Rhodes holidays

• Lindos is one of Rhodes’ standout places to visit, with whitewashed houses, cobbled streets and traditional tavernas beneath its hilltop acropolis. Walk up to the ancient site for sweeping views, then stay into the evening to see it illuminated above the village.
• Ixia Bay, less than three miles from Rhodes Town, suits travellers looking for a relaxed coastal base close to the capital. Its long pebbled beach, promenade, bakeries, tavernas and sunset bars make it easy to combine beach time with trips into Rhodes Town.
• For a quieter stay, head south to Gennadi. This traditional seaside village has a long beach, local restaurants and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a good choice if you want to unwind away from the island’s busier resorts.
• Kiotari is another relaxed option on the south-east coast, with a long beach, clear water, tavernas and sailing excursions. It’s particularly well suited to couples and travellers looking for a quieter resort atmosphere.
• Closer to Rhodes Town, Kallithea combines sheltered bays with easy access to the Old Town. Explore its coastline and nearby Anthony Quinn Bay, where pine-covered slopes frame clear blue-green water.
• Kolymbia offers two beaches around its harbour, along with restaurants, shops and low-key cocktail bars. Boat trips and coastal excursions make it a good base for travellers who want a relaxed resort with plenty nearby.
• Stegna has a more traditional village feel, with a sandy and shingle beach, clear water and a good choice of fish restaurants. Its quiet atmosphere and limited nightlife make it best suited to a slower-paced beach break.
• For a livelier base, choose Faliraki. Its long sandy beach is backed by plenty of places to eat and drink, while family attractions include mini golf, a water park and other activities for younger visitors.

1. Start in Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site enclosed by medieval walls. Wander its cobbled lanes to discover layers of Classical, Ottoman and Italian history, along with historic buildings, shops and places to eat.
2. For a family day out, visit Faliraki Water Park, where you’ll find water slides, a lazy river, wave pools and areas designed for different ages. Allow plenty of time if you want to make the most of the attractions.
3. Spend time on Rhodes’ beaches too. Kiotari offers clear, shallow water and useful facilities, while the island’s east coast has a wide choice of sandy and sheltered spots for swimming and relaxing.
4. Anthony Quinn Bay is one of the island’s most scenic coves, with shrub-covered cliffs, a pebbled shore and calm blue-green water. Its sheltered setting makes it a memorable stop on a coastal drive or boat trip.
5. Explore the Acropolis of Rhodes for a glimpse of the island’s ancient past. The archaeological site includes remains of temples, a stadium and a theatre, with excavations continuing across the hillside setting.
6. If you enjoy water sports, head to Ixia Bay, where the long shingle beach is popular with windsurfers. You can also combine a visit with nearby Ancient Ialyssos or return to Rhodes Town for sightseeing and dinner.
7. Rhodes is also known for its varied coastline. The eastern side is generally the place to look for calmer, more developed beaches, while the western and southern coasts offer more rugged scenery. Popular choices include Anthony Quinn Bay, Elli Beach, St Paul’s Bay, Glystra, Agathi and Tsambika.

Rhodes is well worth visiting if you want to combine beaches, history and exploring. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Medieval City of Rhodes, visit the whitewashed village and ancient acropolis at Lindos, then head inland for pine-covered landscapes, traditional villages and vineyards. With a long coastline and plenty of waterfront dining, it’s easy to build a varied holiday beyond the beach.

Late spring and early autumn are particularly good times to visit Rhodes for warm beach weather without the strongest summer heat. May, June, September and early October also suit sightseeing in Rhodes Old Town, Lindos and the island’s interior. July and August are better for travellers who prefer hot weather and long days by the sea. Check seasonal opening dates for restaurants, attractions and resort facilities before you travel.