the Fascists during Italian rule from 1912. Much was done to modernise and set out the town plan (it was intended by the Italians and architect Florestano Di Fausto to be a tourist attraction). They encouraged greenery and fountains, turning the cemeteries outside the walls into a green zone for walking. The result is it feels more restored than other Greek sites.

“That there is a slight feeling of theatrical deadness about their Rhodes reconstruction does not diminish its interest for those who would like to refashion in their minds the sort of backdrop against which the Crusades were launched.” – Lawrence Durrell, The Greek Islands

After the Italians came the Germans, who were then starved and bombed out by the British during WWII.

Rhodes is also a university town with year-round inhabitants, and it’s the administrative capital of the Dodecanese islands. This makes it one of the better islands to visit off-season as it doesn’t completely shut down. The commercial centre of Rhodes Town, with high street shops, banks, pharmacies, is just outside the medieval walls. Towards the beach, you’ll find newer hotels as well as eateries and bars. The rest of the city has a fairly workaday feel and you’re unlikely to head that far in unless you’re looking for something specific.

What you won’t find is the Colossus of Rhodes. One of the original ancient wonders of the world, the Colossus was a monumental bronze statue of the sun god Helios built in 302BC.

An earthquake in 226BC brought it toppling down. For centuries it lay as ruins and parts were probably sold off by marauders.

The Colossus is reputed to have been either on the harbour or underneath where the Grand Palace now stands.

WHERE TO STAY

Unless you’re looking for a beach stay or somewhere quiet, there’s no need to look anywhere other than cosmopolitan Rhodes Town which has the best selection of accommodation. Hotels and rooms in the Old Town unsurprisingly command a premium. For the sumptuous medieval vibes check out the Marco Polo Mansion , Spirit of the Knights or Nikolis Hotel . I like the boutique rooms in beautifully restored Kokkini Porta Rossa .

For cheaper rooms or better value look in the New Town. The wonderful STAY Hostel (I booked for 3 nights and ended up staying 3 weeks) is the best hostel I’ve ever stayed in and the mattresses are amazingly comfortable.

The main string of resort towns is located from Rhodes Town down the eastern coast to Kolimbia and Afandou, with a further cluster near Lindos (Pefkos and Lardos) which is over an hour in the car (a bit longer on the bus). The popular resorts and tourist attractions are well connected by bus to Rhodes Town.

Lindos is one of the most romantic destinations in the Greek islands and has plenty of upmarket hotels ideal for couples. Lindos Blu is cream of the crop. And recent arrival Casa Cook in Kolymbia is the most appealing boutique hotel. On the other side of the island, Sentido Ixian does adults-only luxury.

Nearby Pefkos is perfect for a low-key package holiday . Check TUI for UK packages to   Pefkos and Gennadi . Bargain-basement deals are more likely to be found at mega resort Faliraki.

FOOD AND DRINK

Rhodes is blessed in terms of natural resources so there’s plenty of good stuff here.

But be warned: you’ll have to go looking for it.

There’s plenty of tourist slop in Rhodes Town. The proliferation of cruise ships means that much of the restaurant food in the Old Town veers towards mediocre and overpriced. 

Take the time to talk to locals and find out where they eat. I dined well at Koukos and Nireas in Rhodes Town. If you’re looking for cheap eats, join the students at Ovelix . Foodies – don’t miss a meal at Mavrikos in Lindos, one of the best restaurants on the island. Try the local wines at well-stocked (though slightly snooty) wine bar Cellar of the Knights in the Old Town. Out of season, be aware that some businesses will only open for the hours that the cruise ships are in town. 

In terms of traditional dishes, you’ll find an eastern influence as well as the typical Greek taverna fare, particularly in the use of cinnamon, bulgar wheat, chickpeas, raisins. Pitaroudia – chickpea fritters – are a local speciality. The island produces excellent thyme honey and several varieties of wine.

You’ll find the wine region in the area around Attavyros and the village of Embonas on the western side of the island. Rhodes was one of the first Greek islands to establish viticulture. The main grape varieties are Athiri and Mantilaria.

Emery is the main winery open to the public, but I recommend calling ahead to check it’s open before heading there (it was closed when I visited). You’ll need a car or to take a private tour – it’s difficult to do in a day by public transport.

Greece Is magazine has articles on Rhodian wines  and traditional foods if you want to know more, and there are a few leaflets on the wine trails at the  Tourist Information Centre . 

Keep an eye out for moustalevria – a traditional pudding made from grape must. Wash it down with a glass of souma – the local pomace brandy.

THE BEST BEACHES

• Rhodes Town . The main beach at Rhodes town is pebbly and gets deep quickly, with a few beach bars. The water is a sharp turquoise blue – it’s ideal for a quick dip if you’re staying in town but you probably wouldn’t want to spend all day there. The beach to the west of town is are wavey and popular with dog walkers.
• Kallithea.  Not so much a beach, but there is some great rocky swimming and cliff jumping at Kallithea Bay and beach bums will love Oasis Cave Bar . The Springs themselves have sunloungers. And nearby Tassos Beach is lovely too.
• Anthony Quinn Bay.  This beautiful rocky cove is popular with day-trippers who come on boat trips.
• Lindos . There are several classy, small, organised beaches in Lindos. Sunloungers, beach bars and restaurants are present. And the incredibly picturesque St. Paul’s Bay is just behind the town. Quiet resorts  Pefkos  and Lardos are around the corner.
• Tsambika . Beautiful big sandy bay at Tsambika and down the east coast. No development here but it is organised in high season. The water is shallow and good for kids.
• Faliraki is the best beach. Has calmed down a lot recently. If you’re visiting before the package tours start (mid to late April) you’ll have it mostly to yourself.
• Stegna and Kolymbia . Two nice small resort towns which attract upmarket tourists.
• In the south of the island the beaches are windy and desolate, Prasonissi , on the southern tip, is one of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in Europe.

WHAT TO DO ON RHODES

• Rhodes Old Town is simply unmissable. If you’re into history then a walking tour will bring the city alive.
• Kallithea Springs  A natural spring that Italians tried to turn into a health spa, the beautiful buildings and serene gardens still remain. Although the spa is no longer in operation, there’s a the bar/cafe and sun lounger on the rocks. EUR3 entry.
• Lindos. This stunning town is everything you could wish for in a Greek town: a clifftop Acropolis with ancient ruins, whitewashed Cycladic sugar cube buildings with enchanting backstreets, and sandy beaches with enticing seas. It’s small and doesn’t take long to explore and wander up to the Acropolis, but I recommend to take your bathers and make a day of it by settling round at St. Paul’s Bay. This is where Paul himself reputedly landed in 58AD on a mission to evangelise the island.
• Tsambika.  A monastery on a hill with fantastic beach views. Don’t miss it if you’re driving past (be warned there are lots of steps monastery involved). There’s a local tradition that women wanting children climb on September 8th.
• Anthony Quinn Bay is a popular day excursion for many holidaymakers on the island – take a boat trip from Rhodes Old Town.
• Valley of the Butterflies . June or July. red and black jersey tiger moths.
• Seven Springs . An inland brook with bubbling springs. Numerous excursions take in the springs along with the Valley of the Butterflies and Kallithea Springs, which are both nearby.
• Day trips . Take an excursion or hop on a ferry for your own DIY day trip to Symi, Chalki, or across to Marmaris in Turkey. In high seasons there are organised excursions to a wider range of islands.

You can use Cruisemapper to check when ships are due in, this will give you an idea of how busy the island will be on any given day.

FUN ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

• Throne of Helios experience.
• Sound and Light Show.
• Faliraki Water Park.
• Watersports at Ixia.
• Rhodes Aquarium.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

There’s plenty to explore once you’ve checked off the Old Town and Lindos:

• It’s currently under restoration, but it’s worth mentioning that  Rhodes Town has its own (mini) Acropolis on Monte Smith Hill (named after an English admiral) – with remains of temples to Athena and Zeus.
• The castles of Kamiros , Ialysos , Kritinia and Feraklos .
• Rhodes Town also sports an Archaeological Museum (at the foot of the Street of Knights) which contains the Aphrodite Adioumene statue.
• Also in town is the Museum of Modern Greek Art .
• Profitis Ilias . Beat a retreat from the heat to this lush mountain for cooling wooded walks and discover an abandoned villa that was once destined to be Mussolini’s pleasure palace villa, then became a sanatorium.
• Monolithos . Incredible views over the west coast from this fortress and church perched atop a huge rock. No entry fee.
• Akramatis.  The second highest mountain of Rhodes is another great hiking spot.
• Head up to Fileramos Monastery  for noisy peacocks and spectacular sunsets over Turkey in the distance.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

Rhodes Diagoras Airport is served by both domestic and international airlines. The airport 15km from Rhodes Town. There are frequent buses to Rhodes Town.

Vehicles can’t enter the Old Town which is very cobbled. Be warned – 5 minutes on these cobbles wrecked my brand new rolling luggage (thankfully it’s Osprey so has a lifetime guarantee).

Rhodes is one of the main ferry hubs of the Dodecanese and is well served by ferry connections. The main ferry port is a 20-minute walk from town. 

Local ferry connections are to Kastellorizo, Chalki, Symi, Tilos, Nisyros, Kos, Karpathos and Kalymnos. Longer connections include Athens, Crete, the Cyclades and Patmos.

There are also international ferries to Marmaris in Turkey.

The bus service is geared toward local provision, although the main tourist towns have frequent connections over the summer season. It operates on a hub and spoke system, with most routes radiating out from Rhodes Town. Timetables are available at the Tourist Office.

Car rental is available airport or in Rhodes Town. The island is too large to explore by scooters and the roads are not ideal.

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Home > Expert Rhodes Travel Guide + Top 11 Things To Do

Expert Rhodes Travel Guide + Top 11 Things To Do

Written by our local expert Gabi

Gabi is an award-winning writer who lives on the Island of Crete in Greece. She is an expert in Greek travel and writes guides for the everyday traveler.

Here is all the Rhodes travel advice you need. We’ve got a list of things to do in Rhodes, top sites, and tips for traveling with kids.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Your Guide To Rhodes Island In Greece

Locally known as Rodos, Rhodes is the most important largest island in  the Dodecanese Islands group and the historical capital of this island cluster. Home to important ancient towns, beautiful beaches, and an impressive past, the island is also a family-friendly summer destination with many things to see and do.

If you are planning to visit the Greek Islands but still haven’t decided which one to visit, or even if you’ve already made up your mind and Rhodes, Greece is your next travel destination, you’ve landed on the right site. This guide will show you the best things to do in Rhodes and introduce some key things to know before heading to the island.

How To Get To The Island Of Rhodes

The best way to reach the island is by plane , landing at Diagoras Rhodes International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Greece, which underlines the island’s importance.

Rhodes receives daily flights from  Athens , Thessaloniki , and other places in Greece and many European countries. The flight from Athens is about 50 minutes.

Get To Rhodes From Athens

Another way to get to the island of Rhodes is by boarding a  ferry from Piraeus Port  in Athens. There are about five weekly ferries to Rhodes, and the trip is about 18 hours. Why so long? Because the ferry also makes stops at other islands in the Dodecanese, including Kos , Patmos, Leros, and Simi.

Get To Rhodes From Crete

Some ferries also cover the route Rhodes- Karpathos and Rhodes- Crete , with a frequency of 3 times per week. Finally, those in Turkey can reach Rhodes Island from the coastal city of Marmaris .

When Is The Best Time To Visit Rhodes, Greece

The island has pleasant Mediterranean weather with long, sweltering summers, dry and short mild winters, and rain in January. Those looking for hot summer temperatures can enjoy the best of the island between June and September.

• Understanding The Greek Seasons

General Information About Rhodes Greece

The Greek Island of Rhodes receives the imposing nickname of the Knights’ Island thanks to its fascinating historical past and the fantastic ancient buildings that dot the island . Take, for instance, the atmospheric Rhodes Old Town. This is a unique fortified settlement with medieval traits, cobblestones, sumptuous mansions, and one of the best-preserved castles in the world, which dates back to the Middle Ages, the fascinating and mysterious age of knights and princesses.

But not everything on Rhodes Island in Greece is about the knights! The island is one of the most popular in Greece also because of its fantastic beaches , most of them child-friendly, where it is possible to have fun practicing water sports, such as windsurfing and kite surfing on the small and curious island of Prasonisi, which can be reached on foot depending on the tides.

The island is a paradise for adventures , including diving trips to different shipwrecks off the coast and featuring unique hiking trails inland. Dotting the landscape, travelers will be surprised by the variety of the local countryside, hosting spectacular valleys, picturesque villages, unexpected castles, and, of course, paradisiac shores, some of them quite lonely and isolated.

Island Of Rhodes, Greece, With The Family

The island is a super kid-friendly destination , starting from the imposing medieval castle, the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights in the Medieval Old Town – a place declared a World Heritage Site that marvels all those who visit and leaves a memorable impression on children.

The Valley of the Butterflies is another place that kids treasure. Here, they will be able to discover thousands of small butterflies that populate this special area of Greece, an attraction that can only be found in Rhodes and on Paros Island .

Additionally, kids can enjoy places like the Toy Museum, hiking or horseback riding, participating in many fun water sports, and chilling at the beaches. It’s also a fantastic place to introduce their taste buds to super healthy cuisine based on the tasty Mediterranean diet.

Rhodes Travel Guide – 11 Of The Best Things To Do In Rhodes

1. explore rhodes old town.

With picturesque streets and ancient architecture, wandering the Old Town of Rhodes is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. 

The area is incredibly compact, so you can easily explore on foot. As you do, wander into art galleries, delicious restaurants, and little tavernas. 

You can climb the old wall where sentries used to stand guard, take a wine tasting tour, or even rent bicycles – so many options!

2. Palace Of The Grand Master

The castle is located on the imposing Street of the Knights in the heart of the Old Town of Rhodes. This fantastic palace is the best-preserved castle all over the Mediterranean and stands as one of the most distinctive landmarks of Rhodes .

It was built during the Middle Ages by the Knights of St John and was reconstructed at the beginning of the past century. You can either visit on your own or — even better — join a guided tour to discover and better understand its rich history.

Experience the palace of the grand master at your own pace!

You may do it with a skip-the-line e-ticket and audio guide. Learn historical information and little-known stories from the Palace’s long history and past occupants. Receive your ticket by email, download the app, and the audio tour on your phone before your visit.

Book a skip-the-line e-ticket and audio guide here.

The castle stands on the foundations of the former Temple of Helios (the Sun). It also worked as the island’s administrative center in the Middle Ages.

From an architectural point of view, the huge palace has characteristic spherical towers and a magnificent arched gate. It has over 150 rooms with spectacular marble floors, sumptuous carpets, lavish furniture, and extraordinary Oriental decorative objects.

In modern times, the palaces functioned as a holiday residence for the King of Italy, Victor Emmanuel III, and the Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. The first floor hosts the official rooms and the exclusive private quarters of the Grand Master. The impressive ballroom and the elegant Music room are two of the best places you don’t want to miss.

3. Acropolis Of Rhodes

It is also close to Rhodes Town; exploring the ancient Acropolis of Rhodes on Mount Smith is a good idea. The fantastic archaeological site dates back to Hellenistic times. It used to host a myriad of sanctuaries and temples, public buildings, and imposing structures such as a theater and a marketplace.

Most of the public buildings were strategically built on precipitous terraces. This is why you will not find fortifications in this ancient Acropolis.

The site represents one of the country’s finest examples of Hellenistic towns, and much of it is still to be unearthed. However, visitors can discover some remarkable monuments, including the Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus, featuring massive Doric columns and porticoes. 

4. Kallithea Thermal Springs

Grab a taxi and head 9km outside of the city center to spend time relaxing at Kallithea Thermal Springs.

Built in 1928 by the Italians, these springs are crystal clear and a wonderful alternative to a beach day. Waters stay at about 25°C/77 °F, and many claim there are healing properties when soaking in them.

The entrance fee for adults is €5, and for children is €2.50.

5. Acropolis Of Lindos

Another fantastic town to visit in Rhodes is Lindos, which is interesting for its picturesque construction on a hillside and because it hosts another awesome archaeological site, the Acropolis of Lindos.

The excavation brought to light Dorian structures dating to the Hellenistic period and some areas that the Knights had previously restored.

The ancient town of Lindos lies about 45 km from Rhodes Town. Dating back to the tenth century BC, it was a major trading center with a strategic position halfway between Greece and the Middle East.

You can explore important ancient ruins, the imposing Doric Temple of Athena, the entrance gateways, Propylaea (the gateways) of the Sanctuary, and a more recent Roman Temple.

Village Of Lindos

Discover Lindos village and its ancient Acropolis, the ancient stadium, the theatre, and the Temple of Apollo

It’s no secret that you will explore any location better with a tour! Acropolis Of Lindos is not an exception! Explore it with A private day trip to Lindos Village & Acropolis . Immerse into the historical atmosphere of this magnificent village and enjoy your time!

Book a private day trip to Lindos Village & Acropolis here.

6. the aquarium of rhodes.

Another reason we believe that Rhodes is an excellent family destination is that there are many exciting places that appeal to kids and adults alike. The local aquarium is no exception. It is located in Rhodes’ Hydrobiological Station in Rhodes City and hosts a marine museum.

The building occupies a circular area with over 25 tanks sheltering fish and marine organisms typical of the Mediterranean Sea, such as sea turtles, seals, dolphins, crabs, and a few species of sharks. The center also has a particular area to treat and protect certain species, mostly turtles and seals.

7. Castle Of Monolithos

One of the most magnificent sites on the island, the castle is located on top of a massive rock overlooking the small village of Monolithos, about 70 km from the town of Rhodes.

The Venetian castle dates back to the last years of the 1400s, and although it is mainly in ruins, it is the perfect place to enjoy the spectacular views of the Aegean Sea and the beach underneath.

8. Petaloudes (Valley Of The Butterflies)

The Valley of the Butterflies, locally known as Petaloudes, is located near the village of Theologos. This is a stunning green valley and park about 27 km from Rhodes Town.

The natural reserve is a lush valley populated with a massive colony of butterflies during spring and autumn . The Pelekanos River crosses the valley with several bridges and endless waterfalls along its whole length.

9. The Great Hammam

Another important building worth the visit is Rhodes’ Great Hammam, also known as the Baths of Suleiman. The building is believed to date back to the fourteenth century, probably in 1558, when the Ottoman Turks occupied most of the islands in the Dodecanese. This is one of the several Turkish Baths that remain scattered around the Medieval Town of Rhodes.

The building is an impressive structure with stunning red-tiled cupolas, featuring a section devoted to the men’s baths and a more modern area for women added years later. Once inside, you will be surprised by the rich decorations, including marble floors, elegant fountains, and numerous domes.

