5 Days in Rhodes
Are you planning to visit the beautiful island of Rhodes and need a 5-day itinerary? Look no further, as I have the perfect route for you!
My 5-day itinerary strikes the perfect balance between exploration and relaxation. By the end of your trip, you’ll feel rejuvenated, having experienced the island’s highlights without feeling rushed or exhausted.
Its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination.
As always, I will first provide some interesting information about the place and then detail the itinerary (with a map) to see the most significant things about Rhodes in 5 days.
This is the list of everything you will find in this article:
A. Information of Interest
Location
Rhodes, also known as Rodos, is a captivating Greek island located in the Aegean Sea, nestled at the southeastern edge of the Dodecanese archipelago. It stands as the largest of the Dodecanese Island complex, the fourth among the Greek islands, and the ninth-largest island overall in the Mediterranean Sea.
The capital city is also called Rhodes and is located on the northern tip of the island.
Area
The island has a surface area of 1,401 km2 (541 sq mi) and a coastline of 220 km (137 mi). It spans almost 80 km from north to south and 40 km from east to west.
The majority of Rhodes is covered with forests, while hills and low mountains shape the landscape. The highest elevation point is Mount Attavyros, which is 1,216 m high (3,990 ft).
Population
In 2024, more than 125,000 people live on the island, with around 45% residing in the capital city.
Demonym
Rhodian, Rhodiot or Rhodiote (rare).
When to go and for how long
*️⃣ Rhodes, blessed with a Mediterranean climate, offers mild winters with ample sunshine and summers that are sunny, hot, and dry yet pleasantly breezy.
The best time to visit is from early May to the end of September. However, if you intend to do a lot of hiking, keep in mind that July and August can be sweltering.
If these dates don’t work for you, and you want to pick a different travel destination based on the most suitable time to visit, see my posts Best Time to Go and Where to Travel Each Month. It will help you plan your trip better.
*️⃣ Given the size of the island, it is not that it takes many days to visit it, but to have time to enjoy its beaches, rest and do a little sightseeing, I recommend a duration of about 5 days.
In my posts, How Many Days I Need to Visit Each Country and How Many Days I Need to Visit Each City, I explain the number of days needed to visit each country and the most touristic cities.
Language
Rhodes, a stunning island destination, is part of Greece. As such, the primary language spoken there is Greek, adding to the rich cultural experience you can expect during your visit.
Remember that you can check the language spoken in each country using the tables that I attach to my articles Countries by Language and Best Time to Go.
Currency
Being part of Greece and, therefore, the European Union, the currency used here is the Euro.
In my post Currency exchange, cards and cash abroad (Complete Guide), there is a table that allows you to see the currency used by entering the name of the country you are interested in. Additionally, this article provides all the essential information you need to know about money and travelling.
Plugs and Voltage
In Greece, the plugs are European-style, with types C and F. The voltage is 220-240 volts, and the frequency is 50 Hz.
Remember that you can refer to my article Plug Types by Country to find out about the different types of plugs used in each country and the corresponding voltage. This will help you determine if you need an adapter and the specific type required. You can find this information in the Travel Logistics section, along with everything else you might need to ensure your trip goes smoothly.
Origin
Rhodes has been known by different names throughout its history (Ophiusa, Estadía, Telquinis, Asteria, Etria, Trinacria, Corimbia, Peesa, Macaria and Olesa). Still, legend has it that the name comes from the nymph Rhoda, daughter of Poseidon and the sea. Helios, the solar god, loved Rhoda and transformed her into a rose.
Rhodes is renowned for the Colossus of Rhodes, a wooden and bronze statue of the Greek sun god Helios. The statue was built by the Rhodians in 280 BC, and it stood around 32 metres high. According to the initial theories, it was located in the port of the city of Rhodes, and ships passed between its legs to gain access.
The Colossus in an illustration by Martin Heemskerk
Unfortunately, it collapsed due to an earthquake in 226 BC and remained in ruins until the Muslims conquered the city in 653. They destroyed the remains of the statue and sold them.
A bit of history…
Rhodes’s history dates back to ancient times. It is closely linked with mythology and the arrival of the Minoan civilisation.
According to ancient tales, the first inhabitants were the Heliades, the children of the protective god Helios and the Oceanid Clymene.
Three tribal groups of Doric origin formed the population centres: Ialyssos, Kamiros, and Lindos. In 407 BC, these three cities formed an alliance to create a great new city named Rhodes.
Located less than 20 km from the coast of Asia Minor, the island of Rhodes has always held a crucial position as a meeting point between the East and the West, a strategic crossroads of civilisations.
