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Plan Your Trip to Rhodes: Best of Rhodes Tourism

Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes is the star of Greece’s Dodecanese islands thanks to its large size and incredible history. Packed with ancient and medieval sites, gorgeous beaches, and plenty of bars and restaurants, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. The UNESCO-listed medieval city is incredibly well-preserved, complete with a castle, 2.5 miles of stone walls, and a maze of streets and their modern additions: shops, restaurants, and bars. The interior of the 50-mile island is hilly and rural, while the coast is dotted with resorts, high-rise hotels, and small villages, like photogenic Lindos with its ancient hilltop acropolis, modern village of whitewashed houses, and incredible beaches.

Essential Rhodes

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How to do Rhodes in 3 days

Lush valleys, cobbled shopping streets, and a floating restaurant
Read on

Where to get medieval in Rhodes

Exploring the old city of Rhodes feels like travelling back to medieval times when the streets were ruled by crusaders known as the Knights of Saint John. In an effort to revive the island’s glory days, many of its stone buildings have been completely reconstructed—and I recommend checking them out even if ancient ruins aren’t your thing. Here’s my guide to getting into a medieval mood.
Helen Iatrou, Athens, Greece
  • Thalassini Pyli
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    Following the coastal road, you’ll walk through a narrow arched entrance between these tall, imposing twin towers and emerge in the well-preserved Old Town. Thalassini Pyli is one of 11 gates into Rhodes, and definitely the most impressive. Don’t miss the carvings of the Virgin Mary, John the Baptist, and Saint Peter.
  • Fortifications of Rhodes
    146
    Built by the Knights of Saint John, these medieval defenses remain upright centuries later. Take a walk along the top of the city walls—wide enough that you won’t worry about children getting too close to the edge—to gain a sense of the size of the medieval town below and to peer out over the Aegean Sea. Make sure to bring water and wear comfortable shoes.
  • Mandraki Harbour
    1,402
    Stroll to the far end of a causeway, pausing to admire three well-preserved windmills, to reach the 15th-century Fortress of Agios Nikolaos, built to protect Mandraki Harbour from invaders. At the entrance to the harbour, a Venetian-era bronze stag and doe stand atop stone columns, greeting seafarers. Today that mostly means the owners of the yachts that are anchored nearby.
  • Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
    6,679
    Built around a grand courtyard, the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Master is one of the best preserved medieval monuments in Rhodes. Destroyed by an explosion in 1856, it was later restored to serve as Italian Dictator Benito Mussolini’s summer home. It actually got something of an upgrade, with architects installing intricate mosaic floors taken from Greece. The palace houses two museums, one devoted to medieval Rhodes.
  • Street of the Knights
    1,159
    It’s easy to envision knights on horseback thundering across these cobblestones. A local guide helped me imagine what this street looked like back in the day, pointing out the seven inns that housed knights according to their birthplace. Ornate coats of arms, intricate carvings, and—in the case of the French—a sculpture of the Virgin Mary and child are still visible today.
  • Archaeological Museum of Rhodes (Hospital of the Knights)
    2,568
    Erected in 1489, this stately two-story building originally served as the Hospital of the Knights. Today, it hosts an awesome archaeological museum filled with artifacts like vases, figurines, and jewellery from hundreds of years before the Knights took control. Beneath one of the porticoes surrounding the building’s courtyard is its mascot, an enigmatic stone lion.
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Rhodes travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Day Trips from Rhodes

According to forum posts, exploring Rhodes Old Town is highly recommended as a day trip. Some travelers said this could take a full day, as it involves walking the ancient walls, visiting the Grand Master's Palace, and wandering through the historical streets. Another suggested day trip is to Monolithos, where visitors can explore the castle and enjoy the scenic views along the way, likened to the Pacific Coast Highway.

Boat Excursions

For water-based excursions, some users recommended boat trips to nearby Turkey or the island of Symi. While the trips to Turkey include visits to historical sites like ancient tombs, the journey itself might not provide a deep cultural experience, as it focuses on shopping. On the other hand, a trip to Symi is praised for its scenic beauty and is considered a worthwhile day trip.

Exploring Surrounding Areas

Other recommendations for day trips include driving to various spots around the island. Destinations like Prasonissi for kite surfing and Tsambika Monastery for panoramic views are highlighted. Additionally, the Valley of the Butterflies and Anthony Quinn Bay are mentioned as places that can be combined into a day trip, though personal transportation, like a hired car, is advised for easier access.

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Taxi Services

According to forum posts, taxis are readily available outside the arrivals building at Rhodes Airport. The fare from the airport to nearby destinations like the ferry port or Faliraki typically ranges from €25 to €30. Travelers have mentioned that taxis can directly access ferry terminals, providing convenience especially when carrying luggage.

Bus Services

Some travelers said that there are bus services from Rhodes Airport to various locations, including Rhodes Town. Buses are frequent, with a detailed schedule available online, and tickets can be purchased on the spot for around €2.50. The bus journey to Rhodes Town takes approximately 40 minutes.