The renovated building is a hammam spa that offers visitors relaxing body and natural beauty treatments .

10. Panagia Filerimos Monastery

Located in the village of Ialyssos, on the side of a hill, the monastery was also constructed by the Knights of Saint John in the Middle Ages.

The monastery is one of the best-preserved religious structures on the island and a beautiful example of Medieval architecture. It is located 10 km from Rhodes Town, and it’s made of stone in Gothic style. Not far from the monastery, it is possible to visit the remains of Ancient Ialyssos, one of the three most powerful city-states of Rhodes.

11. Rhodes Museums

There are a handful of fascinating museums on the island for those interested in digging into the area’s history.

Archaeological Museum Of Rhodes

To learn more about the island’s history, the best thing to do once you’ve explored the main archaeological sites is to devote a couple of hours to the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes in the Old Town.

One of the reasons for the visit is the setting. The museum is set in the former Hospital of the Kings, one of the most important Medieval buildings on the island, with a gorgeous interior courtyard and well-preserved stone walls and columns.

The museum’s exhibits include a collection from Hellenistic to Early Christian times. Objects include vases, figurines, mosaic floors, and funerary slabs of the Knights.

Jewish Museum

Witness the different cultures and communities that have, since ancient times, been part of the society of Rhodes at the Jewish Museum of Rhodes. During the Second World War, the local Jewish community was devastated and followed the same sad fate as many other Jewish communities that populated the most important Greek Islands . You can visit the museum in the Old Town Synagogue Kahal Shalom.

The exhibits include ceremonial dresses and religious objects, old marriage contracts, theological books, and a curious Turkish travel document from 1910. It is a manuscript by the Sultan that permits a young local boy to leave the island with his family.

Rhodes Toy Museum

A fantastic exhibition that attracts kids and parents, the Rhodes Toy Museum is close to the village of Archipoli. It is known for its collection of toys, all made in Greece and built between 1930 and 1990.

An area in the museum is entirely devoted to Lego and Playmobil, while there are also interactive toys and handicrafts. The most important pieces include tin toys , board games, and functioning coin-operated arcade machines that visitors can enjoy and play with. The gift shop sells original souvenirs , and the outside area also features a kids’ playground.

Museum Of Bees And Honey

One more original and fascinating place to see in the Rhodes museum is in Patsida, a village about 5 km from Rhodes Town. The Museum of Honey and the Natural History of the Bee is an original place to visit that thoroughly explains and shows the process of beekeeping and honey production.

Brands We Use And Trust

Best beaches in rhodes.

This famous Greek Island has also gained a reputation for its impressive beaches . We’ve narrowed down the most beautiful ones you shouldn’t miss during your vacation on the island .

Megali Paralia

Also known as Lindos Beach, this shore is about 47 km from Rhodes Town. It is considered one of the best beaches on the island, and it is very popular among tourists staying or visiting Lindos for the day. The beach features crystal clear waters, and it is fully organized.

The main feature of this beach is its position right below the spectacular hill of Lindos, with the ancient Acropolis hoovering on top of the hill. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas , have lunch in the local seaside taverns, or even try water sports.

Limanaki Agios Pavlos

Also, a bit more than 45 km from Rhodes Town, the small port of Agios Pavlos features a tiny cove under the Castle of Lindos and is close to the ancient Acropolis of Lindos. A small white chapel is also dedicated to Saint Paul on the beach.

This gorgeous shore is made of golden sand and pebbles, there are sunbeds for rent, and diving is available from the rock at one end of the beach.

Ladiko Beach (Anthony Quinn Beach)

This family-friendly and well-organized beach is home to a great diving club featuring small pebbles, located about 20 km from Rhodes Town.

There is a small cove just meters from the beach where the famous actor Antony Quinn used to swim when filming on the island. The beach is close to Faliraki Beach, among the most popular beaches.

Afandou Beach

A large sand and pebble beach known for its length and clear waters.

Agathi Beach

Known for its golden sand and crystal clear shallow waters, it is ideal for families with children.

St. Paul’s Beach

Located near Lindos, it offers stunning views of the Acropolis.

A popular beach near the Rhodes Center is recognized for its cool waters and long, shady esplanade.

Faliraki Beach

Known for its long sandy beach, crystal clear waters, and abundance of water sports.

Glystra Beach

It is a family favorite known for its soft, golden sand and calm, clear waters.

A mix of pebbles and sand with extensive water sports options

Lardos Beach

Features a long sandy strip and clear, shallow waters, perfect for relaxation and water sports.

Kallithea Beach

Only 8 km from Rhodes Town, this is another beach perfect for diving and water sports. The pebbled beach is family-friendly and is better known for its hot medicinal springs and the Kallithea thermal springs, which attract visitors of all ages.

Tsambika Beach

This is another family-friendly beach in Rhodes, with reasonably good organization, about 25 km from Rhodes Town—clear turquoise waters with fine golden sand, perfect for families and couples bathing the shore.

Prasonisi Beach

The spot to be on the island for those who intend to practice windsurfing, this quite wild beach is about 85 km from Rhodes Town and is not organized.

Considered the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Rhode Island, a curious peninsula divides the beach in two whenever the tides are high, creating a small island.

Find more beaches on the island of Rhodes here.

Accommodation: where to stay in rhodes .

These are some of the top boutique hotels on this beautiful island, divided into different budget categories , and all of them are in convenient and safe locations.

Remember that booking from 4 to 6 months in advance is a good idea if you don’t want to miss an offer or a beautiful location. You are booking in advance guarantees convenient fees and a better room, too!

Budget Places To Stay In Rhodes

Summer view.

Summer View is a small 2-star hotel in Theologos, 15 minutes on foot from the beach. The hotel features a restaurant, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and a gorgeous lounge in Theologos. There is also a garden, a terrace, and a snack bar serving coffee, refreshing cocktails , and local wines on site.

Rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a balcony with garden or pool views. Guests can enjoy a continental or buffet breakfast, play darts or ping pong, and rent a car on the premises. The hotel is 6 km from the airport . 

Helena Hotel

Helena Hotel is in Rhodes Town, only 5 minutes from the beach. Its guest rooms offer free WiFi and air conditioning. The hotel also has a swimming pool with a sun terrace. The rooms are tastefully decorated and overlook the pool and the surrounding area.

Guests can spend time at the poolside bar enjoying refreshing drinks and cocktails. Dinner is available at the on-site restaurant, featuring Greek and international dishes. This convenient property is within walking the Medieval Town of Rhodes and only 9 km from the airport.

Mid-Range Places To Stay In Rhodes

Kallithea rhodes.

Kallithea Rhodes is a 3-star hotel in Kallithea, 4 minutes from the beach and 2 km from Faliraki Beach. The spacious accommodation has two swimming pools, a sun terrace, a snack bar, and a beautiful lush garden. Rooms are big and bright and include a flat-screen satellite TV and a mini-fridge, with some rooms offering views over the Aegean Sea or the garden and the pool.

The property serves a continental breakfast daily, while the poolside snack bar also serves a variety of beverages, snacks, and cocktails all day long. Families can take advantage of the pool, including a children’s section. Car rental services are also offered. The hotel is 5 km from Rhodes Town and 15 km from the airport. 

Atma Beach Rooms & Suites

Atma Beach Rooms & Suites is a sustainable beachfront hotel in Faliraki, a 2-minute walk from the featuring accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a picturesque garden. In the hotel, there are also family rooms available.

Continental and buffet breakfast options are available each morning, and coffee and tea makers are in each room. The hotel is about 11 km from the airport. 

Luxury Places To Stay In Rhodes

Sentido asterias beach resort.

Sentido Asterias Beach Resort is a gorgeous 5-star beachfront hotel in Afantou, about 5 km from Faliraki and Kallithea and 11 km from Rhodes International Airport. The property is a one-minute walk from the beach and offers an outdoor pool and children’s playground.

The hotel has a spa center and a private beach area, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or a drink at the bar. Certain rooms include a seating area, a terrace, or a balcony. Guests can play tennis at the hotel or take advantage of the bike hire services. 

Elysium Resort & Spa

Elysium Resort & Spa is a beautiful resort in Rhodes featuring a gorgeous beachfront position. The Elysium Resort & Spa features a lagoon-style pool, a hydromassage pool, and an 800-m² spa center. It offers fine dining, 3 bars, and elegant accommodations. Rooms and suites on the Elite floor have access to the Elite Club lounge, offering complimentary light snacks and beverages. In-room facilities include a mini-fridge. Some units also offer a spa bath.

Tip: Kids love the two escape rooms for extreme fun!

Facilities include a fitness center, hammam , sauna, vitality pool with 16 massage jets, and outdoor hot tub. A rich American breakfast buffet is served on the terrace of the main restaurant. The resort is 5 km from Rhodes Town.

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Where To Eat In Rhodes 

Fine Dining: Noble Gourmet Restaurant

Location: Elysium Resort

Noble Gourmet Restaurant is ranked among the 25 best hotels in Greece. It is located on the Elysium Resort & Spa’s top floor and features unique Rhodian cuisine dishes.

Traditional Greek: Tamam

Location: Georgiou Street, Rhodes Town

Certainly more affordable and family-friendly, Tamam is one of the top-rated places to eat in Rhodes Town, featuring excellent homemade Greek food and a friendly atmosphere.

Taverna: To Megiston

Location: Sofokleous Street, Rhodes Town

For casual seafood and a local’s favorite tavern spot, head to To Megiston. We’d highly recommend the calamari!

Budget Dining: Hermes Greek Grill House

Location: Ibrahim Pasha Mosque Square, Rhodes Town

If you’re on a budget, this super cheap, super tasty spot is the place to go! Greek meat specialties are grilled to perfection and will have you returning for more.

Coffee And Sweets: Old Town Corner Bakery Shop

Location: Omirou Street, Rhodes Town

Old Town Corner Bakery Shop is the place to visit to taste traditional Greek desserts, a cup of Greek coffee , or a glass of iced coffee.

So, tell us, did our Rhodes travel guide help? What will you see first in Rhode Island?

• How To Tip In Greece
• Car Rental And Driving Tips For Greece
• Best Beaches On Rhodes
• Packing Tips For Greece
• Crete Vs. Rhodes Comparison
• How To Travel Greece On A Budget
• Is There Uber In Rhodes

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The best Greek islands to visit in 2024

By Rachel Howard and Condé Nast Traveller

Lord Byron was on to something when he waxed lyrical about the Greek islands. But with more than 200 inhabited to choose from, which ones are the very best Greek islands? Here regular isle-hopper Rachel Howard reveals the ones to get in a speedboat for in 2024, with where to stay recommendations chosen by the editors of Condé Nast Traveller .

Here, we've also ranked the best Greek islands, from 1-29. While we love and highly recommend every island on this list – and advocate visiting all of them throughout your lifetime, if you can – we've also edited the list in order so if it's your first time planning a visit to this magical corner of the world, or you just want to branch out from your usual summer isle trip, we can help you choose where to go next. The order below reflects our well-travelled team's personal opinions, the landscapes, food, beaches, hotels and more.

For more recommendations, see our round up of the best Greek Islands hotels .

Best for: A photogenic and dramatic coastline

Everyone knows the  Venus de Milo (which has stood in the Louvre since the 19th century). Until recently, very few had heard of  Milos , the volcanic island where Aphrodite’s graceful likeness was discovered. Those in the know jealously guard their treasured island, and especially its 70 (or more) beaches — surely the most diverse and dramatic coastline of all the Greek Islands.

Little by little, though, Milos is being discovered. Instagram is saturated with no-filter shots of the undulating white cliffs at Sarakiniko, the bottle-green swimming hole at Papafragas, and colourful, rickety syrmata, tiny boat houses wedged between rock and sea. (You’ll find the best photo opportunities at Klima and Mandrakia). This painterly landscape was shaped by the minerals that have long been a source of wealth – obsidian, alum, barite and sulphur, which still bubbles up in the island’s many hot springs. As the 11,000-year-old mining industry is gradually giving way to tourism, several chic hotels have made an appearance. Go now, before the trickle of visitors turns into a tide.

Where to stay on Milos:

• For romance: Milos Cove or Domes White Coast Milos
• For families: Captain Zeppos
• For an eco-retreat: Skinopi Lodge
• For an authentic stay: Achinos By The Sea

Best for: A long weekend with the art crowd

You know when Dakis Joannou, Greece's foremost art collector, is on Hydra. His yacht,  Guilty , is painted in gaudy 'camouflage' by Jeff Koons. Every summer, Joannou invites big hitters such as Matthew Barney and David Shrigley to create site-specific installations in the Greek island's old slaughterhouse. Even the school is commandeered for exhibitions in the summer holidays. Car-free and protected by a preservation order, Hydra has always been the artists' muse of the Greek Islands. Leonard Cohen set the scene in the 60s; now Brice Marden, Sadie Coles and Juergen Teller have homes here. Athenian artists take up residence at the School of Fine Arts, one of the vast, grey, stone mansions overlooking the horseshoe harbour. Musicians of all stripes rehearse and record at the  Old Carpet Factory , an 18th-century residence whose double-height ceilings and underground cistern have incredible acoustics.

Less than two hours from Athens , Hydra fills up with chic Greeks at weekends. They come to disconnect and slow down, but also to see and be seen. Wily cats and weary donkeys patrol the back alleys, but all the action happens along the waterfront. Oh look! There's Olivia Palermo at The Pirate Bar and Chloë Sevigny shaking her tail feather at Hydronetta beach bar. Who cares if there are barely any beaches? You can always find a slab of sun-baked rock from which to leap rock from which to dive into the clearest water in the world. See our full guide to  Hydra, Greece .

Where to stay in Hydra:

• For a boutique stay: Orloff Boutique Hotel
• For a beachfront stay: Onos Residence
• For a group: Mirkella sleeps 12 people

Best for: Big, fat Greek feasts

Sifnos owes its foodie reputation to its most famous descendant, Nicholas Tselementes, who wrote the first Greek cookbook in 1910. Forget souvlaki and moussaka: here, chickpea croquettes and stewed capers are taverna staples. The island is peppered with potteries that produce the earthenware casseroles used for revitháda (baked chickpeas) and mastelo (lamb with red wine and dill). Traditional dishes are slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven at To Meraki tou Manoli, a local institution on sheltered Vathy bay. (While you’re there, invest in some timeless tableware from Atsonios Ceramics, in business since 1870.) In postcard-pretty Artemonas, all roads lead to Theodorou, purveyors of nougat wafers and almond sweets since 1933. You can eat in your bikini at Omega3 , where locally foraged and fished ingredients are given an exotic twist: baby-calamari tempura, smoked eel in chilled melon soup with wasabi, and chickpea sorbet with wild apricot jam and pine nuts. In 2021, Omega3’s previous energetic head chef Giorgos Samoilis opened Cantina , an equally experimental restaurant in Seralia, a pretty little bay below the beautiful medieval village of Kastro. Lobsters are plucked straight from the sea at Heronissos, then served with spaghetti on the jetty. It's just the right balance of low-key luxury and unspoiled authenticity. Rather like Sifnos itself.

Where to stay in Sifnos:

• For romance:  NÓS
• For a boutique stay:  Verina Astra
• For families:  Verina Terra
• For a laidback stay: Sifnos House
• For something unique:  This windmill Airbnb

4. Santorini

Best for: Honeymooners and first-timers

Cooing American and Chinese honeymooners line up to take selfies as the sun sinks behind  Santorini 's caldera, the flooded volcanic crater. That view may be a romantic cliché, but it still takes your breath away. A volcanic explosion blew out Santorini's heart 3,500 years ago, leaving black-sand beaches, vertiginous cliffs in psychedelic hues, and swirling rumours about Atlantis in its wake. The eruption also preserved the ancient city of Akrotiri under layers of ash, and created fertile ground for exceptional Assyrtiko grapes and Vinsanto wines. (Sample them at Domaine Sigalas and Vassaltis wineries, paired with delicate dishes that let the grapes sing.)

Apart from a boat trip to the smouldering crater of Nea Kameni and hot springs at Palia Kameni, there's not much to do but gaze at the mesmerising views from your suite, dangling on the edge of the caldera. Most places to stay are concentrated in Oia and Imerovigli, but the inland village of Pyrgos is up-and-coming. Go for a twilight Bellini at Franco's Cafe and visit Emporio, with its smattering of old-school coffee shops and Airbnbs. For a glimpse of Santorini before the onslaught of cruise ships and Instagrammers, explore the quieter south (but keep your discoveries to yourself).

Where to stay in Santorini:

• For laidback luxury: Perivolas
• For glamour: Nobu Hotel
• For romance: Andronis Boutique Hotel
• For the wine: The Vasilicos
• For groups: Elilia Superior Villa sleeps 8 people
• For something unique: this cave house

For more recommendations, see our guide to the best hotels in Santorini and the  best Airbnbs in Santorini .

Best Greek island for: Culture and off-season cachet

On Syros, capital of the Cyclades, you won’t find sugar-cube villages and whitewashed lanes. The colourful 19th-century city of Ermoupoli is built on twin peaks – one Orthodox, the other Catholic, the heritage of a long Venetian occupation. There’s still a strong Italian flavour in Ermoupoli’s marble piazzas, princely mansions, and miniature replica of La Scala, the showpiece of a year-round cultural scene. Syros hosts festivals of animation, dance, digital art, film, classical music, jazz and rembetiko, the Greek blues popularised by local musician Markos Vamvakaris. A few rembetiko joints have survived in the upper town, Ano Syros.

Once Greece’s ship-building centre, Syros' industry centres around the yard in Neorio. But the most splendid legacy of the shipping industry are the manor houses in Vaporia and Poseidonia. The beaches are slightly less splendid — with the exception of Delfini, Varvarousa, and Aetos in the wild north. But fabulous seaside tavernas abound:  Iliovassilemar on Galissas beach for samphire and sea-urchin salad and rockfish soup;  Allou Yialou in the pretty seaside village of Kini for lobster with orzo. In Ermoupoli, the finest places to eat and drink are around Androu Street: Ousyra , where the chef plates up Greek-ified pasta and beautifully balanced salads, and  Django Gelato , where the pistachio gelato reigns supreme, and the fig sorbet made in August can sell out in less than half an hour. Perhaps the prettiest restaurant of all is  Mazi , a vine-covered courtyard festooned with bougainvillaea. Before you leave, stock up on loukoumi (rose-tinted Turkish delight) and San Michali cheese from  Prekas delicatessen , and visit Zeyelo for hand-made wooden sunglasses. For more recommendations, see our insider  guide to Syros .

