MileHacker Logo
Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Dodecanese, Greece

Accommodation Types

Variety of Stays

  • Hotels

    Options range from simple guesthouses to sprawling luxury 5-star resorts. Charming boutique hotels within the Old Town walls offer a historical ambiance. Modern hotels populate the New Town and beachfront.

  • Apartments/Studios

    Self-catering apartments and studios are very popular. More space and kitchen facilities make these ideal for families, groups, or longer stays. Find them on international booking platforms like Booking.com and Agoda, or via local rental agencies like Vrbo.

  • Hostels

    A few hostels cater to budget travelers and backpackers, mainly with dormitory beds. Typically in or near Rhodes Town, they offer a social atmosphere and cost-effective lodging. Explore options at Hostelworld.

  • Guesthouses (Domatia)

    Smaller, often family-run establishments present a more personal touch. Many traditional guesthouses within the Old Town provide an authentic local experience.

Premium Options

  • Luxury Villas

    For those seeking privacy and upscale amenities, private villas with pools are available for rent. These often sit just outside the main town or in quieter coastal areas.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Many charming boutique hotels are located within the Old Town walls, offering a distinct historical ambiance and personalized service.

  • Camping & Outdoor

    While not directly within Rhodes Town, camping sites in other parts of the island cater to those preferring outdoor lodging.

  • House Sitting

    Some options for house and pet sitting exchanges sometimes exist for longer stays. Explore platforms like TrustedHousesitters for unique lodging arrangements.

Neighborhood Guide

Rhodes Town comprises distinct neighborhoods, each with a different character and travel experience.

Old Town Medieval City

Positives
  • Immersive historical experience, central location for many major attractions (Palace of the Grand Master, Archaeological Museum).
  • A car-free environment, making it perfect for walking.
  • UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Captivating labyrinth of cobblestone alleys.
Considerations
  • Can be very crowded during high season.
  • Navigating with luggage becomes challenging due to many steps and uneven surfaces.
  • Some areas may be noisy at night because of bars and restaurants.
  • Vehicle access is very limited.

Mandraki & New Town

Positives
  • Good transport links (main bus station, port).
  • Proximity to the harbor for boat trips.
  • Access to modern amenities, shopping, and varied dining.
  • More accessible for those with mobility considerations compared to the Old Town.
Considerations
  • Less historical charm than the Old Town.
  • Can feel more like a typical urban environment.
  • Busy with traffic and city sounds on main roads.
  • Less unique local character.

Elli Beach Area

Positives
  • Direct beach access.
  • Lively atmosphere, excellent for sunbathing and swimming.
  • Many hotels offer sea views.
  • Proximity to Mandraki and New Town center for dining and shopping.
Considerations
  • Very tourist-oriented.
  • Can be extremely crowded in summer.
  • Lively during the day and evening due to beach clubs and hotel activities.
  • Less cultural immersion here.

Safety Note: All neighborhoods are generally safe. Exercise typical precautions for crowded tourist areas.

General Safety

Rhodes Town environments are generally safe, similar to any city center or beach resort. Old Town is well-patrolled.

Awareness

Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas, a common occurrence in popular tourist spots.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation booking based on the season to secure your preferred stay and rates.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (July-August): Book at least 3-6 months ahead, especially for preferred hotels or specific room types. Demand is very high.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, Sep-Oct): Book 1-3 months ahead for a good selection and favorable rates. Last-minute deals are not guaranteed.
  • Low Season (Nov-March): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually sufficient. More flexibility for last-minute bookings.
  • Prices are significantly lower during low season.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com are widely used, offering a vast property selection.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and Vrbo are popular for self-catering apartments and villas, presenting more local options.
  • Direct Bookings: Many hotels display better rates or special perks for direct bookings via their official websites. Comparison with third-party platforms is worthwhile.
  • Negotiation Customs: In high season, walk-in rates are rarely negotiable. In low or shoulder season, a slight negotiation might occur for smaller guesthouses, notably for longer stays.

