Itinerary Suggestions: Rhodes Town

-Hour Layover Highlights

A brief visit still allows for a glimpse into Rhodes' charm.

Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Explore the heart of the Old Town. Visit the Palace of the Grand Master and walk along the famous Street of the Knights. Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Enjoy a traditional Greek souvlaki or gyros pita at a local spot within the Old Town. Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Walk around Mandraki Harbor, see the iconic deer statues and the windmills. Take a short taxi or hop-on-hop-off bus to the Acropolis of Rhodes (Monte Smith) for panoramic sunset views. Evening (7:00 PM onwards): Dinner at a charming taverna in the Old Town, followed by a relaxing drink at a local bar in one of the hidden courtyards.

Sights in a Day

Palace of the Grand Master
Street of the Knights
Mandraki Harbor & Windmills

Weekend & One-Week Stays

Suggestions for longer visits, allowing exploration.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

A short trip to savor Rhodes' medieval and coastal highlights.

Itinerary Snapshot

Day 1: Arrive, explore Old Town (Palace of the Grand Master, Street of the Knights, Archaeological Museum). Dinner in Old Town.
Day 2: Morning boat trip to bays (Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko). Afternoon at Acropolis of Rhodes. Dinner in New Town.
Day 3: Half-day trip to Lindos (village and Acropolis). Depart from Rhodes Town.

Consider booking boat trips via GetYourGuide.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

A full week allows deep dives into history, nature, and island life.

Weekly Plan

Days 1-2: Immerse in Rhodes Town (Old Town history, New Town).
Day 3: Full day to Lindos and South East (Tsambika Monastery, Seven Springs).
Day 4: West Coast drive (Ancient Kamiros, Valley of the Butterflies, Filerimos Hill).

Extended Week Highlights

More time to savor the island's diverse offerings.

Further Adventures

Day 5: Full-day boat trip to picturesque Symi Island.
Day 6: Relax at a beach like Faliraki or visit Kallithea Springs.
Day 7: Departure preparation and last-minute souvenir shopping.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

A two-week stay allows for extensive discovery and local immersion.

Extended Exploration

Follow the one-week itinerary and add more time for specific interests.
Add more hiking, dedicated beach days to different coves, or village exploration (e.g., Archangelos, Embonas for wine).
Consider longer boat trips or a multi-day island hop to nearby Dodecanese islands like Kos or Patmos.
Explore a cooking class or a local wine tasting tour.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For visits exceeding two weeks, consider a self-catering option for a local experience.

Apartment or Villa Rental

This allows for living more like a local and exploring the island at a leisurely pace.

Local Market Immersion

Discover local markets and smaller, traditional tavernas.

Slow Travel Experience

Fully integrate into the community and enjoy a slower travel rhythm.

Itinerary Note:

Adjust these suggestions to your personal interests and pace.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your trip to specific passions and preferences.

Historical & Heritage Focus

Immerse yourself in Rhodes' rich past and ancient sites.

Historical Journey

Concentrate time on the Old Town's museums (Archaeological, Jewish).
Visit the Palace of the Grand Master and the Street of the Knights.
Walk the impressive Old Town walls.
Day trips to Ancient Kamiros and Filerimos complement this focus.

Consider a guided historical walking tour.

Food & Culinary Experiences

Savor the tastes of Rhodes, from traditional tavernas to local specialties.

Gastronomic Delight

Explore diverse tavernas in the Old Town and New Town.
Seek out local specialties like Pitaroudia (chickpea fritters) and Melekouni (sesame honey bar).
Consider a cooking class to learn Greek recipes.
Visit the New Market for local produce and delicacies.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

For thrill-seekers and nature lovers, Rhodes has active pursuits.

Active Exploration

Spend time at Elli Beach for various water sports.
Plan day trips to Prasonisi for windsurfing or kitesurfing.
Book snorkeling or diving trips to explore underwater sites.
Explore hiking trails on Filerimos or in the island's interior.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Activities suitable for all ages ensure a memorable family trip.

Fun for All Ages

Elli Beach offers facilities for children.
Boat trips are popular with families.
A visit to the Waterpark in Faliraki is a popular choice.
The Valley of the Butterflies presents a magical experience.