Where to stay on Syros:

• For a boutique stay: Xenon Apollonos
• For glamour: Hotel Ploes
• For romance: Aristide Hotel
• For groups: Villa Syros sleeps 12 people

6. Folegandros

Best Greek island for: Authenticity with a bohemian buzz

The village square should be your first port of call on any Greek island: settle into your favourite café, pick up local gossip, and adjust to the languid pace of life. On Folegandros, this presents a challenge: the cliff-hanger capital, Hora, has not one but three squares, each brimming with a jumble of cafés, tavernas and dinky raki bars. We recommend  Pounta , where the Danish owner makes and sells the lopsided cups and bowls in which your coffee and Greek yogurt are served. From Hora, zigzagging steps lead up, up and away to the only real landmark, Panagia church; make the pilgrimage at sunrise (perhaps after an all-nighter at dimunitive Astarti bar).

Folegandros – which means ‘iron hard’ in ancient Greek – is as barren as its name suggests. Fruit trees are protected from fierce winds by rings of stones. You won’t find sandy beaches lined with sunbeds; only limpid, pebbly coves, such as Katergo, Ambeli and Livadaki. Set in the rocks above Agios Nikolaos bay, Papalagi serves big fat prawns and whole grilled octopus on a wooden deck aligned with the horizon. Water taxis service some beaches in high season; otherwise you’ll have to scramble down rocky footpaths to cool off. On your way home, stop at Mimis or Synantisi in Ano Meria for the island speciality of  matsata (goat or rabbit stew with hand-made pasta).

Where to stay on Folegandros:

• For views: Anemomilos
• For families: Anemi
• For beach access: Blue Sand hotel
• For a private stay: Maistros

Best for: Antiquities, active adventures and sunshine all year round

Greece's largest island, the birthplace of Zeus,  Crete has ancient ruins, snow-capped peaks and beaches galore. Sunshine is pretty much guaranteed year round, but spring is especially lovely for rambling and sightseeing. The Minoan palace of Knossos is glorious, despite the steady stream of coach parties (go early: it opens at 8am); but there are stunning ancient sites, such as Aptera and Malia, peppered all over the island. The 16km-long Samaria Gorge also teems with pilgrims, but there are hundreds more canyons to explore, often with only the elusive kri-kri (wild goats) for company. One of the most staggeringly beautiful hikes is through the Aradena Gorge in the wild and rugged Sfakia region, ending at Marmara, a translucent cove on the Libyan Sea, for a cooling dip and lunch at one of Crete’s finest tavernas, Dialiskari.

With the exception of Elounda – a pocket of bling popular with oligarchs – the north-east coast is scarred by over-development. Head west to the Amari valley or Apokoronas for authentic villages surrounded by olive and orange groves. Or go south, where you'll find the  best beaches in Crete – try Ligres, Sougia, or Kedrodasos. Alternatively, take a back-to-nature break at Milia Mountain Retreat, a 16th-century hamlet powered entirely by solar energy. Everything on the mostly organic menu is grown, caught or reared locally. In fact, it’s almost impossible not to eat well on Crete, which produces superb cheese, honey and olive oil, as well as delicious goat, rabbit and smoked-pork dishes. Time slows almost to a standstill in the mountain villages, where locals with formidable whiskers welcome you with shots of raki (Cretan grappa) for breakfast and celebrate saints' days with a volley of gunshots. Even the road signs are peppered with bullet holes.

Where to stay in Crete:

• For families: The Royal Senses Resort & Spa and Cretan Malia Park
• For romance: Acro Wellness Suites
• For a great location: Blue Palace Resort & Spa
• For a village stay: Kapsaliana Village
• For a private stay: Azure Awe
• For a group: Cien sleeps 16 people

For more, see our edit of the  best hotels in Crete .

Best of the Greek islands for: character and lush landscapes

Corfu is the It Girl of the Ionian islands. The cosmopolitan capital is a charming clash of Venetian, British and French colonial influences. Evenings kick off with cocktails on the Liston (a colonnade modelled on Paris's Rue de Rivoli), followed by dinner at  Salto , an unpretentious wine bar and bistro on the edge of the Old Town.

With its pastel villages, rolling olive groves and grand manor houses, the rest of the island recalls  Tuscany – but with some of the  best beaches in Europe . The smart set stay on Corfu's north-east coast (nicknamed Kensington-on-Sea) where the Rothschilds like to unwind. It's wall-to-wall Sloanes and speedboats at Agni, a tiny fishing village with three rival tavernas (Toula's is the best). From here, you can rent a boat and putter to your own cove: perhaps Nissaki, Agios Stefanos or Kerasia. These idyllic bays still resemble the 'delectable landscape' that  Lawrence Durrell fell for in the 1930s – now back in vogue thanks to the ITV series, The Durrells . Or venture inland to  Ambelonas , an enchanting winery, restaurant and cooking school that specialises in unusual local dishes, such as roast pork with quince and crème brûlée with Corfiot kumquats. Steer clear of the south, especially Kavos – unless you happen to like wet T-shirt contests.

Where to stay in Corfu:

• For a standout spa: Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
• For all-inclusive: Ikos Dassia
• For romance: Domes Miramare
• For families: Domes of Corfu
• For groups: Emerald Oasis sleeps 10 people

For more, see our pick of the  best hotels in Corfu .

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Best for: Endless sandy beaches

Naxiots once made considerable fortunes exporting potatoes, cheese, marble and emery. Locals bequeathed undesirable seaside plots – useless for farming – to their laziest offspring. When tourists cottoned on to the island's scores of fabulous beaches, these wastrels found themselves sitting on gold mines. The west coast of Naxos is fringed with mile upon mile of powdery sands. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna delight toddlers and teenagers alike with their shallow waters and beach bars. As you head south, the beaches get wilder: Plaka, where you can gallop across the dunes on horseback, Mikri Vigla for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and crystal-clear Kastraki.

Should you tire of frolicking on the shore, three supersized kouros statues are hidden in the hills and there are dozens of drowsy villages to explore. Try kitron, the local citron liqueur, at the Vallindras distillery in Halki or sample homemade wine and arseniko cheese under the plane trees in Ano Potamia village. No wonder Herodotus described Naxos as “the happiest of islands."

Where to stay in Naxos:

• For romance:  Naxian on the Beach
• For laidback luxury:  Kavos
• For a private stay:  Eye of Naxos Sky
• For families: Hidden Hill

10. Cephalonia / Kefalonia

Best Greek island for: Laidback family holidays

Casting Penélope Cruz as a Greek peasant is improbable. Shooting a World War II film on an island flattened by an earthquake in 1953 sounds even crazier. And yet  Captain Corelli's Mandolin put under-the-radar Kefalonia (Cephalonia) in the spotlight in 2001. The dramatic scenery still lives up to the hype: milky-white Myrtos beach, the island's pin-up; pine-fringed Horgota beach; and the giddying heights of Mount Ainos, a national park where wild horses roam. Outdoor Kefalonia organises four-wheel-drive safaris, if you can't face the hairpin bends. Surprisingly, the two prettiest seaside villages – Assos and Fiskardo – didn't make the cut. But the yachting set has discovered their photogenic charm. Everyone from John Galliano to Jon Bon Jovi has jumped ashore to taste the seafood pasta at  Tassia Restaurant in Fiskardo, washed down with local Robola and Muscat wines. (We recommend the organic muscat from the 19th century  Haritatos Vineyard in Lixouri, also an enchanting setting for wine tasting.) The rocky coastline around Fiskardo is deliciously pristine: go snorkelling at tiny Dafnoudi or Emblisi, flanked by slabs of limestone that turn the water electric blue.

Where to stay in Kefalonia:

• For an adult-only retreat:  F Zeen
• For families:  Emelisse Nature Resort
• For groups:  Odyssea sleeps 12 people
• For a private stay:  Wilderness Whisperings house
• For something unique:  This sky high villa

See our guide to the best hotels on Kefalonia for more.

Best Greek island for: Walking trails and wild beaches

Divided by four mountain ranges, Andros is like several islands in one. Lush valleys, rushing streams, handsome villages, and wild, windswept beaches are connected by a well-maintained network of hiking trails, making this an excellent off-season destination. Many of Greece’s powerful shipping dynasties hail from Andros; they have bequeathed the island with grand estates, splendid museums, and an elegant neoclassical capital. The marble-paved streets of Chora are full of unexpected treasures: a tiny, open-air cinema showing black-and-white classics, great pizzas and cocktails in a  converted slaughterhouse , sublime sundresses and sandals at  Waikiki boutique. Inland, there are fortified monasteries, ice-cold waterfalls, and fantastic farm-to-table tavernas like Kosses in Ano Fellos, Fofo’s in Livadia, and Tou Josef in Pitrofos to explore. And then there are the mind-blowing beaches: from the spectacular sandy bays of Zorkos, Vitali, and Vori on the north coast to the mellow beach bars at Apothikes and Chryssi Ammos, or the sunset views and old-school fish taverna at Agia Marina, there are options for whichever way the wind or your mood is blowing. You could spend weeks on Andros and still have more to discover.

Where to stay on Andros:

• For a guesthouse stay: Melisses
• For privacy: Onar
• For a village stay: Touchstone House
• For groups: Five Star Greece

12. Serifos

Best Greek island for: Naturists and purists

The sleeper hit of the Cyclades, Serifos is the summer retreat of interior designers and architects who prefer to keep the sandy beaches to themselves. (One French home-owner is so protective of her hideaway that she tells all her friends she summers on nearby Sifnos.) Even in  August , you’ll find coves where you can skinny dip in blissful solitude. That’s because the best beaches (such as Kalo Ambeli and Skala) are only accessible via bone-rattling dirt roads or donkey tracks. Better still, rent a motor boat from the laidback harbour, Livada. Make sure to moor outside Anna’s taverna on Sikamia beach for freshly caught fish and garden-grown salads.

In the cascading hilltop Hora, there’s barely any nightlife, no smart boutiques or fancy hotels. But who cares when you can kick back with fennel pie and raki at  Stou Stratou , pick up Natassa Kalogeropoulou’s minimalist ceramics at  Kerameio , and listen to Greek folk in the open-air amphitheatre? And all less than three hours from Athens.

Where to stay on Serifos:

• For a boutique stay: Verina Astra
• For romance: Chill & Co.
• For groups: Lenia sleeps 12 people
• For something unique: This 19th century captain’s house

13. Mykonos

Best of the Greek islands for: Decadent parties and five-star hotels

Mykonos had LGBTQ+ clubs and sunrise parties long before rave culture was even invented. Its bohemian allure hasn’t faded since the 1960s, although the once naked beaches now have nail bars, personal trainers and house music pumping out all hours. The influx of supermodels and superyachts has inspired hot new hotels and restaurants. The hippest place to show off your abs is  Scorpios , a louche beach bar that puts Ibiza 's finest in the shade (book a cabana to watch the sunset). After hours, it's always Astra, where you might find Keith Richards chatting up Karolina Kurkova. The LGBTQ+ crowd has dwindled, but drag queens and oiled bodybuilders make a splash at Jackie O' , overlooking Super Paradise beach.

If the glitzy excess gets too much, escape to Fokos taverna for superfood salads and lamb chops, or Kiki's, an off-grid grill-shack overlooking Agios Sostis bay, where even Naomi Campbell has to queue for a table. Or cruise over to the tiny island of Delos, an archaeological sanctuary that once thronged with 30,000 sun worshippers (the temple is dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of light).

Where to stay in Mykonos:

• For romance: Cali Mykonos
• For the party scene: Soho Roc House
• For a laidback stay: Once in Mykonos
• For families: Santa Marina resort
• For groups: Bluewave XL sleeps 36 people

For more recommendations, see our guide to the  best hotels in Mykonos .

14. Zakynthos / Zante

The best Greek Island for: seaside holidays with toddlers or teens

Zakynthos, or Zante, has shrugged off its reputation as a destination for lads on tour (as long as you avoid Lagana and the built-up south coast) by rebranding itself as one of Greece's greenest islands. It's not just the emerald hills sliding into the electric blue Ionian: much of the south coast is a nature reserve where endangered loggerhead turtles hatch in the sand. The turtle beaches are off limits, but there are countless coves in every hue of green and blue. Favourites are tiny Xigia, with its bubbling underwater springs, and craggy Porto Limnionas, with sunbeds wedged between the rocks and palm-frond umbrellas positioned between the pine trees. Skinari is the starting point for boat trips to the most famous landmarks, the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach, where a rusting liner leans into the chalky cliffs. From Keri, you can cast away for Marathonisi island, another turtle sanctuary.

The mountainous interior, all sleepy stone villages poking out of pine forests, is great for hikes and bikes. ( Eco Zante can arrange outdoor activities guided by insiders.)  Askos Stone Park is a wildlife sanctuary inhabited by deer, chinchilla, and dozens of other species. After exploring the Venetian castle high above the harbour, treat the kids to thin-crust pizzas (with grown-up toppings like bresaola, aubergine, and gorgonzola) at  Alesta on cute St Mark's Square.

Where to stay in Zante:

• For families: Porto Zante
• For romance: Zante Maris Suites and Olea All Suite Hotel
• For a private stay: Halcyon Seas
• For a group: Ble Kyma sleeps 12 people

15. Amorgos

Best for : Deep-blue seas and wide-open spaces

It’s not easy to get to Amorgos. In high winds, the fast ferries stay grounded and the slow boat takes upwards of eight hours from  Athens . When you disembark at Katapola, a sleepy harbour lined with great little fish tavernas (our favourites are Prekas and Mouragio), a sign announces: 'Welcome to Amorgos. Nobody will find you here.'

That’s just the point. This craggy Cycladic island has always attracted loners, hikers, divers and pilgrims, who shuffle up the cliff face to the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, a sliver of white dangling 300 metres above the sea. The water here is a million shades of blue and so startlingly clear you can see every sea urchin lurking on the rocky shore. Even the sage-scented hiking trails are called Blue Paths, because the sea and sky are visible in all directions.

With a population of under 2,000, the locals are outnumbered by shaggy goats that blend in perfectly with the burnished landscape and hippie vibe. But you don't have to be a recluse to fall for Amorgos. There are plenty of all-day spots and a few late-night bars where Amorgos groupies meet, summer after summer: Jazzmin, in Hora, for backgammon and cocktails; Pergalidi in Langada for herbal infusions and jazzy tunes; Seladi in Tholaria, with giddying views and a telescope for stargazing.

Where to stay on Amorgos: There are very few hotels on Amorgos, beyond basic rooms to let.  Vorina Ktismata is the exception, with seven smart apartments looking out across Hora’s white-washed rooftops.

Best for: The perfect balance of seclusion and sophistication

One of the tiniest Ionian islands, Paxos packs a big punch. Not for its five-star hotels (there are hardly any) or its sandy beaches (practically none), but for its electric blue sea and three dinky harbour towns, each one so pretty it’s impossible to pick a favourite. In laid-back Loggos, on the northeast coast, star-spangled evenings are spent on the waterfront terrace of Taxidi bar, where the owner, Spiros, often jams with local musicians. You could while away days in the waterfront cafés of Lakka, watching lissom sailors hop on and off their  yachts . Protected from the wind but with a lively social scene, the main port of Gaios is characterised by Venetian architecture and a high quota of stylish Italians, who own pale stone villas hidden in the wooded interior or on the crest of the limestone cliffs along the western shoreline. For the many British Paxos aficionados, all roads lead to  Ben’s Bar , a happy-go-lucky hangout on Monodendri beach, where you can laze under the olive trees with French toast and Piña Coladas. Make sure to rent a motor boat to putter along the coast to pebble coves such as Marmari and Kipiadi, or across to Antipaxos, an even smaller island that’s a hit with the yachting set. Paths through vineyards and orchards trickle down to bays with sea so clear it looks retouched.

Where to Stay in Paxos:

• For an authentic stay: Paxos Villa
• For a great location: Oneiro
• For groups: Panayia View sleeps 14 people

17. Lefkada

Best for: Sailors, surfers, and superstar beaches

Lefkada is something of an anomaly. Unlike the other Ionian islands, it’s accessible from the mainland via a causeway on the northern tip. It’s also easily reached from the  UK , with direct flights to Preveza, a 40-minute drive. Lefkada’s main town, flattened by an earthquake in the 1950s, certainly won’t take your breath away, but those famous cliff-backed beaches, Egremni and Porto Katsiki, sure will. You’ll find sheltered beaches no matter which way the wind is blowing; but if you’re here for the swell, the south coast is fantastic for windsurfing (head to Vassiliki or Sivota, home to the world windsurfing championships) and Agios Ioannis bay billows with kite-surfers. At Nidri, ignore the unlovely bars and watersports centres, and hop on a boat to explore the little isles nearby. You can  swim through sea caves near Kalamos; eat seared tuna with tarama at Errikos taverna on Meganisi, a favourite of reclusive billionaires; and watch the sunset with a basil-infused Mastiha and tonic at Mylos bar, a converted windmill on Kastos.

Want to cool down or escape the summer crowds? Drive through forests of chestnut and pine into Lefkada’s mountainous interior to the somnolent villages of Karya (home to an enchanting textile museum), Eglouvi (to play backgammon under plane trees) and Exanthia (to watch the setting sun from up in the clouds at Rachi restaurant). You might even see paragliders leaping off the mountain.

Where to Stay in Lefkada:

• For romance: Ibid
• For views:  New Morning villa

Best Greek island for: A mythical retreat for lovers and loners

Despite its legendary stature, the homeland of Homer's hero, Odysseus, remains surprisingly under the radar. Ithaca’s turquoise and emerald coves are popular with the sailing set, but few visitors venture into the forested hills. So you might be the only person exploring the eighth-century BC ruins of Odysseus’ palace, or making the heady trek to the church of Anogi, covered in Byzantine frescoes (ask for the key at the village coffee shop, where the owner will cook you a set menu of whatever is available – maybe a tomato salad, some local cheese and braised goat – straight from her garden or neighbours’ fields).

From Anogi, it’s an exhilarating two-hire hike down to Kioni, a miniature port where you’ll find  Spavento , the perfect pier-side café-bar. Go any time of day or night for ice-cream sundaes, excellent cocktails, and a soundtrack to make your heart sing. The waterside tavernas at the drowsy fishing port of Frikes are unfailingly delightful, especially  Ageri . The deep, sheltered harbour town of Vathy is barely livelier, but the mood can be deliciously mischievous at Mylos bar. Beaches are mostly small and pebbly, but the sea is as clear and refreshing as gin. Authentic, unspoiled and infuriatingly (or gratifyingly) hard to reach, rugged little Ithaca is somewhere you can still disappear.

