Places to Visit and Things to Do in Rhodes Town
We moved to Greece 6 years ago. One of the first islands we visited was Rhodes and its beautiful capital. There are so many things to do in Rhodes Town that we go back all the time.
Greece’s fourth biggest island has it all: culture, food, archaeology, beaches and warm hosts. Not only that, but Rhodes enjoys fantastic weather all year round. The island shines even in winter!
We have to be honest. Rhodes can be packed in peak season. What were you expecting? It’s gorgeous! However, due to its size and diverse offerings, you will always find a quiet spot.
Explore Rhodes’ Old Town on Foot
Rhodes Old Town is like no other. Not only that, but it’s in immaculate shape. You will see and experience history while walking about. The Old Town is close to the northern tip of the island.
A massive 15th Century wall surrounds it. Our walks inside the Old Town follow no itinerary. Every street is interesting and worth your time. There are simply too many things to mention. That said, you should not skip the 16th Century Mosque of Suleiman.
The Old Town can be packed during the day thanks to the cruises. No worries, you can always chill in a side street. We strongly recommend visiting in the evenings. It’s magical.
Visit the Palace of the Grand Master
We always take the long way to the Palace of the Grand Master. We cross Democracy Park, check out the ancient windmill and access through its most imposing gate: Amboise Gate.
The massive castle towers above the city. The Knights Hospitaller built most of the structure in the early 14th Century. However, following a massive explosion, the Italians rebuilt it in 1940.
When it gets too crowded or hot, we always go back to Estrella Rhodes. The simple yet delicious restaurant is a local’s favorite in the middle of Democracy Park, far from the crowds.
Walk on the City Walls
We are walkers. It’s the thing we love doing the most: walk about admiring nature and architecture. Thus, every time we visit Rhodes we walk on the city walls.
Enter the wall at St. Anthony’s (Pili Kanonion) Gate. You can walk for almost 0.6 miles (1 km) on the walls to St. John’s Gate. The views will take your breath away.
Another incredible walk is around the moat. You will walk across bridges and under arches, bastions and towers all around the walls. It’s a 1.5 mile (2.2 km) walk far from the crowds.
Explore the Jewish Quarter
Since we try to avoid the crowds, we always access the Jewish Quarter from the east, through the Akandia Gate. This area is mostly empty and the Old Town’s biggest park is here.
Therefore, if you are tired or need to chill, the area around Dionisios Park is perfect. The Jewish Quarter is a maze of little streets and isles. It’s very atmospheric.
You have to visit the Jewish Museum and Greece’s oldest Synagogue: Kahal Shalom from 1577. Touristy but splendid Jewish Martyr square is near. Look for the memorial to the holocaust.
Learn History in the Archeological Museum
One of us is an architect. The other one is into archaeology big time. That’s why the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is one of our favorites in the world!
The Museum used to be the Hospital of the Knights of Saint John from the mid-15th Century. The building is stunning and the collection inside epic.
You will see ancient mosaics, sculptures, pottery, and artifacts from Rhodes and nearby islands. Look for the Crouching Venus and the Head of Helios. There’s a lovely garden with a pond and a coffee shop.
Stroll along Mandraki Harbor
Though you can walk along Mandraki Harbor at all times, we believe you should do so in the late afternoon. Most tourists will be gone, and the weather will be splendid.
In fact, this area is perfect to catch the sunset. We always begin our walk at the Saint Nicholas Fortress. You can see the Old Town from the 15th Century bastion.
We loop around the marina to the former site of Rhodes Colossus, now occupied by deer sculptures. Continue along the coast to the casino, to Elli beach and Rhodes Aquarium.
Try Delicious Greek Cuisine in Niohori Neighborhood
Niohori is the neighborhood north of the Old Town, adjacent to the sea. Though so close to the touristy area, it is totally Greek. Mostly locals live here.
Therefore, everything is more relaxed, affordable, and authentic. Besides, it has a lovely pedestrian area where you can walk from taverna to taverna, shop, have ice cream, and people watch.
It’s the area north of 28 Oktobriou Street and south of Geor. Papanikolaou Street. We always dine at Niohori Restaurant in the heart of the pedestrian area. Our favorite wine and cocktail bar is near: The Last Butler.
Visit the Ancient Stadium and the Acropolis of Rhodes
Rhodes wouldn’t be complete without its incredible Ancient Stadium and Acropolis. The place is grand even for Greek standards. It’s a green area full of trees east of the Old Town and next to the sea.
The archaeological park is on the slope of St. Stephen’s Hill. There are a couple of temples, a theatre, a stadium, and a gymnasium. The remains date back to the 5th Century BC.
Once done with the park, take a stroll to the top of St. Stephen’s Hill. The views over the city and the sea will take your breath away. We always go there to catch the sunset.
Spend Some Time on the Beach
If you are a beach bunny you will adore Rhodes. There are several beaches in Rhodes that are worth your time. However, we usually gravitate towards the urban beaches close to the Old Town.
Since we don’t drive, it’s easy to walk from these beaches to the Old Town. We are talking about the peninsula north of the Old Town with beaches on both sides.
Elli beach is to the east. It’s a long wide pebbled beach with crystal blue waters. It’s calm and there are several restaurants. Akti Miaouli is to the west. It’s a bit windy and the sea can be choppy.
Go on a Day Trip to Lindos
Without a doubt, Lindos is one of the nicest little towns in Greece. It’s got a hill, gorgeous beaches, castles, ancient temples, nature, bars, and restaurants. Every time we are in Rhodes we make sure to visit it.
Lindos is just 30 miles (50 km) south of Rhodes Town. Buses leave from the center of Rhodes Town and take you to Lindos in less than an hour.
Now, if you can, spend at least one night in Lindos. Nights are magical and there aren’t many tourists. Our favorite hotel in Lindos is the Maris Lindos Suites & Apartments.
Where to Stay in Rhodes Town
The best places to stay in Rhodes Town are historic palaces set in quiet streets. Central but quiet. Our absolute favorite is the S. Nikolis Historic Boutique Hotel, from 1300!
The hotel opened in 1980 on a very quiet cobbled street. It’s made of stone and has luxurious rooms with stone walls and wooden ceilings. You will never forget your time here.
Saint Michel Hotel is cheaper but equally good. The historic property faces a super quiet plaza. The rooms are big and comfy. The rooftop terrace offers unforgettable views.