Art, Architecture & Wellness

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Explore diverse architectural styles within the Old Town (Gothic, Ottoman, Italian). Visit the Museum of Modern Greek Art. Seek local artisan workshops.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

Visit the Kahal Shalom Synagogue and various churches in the Old Town. Consider a day trip to Tsambika Monastery for its spiritual significance. Indulge in a spa treatment at luxury hotels.

Cultural Workshops

Look for opportunities to engage in traditional Greek cooking classes or learn local crafts.

Tailored Travel:

Choose the activities that best match your interests for a personalized Rhodes adventure.

Budget-Based Plans

Travel smart with itineraries designed for different budget levels.

Backpacker's Guide

Maximize your experience while minimizing expenses.

Budget Travel Essentials

Stay in hostels or the cheapest guesthouses.
Rely on affordable street food like gyros and souvlaki.
Purchase groceries from supermarkets for cooking.
Utilize public KTEL buses for all transportation.

Focus on free attractions like walking the Old Town.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

A balance of comfort and value for a well-rounded trip.

Comfort & Value

Stay in comfortable 3-star hotels or apartments.
Enjoy meals at mid-range tavernas and cafes.
Use a mix of public transport, occasional taxis, and consider a scooter or car rental.
Enjoy a selection of paid attractions and perhaps one organized day trip.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium services and exclusive experiences.

High-End Stays & Dining

Opt for 4-5 star hotels or exclusive boutique accommodations.
Indulge in fine dining experiences and high-end restaurants.

Premium Transport & Tours

Utilize private transfers and chauffeured car rentals.
Book private guided tours and consider yacht charters to Symi or other islands.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Smart choices for a rewarding trip within a moderate budget.

Budgeting Strategies

Travel in the shoulder season for lower prices on flights and accommodation.
Book accommodation with kitchenettes to prepare some meals.
Balance paid attractions with plenty of free ones.
Research happy hour deals at bars and restaurants.

Seasonal Specialties

Adapt your itinerary to the unique characteristics of each season.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer (High Season): Focus on beach activities, water sports, boat trips, and lively nightlife.
Shoulder Season (Spring/Autumn): Ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and cultural exploration due to pleasant weather. Sea remains warm for swimming in Sept/Oct.
Winter (Low Season): Focus on authentic local life and cultural sites without crowds. Mild weather suits Old Town and island interior exploration.
Be aware that many tourist businesses will close in winter, offering a quieter, local experience.

Season Choice:

Your preferred season for travel influences available activities and crowds.

Planning Your Visit

Essential tips for a well-prepared trip to Rhodes.

Travel Essentials

Prepare for your journey with practical items.

What to Pack

Sunscreen and a hat are important for sun protection.
Swimwear for beaches and water activities.
Comfortable walking shoes are ideal for exploring the Old Town's cobblestones.
Light, breathable clothing for warm weather.

Always carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Health & Safety

Important considerations for a safe and healthy trip.

Well-being Abroad

Travel insurance is advisable for medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available.
Mosquito repellent can be useful, especially during evenings.
Know local emergency numbers (e.g., European emergency number 112).

Local Transport & Getting Around

Options for moving between attractions on the island.

Buses & Taxis

KTEL buses connect Rhodes Town with major villages and beaches.
Taxis are readily available in town centers and at popular tourist spots.

Car & Scooter Rental

Car rental offers flexibility for exploring the island's more remote areas.
Scooter rental is an option for experienced riders, especially for shorter distances.

Money & Banking

Financial aspects for your journey.

Currency & Payments

The currency is the Euro (€).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments.
Cash is preferable for smaller purchases, local markets, and rural areas.
ATMs are widely available in Rhodes Town and major tourist spots.

Emergency Information

Be prepared for unexpected situations.

Contacts

European Emergency Number: 112 (for police, fire, ambulance).
Rhodes General Hospital: +30 22410 80000.
Tourist Police: +30 22410 27429.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance) separate from originals.

Weather & Climate

Summer Months June-August

Hot and dry, with average temperatures around 27-30°C (80-86°F), often reaching higher peaks. Sea breezes offer some relief.

Shoulder Seasons April-May, September-October

Pleasant and mild, with temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, with warm sea for swimming.

Final Tip:

A well-planned journey to Rhodes promises a delightful and enriching experience.

Itinerary Suggestions