Private Transfers

For those preferring pre-arranged transportation, private transfers are an option. Forum users have discussed booking private transfers online for direct routes to specific locations like Lindos or Helea Family Resort, with prices and travel times varying based on the destination.

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Weather Overview

According to forum posts, Rhodes experiences very hot summers with daytime temperatures often reaching 30-40+°C in July, the hottest month, and nighttime temperatures staying around 26-30°C. For instance, one traveler reported experiencing record high temperatures of 36°C in mid-June, indicating that extreme heat can occur.

Seasonal Variations

Travelers have called out that the weather in Rhodes can vary significantly depending on the time of year. For example, in October, the weather is generally sunny with temperatures around 25°C on the east coast, although it can be windier and slightly cooler on the northwest coast. By late October, the weather can become more unpredictable, with possibilities of rain and thunderstorms.

Weather by Location

Some travelers said that the weather in Rhodes can also vary by location. The eastern coast tends to be warmer and less windy compared to the northwestern part, where towns like Rhodes Town might be windier but still sunny. This regional variation can impact daily weather experiences significantly.

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Boat Trip Availability

According to forum posts, boats from Rhodes to Lindos primarily operate as day trips, departing from Mandraki Harbour around 9 AM and arriving in Lindos around 11 AM. These trips are generally not suited for one-way travel as they are intended for round trips, returning from Lindos at 2:30 PM.

Booking and Prices

Some travelers noted that while most boat services cater to round trips, it is possible to arrange a one-way trip by speaking directly with boat operators. Prices and the ability to book in advance vary, but travelers can typically inquire and purchase tickets at Mandraki Harbour the evening before departure.

Travel Considerations

Travelers have called out that boat trips often include swim stops, which can limit the actual time spent in Lindos. Those looking for more time to explore might find this restrictive. Moreover, boats generally arrive in Lindos during peak tourist hours, contributing to potential congestion in the area.

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Comparison of Historical and Cultural Offerings

According to forum posts, Crete is highly recommended for history enthusiasts due to its rich array of Minoan and Dorian archaeological sites, as well as Venetian and Ottoman influences. Travelers have called out Heraklion's archaeological museum and the famous Minoan palace at Knossos as must-see destinations.

Traveler Experience in Rhodes

Some travelers said Rhodes offers significant historical sites, including Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Acropolis of Lindos. However, it is also mentioned that Rhodes can feel overly touristy and crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port.

General Traveler Advice

For many users discussing travel between the two, Crete is preferred for a more extended stay due to its vast size and variety, offering more exploration options. Rhodes is suggested for shorter stays as its smaller size allows for seeing the highlights more quickly.

Traveler Recommendations

Travelers have recommended saving Crete for when you have more time to explore, suggesting that its size and cultural depth make it more suitable for a longer visit compared to Rhodes.

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Seasonal Observations

According to forum posts, the best time to visit the Valley of the Butterflies in Rhodes is from late May into June. This period is optimal for observing the moths, commonly referred to as butterflies by visitors.

Visitor Experience

Some travelers have mentioned that the Valley offers a charming and shaded walk, which is particularly pleasant during warmer days. However, the paths may be challenging for visitors with buggies or for those with mobility issues.

Wildlife Considerations

Travelers have called out the importance of respecting the wildlife in the area. It's advised not to disturb the moths by making them fly, as this can weaken them. This respect for natural life enhances the experience and preserves the environment for future visitors.

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Ferry Frequency

According to forum posts, there are multiple ferry services from Rhodes to Symi, especially during the peak summer months. Travelers have noted that in August, there are several sailings each day from Rhodes, typically with at least two morning sailings around 8:30 to 10:00 AM, and most days also have afternoon sailings.

Ferry Operators

Some users mentioned that these services are operated by multiple companies, providing flexibility in terms of schedules. For instance, in September, there are about four sailings a day managed by four different companies, ensuring ample options for travelers planning their trips.

Year-Round Service

Travelers have called out that ferry services between Rhodes and Symi operate all year round, which is crucial as Symi is not self-sufficient in food and other essentials, necessitating regular ferry connections with Rhodes. This ensures that the island remains accessible throughout the year for both residents and tourists.

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Beach Activities

According to forum posts, Pefkos offers excellent beachside activities, with sandy beaches ideal for families. Travelers can enjoy paddle boarding on calm days, as the sea around Lee Beach usually does not have a strong tide.

Boat Trips

Some travelers mentioned that boat trips are a popular activity in Pefkos. There are options for half or full-day yacht trips around the bay, and opportunities to rent boats for personal exploration.

Dining and Nightlife

For many users, dining out in Pefkos is a treat, with several tavernas and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. While Pefkos is quieter at night compared to other destinations, there is still some entertainment available, including bars with live music.

Exploring Nearby Attractions

Travelers have called out the proximity of Pefkos to Lindos as a significant advantage. Lindos, with its ancient Acropolis and vibrant village atmosphere, is just 4km away and easily accessible by bus or taxi for those looking to explore more historical and cultural sites.

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