Where to stay on Ithaca:

• For a private stay: Ithaca Airbnb house
• For families:  Levendis Estate

Best for: Traditional villages and knockout tavernas

Tinos has more than 50 villages, each vying to be fairest of them all. In Pyrgos, famous for its marble craftsmen, sculpted birds and flowers decorate every doorway. In Volax, basket weavers squat outside cottages surrounded by giant boulders, seemingly flung from the heavens by Zeus in a fit of pique. There's even a village called 'love’, Agapi, where you can tuck into wild-fennel fritters at the only taverna. Tinos takes its food culture seriously: there are artichoke, caper and honey festivals.  Marathia launched the island’s farm- (or fishing-boat-) to-table scene, elevating local ingredients into complex modern dishes. For a perfect meal in perfect surroundings, go for cuttlefish risotto and octopus caramelised in grape must at Thalassaki, served on the jetty in Isternia bay, then watch dusk bleed into the horizon from Exomeria bar.

Tinos is only 20 minutes from Mykonos, so it's a wonder it isn't overrun with tourists. The harbour is swarmed on 15 August, however, when Orthodox pilgrims flock here to kiss the Virgin Mary at the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria, one of the holiest sites in Greece. Otherwise, the island is miraculously untouched. Solitary chapels and whimsical dovecotes stud thyme-scented hills, dropping to sandy bays whipped by the meltemi wind. There's a nascent surfer scene on Kolibithra bay, where a VW camper van has been converted into a cute beach bar.

Where to stay in Tinos:

• For a guest house stay: Xinara House
• For a private stay:  The Detailor  

Best for: Stark mystique and show-stopping villas

Patmos has an indefinable je ne sais quoi – an otherworldly quality that radiates from its crowning glory, the medieval Monastery of St John. This turreted fortress, bursting with Byzantine relics, is named after John the Divine, who conjured up his apocalyptic revelations in a cave nearby. Pure-white Hora, a World Heritage Site, is where A-listers and fashion editors stay. High walls and heavy doors conceal magnificent mansions dating back to the 16th century. The almighty church has kept nightlife in check. If you must see and be seen, head to quietly glamorous Astivi or Stoa Theo's bar, on miniature Agia Lesbia, in Hora. Beach life is generally languid and low-key; Psili Ammos and Livadi Geranou are our favourite hideouts. Dinner reservations are essential at Benetos, for Med-Asian fusion on an organic farm, and Lambi for grilled fish on a purple pebble beach.

Joining the Patmos in-crowd requires commitment. There's no airport and it's a nine-hour ferry journey from Athens, which keeps the hoi polloi at bay. Seriously reclusive types hop on a fishing boat from Patmos to Marathi and play castaway at Pantelis, a divine taverna with modest rooms to let. Read our full guide to  Patmos , the spiritual Greek island.

Where to stay in Patmos:

• For a guest house stay: Pagostas
• For a private stay: Patmos 360
• For a village stay: Eirini

Best for: Travelling back in time

When the writer Lawrence Durrell arrived in Rhodes after World War II, he found an island devastated by centuries of crusaders and invaders. Like the fallen Colossus, it was 'a Rhodes dispersed into a million fragments, waiting to be built up again.' Since then, Rhodes has reinvented itself as one of Greece's top travel destinations. The big draw is the medieval citadel in Rhodes Old Town: stroll along the battlements and you'll spy Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, synagogues and minarets. In the maze of alleys, seek out Marco Polo Mansion, a 15th-century guest-house decorated like a pasha's harem, with an enchanting restaurant in the garden.

Upmarket hotels are clustered around Lindos, its magnificent acropolis surrounded by slate cliffs and emerald coves. Go for the views – and the sublime octopus ragout at Mavrikos restaurant.

As you head south, high-rise resorts give way to stretches of golden sand, such as Glystra, Tsambika, and Fourni. Inland, you'll find alpine forests (Mount Attavyros), hilltop castles (Monolithos), faded frescoes (Saint Nikolaos Fountoukli) and ancient ruins (Kamiros). Marooned on the southern tip, Prasonisi is a powdery peninsula where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. One side is calm, the other choppy – a metaphor for this island of two halves.

Where to stay in Rhodes:  

• For romance: Casa Cook
• For history: Kókkini Porta Rossa
• For a boutique stay:  Melenos Art Boutique Hotel

Best for: Castaway coves and a picture-perfect port

Little Symi has the prettiest port in Greece. As you round the headland, neoclassical mansions in every shade of apricot and peach rise like a mirage from the sea. Built by 19th-century sponge and spice merchants, the whole town is now a national monument. You need strong legs to explore – it's about 500 steps up to the crumbling acropolis – but you won't need a car. The only proper road peters out at Panormitis monastery, a major pilgrimage site. Ravishing beaches such as Agios Giorgos Dysalona (backed by monumental cliffs) and Marathounda (where goats will try to filch your picnic) are only accessible by boat or on foot. In the rugged hinterland, more than 100 monasteries are hidden among the pine and cypress forests.

With its laid-back glamour, luminous sea and almost tropical microclimate, Symi is a hit with French and Italian yachties. You'll find them eating flash-fried baby shrimp, a local specialty, at Tholos, a sensational taverna where the harbour views almost steal the show.

Where to stay in Symi:

• For a hotel stay: The Old Markets
• For a private stay: On The Rocks

23. Astypalea

Best for: Escaping the crowds

A throwback to a gentler, slower, more elemental way of life, Astypalea is surprisingly easy to get to (daily one-hour flights from Athens). Every gap in the burnished hills frames a different view of Hora, cascading from the Venetian castle to seaside Skala. The scent of saffron biscuits wafts through the whitewashed lanes. Tucked beneath the battlements, Castro bar has a magical terrace that seems to float above the archipelago.

The nearest beach is Livadi, a sort-of-resort surrounded by citrus orchards. The rest of the island is stark and wild. Treacherous tracks hurtle down to shingle bays such as Vatses, with a rocking beach bar, and Kaminakia, where Linda's farm-to-table taverna serves the best roast goat in the Dodecanese. If you really want to be alone, rent a motorboat from Maltezana, an old-time fishing village, and putter to Koutsomiti and Kounoupes, tiny islands connected by a double-sided beach. At Vathy, a lagoon where erotic graffiti was etched into the rocks 2,500 years ago, the only taverna is called Galini (Peace). Which sums up Astypalea perfectly.

Where to stay in Astypalea: Saluti da Stampalia Suites , with seven subdued but very stylish sea-view rooms, has upped the ante on an island where most accommodation is uninspired.

24. Skiathos

Best Greek island for: Flopping onto a sandy beach with a good book

Skiathos may be the smallest of the Sporades islands, which counts among its number sleepy Alonissos and the pretty  Mamma Mia! location of Skopelos, but it’s by far the most popular, especially with families, who come for the baby powder-soft sandy  beaches and laid-back vibe. The island has some of the finest beaches in Greece, with the tree-lined, turquoise-watered Koukounaries in the south the most celebrated and the busiest (forget about getting a sun lounger here in peak season). Those in the north of the island, which can only be accessed by a steep, winding drive through pine groves, are more rugged and windswept but no less idyllic – emerging onto Elia beach on the west coast, with its crystal-clear sea and rickety wooden taverna, is like stepping into a little slice of paradise.

As dusk falls the town starts to liven up, with most of the action centred around Papadiamantis Street, the main shopping drag. Stroll down it on the way to dinner and browse smart boutiques selling handcrafted jewellery and knick-knacks, or pick up local delicacies from the upmarket Ergon deli (reopens in May), which also has outposts in  Athens , Thessaloniki and Mayfair. The buzziest restaurants are clustered around the harbour, with Bourtzi, perched atop a tiny rocky island, the best spot for sundowner  cocktails and The Windmill a favourite for elegant suppers. For the most charming setting, head to Sklithri and book one of the taverna’s tables right on the beach. Order an ice-cold Mythos beer, baked feta and a platter of perfectly-chargrilled and out-of-this-world delicious vegetables then watch the sun set over the Aegean, with your toes in the sand.

Where to stay in Skiathos:

• For a hotels stay: Elivi Skiathos
• For a private stay: Villa Azalea

Best for:  Low-key authenticity all year round

Unusually for Greece, Aegina is truly an island for all seasons. Only about an hour’s ferry ride from Piraeus, the unpretentious port (briefly the first capital of modern Greece) has a lived-in charm. Athenian weekenders come for the excellent seaside ouzeris; Skotadis, on the harbourfront is the standout. Classicists come to explore the portside antiquities of Kolona, the hilltop temple of Aphaia (allegedly the template for the Parthenon) and the ghostly Byzantine chapels at Paleochora. Canny ex-pats have snapped up properties in Pachia Rachi, a stone village with sensational views across the straits to the Peloponnese. The Dumas family, heirs to the Hermès fortune, have been discreetly spending their summers here for decades. With its soft light and gentle landscapes, Aegina has always been a muse for Greek artists and writers, including the prolific painter Nikos Nikolaou, whose former home and atelier is now an  enchanting guesthouse and museum (open on Saturdays by appointment). Thanks to a tight-knit community of locals, Athenian escapees, and cosmopolitan emigrés, there’s always something interesting afoot: live music at Proka bar or  Il Posto , a cosy Italian restaurant in Kypseli village, an exhibition in the 17th century Markellos Tower, or a travel writing and ceramics retreat at  Oikia Karapanou , one of many stately homes in various states of ruin and repair that dot this incredibly diverse island. The only thing Aegina doesn’t have is great beaches — perhaps that’s what has spared this accessible island from over-development. This is an island that doesn’t depend on foreign tourists and is all the better for it.

Where to stay on Aegina:

• For a hotel stay: Nikolaou Residence
• For something unique: this bohemian artist's house
• For a group: Villa Calypso sleeps 11 people

26. Kastellorizo

Best of the Greek islands for:  Castaway dreams and swimming through caves

Michael Anastassiades, Lynda Benglis, Savvas Laz, Silvia and Nicoletta Fiorucci… the number of artists, designers and their patrons who summer on tiny Kastellorizo is remarkable. Covering less than 5 square miles, with fewer than 500 inhabitants, this sun-blistered fleck lies just over one nautical mile from Turkey’s Anatolian coast. You can sail across to the town of Kaş for kofte and a trawl though the flea market and be back in time for a sundowner at Faros, a day-to-night hangout in the old lighthouse beside the mosque. A confluence of Levantine influences draws a culturally curious crowd to this remote Aegean outpost. Once a thriving maritime economy, Kastellorizo was bombed during World War II and then virtually abandoned. Gradually, the handsome sponge and spice merchants’ houses in vibrant shades of turquoise and terracotta are being revived as artists’ residences (such as Fiorucci’s 4Rooms), or enchanting guesthouses like  Mediterraneo . You can dive straight from Mediterraneo’s sundeck into the port, where sea turtles bob alongside colourful fishing boats. There’s not much action beyond the waterfront strip known as the  kordoni , or shoelace: a little snorkelling, cave swimming, or boat-watching, a ramble along goat tracks, a slow supper of stuffed onions under the fairy-lit plane trees at Ta Platania, or perhaps some yoga in the wild on the even tinier islet of Ro. This is a pure and simple Greece.

Where to stay on Kastellorizo:

• For a boutique stay:  Casa Mediterraneo
• For romance:  Mediterraneo
• For groups:  The Admiral’s House

27. Antiparos

Best for:  Relaxed cool

This tiny island packs a surprisingly hip scene into its low-slung hills and shallow coves. Most of the action centres around the dinky port, where life drifts by in the waterfront cafés and the lively strip that leads to the square. Every season, more upmarket restaurants ( Yam ,  Lollo’s ) and boutiques ( More than This ,  Zali ) spring up alongside classic dive bars like  Doors and Lucky Luke. At dusk, all roads predictably lead to  Sunset bar for a spritz; after hours, everyone stumbles to cult disco La Luna, where both the décor and music are stuck in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

By day, the scene is way more mellow: brunch at  Margarita’s in town or  Time Marine  on Psaralyki, one of a string of shallow, narrow beaches along the southern coastline. Beyond the modest, boxy houses of the harbour town are dozens of sensational villas designed by in-demand architects. The fanciest properties are scattered around Soros and Agios Georgios bays, where you’ll also find two of the island’s best tavernas,  Peramataki and  Captain Pipinos . The latter is a short boat or kayak ride from Despotiko island, where goats roam around the semi-excavated sanctuary of Apollo. The beauty of Antiparos is that nothing is more than ten minutes away, and after a couple of days, you’ll feel like a regular, bumping into the same good-looking faces wherever you go. If you get cabin fever, you can hop on the 7-minute ferry to Paros for kite surfing, windsurfing, fine dining, or village hopping.

Where to stay on Antiparos:  

• For a hotel stay: The Rooster
• For a private stay: Antiparos Escape Villas  and Oliaros

Best of the Greek islands for:  Distinctive architecture and good vibes

Long overlooked because of its chequered history – this Dodecanese Island was an Italian naval base from 1912-1943, and later became the site of a notorious insane asylum — Leros is all the better for flying under the radar. The vast natural harbour of Lakki (an excellent marina for sailboats) still bears the surreal hallmarks of Fascist rationalism, an Art Deco mirage that’s like a faded version of Miami on the Med. The colourful neoclassical houses of Agia Marina and Platanos have a more lived-in feel, peppered with appealing patisseries, antique shops, and B&Bs. Italian cognoscenti and Turkish yachties have discovered Leros for one very good reason:  Mylos by the Sea , arguably the best seafood restaurant in Greece, with a hopelessly romantic setting overlooking a windmill jutting out to sea. Sunset watchers converge on  Harris Bar , another windmill poised between the medieval castle of Panagia and Panteli’s pebbly beach. Most beaches on Leros may be small and scrappy, but the water is luminous and there are just enough low-key beach bars like  Zephyros  and  Lime . Since restaurants cater mainly to Greeks, the food scene is authentic and affordable: Thea Artemis taverna on gentle Blefouti bay, Lychnari in Lakki, and the cult souvlaki joint Yparxo in Platanos are local favourites. Although there’s a tiny domestic airport, there are no international flights or big, branded resorts on Leros. Instead, there are family-run guesthouses brimming with character, where you feel more like a friend than a room number.

Where to stay on Leros:

• For glamour:  Villa Clara
• For (vegan) romance:  Archondiko Angelou
• For a private stay:  Lakki Old Farmhouse

29. Spetses

Best of the Greek islands for:   Family holidays with the smart society set

If it weren’t for Sotirios Anargyros, Spetses might be as barren as its more bohemian neighbour, Hydra. In the early 20th century, after making a killing in tobacco, Anargyros bought up huge swathes of the island and planted thousands of pine trees. Anargyos also founded the famous boarding school (whose grounds are a lovely spot for an evening stroll) that inspired a certain English teacher to write ‘The Magus’, and built the Poseidonion, a grand harbourfront hotel that has been gloriously restored (there’s no finer place for an aperitivo). From the heirloom-filled mansions built on shipping fortunes to the horse-drawn carriages and tasteful yachts, the whole place reeks of old money. But there’s plenty of new-fangled fun too: late-night bars ( Bikini  or retro-cool  Bar Spetsa ), two open-air cinemas, stylish boutiques ( The Closet , whose resident cats are an attraction) and expensive restaurants ( Patralis  and  Tarsanas  vie for the best fish soup). In the summer, Spetses is a sociable place to see and be seen. But it’s also lovely off-season, when you can hike the gentle green hills or cycle the coastal road that circles the island (there’s even a Tweed Run in October). Compact, well-kept, and easily accessible from Athens (2-3 hours by catamaran), Spetses is a people-pleaser for all ages and seasons.

Where to stay on Spetses:

• For glamour:  Poseidonion Grand Hotel
• For families:  Orloff Resort
• For a private stay:  Magus House

Home » Travel Guides » Greece » 15 Best Things to Do in Rhodes (Greece)

15 Best Things to Do in Rhodes (Greece)

Villages infused with the scent of jasmine and bougainvillea, a magical Medieval UNESCO-listed old town, superlative beaches with glistening waters: There are hundreds of reasons to come to Rhodes, but we’ll try to condense the tally to just 15. The largest of the Dodecanese islands in the southern Aegean, Rhodes has architecture that looks like nowhere else in Greece, stemming from Medieval times when the Knights Hospitaller wrapped the capital in impenetrable walls to repel attacks by the Ottomans.

Rhodes also has history of a much more ancient kind, at the Lindos Acropolis famed for its rock carving of a trireme, the Acropolis of Rhodes and the ruins of the city of Kameiros.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Rhodes :

1. Rhodes City

The medieval centre of Rhodes City is straight from a movie, encased by a crescent-shaped fortificaton.

Pass through the gates and you’ll be on rambling cobblestone streets, ducking under vaulted passages and flying buttresses.

It’s the sort of place where you won’t mind losing your way, and it pays to be nosy and get a look at the magnificent interior courtyards behind the wooden portals.

Arrow straight, the Street of the Knights is on an ancient road and part of a Gothic ensemble known as the Knights’ Quarter from the 1400s.

The way is edged by the facades of inns for the Order of the Knights of St John of Jerusalem, lined up in different nationalities including English, French, Spanish, Italian and German.

In the western streets of the old town are faint traces from Ottoman times, at the Hammam and the Sultan Mustafa Mosque, both from the 1700s.

2. Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes

One of the only examples of Gothic architecture in Greece, this castle belongs to Rhodes City’s World Heritage Site and has roots going back to the 7th century when it was a Byzantine citadel.

The castle’s heyday came in the 14th century when the Knights Hospitaller turned the fortress into their base of power and a plush residence for the order’s Grand Masters.

When Rhodes was under Italian control in the 20th century, damage from a 19th-century explosion was repaired and Benito Mussolini chose the castle as a residence.

Today the palace is a museum, telling the story of monument and exhibiting the centuries-old architecture of the Main Hall and the arcaded courtyard.

There are also artefacts from around the Dodecanese like a series of mosaics from Kos.

3. Lindos Acropolis

On the crag to the east of the modern village of Lindos is a site inhabited and venerated by a long line of civilisations.

Its history goes back to the Mycenaeans in the 7th century BC, who were the first to worship here, while the Byzantines, Knights of St John and the Ottomans used the rock for defensive purposes.

What’s left is an exciting mishmash of ancient ruins and the 14th-century Castle of the Knights of St John.

First off the view of the coastline from the top is enough reason to make the climb (or donkey ride) on its own.

There isn’t enough room to list everything you need to see in the Lindos Acropolis, but the vestiges of the Doric Temple of Athenia Lindia from the 4th century BC, the Propylaia (gateway) from the same period are musts.

