There’s so much to do on Rhodes Island, it can be hard to pick. This is especially when you’re faced with innumerable beautiful choices on the stunning Greek island of Rhodes!
With so many things to do on Rhodes Island, it can be hard to find the right activities for your family. That’s why we’ve spent hours scouring the internet and putting our research together for you.
Whether you’re looking for an activity for your family or a romantic rendezvous, there’s something for everyone on this list. Let our expert advice guide you to an exceptional experience in this exclusive Greek paradise.
Spend the Day at Rhodes Castle
Rhodes Castle is the most recognizable symbol of the island and one of the most important landmarks in Greece.
It’s also one of the oldest fortified cities in Europe, with sections dating back to the 6th century BC. The castle sits on a massive, rocky outcrop and was first built by the Greeks in the late 8th century BC.
The Romans later conquered the city and added their own defensive fortifications, extending the castle and making it one of the largest cities in the Hellenic world. The castle and its defensive walls were rebuilt by the Crusaders who, in their turn, gave the city its name – Rodos.
Go Swimming at Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Greece, with seemingly endless amounts of tourists visiting every year.
The beach is about 15km from the city of Rhodes and is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some peaceful relaxation. There are plenty of loungers and sunbeds at the beach, so you’ll be able to easily find one to relax on.
If you’re looking for a bit of excitement, there are a few bars and clubs on the sand, but most people visit the beach to chill out and relax.
Relax at the Six Senses Spa Resort
Six Senses Spa Resort on the island of Rhodes is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The hotel is made up of six separate, interconnected buildings with a total of 36 different spa treatments.
The hotel also features four restaurants, two pools (one with an unforgettable view), a health center, and a hammam. You can choose to pamper yourself, with a range of massages, scrubs, and facials available, or you can treat your friends and family to a Luxury Greek Experience.
Visit the Archaeological Site of Lindos
The Archaeological Site of Lindos is one of the most famous sites on the island of Rhodes. It was first inhabited by the Lindians, a powerful tribe in the early years of the Greek colonization of the island.
Today, the site is one of the most important archaeological sites in all of Greece. It’s also one of the most accessible from the mainland, so you can easily visit if you’re not from the area.
The site has been continuously inhabited for over 8,000 years, with traces of occupation dating back to the 8th millennium BC.
Go kayaking or windsurfing
Whether you choose to kayak or windsurf around the island of Rhodes, you’ll be in great company. Rhodes is a well-known sailing and windsurfing destination and many of the locals make their living from the sport.
If you want to try your hand at it, many winds and kayak rental companies are based on the island. You can also book excursions to see the island’s impressive wind and sea caves.
Take a boat ride on the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is a man-made lake on the eastern side of the island of Rhodes. It was created in the 1960s as part of the island’s hydroelectricity project and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island.
If you want to take a boat ride on the Blue Lagoon, you’ll need to head to the port of Lindos. The ride around the lagoon lasts for about 30 minutes and you can choose to sit inside or outside the boat.
The Blue Lagoon is home to many different species of water plants and water animals, making it a great spot for wildlife watching.
Visit the Medieval Monastery of Agios Georgios
The Monastery of Agios Georgios is one of the most recognizable sights on the island of Rhodes. It’s also one of the most visited attractions, with many tourists visiting the monastery on their way to the castle.
The monastery was first built in the 6th century AD and was expanded in the 9th and 10th centuries. It was destroyed multiple times by earthquakes and sieges but was rebuilt every time.
Today, the monastery is one of the most important historical monuments in all of Greece.
Eat Greek food at a local taverna
If you’re looking for some delicious Greek food, you should try eating at a local taverna. Many of the best tavernas are located in the old towns, such as the tine Taverna in Lindos or the Taverna Panagia in Oia.
You can also head to the beach if you want to take your food outside, as many tavernas have special areas to eat their food. If you’re not sure where to start, try the Saganaki Plate which is a must-have at any Greek restaurant!
Drink at a local café
If you’re visiting Rhodes in the summer, you should definitely visit one of the cafés on the beach. Many of the cafés have outdoor seating and serve food, making them the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine or beer.
You can choose from a wide range of wines, beers, and cocktails, so there’s bound to be something that tickles your fancy. If you want to sample some more unusual drinks, head to the cafés serving shots of raki or ouzo.
Explore the Medieval Town of Mandra
If you’re interested in the island’s history, then you should visit the Medieval Town of Mandra.
The town was founded in the late 12th century and is one of the most important historical sites on the island. It has been occupied continuously since then, making it one of the oldest inhabited areas in Europe.
You can explore the town’s fortified walls, towers, churches, and other historical buildings, or you can simply take in the atmosphere and relax in the town’s beautiful harbor.
Visit the Medieval Citadel of Rhodes
If you have an opportunity to visit the Medieval Citadel of Rhodes, you should jump at the chance. The citadel was built in the 13th century and is one of the most important historical sites in all of Greece.
It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 and contains many important monuments, including the 14th-century fortress, the palace of the aristocratic Palaiologos family, and the Tower of the Winds.
The citadel is located next to the modern town of Rhodes and is easily accessible by foot or moped.
Visit the Archaeological Site of Lindos
If you have time for only one visit to the island of Rhodes, make it to the Archaeological Site of Lindos. The site is famous for its decorated caves, which were used as a necropolis between the 11th and 6th centuries BC.
The site has been continuously inhabited since then, making it one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in Europe. It’s home to some of the island’s most important archaeological finds and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit the Medieval Town of Mon Repos
If you have time for two or three different medieval towns, visit the medieval town of Mon Repos. It’s located on the western side of the island and was first settled in the 13th century.
Today, it’s one of the most popular tourist towns on the island, with beautiful cobbled streets, charming little squares, and lots of history. The town has a few good restaurants and cafes and makes a great place to relax and unwind after visiting the more popular sites on the island.
Visit the Medieval Town of Kami
In the Medieval Town of Kami, you will be astonished by the Acropolis and its ancient buildings. Originally built in the sixth century AD, this acropolis was used as a stronghold against marauders and pirates.
During your visit to the Acropolis, you can enjoy lunch at Pythari, eat at the Dionysos Taverna, or have ice cream at Iceberg Gelato Moderno.
Conclusion
If you’re planning a trip to Rhodes Island and want to know what attractions there are nearby, we hope this little guide can help. Whether you’re after water sports, culture, or just want to enjoy the beauty of nature, there are plenty of things to do here that will make your holiday extra special. Have fun!
