Rhodes is more than just the Old Town. Discover 9 places worth visiting to experience all sides of the island
Rhodes is an island that has much more to offer than just beautiful beaches and hotels. From medieval alleys and ancient acropolises to lush green trails, hidden beaches, and unique excursions, every corner has something different to reveal.
If you want to explore Rhodes beyond the most well-known tourist spots, below you’ll find 9 places and experiences worth adding to your itinerary.
1.Lindos: A village reminiscent of the Cyclades
Lindos is one of the most beautiful and unique places on Rhodes. As soon as you arrive, you leave your car outside the village and continue on foot.
As you stroll through the narrow, white-washed alleys of Lindos, among the traditional houses and small shops, you might for a moment think you’re on one of the Cyclades islands. The atmosphere is unique, and every corner seems perfect for a photo.
In the alleys, you’ll find many cafés, restaurants, and beautiful rooftop terraces with views of the sea and Lindos Beach. If you’d like, you can walk down to the beach for a refreshing dip.
One of Lindos’s most distinctive landmarks is, of course, the Acropolis, which towers over the village and offers breathtaking views. The climb is truly worth it, especially if you want to combine history, archaeology, and one of the island’s most beautiful landscapes. The admission fee to go up is €20.
2.Filerimos: A hike through nature with unforgettable views
Filerimos is one of the destinations worth visiting if you want to get away from the beaches and the heavy tourist traffic for a while.
The drive to Filerimos is beautiful in its own right, as you travel through a greener and quieter landscape. There you’ll find the monastery, pine-lined paths, and one of the area’s most iconic landmarks: the large cross.
The view from above is truly breathtaking, as you can gaze out over much of the island and the sea.
If you visit Filerimo in the late afternoon, the experience becomes even more beautiful. The sunset from this spot is breathtaking, and the golden hour transforms the entire landscape.
3.Valley of the Butterflies: It’s like stepping into a fairyland
On your way to the Valley of the Butterflies, you’ll pass through a variety of beautiful villages and landscapes until you reach your destination.
As soon as you enter the valley, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a completely different world. The area is vast, and the atmosphere truly feels like a fairy-tale land.
As you walk through nature, among the trees, streams, and small waterfalls, you can see butterflies resting on tree trunks and leaves. It’s a unique sight, unlike anything else you’ll encounter on Rhodes.
The trail through the valley is ideal for nature lovers who want to discover a different side of the island.
Admission costs €6.
4.Tsambika Beach: Sand, clear waters, and plenty of space for everyone
Tsambika Beach is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches on Rhodes.
It’s quite large and features a wonderful sandy shore and clear, turquoise waters. If you’re looking for more comfort and privacy, you can walk to the far end of the beach and find a quieter spot to lay out your own towel and set up your own umbrella.
Of course, there are beach bars on the beach where you can rent umbrellas and lounge chairs if you want more amenities.
There’s also a small market in the area, which is especially handy if you want to stock up on water, snacks, or anything else you need for the day.
Tsambika is a beach that can cater to a variety of needs: from a well-organized beach with amenities to a more laid-back beach day with your own gear.
5.Traganou Beach: Crystal-clear waters and the shade of the cave
Traganou beach is different from Tsambika and has its own unique charm. Here you’ll find emerald-clear waters and a pebble beach. If you walk a little further toward the end, you can discover an even quieter, more secluded beach. There are also beach bars here for those who prefer to rent lounge chairs and umbrellas and enjoy the sea in greater comfort. Traganou is an excellent choice if you’re looking for something different from a classic, organized sandy beach.
6.Grande Blue: A picturesque cove with natural shade and unique scenery
Grande Blue is a natural cove, perfect for anyone looking to spend a relaxing day by the sea. There’s a designated area where you can sit for a fee. The set costs about 25€, not including drinks or food. If you’d rather avoid extra expenses, you can bring your own essentials for the day. One of the area’s most distinctive features is the path through the cave, where you can walk along the rocks and explore the landscape. There’s also natural shade under the trees, which is especially important on hot summer days. As you climb the steps to the higher points, you’ll find a seafood tavern, the perfect place to end your day with a meal and a view of the sea.
7.Kallithea Springs: A unique spot by the sea
The Kallithea Springs are one of the most distinctive spots on Rhodes, as they combine natural beauty, architecture, and the sea. The area has a special atmosphere and is ideal for both a stroll and a swim. The impressive buildings and beautiful surroundings of the springs create a setting unlike most other places on the island. It’s a place worth visiting even if you don’t want to spend the whole day at the beach.
8.Monolithos Castle: One of the most spectacular sunsets in Rhodes
Monolithos Castle is situated in a prime location overlooking the sea, and the journey there is part of the experience. The castle is built on a cliff and offers iconic views of the Aegean Sea. The view from above is truly breathtaking and especially worth it if you love photography and panoramic landscapes. The best time to visit is late in the afternoon, when the sun begins to set and the sky fills with color.
9. Day Trip to Symi: A Different Experience from Rhodes
If you’re staying in Rhodes for several days, a day trip to Symi is an experience worth considering. The view of the harbor, the colorful neoclassical houses, and the island’s unique atmosphere make for a completely different kind of destination. Symi is ideal for a day trip and can be one of the highlights of your vacation in Rhodes. We chose to book the trip through GetYourGuide.com, where you’ll find various options for day cruises from Rhodes to Symi, with a stop for swimming at Agios Georgios.
Check out the best beaches in Rhodes and find the perfect one for your getaway.