See also the relief of a trireme by the steps to the acropolis and the Hellenistic Stoa from the 3rd century BC.

4. Archaeological Museum of Rhodes

The island’s main archaeological museum is in the Hospital of St John, a late-Gothic complex with an arcaded courtyard on two levels.

In front of the western arcade is a striking late-Hellenistic tomb monument with a lion holding the head of a bull between its paws.

Before this is a Byzantine mosaic from the early Christian Basilica of Karpatha on the island of Karpathos.

Another outstanding piece to track down is the statue of the Crouching Aphrodite from the 1st century BC, modelled on the famous Hellenistic representation of Aphrodite attributed to Doidalses two centuries before.

There are also vases and sculptures from Kameiros, astonishing mosaics, steles and capitals, as well as the medieval tombs for knights and coats of arms collected from buildings around the city.

5. Kameiros

Long before Rhodes City was founded Kameiros was one of the largest urban centres on the island, occupied from prehistoric times by the Mycenaeans.

The ruins of the city are on Rhodes’ northwest coast at the base of Mount Akramytis.

On a terrace at the top is the acropolis, which has the vestiges of a temple to Athena Kameiras, a stoa with two rows of the Doric columns and a reservoir that could hold 600 cubic litres of water, with terracotta pipes to conduct it to the residential quarters below.

On the middle terrace was the main settlement which has housing blocks on a grid pattern.

And lastly, below this is the later Hellenistic temple, a fountain house, agora and a wall inscribed with dedications to deities like Zeus, Poseidon and Artemis.

6. Mandraki Port

The northernmost of Rhodes City’s three harbours, Mandraki Port is the most fun to explore on foot, with a long mole up its east side leading to the Fort of St Nicholas and traced by the three iconic windmills.

This started out as a guard tower in the mid-15th-century but became a fully fledged fortress under Grand Master d’Aubusson in 1480. This is also the supposed location of the Colossus of Rhodes on the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

That representation of the sun god Helios was erected in 280 BC and was toppled by an earthquake not long after in 226 BC. The idea of the statue bestriding the entrance to the port probably isn’t historically accurate, but is romantic all the same.

7. Prasonisi

In Rhodes’ far south is a piece of coast unlike any other on the island.

Prasonisi is a tidal island joined to the mainland by a long sandbar.

In winter when the tide is high this can disappear completely underwater, leaving Prasonisi stranded.

In summer people visit to hike on the island, a nature reserve, and take the opportunity to sit on a beach with water on both sides.

The beach is exposed to sea breezes and the sails of windsurfers are a common sight.

The more sheltered east flank has inviting shallow water and is also preferred by less experienced watersports enthusiasts.

Meanwhile the west side and its rolling waves are favoured by seasoned windsurfers and kite-surfers.

8. Tsambika Monastery

A recurring theme in Rhodes is that difficult climbs will be rewarded with interesting monuments and heart-lifting views.

That is the case at this church in a natural park above one of the best beaches on the island.

The road will only take you so far, after which you have to scale a stairway with 350 steps.

At the top you’ll be 300 metres above sea level.

To the north you can look down on the small resort of Kolymbia, while southwards you can see as far as the Lindos Acropolis 20 kilometres away.

The church itself is from the 18th century and built in the Dodecanesian style, with hollow roof tiles.

Traditionally, women struggling to conceive would make the pilgrimage to the church barefoot to pray to the icon of the Virgin.

9. Monolithos Castle

Some way from Rhodes’ tourist centres, this monument on a rock 100 metres over the west coast requires a bit of a journey.

But it’s a trip you won’t regret once you conquer the stairway snaking up the cliff.

Raised by the Knights of St John Monolithios Castle was once among the four most powerful strongholds on the island, and was never conquered.

Inside the walls are two 15th-centurch chapels, to St George and St Panteleimon.

But best of all, you can scramble around the rocky, pine-edged paths to survey the rocky cliffs atop Mount Akramytis behind, and cast your gaze out to sea to spot the tiny Dodecanese islands.

10. St Paul’s Beach

A bathing spot with a view to treasure, you can recline at St Paul’s Beach and contemplate the Lindos Acropolis on its soaring throne.

The main, sandy beach is on the southern curve of an ovular bay with just a small opening on its northeastern side.

On the north end, right beneath the acropolis, is another smaller pebble beach.

Both fill up quickly in summer, when you’ll be sharing the beach with hundreds of people.

But that takes nothing away from the main attraction which is the transparent sea, tranquil and shallow enough that even non-swimmers can wade in and relax.

11. Tsambika Beach

Below the monastery is a beach almost too perfect to be true.

Tsambika Beach is 800 metres of fine golden sand enclosed on three sides by craggy slopes coated with garrigue and pines.

The beach is low-shelving and wide, accommodating several rows of sun loungers and parasols, and marked by flags is a sequence of beach bars and restaurants.

If you get bored of paddling in the shallow emerald sea there’s a watersports centre on the beach for more exhilarating activities.

12. Kalithea Hot Springs

The natural springs at Kalithea had been favoured for their curative properties since ancient times.

But it wasn’t until the Italian period, following an analysis of the water in the 1920s, that they were properly developed.

The complex was designed in a mix of neo-Baroque and Moorish styles by architect Pietro Lombardi, and exotic trees and bushes were planted in the gardens.

The spa is no longer in business, but the elegant Moorish pavilion and pergolas have been restored and are rented out for functions.

If you pay a small fee you can bathe in Kalithea Bay, a long inlet with transparent water, fringed by sun loungers and palm sunshades on terraces.

13. Monastery of Filerimos

Roughly ten kilometres southwest of Rhodes City is Filerimos, an isolated mountain in a natural reserve.

Among the cypresses, up a winding road you’ll come to a monastery established by the Knights of St John in the 15th century.

With pointed arches the church has all the hallmarks of Gothic architecture, and there’s a large cross pattée in the stonework on the facade.

Make sure to take a walk in the grounds, where peacocks are free to roam, and you’ll stumble upon a 14th-century underground chapel.

And if you stick to the mountain path you can follow the stations of the cross to a majestic cross at a viewpoint over the coast and farmland to the west.

14. Kritinia Castle

Like Monolithos Castle, Kritinia is on the island’s remote west coast doubling as both a fortification and a watch tower.

The castle is Venetian and was put up in the 15th century on a perch with 360° views of the Aegean and surrounding terrain.

At that time Rhodes was anticipating an attack by the Ottomans, and it came in 1480, when the island managed to repel a 100,000-strong army.

The castle is not much more than a shell today, but on the portal you can identify the coat of arms of Grand Master D’Amboise from the early 16th century.

In the compound is a 16th-century chapel to St John, decorated with magnificent frescoes from the period.

15. Anthony Quinn Bay

So-called because it was bought by the Mexican-American actor Anthony Quinn when he was filming the Guns of Navarone on Rhodes, this bay near Faliraki on the east coast wins hearts for its glimmering emerald water.

The bay is at the end of a rocky inlet with long headlands that keep the sea currents out.

From these coniferous slopes the water clarity makes for seriously instagrammable photos, and down on the beach there’s a little archipelago of rocks for you to climb and sunbathe on before returning to the water.

These rocks might pose a bit of a hazard for younger children, so families may prefer Tsambika or St Paul’s, but couples and teenagers will be in heaven.

15 Best Things to Do in Rhodes (Greece):

• Rhodes City
• Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
• Lindos Acropolis
• Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
• Mandraki Port
• Tsambika Monastery
• Monolithos Castle
• St Paul's Beach
• Tsambika Beach
• Kalithea Hot Springs
• Monastery of Filerimos
• Kritinia Castle
• Anthony Quinn Bay

Visit Rhodes: the 15 best things to do and see

Things to do in rhodes: the 15 best places to visit (all highlights).

You want to visit Rhodes and you’re wondering about the best places to see?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 15 best things to do in Rhodes , with all points of interest and must-see attractions. You will discover the Medieval City of Rhodes, Lindos Acropolis, the best beaches of the island and much more.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Rhodes in 1, 2, 3 or 4 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

And as always, this travel guide contains all my best tips to make the most of your stay.

So, what to do in Rhodes? Where to stay?

Let’s start with the best places to visit on the island!

1. The Medieval City of Rhodes

2. mandraki, 4. rhodes’ best beaches, 5. rhodes’ castles, 6. ancient site of kamiros, 7. the valley of the butterflies, 8. kallithea springs, 9. tsambika monastery, 10. seven springs / epta piges, 11. the other best villages to visit in rhodes, 12. full-day trip to symi island, 13. other best boat trips from rhodes, 14. the best water activities to do in rhodes, 15. sports activities to do in rhodes, the other best dodecanese islands to visit around rhodes, how many day to visit rhodes , 1 day in rhodes, 2 days in rhodes, 3 days in rhodes, 4 days in rhodes, best hotels in rhodes city, best hotels on the east coast of rhodes, by ferry boat, renting a car in rhodes, renting a boat in rhodes, tourist map of rhodes, greece tours, cyclades (greek islands), visit rhodes: the 12 must-see attractions.

Rhodes’ medieval city is clearly the island’s must-see attraction.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest and best preserved fortified city in Europe!

When the knights of Saint-John arrived on the island in 1309, they decided to build this impressive citadel. The 4-km long fortified walls, with many strongholds and towers, are extremely well-preserved.

There are only pedestrian streets inside the walls. You will be able to take a nice stroll and enjoy its charming paved alleys and historical monuments. Nowadays, the medieval city of Rhodes is entirely dedicated to tourism: you will find there many taverns, restaurants and shops. The place is also very busy (even if I visited Rhodes at the end of September!).

The best places to see in Rhodes are:

• The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes: one of the first castles built by the knights. Inside, you will discover a museum dedicated to Rhodes’ History and the Grand Master’s apartment, with its magnificent mosaic floors. Unfortunately, most of the furniture was destroyed when a stock of ammunition exploded in 1856. For a private guided tour of the palace, book here!
• The Street of the Knights: there, each of the languages had its own inn (also called “auberge” or “palatial residence”). You will discover the Inn of the Tongue of France, or the Inn of the Tongue of England for example.
• The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is located in the medieval Hospital of the Knights. There, you will find many ancient objects found in Rhodes and the other Dodecanese Islands.
• The Roloi Clock Tower, to admire a beautiful view over the Old City from the top.
• The Byzantine Art Museum and its many frescoes and icons from the Byzantine period.
• The Churches of Agia Triada and Agia Aikaterini.
• The Suleman Mosque , built during the Turkish occupation of Rhodes.

To visit the medieval city of Rhodes , you can opt for a guided Segway tour . It’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about the historical sites while having fun and without getting tired!

Book your Segway tour in Rhodes by clicking on the button below:

And if you already did segway and wanna try something new, you can also do a similar tour on an electric trikke, which looks like a 3-wheeled scooter . A super fun and easy to handle way of transportation!

Book your guided visit of Rhodes by electric trike here!

After visiting Rhodes’ old town, you can go outside the fortified walls to visit Mandraki, the modern city.

In the harbour, you will see the 3 mills of Rhodes as well as the place where the famous Colossus of Rhodes was built. This 30-meter high statue of the sun-god Helios was entirely destroyed by an earthquake in 226 BC.

It was replaced by 2 small statues representing a deer (the symbol of Rhodes), built on 2 pillars at the port’s entrance. It’s clearly not as spectacular as the Colossus, considered as one of the 7 ancient wonders of the world!

In Mandraki, you will find many beautiful monuments built during the Italian occupation of Rhodes: the Bank of Greece , the Archbishops Palace, the City Hall and the National Theatre of Rhodes.

There is also a casino and many international clothing brands stores such as Zara or H&M if you want to do a bit of shopping.

If you’re visiting Rhodes with children, you should go to the Aquarium, located North of Mandraki, right next to the Casino.

In Rhodes’ modern city, you will also discover the vestiges of Rhodes’ Acropolis, located 2 km away from the medieval city, on the slopes of Monte Smith.

There, you can see  the remains of the Stadium, the Theatre and the Pythian Temple of Apollo. This archaeological site is quite small, but the entrance is free.

Lindos is one of Rhodes’ most beautiful villages, and clearly one of the best places see on the island.

It takes around 1 hour to reach the village, located 50 kilometers South of Rhodes City. Classified as a major archaeological site , Lindos is a real postcard landscape: you will be amazed by the pretty white houses built on the hillside and its Acropolis overlooking the village and the sea.

As Lindos is a pedestrian only town , you should park your car in the free parking lot above the city, then walk down to reach the village’s entrance. When taking a stroll on its  paved alleys, you will enjoy numerous souvenirs and clothes shops, as well as many cafés and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a lively and unique atmosphere, then Lindos is clearly a great place to visit!

The Acropolis is Lindos’ main point of interest. You can walk there or get a ride on a donkey, but I wouldn’t recommend it, as the animals are often abused.

Built on a huge rock, 116 meters above the sea , Lindos’ Acropolis is surrounded by fortified walls built by the Knights of Rhodes. In the Middle Ages, it was one of the island’s many strongholds.

Inside the walls, you will discover the remains of an ancient theatre and the last vestiges of the Temple of Athena, built on top of the Acropolis. There are only a few columns left, but the place is still worth a visit: from there, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea and the village of Lindos.

If you’re staying in Rhodes City and don’t have a car, you can do a full-day trip to Lindos. You will have the choice between:

• Day trip to Lindos (click here) – You will take the bus from Rhodes to Lindos and enjoy 4 hours of free time to visit the village, the Acropolis or relax at the beach! It costs 25€ per person.
• Full-day boat trip to Lindos – Go to the Port of Mandraki, then take the boat to reach Lindos. There, you will have some free time to visit the city and its Acropolis. This cruise also includes 2 stops for swimming, at Tsambika beach and Anthony Quinn Bay. It costs only 20€ per person, and it’s clearly one of the best things to do in Rhodes!

If you want to take beautiful pictures of Lindos and its Acropolis, the perfect viewpoint is located on the road right before the village.

Visit the Acropolis early in the morning or at the end of the day. The temperatures will be cooler and you will avoid most of the crowd.

If you want to relax at the beach and swim in crystal clear waters, then Rhodes’ is clearly a great destination for your holidays.

The best beaches to take a dip in Rhodes are:

• Faliraki Beach: located 10 km South of Rhodes City, it’s one of the island’s most famous and crowded beaches. On the seaside, you will discover many hotel complexes offering all-inclusive stays.
• Tsambika: a beautiful fine sand beach, ideal if you’re with children. You can rent deckchairs and umbrellas as well as enjoy many nautical activities.
• Anthony Quinn Beach was named after the main actor of the movie “Zorba the Greek”, as it was his favorite beach!
• Saint Paul’s Bay, where you will find 2 small beaches with a beautiful view of Lindos’ Acropolis. Most of the beach is private. There is also a pretty white chapel hosting a few weddings every year.
• The beaches close to Lindos, located below the village. It’s clearly a great place to relax and take a dip after visiting the Acropolis.
• Afandou, ideal if you’re with children
• Prasonisi, (at the Southern end of the island) is one of Rhodes’ most beautiful beaches. This sand beach separates the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s also a great spot for Windsurfers!
• Gennadi, a nice and quiet pebble beach. the water is very clear there, so it’s perfect for snorkeling. You can also rent deckchairs.
• Kiotari, a sand beach with a private part and several taverns
• Pefki, located only 4 km away from Lindos. It’s way quieter than the beaches closer to Lindos.
• Agathi, a small beach mostly frequented by locals
• Vlicha (or Vlycha) is a great choice if you’re with children. There, you can rent deckchairs and enjoy a few restaurants.
• Glystra, with its fine sand and crystal clear waters.

When visiting Rhodes, you should also discover the island’s many castles.

Most of these castles were built in the 15th century by the Knights of Saint John and were used as observation posts:

• Kritinia Castle is located close to the village of the same name. Climb a few steps to access the entrance and go inside the fortified walls. From there, you will enjoy a great view over the sea.
• Monolithos Castle is located 5 kilometers after the village of Siana. It was erected at the top of a 236-meter high hill by the Grand Masters in 1476. It’s a great viewpoint, with a panorama of the bay, Chalki island and the mountains. There is also a small church and a pretty stone arch. It’s the perfect place to take a beautiful picture!
• Feraklos Castle , a medieval castle located close to the Charaki village and right next to Agathi beach. This huge fortress was erected on top of a hill, overlooking the bays of Agathi and Malonas. You might have the chance to be alone during your visit, as the place isn’t mentioned in any tourist guide. Don’t forget your hiking shoes, as the short trail is steep and rocky.
• The Castle of Archangelos, built by the Knights on the ruins of a former Byzantine Castle.
• The castle of Asklipio, built by the Byzantines. The view of the hills and the village is quite nice too.

All the castles in Rhodes can be visited for free.

You’re going to Rhodes?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Rhodes on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Rhodes.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Rhodes, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Rhodes!

If you’re interested in Rhodes ancient History (before the Knights), then you should definitely visit the ancient site of Kamiros.

This archaeological site is located around 35 km Southwest of Rhodes City.

With Lindos and Ialyssos, Kamiros is one of the 3 ancient cities founded by the Dorians. It was built on 3 levels following the Hippodamian grid system (urban planning):

• At the top of the Hill, you will find the Temple of Athena and the Acropolis
• The middle level was the main part of the city, with the inhabitants’ houses
• On the lowest level, you can discover another Temple and the Doric fountain.

You can visit Kamiros for 6€. From the top of the hill, you will enjoy a breathtaking view and discover how huge this city was. All the explanations signs on the site are in Greek and in English, which is quite unusual in Greece!

The Valley of the Butterflies is among the best things to do in Rhodes.

It’s located in the North of the island, 26 km from Rhodes city, between the villages of Paradisi and Theologos.

Between June and September , you can observe hundreds of butterflies literally covering all the trees, as the valley’s climate and environment is perfect for their reproduction. The valley is one of Europe’s best sanctuaries for the Callimorpha Quadripunctaria butterflies.

The valley hosts a rare specie of plane tree, and the butterflies are really fond of its sap! That’s why you will find so many of them there.

This natural site is quite large: you can walk along the marked trails in the woods and near the river to observe the butterflies.

And if you want to learn more about Rhodes’ wildlife, you can visit the Natural History Museum located in the valley.

You can park your car, get information and buy your tickets at one of the 3 entrances to the Valley . As the site is quite steep, you can also ride the “Butterfly Train” to get to the top and walk a bit less.

The entrance ticket costs 5€ between June and September and 2€ the rest of the year , when there are no butterflies. It’s still a great place to take a stroll and enjoy a beautiful natural environment.

You’re spending a few days in Rhodes, and you want to relax a bit? Then, you should definitely go to Kallithea Springs!