Considerations

Deposit & Cancellation
  • Policies vary by property and booking platform.
  • Always check specific deposit requirements (e.g., first night's stay, 50% of total).
  • Note cancellation deadlines (e.g., free cancellation up to 7 days before arrival).
  • Non-refundable rates are often cheaper but present higher risk if plans change. Consider travel insurance.
Seasonal Price Shifts
  • Accommodation prices are highest in July and August.
  • Moderately high in June and September.
  • Prices are significantly lower from November to March.
  • Expect prices to double or triple between low and high season for the same property.

Helpful Tip

Early Planning

Secures the best choice, especially for peak travel periods.

Read Reviews

Consult recent reviews for insights into property conditions and service quality.

Location Check

Confirm the exact location relative to your main interests (Old Town, beach, harbor).

Accommodation Recommendations

Discover lodging options tailored to your travel preferences, from budget-friendly stays to luxurious escapes.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Hostels & Guesthouses

For solo travelers or those on a budget, hostels offer dormitory beds and a social atmosphere. Guesthouses provide a personal touch.

  • Hostel (dorm bed): €15 - €30
  • Basic Guesthouse/Studio: €30 - €60 (private room)
  • Often family-run with traditional decor.
  • Ideal for authenticity-seeking couples or budget travelers.
-Star Hotels & Apartments

These options present comfort and value, with standard amenities often including a pool.

  • 3-Star Hotel: €60 - €120
  • Self-Catering Apartment: €50 - €200+
  • Good locations, often with breakfast.
  • Suitable for couples, small families, or groups.

Luxury & Specialty Stays

Luxury Resorts & Boutique Hotels

Upscale properties present extensive facilities, fine dining, and highly personalized experiences.

  • 5-Star Resort: €150 - €400+
  • Luxury Boutique Hotel: €200 - €500+
  • Often beachfront or in exclusive historical settings.
  • Suitable for luxury travelers, honeymooners, or families seeking full service.
Villas & Unique Stays

For privacy and exclusive amenities, or immersive cultural experiences.

  • Private Villas: Often outside the main town with pools.
  • Old Town Boutique Hotels: Housed in restored medieval buildings.
  • A unique historical ambiance is present.
  • Check specific features for each unique property.

Family-Friendly Options

  • Hotels with pools and kids' clubs

    Common in the New Town or resort areas towards beaches like Faliraki.

  • Apartments

    Offer added space and kitchen facilities, ideal for families.

  • Resort Areas

    Just outside the town center towards beaches are ideal for family stays.

  • Self-catering properties

    Provide flexibility for meal preparation.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Hostels

    Present opportunities for social interaction.

  • Guesthouses in the Old Town

    Offer a charming and secure base.

  • Old Town Exploration

    The Old Town feels safe for solo exploration.

  • Quiet Evenings

    Consider quieter areas if seeking peaceful evenings.

Long-Stay & Cultural Stays

Long-Stay Accommodations

Self-catering apartments or studios are often the best choice for extended stays.

  • Kitchen facilities are available.
  • Weekly or monthly rates can offer better value.
  • Many properties extend discounts for extended bookings.
  • Check amenities like laundry and strong Wi-Fi.
Properties with Cultural/Historical Significance

Experience Rhodes' rich past by staying in a historically significant property.

  • Many boutique hotels in the Old Town reside in restored medieval buildings.
  • These present an unique historical ambiance.
  • Properties like Kokkini Porta Rossa blend history with modern comfort.
  • A truly memorable stay awaits within these walls.

Price Range Summary per night, EUR

Budget

Hostel (dorm bed): €15 - €30 | Basic Guesthouse/Studio: €30 - €60

Mid-Range

3-Star Hotel: €60 - €120 | Boutique Hotel (Old Town): €80 - €150

Luxury

5-Star Resort: €150 - €400+ | Luxury Boutique Hotel (Old Town): €200 - €500+

← Previous
Getting Around Rhodes Town
← Back to Rhodes Town
Next →
Food & Dining

Next Up: Food & Dining

Continue to Food & Dining