Rhodes was a strong ally of Athens and experienced a cultural resurgence in the Hellenistic period after Alexander the Great.
With the arrival of Rome, Rhodes became a Roman province and was subsequently ruled by Byzantium during the Middle Ages. The island’s strategic location played an important role during the Crusades, especially with the arrival of the Knights of the Order of Saint John.
MapMaster, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
Despite numerous attempts at conquest and invasion over two centuries, Rhodes remained an impregnable island until Suleiman the Magnificent conquered it in 1522. It then became part of the Ottoman Empire until 1912, when the Italians took over.
Between 1943 and 1945, it was occupied by the Germans. After World War II, it would be commanded by the English until they handed it over to Greece on March 7, 1948.
Flag
The flag of Rhodes displays the head of the god Apollo/Helios, as depicted in ancient coins, on a light blue background.
However, the flag you’ll see everywhere is the Greek flag, which has nine blue and white stripes, representing the country’s emblem of “Liberty or death.” The blue stripes signify the Greek sky and sea, while the white ones symbolise purity during the nation’s struggle for independence. A blue square in the top-left corner contains a white Greek cross, representing the Orthodox Church.
B. How to Get Around Rhodes
If you’re planning to explore the island quickly and conveniently, renting a car would be the easiest and fastest option. You can find several car rental services at the airport if you’re arriving by plane or in Rhodes Town if you’re coming by boat. This option is ideal if your accommodation is located outside the main towns, as it allows you to explore the entire island and make the most of your time.
However, if you prefer not to rent a car, you can use the public transport network, which is also an excellent option.
🔑🚗 Tip for renting a car: The main roads are fine, but if you intend to visit places like Tsambika Monastery, Seven Springs, or specific areas on the West Coast, avoid renting the smallest car (which is usually the cheapest and has lower power). I made that mistake, and the car struggled to go up hills, so I had to turn the air-con off and drive in first gear. It’s not that the hills are so steep, it’s that my hair dryer has more power than that car!
If you are considering renting a car, I recommend reading my post, Car Rentals (Complete Guide), where I provide all the necessary information and tips to avoid any surprises when renting a vehicle.
C. Rhodes: 5-Day Itinerary
This is a 5-day itinerary for visiting Rhodes. Each day is colour-coded and numbered to indicate the order of the sites to visit.
My hotel was located close to Lindos, hence the order of the places. However, if your accommodation is located elsewhere, you may want to adjust the order of the places accordingly.
1. Itinerary — Day 1
We’ll start the day by visiting one of the most beautiful and famous villages on the island: Lindos.
It was founded around 3000 BC by the Dorians, which was at that time the capital of the island. It’s believed to be blessed by ancient Greek gods.
a. The Acropolis of Lindos
This Acropolis is unique due to its stunning location atop a cliff, 116 metres above the sea. It is the third most visited archaeological site in Greece.
To get to the top, you’ll have to climb around 250 steps. The ticket office is located at the entrance of the Acropolis. Be sure you wear shoes with good grip because the stones are slippery.
💔 There is an option to ride a donkey up, but it was deeply heartbreaking to see the poor animals being exploited in that way. They looked so sad! 🥺
There is a small café near the entrance, but keep in mind that there are no restrooms or food and drink facilities on site.
It opens daily [08:00–20:00 in summer], but the hours may be subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the official website, where you can also buy the tickets.
Things that can’t be missed:
⭐ Relief of a Rhodian warship
It has been carved into the rock at the base of the steps leading to the Acropolis.
Before climbing the Knights Steps, it’s the first thing you’ll see on your left.
⭐ The Knights Steps
It is the stairway that leads to the main archaeological area of the Acropolis through a mediaeval gate, which dates back to the 2nd century BC.
⭐ Temple of Athena Lindia
The Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, dating from about 300 BC, was one of the most sacred places in the ancient world.
⭐ The Propylaea of the Sanctuary
A monumental staircase leads to a D-shaped portico and a wall with five-door openings.
⭐ The Hellenistic Stoa
The Hellenistic Stoa, dating from around 200 BC, featured lateral projecting wings, was 87 metres long, and consisted of 42 columns.
⭐ The Church of St John
This Greek Orthodox church (13th-14th century) was built on the ruins of a previous church (6th century). During the Ottoman Empire’s occupation, it was used as a mosque.
⭐ The Castle of the Knights of St John
The Castle of the Knights of St John, built before 1317, features walls and towers following the natural cliff formation. It includes a pentagonal tower commanding the harbour, a large round tower facing the sea, and two more towers. Today, only two towers remain.
b. Lindos Town
The village offers a wide variety of restaurants, traditional taverns, pubs, lively clubs, and a diverse selection of local handicrafts and boutiques.