The Springs are located East of the island, 9 km away from Rhodes City.

Opened in 1929, the springs were renowned for Kallithea spring water’s curative and therapeutic properties. People were coming from all over the world to find a cure for arthritis, diabetes or asthma. Then, the springs were left in a state of decay for many years to finally re-open in 2007.

Once you’re there, you can visit the buildings, discover the beautiful mosaic floors and admire a magnificent sea view.

There is also a small beach with deckchairs, umbrellas and a restaurant. It’s one of Rhodes’ most famous private beaches.

Kallithea hosts many art exhibitions and concerts and was used several times as a filming location.

The entrance costs 3€. And if you want to rent a deckchair on the beach, it costs 5€ with a soft drink included.

If you don’t have a car and want to discover the thermal baths and other sights of Rhodes, you should book this day trip by bus .

You will be picked up directly in front of your hotel and you will be able to visit the thermal baths, the Butterfly Valley (which I just told you about) and the monastery of Filerimos with a guide.

Simply click on the button below to book your guided visit of Rhodes:

Tsambika Monastery is another place you should visit in Rhodes.

The Monastery is, in fact, a really small Byzantine church built on top of the mountain. You have to climb more than 300 steps to get there! Hopefully, The place is mostly shady and there are many benches to rest. Just take your time and it won’t be difficult.

Once you’re up there, you’ll be rewarded by a magnificent view of Tsambika Beach and most of Rhodes . It’s clearly worth the (small) effort!

The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. As an anecdote, you should know that women who cannot get pregnant were climbing up here on their bare feet to pray the Virgin Mary. If they got pregnant, they had to call their babies Tsambikos for a boy, and Tsampikas for a girl.

It’s time to continue this Rhodes tourist guide with a really great place if you want to relax by the water: the Seven Springs.

The Seven Springs (or Epta Piges in Greek) are located 4 km from the village of Kolymbia, not far from Tsambika Monastery.

There, 7 springs are gushing from the mountain in the same place to create a river. On the site, you will find a marked trail as well as a restaurant by the water. The place is very frequented by locals, and people are coming here to enjoy the beautiful natural environment and taste Greek specialities. There is also a playground for children.

Epta Piges’ most famous attraction is its tunnel. The river goes underground for a moment, to come out on the other side of the hill. You can follow the watercourse and walk in a very narrow and dark underground tunnel.

You will walk for around 180m underground to reach a small lake. Don’t do it if you’re claustrophobic or afraid of the dark, as you can’t turn back once you’re inside. It feels a bit like being in a zombie movie!

If you don’t want to go underground, you can reach the other side of the tunnel using the short trail through the forest.

Remember to bring 2 pairs of shoes if you’re going inside the tunnel. You will be ankle-deep in water, and it can get slippery!

During your trip to Rhodes, you will certainly go to Rhodes city and Lindos. But don’t miss the other villages of the island!

• Emponas (or Embonas): built on the hillside of Rhodes’ highest mountain, this village is renowned for its great wines.
• Archangelos and its colorful old houses
• Koskinou , a picturesque village with authentic Rhodian houses
• Ialyssos and its neo-classical mansions
• Afantou, one of Rhodes’ oldest villages
• Kritinia, where you can visit the castle I mentioned above
• Kattavia , the closest village to Prasonisi beach.

Boat trips are among the best things to do in Rhodes. The most famous is a 1-day cruise to discover Symi Island.

It takes 1h45 to reach Symi from the Port of Mandraki, Rhodes’ modern city.

During this one-day trip, your will first stop by Panormitis Monastery (1h visit). Then, you will discover the famous Saint George’s Bay and its turquoise waters.

In the afternoon, you will have around 3h30 to visit Symi. There, you can admire beautiful and colorful neo-classical houses.

If you want ot visit Symi, you will need to book your excursion to Symi from Rhodes by clicking on the button below:

If you want to enjoy a great day on a boat during your stay in Rhodes, here is my selection of the best boat trips.

You just have to click on the orange links to access all the details and make your reservation

As these excursions are very popular, it’s very important that you book in advance!

• Day cruise on a luxury catamaran with lunch included – Discover Rhodes’s east coast beaches and enjoy 3 swimming stops at Antony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach and Kallithea
• 3 hours cruise with swimming stops – pick up and drop off from hotels in Faliraki included.
• 6 hours cruise + snorkeling + buffet lunch – Departure from Mandraki port
• Romantic sunset cruise with dinner – Departure from Rhodes port
• Boat trip in the harbor and around the old town to enjoy beautiful views – You can also go down into the hull to observe the fish through the glass walls. Duration: 45 minutes.
• Sea trip from Rhodes to Lindos with 2 swimming stops + 3 hours of free time to visit Lindos – Pick up at your hotel in Rhodes, Kallithea and Faliraki.
• Speedboat cruise from Rhodes to Lindos + 4 hours to visit Lindos
• Boat party with DJ + drinks + barbecue on the boat.

Want to try a few water activities during your stay in Rhodes?

Great idea!

Here is my selection of the best water sports to do in Rhodes. Simply click on the orange links for more info and to book:

• Parasailing flight up to 100 meters high from Tsambika beach
• Stand up Paddle guided tour from Stegna Beach – Hotel pick up from Rhodes, Lindos, Falikari and other villages of Rhodes is included!
• Jet ski rental on the Theologos beach
• Jet ski rental in Ixia Bay
• Wakeboarding session in Tsambika
• Scuba diving – Ideal for a first time!
• Introduction to diving in Lindos
• Exploration diving in the most beautiful spots of the island for certified divers
• Introduction to stand up paddle yoga – Pick up and drop off at your hotel included.
• Kitesurfing course for beginners – Theologos Beach
• Advanced kitesurfing course
• Windusrf course – Theologos Beach
• Windsurfing course – Beginner and intermediate – West coast of Rhodes in Ixia bay.

To explore the small hidden coves and sea caves, you should book a sea kayaking tour . The tour lasts 5 hours and includes pick up from your accommodation .

Your guide will show you beautiful secret spots where you can also snorkel and swim .

To book your sea kayaking tour in Rhodes , simply click on the button below:

This kayaking trip in Rhodes is also available as a full day excursion. It includes the lunch in a local tavern and entrance to the archaeological site of Lindos .

You need to book it here:

In addition to the water activities, you can try many other sports activities during your vacations in Rhodes:

Here too, feel free to click on the links to book your activities:

• 3h30 quad bike tour off the beaten track – My favourite!
• 3 hours buggy tour off the beaten track – Another great experience!
• Jeep safari to explore the North of Rhodes and trails not accessible by car – You can choose to drive the jeep or have a driver.
• Jeep Safari in South Rhodes – To drive yourself or with driver
• All inclusive Jeep tour with lunch included and a guide – North of Rhodes
• All inclusive Jeep tour but this time to the South of Rhodes (lunch + guide included)
• Mountain bike tour with an instructor – Duration: 1 day
• Rock climbing and abseiling session – Pick up at your hotel included!
• Hiking with a guide – 3 itineraries to choose from, each lasting half a day.
• Hiking with a guide around Lindos.
• Hiking with a guide to the top of Mount Akramitis
• Late afternoon hike to enjoy the sunset on Profitis Ilias mountain.

If you’ve seen most of Rhodes, you should visit the other Dodecanese islands located nearby:

• Symi: one of the closest islands to Rhodes. It’s really easy to get there with the ferry.
• Halki , if you want to relax far from the tourist crowd.
• Kos: the 3rd largest island of the Dodecanese is renowned for its beautiful sand beaches and amazing nightlife.
• Leros, for hiking lovers!

If you want to check the ferries rates, schedules and book your tickets, you can visit  Ferries in Greece website .

If you want to discover Rhodes’ best points of interest, you should spend at least 4 days on the island. During your holidays, you will visit the Medieval City of Rhodes, Lindos, and most of the other beautiful places I mentioned above.

And if you want to relax at the beach, you can always spend a bit more time in Rhodes.

If you only have 1 day in Rhodes, you will have enough time to discover the island’s must-see attraction, the Medieval City of Rhodes.

Here are the best things to do in Rhodes for 1 day:

• In the morning, visit the medieval city: there, you will discover the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, the Street of the Knights and the fortified walls
• Go shopping a bit in the many boutiques located inside the walls
• Lunch Break
• Take a stroll in Mandraki, Rhodes’ modern city
• Admire the Acropolis of Rhodes and the Monte Smith
• End your day at one of the beaches located nearby

You can also take the hop-on hop-off bus that runs through the old town and the modern city of Rhodes.

To save money, you can also buy a combined ticket: bus + boat trip around Rhodes by clicking here!

If you have 2 days in Rhodes, in addition to the first day described above, you can:

• Visit Lindos and its Acropolis
• Lunch break
• Take a souvenir photo in Saint Paul’s Bay
• Walk up to Tsambika Monastery and admire the beautiful view over the island.
• Take a dip at Tsambika beach.
• Discover Epta Piges tunnel , if you’re not afraid of the dark!

If you’re spending  3 days in Rhodes, in addition to the 2 days above, you can:

• Take a stroll in the Valley of the Butterflies
• Discover the ancient site of Kamiros
• Make a short stop at Kritinia and Monolithos castles
• If you still have some time left, drive South and end your day at Prasonisi beach.
• From Monolithos, you can also go to the Eastern part of the island and discover many other beautiful beaches

If you’re spending 4 days in Rhodes, you should do a full-day boat trip to Symi Island.

You can also choose a cruise around Rhodes from Mandraki Harbour. You will sail on a 22-meter long yacht and enjoy 3 stops for swimming, in Rhodes’ most beautiful bays:  Kallithea, Afandou and Anthony Quinn Bay.

The 70€ per person price includes lunch, unlimited soft drinks and even snorkeling equipment! It’s clearly the best way to discover Rhodes’ surroundings.

Book your full-day cruise right here!

Where to stay in Rhodes ?

When visiting Rhodes, you can either  stay in the medieval city or its surroundings, or you can choose one of the many seaside resorts  located near Faliraki or on the East coast.

Depending on what you prefer, here is a selection of the best places to stay in Rhodes.

• Hotel Angela Suites & Lobby:  Located in the heart of Rhodes city, only 600 meters from the Palace of the Grand Master. The modern double rooms are starting from 60€ per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: The outdoor pool, the location, the quietness.
• Ibiscus Hotel:  Located only 200 meters from the aquarium, and 1 km from the medieval city. The spacious and bright double rooms are starting from 90€, including breakfast. What I loved: the pool, the location on the seaside, the great breakfast.
• Bellevue Suites:   Located 15 minutes away from the medieval city. This hotel offers double rooms with large bay windows and sea view, starting from 180€ per night, including breakfast. Strong points: the pool, the kind staff, the copious and varied breakfast.
• Rodos Park Suites & Spa:  This 5-star hotel is located only a 5-minute walk from the entrance of the medieval city. You will love its spacious and comfortable double rooms, with balcony and a view of the gardens or the city. The price starts at 210€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the pool, the garden, the spa, the location.  The best choice for a luxury stay in Rhodes!
• Dias Studios Hotel:   Located only a 10-minute walk from the beach and from Faliraki’s city centre. The studios flats, with a small kitchen and balcony are starting from 40€ with breakfast included. Strong points: the family atmosphere, the cleanliness.
• La Marquise Luxury Resort Complex:   Located only 4 minutes from the beach, in the heart of a 12 hectare natural park, this 5-star hotel offers double rooms with a great view of the gardens, starting from 100€ per night including breakfast. What I loved: the 6 outdoors and the indoor pool, the park, the room’s beautiful design.  It’s the best value for money in Rhodes !
• Esperos Village Blue & Spa – Adults Only:  This luxury resort is located in the seaside resort of Faliraki. The bright and large rooms with sea view are starting from 150€ per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: the free shuttle inside the resort, the tennis courts, and the quietness of this adult-only hotel!  It’s the best hotel for a romantic gateway in Rhodes!
• Elysium Resort & Spa:  Located on the seaside of Kallithea. The spacious and elegant rooms, with a great sea view, are starting from 180€ per night, including breakfast. Strong points: the “lagoon” pool, the 800m² spa, the private beach, the gourmet restaurant, the amazing breakfast.
• Mitsis Alila Resort & Spa:  This 5-star hotel is located in Faliraki. The double rooms are really elegant and well decorated, with a sea view. The price starts at 270€ per night for an all-inclusive package. What I loved: the indoor and outdoor pool, the great restaurant, the private beach, the facilities.  The best choice for a luxury stay in a resort in Rhodes!

How to get to Rhodes?

The plane is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Rhodes. The island’s international airport is located 16 km Southwest of Rhodes city.

Even if there are a few direct flights to Rhodes, you might have to take a connecting flight via Athens or Thessaloniki .

You can also fly to Rhodes from Crete , or from another island of the Dodecanese archipelago.

If you want to check the rates and schedules, you can  use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner.

If you’re not in a hurry, you can also take the ferry to go to Rhodes.

You can take the ferry to Rhodes from the Port of Piraeus, located close to Athens and easily accessible by bus from Athens Airport. It takes at least 18 hours to reach Rhodes , for around 65€ per person.

There are also regular ferry connections between Rhodes and the Dodecanese Islands of Symi (1h), Kos (between 2h30 and 5h), Halki (2h) or Leros (between 4 and 8 hours).

In any case, you should book your tickets in advance,  especially during summer!

You should rent a car to visit Rhodes.  It’s clearly the best way to discover the largest Dodecanese island, especially if you only spend a few days there.

Whenever I’m renting a car, whether I’m in Greece, Italy or Spain, I always book my cars on Rentalcars.com . This website is really convenient for the following reasons:

• You can compare prices between all the car rental companies.  You will also have access to the customer’s reviews.
• You can  get a “Full Protection Insurance” to be fully refunded in case of theft or accident (tested and approved, they refunded me more than 1200 euros to date!)
• You can  modify, or even cancel your booking for free.

Rentalcars also offers the “Best Price Guarantee”.  If you find the same car cheaper elsewhere,  they will refund you the difference!

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Rhodes, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Greece? 😊

I have made a tourist map of Rhodes  for you ,  to help you picture what the island looks like and where the best places to visit are located. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button (the one with a little arrow).

And you, what do you plan to visit in Rhodes?

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Greece by yourself. (All my Greece articles are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Greece tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Greece tours by clicking the button below:

Greece travel guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Greece ? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Greece : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Greece are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Greece – The Ultimate Bucket list!
• The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 4-5 days in Greece – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Greece
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Santorini !
• Itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Athens + Peloponnese in a week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Central Greece in 9-10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + Cyclades (Santorini)
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + even more Cyclades islands!
• Itinerary: 1 month in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Greece in a month!
• Road trip in Greece – The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days.
• Athens: The 20 Best Things to do and see
• Thessaloniki: The 12 best places to visit
• The 15 Best Cyclades Islands to visit – With all the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greek islands – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greek islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
• Itinerary: Greek Island Hopping routes – The best 2 weeks itinerary to visit the Cyclades
• Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
• Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
• Naxos: Top 10 things to do
• Paros: The 10 best places to visit
• Santorini: The definitive guide
• Tinos: The 10 best things to do

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 2 comments.

I am taking my 17 year old and his best friend to Rome for 2-3 days then 8 days on Rhodes and then finish up with 2 days in Athens. I would be happy to compensate you for designing an itinerary.

Hello Brad,

For your 8 days in Rhodes, you don’t really need an itinerary, as you can stay at the same hotel for the whole week.

So you can take an accommodation anywhere on the island for the week (you have my recommendations in the article, if you click on the name of the hotels in orange, you can see the rates). And by renting a car, you will have time to see and do everything I recommend in this article.

For your 2-3 days in Rome, you can have a look at my guide here: 3-day itinerary in Rome.

And for Athens, you can find everything you need there: The 20 best things to do in Athens

Enjoy your holiday in Greece and Italy!

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8 Spectacular Reasons To Visit This Medieval Greek Island

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Greece is renowned for its choice of gorgeous islands to visit. From the Caribbean-style waters of Lefkada to gorgeous Naxos, you’re spoilt for choice with over 200 inhabited islands to explore.

One of my favorites is the medieval Greek island of Rhodes. Not to be mistaken with Rhode Island in the United States, Rhodes is an island in the southeast Aegean Sea, very near the coast of Turkey. The Turkish port of Marmaris is only 25 nautical miles away, hence the island’s volatile and interesting Ottoman history. 

Because Rhodes has an airport and receives numerous summer flights from many European destinations and has regular connections from Athens, it gets very busy in tourist season — especially as it has over 300 days of sunshine a year and many beautiful beaches to choose from.  

Yet dig deeper and you’ll find Rhodes is also an island steeped in history, culture, nature, and wildlife, making it a perfect beach and culture destination just waiting to be discovered.

Let’s explore some of the spectacular reasons to visit this medieval Greek island.

1. Rhodes Is A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Built in the 14th century by the Knights of St John, the medieval city of fortresses, gates, castle walls, and a huge dry moat with its labyrinthine cobbled alleyways was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. It has over 200 streets and alleyways, many with no names. As you meander around, it’s easy to see how invading pirates could get lost — it was designed for exactly this reason. Don’t be alarmed; getting lost in the Old Town is considered a rite of passage.

The Ottomans eventually conquered Rhodes in 1522 and defeated the Knights of St. John, who moved on to Malta. Travelers to Malta will no doubt see similarities in the design and architecture of Malta’s own fortresses and churches. The Ottomans maintained the Old Town, adapting it to accommodate their needs; minarets were built on top of churches, and many Greeks were made to give up their homes, were allowed only inside the Old Town walls for work purposes, and were made to leave at dusk. 

The Italians took over in 1912, giving it a new lease of life. Visitors today will enter into an untouched piece of history.

For over 1,500 years, life has continued within, hence it’s considered to be one of the oldest “living” old towns in Europe. Over 6,000 people still live and work behind its walls with shops still trading, therefore daily life continues — evidenced by the washing hanging from windows or a Greek soap opera occasionally bursting from a TV. 

Pro Tip: Wear sturdy sandals and if a little unsteady on your feet — bring a stick for walking the Old Town cobbled streets. A very pleasant walk is around the moat. There are plenty of places to stop and sit in the shade, but it can get hot, so bring water, a sunhat, and plenty of sunscreen. 

2. You Can Stay In A Knight’s House

To really get a feel of what it’s like to stay in a part of history, base yourself in the lovingly renovated 14th-century knight’s residence — Kokkini Porta Rossa . Meaning “red door,” Kokkini certainly does have a red entrance, meaning you can’t miss its location: just inside the entrance gate of St John’s.  

