Rhodes Town vacation packages

How to Get to Rhodes Town

• Arrival: Rhodes International Airport is conveniently located just a 20-minute taxi ride or a 40-minute bus trip from Rhodes Town.

• Costs: Taking a taxi from the airport to Rhodes Town will cost you around $32. A one-way bus ticket is approximately $3.

Best Time to Visit Rhodes Town

The best time for your vacation to Rhodes depends on your interests and activities planned:

• April to June: Experience pleasant temperatures between 64 and 77°F, with about 8 to 10 hours of sunshine daily and minimal rain. It's perfect for outdoor adventures.

• July to August: This is the peak tourist season in Rhodes. Enjoy hot, dry, and sunny weather with average temperatures around 82°F. This is ideal for beach outings and exploring the island’s lively nightlife, although it can get crowded, and prices for hotels and flights might be higher.

• September to October: Offers a more relaxed atmosphere with warm weather, temperatures ranging from 79 to 72°F. The sea remains warm for swimming, and there are fewer tourists around.

• November to March: Known as the low season in Rhodes. The temperature drops from 64°F in November to 54°F in January, before warming up to 59°F in March. Though rain is more common, it's a quieter time to enjoy cultural and historical sights without the tourist crowds.

Practical Information

• Languages: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken by locals.

• Currency: Greece uses the Euro (€). ATMs are widely accessible.

• Transportation: Reliable public transportation is available, with buses connecting major towns and attractions. You can buy bus tickets at kiosks or directly from the driver (cash only). For short trips, expect to pay around $2 for one ticket. Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable. For more flexibility, consider renting a car or scooter.

• Electricity: Greece uses 220-240V outlets with two round pins. Travelers from the US will need a plug adaptor.

• Time Zone: Greece is in the Eastern European Time zone, which is 2 hours ahead of GMT (and 3 hours ahead during daylight saving time).

• Travel Requirements: US citizens need a valid passport to enter Greece, but no visa is required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Best things to do in Rhodes

Rhodes vacations offer something for everyone, whether it's breathtaking views, historical explorations, or family-friendly activities.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Lindos Acropolis: Perched on a hilltop, the Acropolis of Lindos offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the village below. It’s a bit of a trek, but the vistas are worth every step.

• Tsambika Monastery: Located on a hilltop, the steep climb is rewarded with fantastic views over the east coast of Rhodes.

The best districts

• Rhodes Old Town: Stroll along narrow streets, visit the Palace of the Grand Masters, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Sokratous Street.

• Lindos: Enjoy the whitewashed houses, wander through winding streets, and dine at rooftop restaurants. The historic acropolis and the beautiful St. Paul’s Bay are must-see.

Parks and gardens

• Rodini Park: On the edge of Rhodes Town, this is said to be the oldest landscaped park in the world. It's beginning to show its age and is in dire need of some TLC, but not without a certain wild charm.

Museums

• Archaeological Museum of Rhodes: Housed in the medieval Hospital of the Knights, the museum’s collection centers on fantastic finds from Ialissos and Kamiros.

• Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes: Originally built by the Knights of St John, this Gothic castle is now a museum with a collection of medieval artifacts, weaponry, and artworks.

Historic monuments

• Street of the Knights: Lined with medieval inns that housed the Knights of St John. Walking here feels like stepping back in time.

• Archaeological Site of Kamiros: Located on the northwest coast, the ruins of Kamiros offer a glimpse into an ancient Dorian city with its well-preserved layout and structures.

Day trips in the area

• Symi Island: Accessible by boat, spend a day exploring the colorful harbor and the quaint village, and don’t miss the Panormitis Monastery.

Activities for families in Rhodes

Family vacations to Rhodes are guaranteed to make memories, from horseback riding in the countryside to a fun-filled day at a water park.

• Family-friendly beaches: Tsambika or Faliraki are great options. Both are sandy beaches with clear, shallow waters for swimming.

• Playgrounds: The best playgrounds are found at the island’s resorts, like Atlantica Dreams Resort in Gennadi village in the south, featuring a fantastic ship centerpiece with slides, play panels, and climbing ropes.

• Aquariums and zoos: The Rhodes Aquarium on the island’s northern tip offers kids close encounters with an array of eastern Mediterranean marine life. At the Farma of Rhodes Petting Zoo in Ano Kalamonas, kids can interact with species such as llamas, ostriches, and lemurs.

• Interactive museums: In Rhodes’ Old Town, the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology, with working replicas of ancient devices, is a perfect place for kids to get hands-on.

• Faliraki Water Park: One of the largest water parks in Europe, this is a fantastic spot for a family day out with numerous slides, pools, and play areas.

Free things to do in Rhodes

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Rhodes without spending a fortune, from exploring historical sites to relaxing on the beach.

• Free events: Keep an eye out for free local events, especially during the summer. Cultural festivals, music performances, and traditional celebrations are often held around the island.

• Annual festivals: The Panagia Festival, held for ten days in August in Kremasti on the west coast, features traditional music and dancing.

• Historic monuments: A rarity on the island, you don’t need to pay to enter the Acropolis of Rhodes. Situated on Monte Smith, it includes the Temple of Apollo Pythios, a gymnasium, an odeon, and a stadium. It also offers panoramic views over Rhodes Town and the Aegean Sea.