The Church of Panagia is a Greek Orthodox place of worship located in the middle of Lindos town. The building was initially built in 1300 and has undergone several renovations over the centuries. It has preserved much of its original beauty, with a striking stone bell tower and vibrant 19th-century wall frescoes. Additionally, it features a small attached museum.
After all the sightseeing, why not relax in one of the many rooftop restaurants.
✳️ Recommendations to eat/drink:
I went to Hermes Roof Garden and had one of the best homemade lemonades I’ve ever tried!
c. Lindos Beach / Pallas Beach
It’s one of the best beaches on the island, with its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It consists of two parts: the main beach, which is about 400 meters long (Lindos Beach), and the side beach, which is about 100 meters long (Pallas Beach).
d. Saint Paul’s Bay
Two small beaches with a view of Lindos’ Acropolis. It’s small, enclosed by rocks, and most of the beach is private.
The best place to take a picture of this bay is from the Acropolis.
2. Itinerary — Day 2
a. Tsambika Monastery
The Monastery of Panagia Tsambika is located about 25 km south of Rhodes Town and 24 km from Lindos, between Kolymbia and Archangelos.
While the exact age of the monastery is not known, it was reconstructed in 1770 by local monks.
The old monastery, a Byzantine church, is built on top of a hill, offering a beautiful view of the sea. You will need to climb the 300 steps, but it’s absolutely worth it.
The new monastery, still active today, is located on the road connecting Archangelos to Rhodes Town.
The legend tells of a couple who prayed for a child. After the man found a glowing icon of the Virgin Mary on a mountain, he promised to build a monastery if their prayers were answered. When his wife became pregnant, they named their daughter Tsambika. Today, the names Tsambika and Tsambikos are still popular on the island of Rhodes.
b. Seven Springs (Epta Piges)
Only 6 km to the West of Tsambika Monastery, we can find Seven Springs (Epta Piges in Greek).
It’s a popular walking trail with a loop of less than 1.5 km in a beautiful natural setting. It’s ideal for hot days with streams, a small lake, and a waterfall. There is no entry fee, and you can complete it in less than half an hour.
Crossing the famous 150-metre-long tunnel was an interesting experience. If you are claustrophobic or dislike complete darkness, I wouldn’t recommend it because it’s only 180 cm x 60 cm, and once you start, you won’t be able to turn back.
✳️ Recommendations to eat/drink:
There is also a local gem — Epta Piges Tavern (since 1945) — in a picturesque spot. The food is a culinary delight, a paradise for meat lovers! But even if you are not, they offer various delicious dishes, all at a very reasonable price. I highly recommend trying the ‘Pitaroudia’, which are fried balls made of zucchini and other vegetables. It’s a local dish that’s simply delightful.
a. Tsambika Beach
We will spend the remainder of the day unwinding on this stunning beach. It features fine sand, deckchairs, umbrellas, and various water activities. There is also a designated nudist section.
It’s located at only 8 km from Seven Springs.
3. Itinerary — Day 3
a. Rhodes Town
Rhodes Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1988), and one of the oldest mediaeval towns in Europe.
The must-see attractions of the city are:
⭐ Church of the Virgin Mary of the Burgh
It is one of the first cathedrals that were constructed on the island and the oldest church that still stands in Rhodes.
Built in the 14th century by the Knights Hospitaller, it was later converted into a mosque during the Turkish occupation. Despite suffering damage from World War II bombings, the three vaulted Gothic arches of the church that survived remain impressive.
With no formal opening times or admission fees, visitors are free to wander among the ruins.
Tip: Great lighting early in the morning to take photos.
⭐ Hippocrates Square
The roots of Hippocrates Square are lost in time. Known as Castellania during the Knights Hospitaller era, it later became Mosque Square under Ottoman rule.
In 1924, Rhodes, under the Italian government, was devastated by a fire, destroying shops around the central square. The Italian authorities initiated a comprehensive reconstruction effort, but there was still a sense that something was missing.
In the centre, the Syntrivan Fountain is a striking monument crafted from white stone with touches of blue ceramic, combining Ottoman and Byzantine design elements. It was introduced in 1934, and it has become an iconic spot in Rhodes City.
Today, Hippocrates Square stands as the largest within Rhodes Old Town, where the town’s labyrinthine alleyways converge. With souvenirs, restaurants, and plenty of café bars, it is a bustling square, especially at nightfall hours as it gets crowded.
