Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and one of Greece’s most sought-after destinations, offering a captivating mix of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. Over millennia, it has been shaped by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Ottomans, and Italians. Former home to the legendary Colossus, today Rhodes’ UNESCO-listed Medieval Old Town stands as one of the best-preserved fortified cities in Europe.
While once known primarily for its historic significance, Rhodes has evolved into a destination that truly offers something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to cultural exploration, beach relaxation, food and wine, or vibrant nightlife, the island delivers a complete travel experience accessible to all types of visitors — families, couples, solo adventurers, and groups alike.
Its strong focus on hospitality, gastronomy, and entertainment has turned Rhodes into a modern, well-rounded holiday choice — without ever losing touch with its ancient soul.
And if you’re in the mood to explore beyond, Rhodes serves as a perfect base for short day trips to nearby islands or coastal destinations — adding flexibility and variety to your stay without ever needing to “leave” the experience. This unique combination of depth, comfort, and accessibility makes Rhodes one of the must-visit destinations in the Mediterranean.
Historical Monuments You Should Visit in Rhodes
- Medieval Old Town
A living museum of cobbled streets, the formidable Palace of the Grand Master, the evocative Street of the Knights, and the Archaeological Museum. https://maps.app.goo.gl/4WTU1Es52Xm7gNEj6 - Monte Smith & Acropolis of Rhodes
Ancient ruins of Apollo’s Temple, a stadium, and a theater set above a sweeping coastal panorama. https://maps.app.goo.gl/xsc85XheJdraxHgeA - Acropolis of Lindos
A dramatic hilltop fusion of classical and medieval ruins overlooking the Aegean Sea. https://maps.app.goo.gl/uPaeuf47AhXUksU49 - Ancient Kamiros
A remarkably preserved example of Dorian urban planning and architecture. https://maps.app.goo.gl/vhvY42SboWBzQNR26 - Suleymaniye Mosque & Ottoman Baths
Echoes of Rhodes’ Ottoman past, offering cultural depth and architectural elegance. https://maps.app.goo.gl/8BX7Fz1URGerrCdj8 - Kallithea Springs
A seaside spa with art deco architecture—a blend of Italian design and Mediterranean charm. https://maps.app.goo.gl/KWwtdVAEWDbqRCgJ6 - Castles of Kritinia
Medieval guard posts with impressive sea views and a sense of history. https://maps.app.goo.gl/m9RnYXbrFm6xaxk1A - Castles of Monolithos
Medieval guard posts with impressive sea views and a sense of history. https://maps.app.goo.gl/DdhDq4BYPnmWLanZ8 - Filerimos Hill
A forested spot with early Christian ruins, olive trees, and a symbolic stone cross. https://maps.app.goo.gl/33soXX8THkJabgUD7
Local Events & Traditional Festivals
Rhodes celebrates life in every season, offering a rich calendar of experiences — from cultural performances to traditional village feasts. Local festivals are more than entertainment; they’re vibrant windows into the island’s soul, uniting music, faith, and flavor in settings where visitors are warmly welcomed as part of the community.
Traditional feast days (panigiria) are especially popular in summer, with live music, folk dancing, outdoor grilling, and heartfelt hospitality. These are ideal moments to connect with local life and immerse yourself in genuine Greek island spirit.
Notable examples include the August 15th Dormition celebrations in Asklipio, Laerma, and Kremasti, the Watermelon Festival in Apolakkia, the Wine Festival in Embonas, and the Honey & Melekouni Day in Psinthos.
What to Expect:
Music & Dance
Local orchestras, lyra and lute players, and traditional folk dances lasting late into the night.
Food & Drink
Village-style grilling, homemade desserts, souma (local spirit), and seasonal specialties.
Cultural Rituals
Religious processions, storytelling, and celebrations rooted in centuries-old customs.
Tip: Panigiria are often announced only weeks in advance. Ask locals, check village boards, or explore spontaneously — they’re some of the island’s most memorable moments.
Religious Heritage & Pilgrimage Sites
- Panagia tou Kastrou (Our Lady of the Castle)
Byzantine-era cathedral in the Old Town. https://maps.app.goo.gl/ad2AR4WcW9sZyW6L9 - Filerimos Monastery
Hilltop sanctuary with a monumental cross and roaming peacocks. https://maps.app.goo.gl/tqT7fRsS9HrnHeBT8 - Tsambika Monastery
Known for fertility blessings; visited via 300 steps. https://maps.app.goo.gl/UcKiA2wX4Q8r5gvw7 - Agios Nikolaos Foundoukli (Eleousa)
15th-century chapel surrounded by nature. https://maps.app.goo.gl/g2Pc8P47PLvXvHLUA - Agios Soulas (Saint Silas)
Valley chapel near a healing spring; panigiri in July. https://maps.app.goo.gl/F5LubqQGjy9FubN66 - Chapel of Sts. Constantine & Helen
Small scenic chapel with stunning views. https://maps.app.goo.gl/Q1UASVzNLryyDAiCA - Agios Panteleimon Chapel (Monolithos)
Cliffside chapel with sea vistas. https://maps.app.goo.gl/VKY6d1sCRoAVNFFE9 - Evangelismos Church (Mandraki Harbor)
Neo-Gothic church with vibrant icons. https://maps.app.goo.gl/NapfPdZVRwZbx8mL6 - Saint Francis of Assisi Church
Active Catholic church from the Italian era. https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZiVhJofQoCE6DfD97 - Holy Trinity Church (Street of the Knights)
Cruciform church with rare frescoes. https://maps.app.goo.gl/cwAMJjxqWnf8NdqL9 - Suleymaniye Mosque
Iconic Ottoman-era mosque in the Old Town. https://maps.app.goo.gl/Pp2J4S4bfMYFP3vz5 - Mustafa Pasha Mosque
Ottoman mosque often hosting Muslim ceremonies. https://maps.app.goo.gl/8BX7Fz1URGerrCdj8 - Ibrahim Pasha & Sultan Mustafa Mosques
Important historical mosques; Sultan’s minaret offers panoramic views. https://maps.app.goo.gl/D771Uakj8NL2UgSg8 - Historic Mesjids
Former churches converted under Ottoman rule (Dolapli, Barasani, Murat Reis). https://maps.app.goo.gl/ubViL87qCBtEfhA28