• Beaches: With approximately a 250 km coastline, there are plenty of sandy beaches on Rhodes, making it easy to skip organized beaches with pay-to-use sun loungers and spend a day lying on a towel.

Wellness in Rhodes

• Spas and thermal baths: Kallithea Springs, situated in a picturesque bay just 7 km south of Rhodes Town, is renowned for its therapeutic waters and stunning Art Deco architecture. The spa complex includes thermal baths, a luxurious lido, and various wellness treatments.

• Traditional body care: The Turkish baths in Rhodes Old Town provide a historical and cultural journey through steam rooms and hot and cold plunge pools, offering a relaxing and purifying experience.

• Yoga and meditation centers: Many hotels and resorts offer yoga classes, and there are dedicated yoga centers in both Rhodes Town and Lindos.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: The Valley of the Butterflies is a must-visit, especially between June and September when the vibrant Jersey tiger moths are in abundance. For more challenging hikes, venture to Mount Attavyros, the highest peak on the island, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.

• Windsurfing and kitesurfing: Rhodes' coastline is ideal for water sports enthusiasts. Prasonisi, located at the southern tip of Rhodes, is renowned for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to its unique conditions where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet. The calm, shallow waters on one side and rougher waves on the other cater to beginners and experienced surfers.

• Diving and snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters around Rhodes are perfect for diving and snorkeling. Kalithea Bay and Anthony Quinn Bay offer rich marine life and fascinating underwater landscapes. Beginners can take introductory courses, while experienced divers can explore deeper sites and wrecks.

• Cycling: Rhodes’ varied terrain makes it an excellent destination for cycling. Rent a bike and explore the island's scenic routes, from coastal paths to mountainous trails. Many rental shops in Rhodes Town and other tourist areas offer bikes and necessary equipment.

• Paragliding: Launch sites like Filerimos Hill provide stunning aerial views of the surrounding landscapes and the shimmering sea. Tandem flights are available for beginners, offering a thrilling yet safe adventure.

• Horseback riding: Discover the island's beauty on horseback. Various stables around Rhodes offer guided rides through scenic trails, from coastal paths to forested areas.

Sun-kissed beaches in Rhodes Town

Rhodes Town boasts a diverse range of spectacular beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Whether you prefer bustling beach spots with plenty of amenities or quiet coves for a more secluded experience, Rhodes Town has something to offer every beach lover. Here's a guide to some of the best beaches in and around Rhodes Town:

Elli beach

Elli Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Rhodes Town, located just a short walk from the city center. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this beach offers:

• Crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

• Plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas for a comfortable day by the sea.

• A variety of beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious meals.

Akti Miaouli beach

Situated on the northern tip of Rhodes Town, Akti Miaouli Beach is perfect for those looking for a lively beach experience. Highlights include:

• Close proximity to hotels and other accommodations.

• Water sports facilities, including windsurfing and jet-skiing.

• Stunning views of the Aegean Sea and Turkey's coastline on a clear day.

Zefyros beach

For a more local and laid-back vibe, head to Zefyros Beach, located just south of the city center. This beach is known for its:

• Sandy shores and shallow waters, making it ideal for families with children.

• Authentic Greek tavernas nearby, offering traditional dishes and fresh seafood.

• Less crowded environment, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Ixia beach

Just a short drive from Rhodes Town, Ixia Beach is a great choice for those looking to explore beyond the city limits. This beach offers:

• A long stretch of pebble beach with plenty of space to find your perfect spot.

• Excellent windsurfing conditions due to the consistent breeze.

• A range of beachfront hotels and resorts for those who want to stay close to the water.

Explore more with vacation getaways to Rhodes

Whether you're seeking a lively beach scene or a tranquil seaside retreat, the beaches in and around Rhodes Town cater to all preferences.

Local dishes in Rhodes

One of the highlights of vacations in Rhodes is indulging in the local cuisine, which combines traditional Greek flavors with a unique island twist.

Some typical dishes

• Pitaroudia: Delicious chickpea fritters seasoned with herbs and spices, typically served with tzatziki.

• Moussaka: A classic Greek dish made with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Meat dishes

• Kleftiko: Lamb marinated with garlic, lemon, and herbs, wrapped in parchment paper and slow-cooked until fall-off-the-bone tender.

• Souvlaki: Skewers of marinated meat, commonly pork or chicken, grilled and served with pita bread and tzatziki.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Grilled octopus: Freshly caught octopus, marinated and grilled to tender perfection.

• Psarosoupa: A traditional fish soup made with a variety of local fish, vegetables, and herbs.

Street food

• Gyros: Slices of rotisserie-cooked meat served in pita bread with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki.

• Loukoumades: Sweet, fried dough balls drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.

Sweets and desserts

• Baklava: Layers of phyllo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey.

• Galaktoboureko: A custard-filled pastry that’s crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

• Melekouni: A Rhodian specialty made from sesame seeds, almonds, and thyme honey spiced with cinnamon and cloves.

Local drinks

• Retsina: A traditional Greek wine infused with pine resin, offering a unique flavor that pairs well with local dishes.

• Ouzo: An anise-flavored spirit typically enjoyed as an aperitif.

• Souma: In the same family as Tsipouro, Souma has a similar taste but is considerably more potent.