⭐ The Street of Knights (Odos Ippoton)
The Street of The Knights is a 600-metre-long mediaeval street in the Old Town of Rhodes, lined with well-preserved buildings. It replaced an ancient road that connected the town to the Acropolis of Rhodes.
The street was once home to the Knights of St. John, a religious and military order that occupied Rhodes during the Middle Ages. Notable buildings include the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, the Hospital of the Knights (now the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes), and the Inns of the Tongues.
⭐ Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
The Palace of Grand Master is located at the end of the Street of the Knights in the Old Town of Rhodes. It was built in the 14th century by the Knights of Saint John on the foundations of the Temple of the Sun God (Helios).
The palace initially had 158 rooms, but only 24 are open to visitors now. The rooms feature antique furniture from the 16th and 17th centuries, multicoloured marble, sculptures, carpets, and vases. The most important rooms include the Grand Reception Hall, the ballroom, and the Music Room, not to mention the Medusa Mosaic and frescoes by renowned artists.
In 1856, explosives hidden in the church of Saint John destroyed this building. Restored by Italians in the 20th century, it served as a holiday residence for the King of Italy and Mussolini. Today, it belongs to the Greek State and hosts a museum.
💰 Tip: There is a combined ticket that includes the Palace of the Grand Master and the Hospital of the Knights (Archaeological Museum).
⭐ Archaeological Museum (Hospital of the Knights)
The museum is located in the Mediaeval building of the Hospital of the Knights. It was built in the 15th century and renovated in the early 20th century by the Italians, along with the entire Mediaeval Town of Rhodes.
The Archaeological Museum displays artefacts from excavations all over the island, including vases, figurines, small objects, and tomb groups from Ancient Ialyssos and Ancient Kameiros. Additionally, there are mosaic floors from the Hellenistic era and funerary slabs of the Knights.
⭐ Mediaeval Clock Tower (Roloi)
The Clock Tower, dating from 1852, is the highest point in the Old Town of Rhodes. The best time to visit is after dusk, when its illumination makes it even more impressive.
The clock still works today, and you can climb the tower for an entrance fee, but the view is limited. With the ticket fee, you get a complimentary drink on the terrace.
⭐ The Suleymaniye Mosque
This mosque, the first one in the town, was built after the Ottoman conquest of Rhodes in 1522. It is named after Sultan Suleiman to honour his conquest. The mosque underwent reconstruction in 1808 and has been restored multiple times since. It stands as the most significant surviving Ottoman-era monument in Rhodes.
The minaret of the mosque was removed in 1987 due to safety concerns. Today, the mosque has been repurposed as a museum and is open to visitors on specific days.
⭐ The Gates and Walls of Old Town
In 1309, when the Knights Hospitaller of Saint John captured the island, they used the existing Byzantine walls and enhanced them.
This vast complex covers a distance of 4 km (2.5 miles) and includes 11 gates, some of which are open to the public.
Some of the most significant are:
- The St John Gate (Red Gate)
- The D’Amboise Gate
- The Apostle Paul Gate
- St. Athanasios (St. Anthony’s) Gate
⭐ Mandraki Harbour
It is Rhodes’s ancient and primary harbour and a key symbol of the island.
Don’t miss:
⭐ Fort of St. Nicholas
The Fort of Saint Nicholas, originally a guard tower built by the Knights of Saint John in the 15th century, played a crucial role in resisting Turkish attacks during major sieges in 1480 and 1522-23. The Knights were eventually ousted from the city after the 1522 assault. Nowadays, the castle operates as a lighthouse.
⭐ Rhodes Windmills
The three mediaeval windmills were strategically positioned near the Mandraki Harbour to harness strong sea winds. They played a crucial role in grinding grains brought in by merchant vessels from across the Mediterranean.
The windmills in Rhodes’ port were vital for producing food and symbolised the island’s economic strength during the time of the knights. They are surrounded by legends of monks predicting the weather and secret meetings to protect the island from the Ottoman threat.
⭐ Location of the Colossus of Rhodes
The legend tells that the ancient statue of the Colossus of Rhodes stood on either side of the entrance to the port of Mandraki, but modern studies have shown that this never happened. Its exact location, whether on the eastern promontory of the harbour or further inland, remains unclear.
Currently, two bronze figures, the stag ‘Elefos’ and the doe ‘Elafina,’ stand atop stone columns from the Venetian era, welcoming incoming vessels.
✳️ Recommendation to eat:
Mama Mika (22 Orfeos Street). Authentic Greek restaurant founded in 1977. The food is delicious, but keep in mind that the portions are enormous!
⭐ For a stunning sunset picture, head to the beach area located across from the Statue of Diagoras. There is a large pier in the water facing Turkey that offers fantastic views.