As soon as you step foot inside, a sense of peace will overwhelm you. Stone archways combine with soft lighting in each room and the living area, culminating in a warm, familiar atmosphere. The sun-dappled courtyard is the perfect place to unwind with a cold homemade hibiscus tea or something a little stronger in the evening. 

This knight’s house only has six suites — meaning it really is boutique, each suite named after the people who used to live and work in the house.

A stay at Kokkini Porta Rossa rounds your Rhodes Old Town experience off nicely.

Pro Tip: Most taxis aren’t allowed within the walls of the Old Town, so you’ll be dropped off at the Gate entrance with a short, pleasant walk over the moat. Kokkini Porta Rossa can also arrange a taxi transfer with a company that is allowed inside when you first come to stay.

3. Beholding The Palace Of The Grand Master

The main spot to visit in the Old Town, this unique landmark is the pièce de résistance for your Old Town visit.

Built in Byzantine times and reconstructed by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century as a home for their Grand Master — it also served as an administrative center and fortress during the knights’ tenure.

Impossible to miss at every twist and turn of the Old Town streets, the Palace of the Grand Master is a museum where you can wander the large halls, dining room, and throne room (with massive fireplaces in each), plus the original private quarters of the Grand Master. It’s like stepping into the set of Game of Thrones . 

The palace also hosts regular exhibitions and occasional cultural events. 

4. The Street Of The Knights Has Fascinating History And Architecture

Starting from the Port of Rhodes and finishing up at the Palace of the Grand Masters, you’re walking the 200-meter cobbled Street of the Knights. It’s called this because there are seven inns located on this street, built in the 16th century and representing the seven regions the knights originated from. Although most of the Grand Masters were French, the seven regions were England, Germany, Italy, Aragon, France, Auvergne, and Provence.

You’ll still see the seven, with four inns left completely intact. The front of each is decorated with emblems reflecting the respective country — the French one considered by many to be the most spectacular.

The stonemasons who painstakingly worked on these facades were mostly Greek, but some craftsmen were also brought in from Spain and France. Take time to walk up the Street of the Knights to admire the architecture and stonework — and have your camera ready. 

5. Adventurers Can Stroll Atop The Castle Walls

For a bird’s eye view of the Old Town, what better way than to walk atop the Castle Walls? You’ll gain a different vantage point of the ancient city and its colorful houses and minarets. No need to use your drone for a photograph here.

You enter the walls from the Palace of the Grand Masters and exit at the end, which happens to be right by Kokkini Porta Rossa Boutique Suites.

Pro Tip: As you exit and come back to street level there are very steep steps. And there’s no shade atop the walls, so wear a hat. It’s open usually from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., so go earlier rather than in the heat of the day. The walk usually takes about an hour, though it depends on how long you stop to admire the views.

6. Rhodes Has Its Own Acropolis 

Athens isn’t the only place in Greece to boast an acropolis. It may be the most famous in the world, but Rhodes has its own acropolis at Lindos in the southeast of the island, at St. Paul’s Bay. It’s only 31 miles away by car or taxi from Rhodes Old Town, roughly an hour’s drive away.

Lindos itself is now a fairly modern village and the Acropolis sits atop a 380-foot cliff overlooking the village with a magnificent coastal backdrop. You’ll find other historical monuments within the Acropolis such as the remains of temples from the 4th century B.C. 

Pro Tip: To be rewarded with those sweeping views from the Acropolis, it requires a steep climb to the top. I prefer to view the actual Acropolis itself from the comfort of the beautiful cove of St. Paul’s Bay. With sunbeds and umbrellas, you can also choose from a range of tavernas and coffee bars and visit the picturesque chapel of St. Paul. Make sure to cover up if you wish to go inside.

7. Profitis Ilias Offers Views And History

Heading inland 28 miles from the Old Town of Rhodes, it’s time to explore something a little different. Continue winding up through the pine forests and you’ll reach Mount (or Profitis) Ilias, a peak of approximately 2,618 feet in the center of the island. 

Foxes and deer are known to roam these forests, but it’s the abandoned ruins that attract several tourists every year.

There are two chalet-style hotels here. Park outside and head off into the forest. Hidden amongst the trees with views all the way down to the coast is an abandoned two-story villa, originally the summer residence of the Italian Governor of Rhodes in World War II, between 1936 and 1940. It was intended, eventually, to be Mussolini’s retirement home before the Allies triumphed. Hence it fell into disrepair, and its ghostly shell is what you can see today. 

8. Butterfly Valley Is A Beautiful Escape

Continuing on with our nature exploration of the island, some 14 miles from Rhodes Old Town toward Lindos, you’ll find a turning to the “Valley of the Butterflies” — Petaloùdes in Greek. It’s a natural, protected oriental sweetgum tree park, and every year at the end of May, thousands of tiger moths gather to rest on the bark to conserve energy.  The result is the only forest of its type in Europe.

Visit this valley if you’re keen on walking through nature to view not only this unique phenomenon but also the huge rocks that rise up around the valley, lush vegetation, and a waterfall that ends up in a natural green swimming pool — it’s very chilly so be warned! 

Any time of the year is good to visit Rhodes — but the spring and fall are best to avoid the tourist hordes. In September and October, the sea temperature is a balmy 79 degrees Fahrenheit, making swimming still possible at a less busy time of year. Enjoy your time on this medieval Greek Island. 

For more on the Greek islands , take some time to browse these articles:

• 7 Gorgeous Greek Islands You Must Visit
• How To Spend A Fabulous Weekend On The Beautiful Island Of Naxos, Greece
• 7 Fantastic Experiences On Beautiful Lefkada, Greece

She writes for a variety of digital and print travel media including The Telegraph newspaper and various inflight airline magazines including features in European carriers such as Wizz Air and hotel and restaurant reviews for easyJet. Her debut novel, Girl Gone Greek — available from Amazon — has been made into a film script, winning Best Feature Fiction Script at the 2018 London Greek Film Festival and Best Feature Fiction Script at the 2020 Santorini Film Festival.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Rhodes, Greece

Here's where to eat, stay, and explore on the stunning island of Rhodes.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, areas to visit, how to get around.

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The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is a misunderstood slice of the Aegean. On the one hand, it's one of the most touristic islands in Greece , and a favored haunt for package tours and bachelor parties, which has given it a more mainstream reputation for pulsating nightlife and clubbing. But it’s also one of the most important historical islands, with a wealth of museums, monuments, and ruins that will make any history buff’s head turn wildly in excitement. The heart of the island is undoubtedly its walled Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a pristine example of the Gothic period, and visitors here can amble through the cobblestoned streets of the Jewish quarter. In the neighboring New Town (still at least 500 years old), the Gothic gives way to Ottoman mosques, public baths, and libraries. 

In addition to an abundance of cultural activity, Rhodes has glorious nature, including beautiful beaches, the country’s largest butterfly reserve, and hiking trails through natural springs. It’s an island with something for everyone in the family. “What makes Rhodes truly special is its dynamic character — offering relaxation, a vibrant party scene, serene beaches with crystal-clear waters, and windier beaches for thrilling sea sports,” says Panos Constantinidis, CEO of Swot Hospitality Management Company. “Visitors should not miss ... the Old Town, Jewish Museum, and Bee Museum to fully appreciate the island's rich history and culture.”

Top 5 Can’t Miss

•   Set on the island’s eastern coast, the Acropolis of Lindos is a piece of layered history. Originally a fourth-century temple to the goddess Athena, today you can walk around the ruins while enjoying stunning views across Lindos and the sea.  
• Melenos Art Boutique Hotel is the island's most luxurious property, with 12 suites plus a rooftop restaurant and bar with beautiful views of the coastline. 
• Located in an old house with wooden beamed ceilings and a fireplace, Paraga Restaurant at Apollona village offers a taste of local cuisine.
• The Valley of Butterflies is a serene park with streams, ponds, paved paths, and a stunning display of butterflies.
• Rhodes' Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the historic Jewish quarter.

Courtesy of Hilton Hotels

Lindian Village Beach Resort Rhodes, Curio Collection by Hilton

“The Lindian Village, Curio Collection by Hilton stands out with its beachfront location and five theme restaurants,” says Constantinidis. Bungalows and rooms are built around lush vegetation and tranquil waterways, plus the hotel boasts its own private beach as well as a glittering pool.

Allegory Boutique Hotel

Located within the Old Town and a member of the Yades Greek Historic Hotels, the Allegory Boutique Hotel is a sumptuous collection of five guest rooms built within a lovingly restored medieval building. Details include original Benaki Museum wall hangings, and bathrooms are stocked with Korres products. 

Trinity Boutique Hotel

Another Old Town property, Trinity Boutique Hotel is a former Knights of St. John’s building that now features six guest rooms nestled around a private courtyard, where breakfast is served daily under pink bougainvillea. Each room features a balcony, and the decor is chic.

Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel & Suites

This adults-only hotel is located on the island’s east coast, a stone’s throw from the Lindos Acropolis. The vibe here is sexy, with an infinity pool, pillow menu, and extensive cocktail list. Be sure to book a room with a view over the endless blue of Vlicha Beach.

Melenos Art Boutique Hotel

The island's most luxurious property, Melenos Art Boutique Hotel is a collection of 12 suites. Thoughtful details that draw on the island’s craft history can be found throughout, from the pebbled mosaic floors to the high, wooden ceilings. There’s also a rooftop restaurant and bar with stunning views of the coastline. 

Vladimir_Timofeev/Getty Images

Tour the Jewish Quarter.

Rhodes used to have a sizable Jewish population; the majority were Sephardic Jews, originally from Spain, who spoke Ladino. Tragically, the majority of its residents were murdered during World War II, and today, there are only about two dozen Jews left from 4,000 in the 1930s. South African-born Ladino poet Isaac Habib organizes two-hour historical walking tours through the quarter, which can be booked through the Jewish Museum.

Browse books at the Muslim Library of Hafiz Ahmed Agha.

Located in the bustling old city, the Muslim Library, originally built in 1793, houses more than 2,000 books in Persian, Arabic, and Turkish. Spend an hour browsing the rare illustrated copies of religious texts dating back to the 15th century, as well as the complete Ottoman historical tomes. 

Take a boat tour.

Catch a glass-bottomed boat from the Mandraki Harbor in Rhodes Town, or better yet, spring for a private boat that will take you to the glittering island of Symi. Day-long tours include food and drink, and have plenty of time for diving and swimming through turquoise waters.

Go windsurfing.

The wind-battered southwest coast of Rhodes has some of the best windsurfing in the Dodecanese. It’s not a secret — surfers come from all over the world to fly across the waves — but even if you’ve never windsurfed before, you can start with a class for beginners.

Enjoy hiking.

Head to the Valley of the Butterflies, a gorgeous forest full of streams and trodden paths, where tiger moths mature in July and August. Outside of this period, the park is empty (of both hikers and butterflies).

Muratani/Getty Images

Niku Restaurant

“ Niku Restaurant at the Lindian Village offers a luxurious dining experience, and it's one of my favorite restaurants on Rhodes,” says Constantinidis. The food is Peruvian-Japanese fusion, but with plenty of local Greek ingredients thrown in the mix. Niku also boasts an excellent wine and cocktail list (the pisco sours are particularly good). 

For a taste of local cuisine, Paraga Restaurant at Apollona village is a must-visit. It highlights the richness of Rhodian ingredients like extra virgin oil, local honey, and fresh tomatoes — don’t miss the trahana , a traditional soup made from soured milk curds. The restaurant is located in an old house, and features wooden beamed ceilings and a fireplace.

When it comes to seafood, Avantis in Afantou and the Fish Restaurant at Plimiri Beach serve up delightful dishes. Their speciality is lobster, but whatever happens to be the catch of the day is a good bet. 

Old Town Corner Bakery

The best takeaway breakfast can be found at Old Town Corner Bakery, which doles out delicious savory pies, buttery croissants, and drip coffees. It also offers freshly pressed juices for a healthy treat.

Taverna Platanos Lachania

Under the shade of giant green platanos trees, tuck into Greek tavern classics like pastitsio and zucchini fritters at Taverna Platanos Lachania , located on the island’s western tip. For dessert, don’t miss the honey-soaked baklava and sweet, thick Greek coffee. 

joe daniel price/Getty Images

The best time to visit Rhodes is during its shoulder season — between April and June, and September to October. Summer can be overly touristy, which means crowded beaches, landmarks, and restaurants, plus exorbitant prices. July and August are also increasingly hot; in 2023, wildfires swept through the island and visitors were forced to evacuate. In springtime and fall, you can expect mild weather that still allows for plenty of seaside activity. Orthodox Easter is a particularly atmospheric time, with candlelit midnight mass in churches and plenty of revery in the streets.  

The fastest way to reach Rhodes is by plane. The island has one international airport (Diagoras) located on the western side; there are year-round daily flights from Athens (about one hour) and Thessaloniki, plus other European cities. Rhodes is the Dodecanese island group’s main port, and there are plenty of ferry options for those who prefer a longer, more scenic journey. Ferries from Athens take between 13 and 24 hours; the island is well serviced to Crete, the Cyclades, and the rest of the Dodecanese islands. It’s worth springing for a cabin for the overnight ferry trips.

emicristea/Getty Images

The heart of the island is undoubtedly the walled Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a pristine example of the Gothic period. Here, visitors can amble through the atmospheric cobblestoned streets of the Jewish quarter. 

Rhodes’ second-largest city is Lindos, perhaps the most beautiful on the island. Built more than 4,000 years ago, Lindos was constructed around the plateau-perched Acropolis, which still casts an imposing presence over the town. A jumble of Cycladic-style homes and bougainvillea-laden streets crisscross the base of the Acropolis.

The least touristic part of Rhodes is its remote western coast; battered by the wind and elements, it's the preferred spot of windsurfers and other extreme sport aficionados. But that means the beaches are less crowded, too. The west coast is also home to a network of hiking trails and the island’s small but interesting wine region.

Unless you’re staying put in the Old Town, your best option for transportation around the island is a rental car, which offers a degree of freedom and spontaneity that the bus schedule won’t permit — car rentals can be organized at the port or airport upon arrival. Public transportation is run by the KTEL , which organizes the bus service around the island (the schedule changes based on the season). Taxis are plentiful in the main town, but can be expensive.

Best 9 cities in Greece: From cosmopolitan life to charming island living

G reece is a popular destination for tourists and for those seeking the perfect setting for a second home. There are many fascinating cities to visit or settle in Greece , with Athens being top of everyone's wish list, along with other smaller, beautiful cities and towns.

In fact, the term "metropolis" comes from the Greek language, meaning "city", therefore Greece is virtually the birthplace of the modern cities we all enjoy today - a good reason to visit the motherland where it all started.

In addition to being literally steeped in ancient times and centuries-old tradition, many Greek cities are in stunning locations, either overlooking the azure waters of the sea or nestling in the gorgeous countryside. Some of our chosen cities are on the mainland, while others are on the islands, but all are great-looking and welcoming places you should add to your bucket list.

Here is our list of the best cities in Greece that are well worth visiting and possibly considered for a move abroad :

Location: Southeast corner of mainland Greece

Population: 665,000.

Athens is at the top of everyone's list of Greek cities to visit because it gives visitors an amazing history lesson unlike any place else in the world, delicious cuisine, and pleasant weather all year long . Athens is the oldest European capital, 3,400 years old, and is famous for its archaeological sites such as the awe-inspiring Acropolis.

The city has several charming and quirky neighborhoods including Anafiotika. The Greek capital is popular with many foreigners settling in Greece because it is such a cosmopolitan city. Property on the fringes of the city is reasonably priced to buy and rent and the public transportation network is cheap and efficient.

Main attractions: Athens is the most popular city to visit in Greece for good reason. There are numerous archaeological sites, museums, and ancient cemeteries, as the city itself is a living museum best discovered on foot. There are also great food markets and a wide variety of restaurants to savor at reasonable prices.

Most popular activity in Athens: A tour of the Olympic Stadium, the Acropolis, Hadrian's Arch, the Temple of Zeus, and the New Acropolis Museum

2. Thessaloniki

Location: northern mainland greece, on the coast, population: 315,000.

Thessaloniki is Greece's second-largest city and is regarded as the food capital of the country. From neighborhood Greek tavernas, to large international restaurant chains and fine dining establishments, this city is a paradise for foodies.

Thessaloniki is steeped in history and is one of the most attractive Greek cities, with a beautiful coastal boulevard. It also benefits from being within a short drive to the Khalkidhiki region , a popular beach vacation destination.

Among the advantages of visiting or living in Thessaloniki are all the conveniences of a large city at your doorstep, including shopping, dining, entertainment, education, transportation and so much more. It is home to the Aristotle University, the largest higher-education institution in Greece. The city is the main transport hub for Eastern Europe. It is easy to get around using the local bus service and the new Metropolitan Railway.

Main attractions: The Byzantine Castle overlooking the Aegean, museums, art galleries and great Greek food. There are lots of things to do in Thessaloniki, including great restaurants, opera and theatre, plus the annual floral exhibition to enjoy.

Most popular activity in Thessaloniki: Food tour of the hidden treasures of Thessaloniki for foodies

Location:  The northwest Peloponnese Peninsula

Population: 170,000.

Best known for its large port that connects Greece with Italy, Patras sits at the foot of Mount Panachaikon overlooking the Bay of Patras. There is plenty to see and do in this Greek city and it is a magnet for tourists on 17 January each year when the city holds the largest carnival in Europe, as it has done for 150 years.

Main attractions: Historical monuments including the Roman Odeon (160 AD) where music concerts and plays are held and the medieval castle. The Arcaia Clauss Winery. Restaurants, bars, and numerous seaside cafés.

4. Nafplion

Location: southern coast of the peloponnese peninsula, population: 15,000.

Nafplion is very much one of the working cities in Greece, buzzing with activity all year round. It does have a number of tempting beaches for relaxing and its restaurants serve excellent seafood.

A largely undiscovered gem, Nafplion is known for its abundance of orange crops. The Koroniotis Winery produces fruity reds and crisp whites, while the Karonis Distillery is known for its ouzo, tsipouro, brandy, and liqueurs. There is a small expat community.

If you decide on moving to Nafplion, walk around the city looking for yellow stickers – these denote a property for rent. Real estate agents deal mainly with house sales.

Main attractions:  This area is rich in fascinating archaeology. Mycenae, home of Agamemnon, lies close by, as well as the beautiful Sanctuary of Aesculapius in Epidaurus. Tiryns, a UNESCO World Heritage site is situated just on the edge of the city.

Most popular activity: City walking tour

5. Corfu Town

Location: on the island of corfu, in the ionian sea, western greece, population: 25,000.

