Seven Places To Visit on Rhodes
When planning a holiday to Rhodes, you’re likely in search of interesting attractions to explore. In this article, we highlight the top seven attractions in Rhodes that are worth visiting. We don’t focus much on beaches here—the best ones are detailed in a separate post and in our mobile guide, where you’ll also find a map of noteworthy places to visit on the island!
Acropolis of Lindos
We start our list of seven places to visit on Rhodes with the ancient Acropolis of Lindos. This is perhaps the most famous and important monument of Rhodes, and arguably of all Greece. At its heart is the temple of Athena, expanded and rebuilt throughout history. Situated on a 100-metre-high hill, surrounded by the walls of the Joannite fortress, it is the island’s landmark and the most photographed site. The Romans and Byzantines and Venetians also left their mark here. Visit the Acropolis of Lindos with our audio guide in English!
Getting there: by bus, or car, to the town of Lindos. From the centre of the town you have to climb uphill on foot to the main gate.
Butterfly Valley – Petaloudes
Another must-visit in Rhodes is the Petaloudes Valley, also known as the Butterfly Valley. This kilometre-long, tree-covered valley becomes a haven for moths every summer, particularly the species known by the Latin name Panaxia Quadripunctaria. While these moths aren’t particularly striking and tend to sleep during the day, the sheer number of these insects creates a unique spectacle. The valley’s cool, shaded environment, along with its natural charm, attracts thousands of tourists annually. The trail stretches about 1,300 metres and winds along a charming stream, past several waterfalls, through a pine forest, ending at a small bar.
Getting there: Either by car or through a local travel agency. Visiting in winter offers a different experience: while the butterflies are absent, so are the tourists, and the entry to the valley is free.
Rhodes Old Town
The city of Rhodes, established around the 4th century BC, was the youngest among the city-states on the island, which also included Kamiros, Lindos, and Ialyssos. However, it swiftly became the most significant. It is believed that the famous Colossus of Rhodes once stood near what is now the Port of Mandraki. Today, a stroll through Rhodes offers a feast for lovers of medieval and ancient architecture. The medieval town, highlighted by the fortress of the Knights of St. John and the renowned Knights’ Street, is a must-visit. The site where the Rhodian Colossus apparently stood is now symbolically marked by two deer statues at the harbour entrance. For those interested in ancient history, the remains of the Acropolis can be explored southwest of the city centre. Our guide to Rhodes also features an audio guide to this captivating site.
Accessing the city is convenient by car or KTEL bus. To reach the Acropolis of Rhodes from the city center, walking is recommended.
Tsambika Monastery and Beach
The Panagia Tsambika Monastery, perched atop a 300-metre-high hill adjacent to the seashore, houses one of the most venerated religious sites on the island—the church containing the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, known as Panagia Tsambika. This site is particularly significant for childless women, many of whom leave baby dolls here as offerings. For tourists, the monastery also offers an exceptional viewpoint over the northern part of Rhodes. Below the hill lies Tsambika Beach, regarded as one of the island’s finest beaches.
Access is available by bus to the start of the road leading to the monastery, followed by a hike, or by car, which allows you to drive closer to a nearby restaurant. From there, it is a climb of 270 steps and an ascent of 100 metres to reach the monastery.
South of Rhodes
The southern region of Rhodes Island is less developed and provides a tranquil retreat from the more tourist-heavy areas. We recommend two places for a day trip by car. First, Prasonisi beach, a hotspot for kitesurfers and windsurfers and the epicenter of water sports on the island. Although not suitable for swimming, it offers stunning views and a peninsula that can be explored during the summer months (note: it is inaccessible in winter). The second recommendation is the scenic road along the west coast, leading towards Monolithos. This road stretches along the seashore for parts of its length and is, in our opinion, one of the most picturesque parts of the island. We suggest driving from the south to the north for the best experience.
Kamiros
This site is the third of the ancient city-states on Rhodes. The ruins are beautifully situated on a hillside above the coast, offering an excellent vantage point not only over the central part of the ancient city but also across the highest mountains in the interior of the island.
Getting there: By car. Alternatively, you can join an excursion organized by a local travel agency, which often includes guided tours and additional historical context.
Epta Piges – czyli “Siedem Źródeł”
The famous Seven Springs, or Epta Piges, is a beloved destination, particularly for families with children. As the name suggests, there are indeed seven springs to discover, which can be a delightful adventure for young children. The area is also home to ducks, geese, and peacocks, adding to the charm and entertainment for visitors. For those who enjoy unique experiences, walking through the tunnel that leads to the dam on the other side of the hill is a must-try. Notably, the most popular spot in this area is the shady restaurant located above the springs, which offers a cool respite and great views.
Getting there: Access to the Seven Springs is easiest by car. While the location is refreshingly cool during the high season, it can become exceptionally crowded, so visiting in the low season is advisable for a more relaxed experience.