💰🚗 Tip for parking: Vironos Street around the football stadium, right next to the yellow walls on the white lines, is free.
b. Anthony Quinn’s Bay
On our way back, we can stop at Ladiko Beach, also known as Anthony Quinn’s Bay. It was named after the actor because it was his favourite beach. Here it was filmed ‘The Guns of Navarone’.
This small and narrow beach is a combination of sand, pebbles, and rocks. It doesn’t have too many sun loungers or umbrellas.
4. Itinerary — Day 4
After all the sightseeing of the previous day, it’s time to relax. There are many lovely beaches around, but our choice for today is Agia Agathi Beach, famous for being one of the most beautiful ones on the island.
a. Agia Agathi Beach (Golden Sand)
Agathi is a small sandy beach located 38 km southeast of Rhodes City and 10 km north of Lindos village. Three beachside canteens provide refreshments, snacks, sunbeds, umbrellas, rentals, and showers.
5. Itinerary — Day 5
It’s the last day in Rhodes, but our flight is very late (23:55), so we still have plenty of time to explore the island. We’ve already explored the North and East Coast, so we’ll head to the airport by going through the South and West Coast.
a. Prasonisi Beach
Located at the southern end of the island (50 km from Lindos and 90 km from Rhodes), it’s a long sandy beach that divides the Aegean from the Mediterranean and connects Prasonisi island with mainland Rhodes.
Furthermore, it’s famous for water sports and activities, with one side windy and choppy, while the other is calmer.
b. Monolithos Castle
Going up through the West coast about 36 km, the castle of Monolithos is located 3 kilometres from the village of Monolithos. Once you arrive at the base, you must continue your journey on foot to the castle, but it’s a short one.
The Venetian Castle, built in 1480, sits atop a towering 236-metre rock, serving as a testament to Rhodes’ strategic significance. It was constructed to protect the area from pirates and hostile forces. While now in ruins, it’s worth climbing it, as you’ll be able to see:
- Two chapels from the 15th century, St. Panteleimon and St. George.
- The breathtaking view of the mountain of Akramytis.
- The village of Monolithos, which is right below it.
- The island Halki.
- Fourni Beach and the two islets along the coastline.
- The Aegean Sea.
The site is open all day and has no entry fee.
c. Ancient site of Kamiros
Driving about 40 km to the North, we’ll get to the Ancient Kamiros. Alongside Lindos and Ialyssos, it was one of the most influential towns in ancient times. These three Dorian city-states united to create the city-state of Rhodes in the 5th century BC.
d. Butterflies Valley (Petaloudes in Greek)
Located in the northern part of the island, 19 km from Kamiros and 26 km from the town of Rhodes, the Valley of the Butterflies is one of the best things to do on the island.
It owes its name to the hundreds of butterflies that can be observed on the trees between June and September, attracted to a rare species of tree located here: ‘Zitia’.
It is strictly forbidden to disturb butterflies in any way, as they do not eat until the reproduction period. When they are disturbed and have to fly away, they consume valuable energy.
It opens daily, but only during the tourist season (April – October). You can check the opening times on their website.
✳️ Recommendation to eat/drink:
Drosia. Located in Theologos (5 km from Butterflies Valley), It’s a cosy, traditional restaurant offering local dishes at affordable prices.
The distance from Theologos to Rhodes International Airport Diagoras is only 6 km.
6. Other Things to Do
If you have more time in Rhodes, other things you might do are:
- Kritinia Castle (Kastellos). The castle of Kritinia, known as Kastello to the locals, is a significant relic of the 16th century. Located 25 km from Monolithos, it was constructed by the Knights of Saint John, this Venetian castle stands proudly on a hill 131 metres above the village of Kritinia. Originally, it had three levels, each assigned to a different Grand Master. It’s considered the gem of the village and offers a breathtaking view.
- Wine and honey tasting. Rhodes is known for its dry white wine and sweet wines.
- Day trip to Symi Island.
I hope you enjoyed this itinerary.
You can also check my itineraries in Itineraries. Here, you’ll find them classified in City Guides and Country Guides.
📌 If you prefer to see them separated by continents, check them in Portfolios.
Alternatively, in the section Destinations, they are classified based on the type of trip:
- Amazing Experiences. It covers the most extensive and complete trips.
- Beach and Sea. For those who prefer quieter activities by the sea.
- City Breaks. Short trips with a single destination.
Remember to check the Cook up Your Trip. There, you will find everything you need to organise your trip from start to finish.
If you need any clarification, you can leave me a comment or fill out the contact form. I will be happy to help you 🙂