Sitting on the eastern coast of Corfu island, Corfu Town has a UNESCO-listed Old Town, making it one of the most beautiful Greek cities with cobbled streets, pastel-colored buildings and Venetian architecture. The city also has a wide esplanade with parkland by the coast. There is a lively community of expats who enjoy the best of Greek island life , including great water sports, good hiking trails and a reasonable cost of living.

Corfu was inhabited by the Venetians for 400 years and is steeped in history. There are beautiful churches to visit too, including Saint Spyridon is home to the remains of the island's Patron Saint.

Main attractions: The city is protected by the Old 15 th -century fortress to the east, with its chapel with lovely mosaics, and the newer fortress with its network of underground tunnels, to the west. Both are well worth visiting. The town's easy access to the island's beautiful beaches, such as Kontogialos or Mirtiotissa, is one of the main pros of visiting Corfu Town.

Most popular activity in Corfu Town: Enjoy the best views of old town and Corfu island from a private yacht tour

6. Rhodes Town

Location: on the island of rhodes, in the dodecanese islands, close to the turkish mainland, population: 50,000.

Rhodes Town is another famous Greek city because of its rich medieval history, linked to the Crusader Knights that lived there. It is great fun to explore the atmospheric ‘Street of the Knights' and the museum. The city is pedestrian-only and easy to explore on foot and visit the marina, beach, port, and aquarium along the coast. In addition to the town's own beach, many other beautiful beaches on the island such as Oasis Beach are within close reach.

The Old Town of Rhodes has a Jewish Quarter housing a memorial to the many Jews who lost their lives in Auschwitz during the Second World War. For expats, Rhodes Town is the most expensive part of the island to live and most prefer to live in the surrounding villages.

Main attractions: Rhodes Town is UNESCO-listed as it is the best-preserved fortified medieval city in Europe. There are cobbled streets and many old buildings including the Palace of the Old Master (Kastello) with 24 rooms open to the public.

Most popular activity in Rhodes Town: Catamaran day cruise

Location: The northwest coast of Crete island

Population: 56,000.

The charming city of Chania on Crete Island is popular both with visitors and expats. It stands on the site of the ancient city of Kydonia, overlooking the Venetian harbor, nicknamed ‘Venice of the East'. Chania is Crete's second largest city and is one of the prettiest Greek cities, with a relaxing pace of life.

Main attractions: There is plenty to enjoy in and around the city of Chania. In the old town center, there are narrow streets with cafes, beautiful architecture as well as museums and churches. On the outskirts, there are lovely beaches.

Most popular activity in Chania: A walking tour of Old Town, Public Market, Hill of Prophet Elias, Agia Triada

8. Rethymno

Location: the northern coast of crete island, population: 32,000.

Rethymno is Crete's third-largest city and it has so much character. There is plenty to explore plus the coastline is lined with palm trees. A lovely sandy beach stretches for 18 km (11 miles) just east of the city. There are museums to visit and a great selection of really good restaurants to enjoy.

The second largest carnival in Greece is held in Rethymno. A large student population ensures that there is plenty of life in the city.

Main attractions: The Old Town is delightful with narrow streets and Venetian and Ottoman architecture, which make Rethymno one of the prettiest Greek cities. There are museums to browse and the lighthouse to visit. Fortezza, the largest fortress in Crete, is located in Rethymno, built in the 16 th century in the shape of a star.

Most popular activity in Rethymno: Tour of Gorge of Kroutaliotis, Preveli Monastery, Damnoni Beach, Spili Village

9. Kalambaka

Location: in the region of thessaly, east of the pindos mountains, in the heart of the greek mainland.

For a change of scenery, Kalambaka is one of the smaller, but most amazing Greek towns because of its location. It sits in the foothills of Meteora. It is one of the oldest towns in the area and was once called ‘Eginio'.

Today, Kalambaka is very modern with a strong emphasis on tourism. The small expat community that lives there works with the travel companies organizing trips to amazing monasteries of Meteora.

Main attractions: The holy complex of Meteora is second in importance to Mount Athos. It has numerous spectacular rock formations and pillars topped by six monasteries that date from the 13 th and 14 th centuries. Kalambaka has plenty for those who enjoy the outdoors, including pretty waterfalls, hiking routes and caves.

Most popular activity in Kalambaka: Meteora monasteries full private tour

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This article originally appeared on MyDolceCasa and was syndicated by MediaFeed.

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I visited the island that's been called the 'Hawaii of Europe.' Here's why it's a must-see hidden gem.

• I visited Madeira, Portugal, which is often referred to as the " Hawaii of Europe."
• Madeira offers a mild climate all year, rugged coastlines, and a bustling city center.
• I recommend checking out places like Monte Palace and the Cabo Girão skywalk.

When I visited Madeira, Portugal , I found an island paradise brimming with natural wonders and cultural opportunities.

From outdoor adventures to trips to the enchanting Funchal city center, this Portuguese hidden gem has sparked comparisons to Hawaii due to the island's striking volcanic features, black-sand beaches, and towering peaks.

Madeira is the perfect blend of a tropical and European vacation, coupled with its yearlong mild climate, rugged coastlines, cascading waterfalls, and verdant cliffs.

With visitation at an all-time high , there's never been a better time to explore Portugal. Here are seven things you have to do while in Madeira.

Get a taste of outdoor adventure while hiking.

The view from the Pico do Arieiro mountaintop left me speechless.

You can truly appreciate Madeira's diverse landscapes from up there: jagged peaks, verdant valleys, and the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean stretching out before you.

I opted for a car ride to the top, but if you plan to hike, I recommend heading to the Vereda dos Balcões trail or the challenging but rewarding Levada do Caldeirão Verde.

When you need a break from hiking, catch a ride on the Funchal cable cars.

Located in the city center, the Funchal cable cars offer spectacular views as they ascend from Funchal to the charming village of Monte. It's perfect if you're traveling with family, including kids or elders.

Once in Monte, you can visit one of the island's main attractions, Monte Palace.

Monte Palace is the best botanical garden I’ve ever been to.

Monte Palace houses a huge collection of exotic plants from all over the world. The tropical gardens are also home to gorgeous birds like swans, flamingos, peacocks, and chickens.

From its beautiful gardens to its collection of ceramic tiles and precious gemstones, this place feels like a hidden oasis in the midst of the city.

If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, check out the Cabo Girão skywalk.

If there's something I love as much as the outdoors, it's a unique experience . So when I heard of Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe , I knew I had to visit.

The top of the cliff features a unique glass-floored skywalk suspended over 1,900 feet above sea level. When standing on the glass, I got unmatched views of Madeira's rugged coastline and the crashing waves underneath.

When in Madeira, skip the beer and stick to its famous wine.

In addition to being the name of the name of the island, Madeira is also a type of fortified wine. Needless to say, you can't leave without visiting a vineyard to learn more about the island's winemaking heritage.

I highly recommend booking a guided tour with a tasting to see the grapes firsthand and gain insights into the intricate aging process that gives these wines unique flavors.

Take a trip to the local market.

Whenever I visit a new city or country, I like to stop at the local farmers market . In Madeira, I visited the Mercado dos Lavradores, which is located in the heart of Funchal.

It was a great opportunity to sample local delicacies while buying souvenirs from local craftsmen.

For a glimpse into everyday life, don’t skip a visit to the Camara da Lobos fishing village.

Away from the city center and less frequented by tourists , the picturesque fishing village of Camara da Lobos offers a slice of authentic island life.

Grab a poncha, a local Madeira cocktail, and admire the dozens of art murals that surround the community, all while enjoying the colorful harbor and fishermen unloading their catch of the day.

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The 14 Best Beach Towns on the East Coast

By Alex Erdekian and Jamie Spain

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

From Maine to Florida , the East Coast is home to some beautiful stretches of coastline, amazing views, and of course, remarkable beach towns. Whether you're looking for a summer hotspot full of excitement and entertainment and brimming with crowds, or want to escape to a quieter small town this season, the shores on the East Coast have a little something for everyone. From charming, historic New England towns to tropical Southern getaways, there is so much to explore this summer.

There are 14 states that make up this stretch of the US, and each one has its own atmosphere, climate, and culture. From Cape Cod to the Florida Keys , the Atlantic Seaboard is home to a wide variety of vacation destinations. Here are 14 of the best East Coast beach towns in the US.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Bar Harbor, ME

Bar Harbor, Maine

Much of Maine's Mt. Desert Island is covered by Acadia National Park —home to climbs like Cadillac Mountain and a sophisticated system of carriage roads financed by John D. Rockefeller Jr. But on the island's northeast corner, charming Bar Harbor is a destination in its own right. Skirting Frenchmen Bay, Bar Harbor began drawing visitors as far back as the mid-19th century when some of the Hudson River School, a group of artists that included the likes of Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church, were taken with Maine's Down East landscapes. Still picturesque, Bar Harbor is now a full-fledged tourist town with a bustling main street, whale-watching tours, and of course, easy access to Acadia.

Where to stay in Bar Harbor:

• For a quirky stay: Queen Anne's Revenge Inn and Suites
• For romance: West Street Hotel
• For a private cottage: Beachy three-bedroom rental

Rockport, MA

Rockport, Massachusetts

The North Shore, a group of towns in Greater Boston, is a culturally important swath of Massachusetts. The coastal region is known for its excellent seafood, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks. Many a good film has been filmed here as well, such as Martin Scorsese’s Shutter Island and Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester-by-the-Sea . There are many towns worth visiting, but Rockport is a favorite among travelers. Forty miles north of Boston, the town has a can't-miss natural gem in Halibut Point State Park, from which visitors can spot Maine in the distance 80 miles away. Rockport is also beloved by art history buffs: it is home to Motif Number 1, a fishing shack with the superlative “the most-often painted building in America.” It was built in 1840, and was a popular subject because it represented New England’s nautical character. (And it didn’t hurt that the light hit it just so.) A replica was built promptly following the historic Blizzard of 1978, which destroyed the original. Gray Malin photographed it for his recent project on Boston .

Where to stay in Rockport:

• For cozy vibes: Coastal studio loft
• For a seaside view: Waterfront apartment overlooking a private beach

Oak Bluffs, MA

Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts

Ferries deliver day trippers to this little Martha’s Vineyard town daily and the colorful gingerbread houses for which Oak Bluffs is known are straight out of a storybook. Visitors walk straight off their boats into Ocean Park, a circular green overlooking the sea, encircled by said houses, with a frothy, delicate gazebo sitting in the center. Oak Bluffs has a long history of welcoming Black visitors, and today it is home to the annual African-American Film Festival .

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Where to stay in Oak Bluffs and Martha's Vineyard:

• For a historic stay: Faraway Martha's Vineyard
• For an eclectic experience: Four-bedroom Victorian beach house
• For a camp-inspired spot: Summercamp

Cape Cod, MA

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

This popular peninsula in Massachusetts is a vacation hotspot for good reason. While it really heats up during the summer, it's a beautiful destination year-round, and is brimming with history (head to nearby Plymouth to see where the Mayflower docked). Not only does it offer the best New England summer atmosphere, it's also home to exciting activities and small town summer charm. Here, you can spot wildlife, like whales ( Cape Cod is near their migration path) and seals, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy miles upon miles of sandy coastline. The Upper Cape is best for families, the Mid-Cape is perfect for escaping the crowds, and the Lower Cape is home to great luxury hotels .

Where to stay in Cape Cod:

• For New England luxury: Chatham Bars Inn
• For a historic stay: The Villages at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club
• For seaside access: Cozy one-bedroom cottage

Newport, RI

Newport, Rhode Island

Like Oak Bluffs, Newport is a beach town known for its houses, though a very different sort. Ten enormous, historic mansions—once the summer homes of the Vanderbilts, Nevada silver heiresses, and other Westerners of unimaginable wealth—remain standing along the famous cliff walk. Today however, they are museums. The most famous two are The Breakers and Rosecliff. The Newport mansions famously earned the ire of writer Joan Didion, who wrote in her essay The Seacoast of Despair, “To stand in the dining room of ‘The Breakers’ is to imagine fleeing it, pleading migraine.” Today, in lieu of the Great Gatsby -esque lawn parties of yore where swans roamed the grounds, Newport attracts visitors of all stripes for events such as the Newport Folk Festival.

Where to stay in Newport:

• For Gilded Age fans: Gardiner House Newport
• For grandeur: The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection

Montauk, NY

Montauk, New York

The final stop on the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk is appropriately known as the End. Due to strong winds, rough surf, and ample preserved land, it really does feel like the edge of the world, here. (Although some residents of Long Island’s furthest out town argue that if you really think about it, it’s actually the Beginning.) Montauk feels more remote and low-key than its luxurious, sceney Hamptons counterparts. Every visit to Montauk should include a stop at the Montauk Point Light House, which was commissioned by President George Washington in 1796. It is still operating, and the panoramic views from the top are out of this world.

Where to stay in Montauk:

• For barefoot luxury: Marram Montauk
• For a private beach: Gurney's Montauk
• For St. Tropez vibes: Solé East Resort

Cape May, NJ

Cape May, New Jersey

The site of pink triple-decker Victorian homes and a lively, festive promenade that exists as a beach town ideal in America's collective imagination, Cape May is the sort of dreamy summer destination one associates with trails of melted ice cream dotting the hot pavement and Fourth of July picnics. National Geographic also labeled Cape May as the World's Best Destination for Birding , writing, “The narrow peninsula at Cape May acts as a bird funnel, bringing in songbirds during their spring and fall migrations. At dawn on a good day, legendary Higbee Beach offers front-row seats to a feathered fashion show… With a little luck, you can see 20 species of warblers, each in its own colorful costume.” Sign us up.

Where to stay in Cape May:

• For picturesque looks: One-bedroom cottage with a hot tub
• For classic luxury: The Virginia Hotel

Chincoteague, VA

Chincoteague, Virginia

You won't find bustling boardwalks, sleek hotels, or grids of cars with clunky bike racks trapped in traffic in Chincoteague. This coastal town is all about the wildlife—specifically its wild horses . Visitors flock to the island annually for the Pony Penning that has been held since 1925. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Department holds the event, and it consists of a pony swim—in which the animals cross the Assateague Channel—and a pony auction. No one really knows how this population of horses came to be, though there are competing theories. Some say they are descendants of Spanish horses shipwrecked en route to Peru in the 17th century. Others claim they were left long ago by pirates. Still others say they are runaways from mainland farmers. The quaint beauty of Chincoteague includes trails for hiking, beaches, and a red and white lighthouse. For the best pony views, cross over on a bike to the Maryland side of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Where to stay in Chincoteague:

• For beachy decor: Three-bedroom with a balcony
• For sunset views: Bay-facing cottage on the water

Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, Maryland

There is no place quite like the Chesapeake Bay . Step foot here and breathe in the saltwater air, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy the gorgeous beaches. The seaside resort town of Ocean City offers fun for the whole family—stroll down the boardwalk and taste the saltwater taffy to start, then take your pick of activities for all ages: surfing, fishing, and kayaking included. If you're looking for something a little less busy, the nearby small town of Berlin (just a 15-minute drive away) is great for a quick trip or overnight stay to avoid the crowds, but will take you away from the gorgeous shoreline. A little farther away is the historic small town of St. Michaels , worth a visit just to explore the history and see the picturesque neighborhood on the water.

Where to stay in Ocean City:

• For a view: Condo with bayside access
• For a midtown stay: Condo near restaurants, bars, and entertainment

Nags Head, NC

Nags Head, North Carolina

Nags Head is a beach town on the Outer Banks , a group of barrier islands and spits sandwiched between mainland North Carolina and the Atlantic Ocean. It's known for its sand dunes in Jockey Ridge State Park, which comprise the tallest true sand dune system on the East Coast. Hundreds of shipwrecks nearby—caused by the region's shifting sands and heavily trafficked waters—have given the surrounding waters the moniker “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” and the nearby USS Huron is a popular scuba dive site.

Where to stay in Nags Head and the Outer Banks:

• For a beachfront retreat: Sanderling Resort
• For a five-minute walk to the water: Coastal boho home
• For panoramic ocean views: Triple-tiered vacation home

Pawley's Island, SC

Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Pawleys Island is so small that its year-round population hovers around 100 people. It was first settled in the 1500s, making it one of the oldest beach towns in the US. With that amount of history, there is, of course, a ghost story to go with it: There have been sightings of the Gray Man, a ghost whose appearance is said to warn of hurricanes as he paces up and down the beach, dating to a 19th-century storm. Summer options on Pawleys Island that are not at all spooky—besides flopping around on the beach—include golf, fishing, walking sculpture-filled gardens, and feasting on Lowcountry cuisine like She Crab soup.

Where to stay in Pawleys Island:

• For a beachy condo: Two-bedroom townhouse
• For a breathtaking view: Marshfront property near the beach

Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

While it's not too far from the aforementioned Pawleys Island, Myrtle Beach will feel worlds away from the slow, small-town atmosphere of the other quaint town. This popular summer destination boasts bigger crowds than its neighbor, and has a wide assortment of entertainment, dining, nightlife, and activities available. Aside from the deliciously warm weather and miles of beaches to traverse, Myrtle Beach is also home to a great many golf courses, amusement parks, water parks, and an iconic boardwalk with a massive 187-foot-tall Ferris Wheel.

Where to stay in Myrtle Beach:

• For golf lovers: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
• For seclusion: Island Vista Resort

Tybee Island, GA

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just a short drive from Savannah , Georgia, this coastal community is in the perfect spot for a day trip . Even during the summer, some parts of it manage to maintain that small-town vibe and don't get unbearably crowded, boasting an assortment of adorable ice cream and coffee shops, long stretches of sandy beaches, and great waterfront access. There's a little something for everyone from families to couples— South Beach is better for those who want a little excitement in their atmosphere, whereas North Beach is a bit more quiet and contained. I've found it particularly great for families (having traveled here with a multigenerational group ages 1-68), and recommend the kitschy Original Crab Shack for a memorable meal.

Where to stay in Tybee Island:

• For a private pool and hot tub: Three-bedroom bungalow
• For couples: Historic cottage with complimentary golf cart, bikes, and kayaks

Siesta Key, FL

Siesta Key, Florida

While we love the beach towns listed above, the only part of the East Coast that has a true tropical climate is the lower half of Florida. Naturally, the beaches in this area are very beautiful. We want to laud Siesta Key in particular for its fine sand, which comes from the Appalachian Mountains and is made up almost entirely of cool and reflective quartz, its waterfront dining and drinking, and its excellence for water sports like parasailing. The three beaches to visit on Siesta Key are Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach.

Where to stay in Siesta Key:

• For a lush condo: Beachfront stay on Siesta Beach
• For a private pool: Tropical three-bedroom home

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