Rhodes is Greece’s fourth largest island, known for a blend of ancient history and beautiful views. While I only had one day to visit Rhodes on a recent cruise stop, I instantly fell in love with how much this Greek island had to offer. From an exploration of history and culture with famous attractions like the Acropolis of Lindos to shopping in Old Town Rhodes, there’s a little something for everyone on this island. Even if you only have a day here, there’s so much to do and explore all within reach. If Rhodes, Greece is on your Greek island bucket-list, add these five things to do to your itinerary.
The Acropolis of Lindos
Emily Caldwell / The Manual
The Acropolis of Lindos is a significant historical attraction that’s a must for anyone visiting Rhodes. Even if you’re not huge into exploring history (like me), this site can still be appreciated. The Acropolis of Lindos is an ancient citadel that sits up high, overlooking the entire Lindos area with stunning sea views. This site once served as a fortress for defense and trade, and preserves ruins from many different eras. Today, visitors from all over the world climb up to the top to check it out and learn about Greek history (and take in amazing sea views of the island).
The hike up to the top is nothing quite like hiking up to the Acropolis in Athens, but it’s still a pretty steep uphill walk. It took me about 25 minutes to reach the top. The path is paved with steps, but you can opt for a donkey ride if you prefer not to walk.
Old Town Rhodes
Emily Caldwell / The Manual
My favorite part of my one-day visit to Rhodes was exploring the Old Town area. Rhodes Old Town (also known as Medieval City of Rhodes) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which offers a great place to explore, roam, and wander. This area is known as one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval fortified cities (which almost reminded me a bit of what it’s like to roam through Valletta in Malta). If you’d really like to dive into the history, I recommend a historic walking tour where you can learn about the deep history of this area.
I chose to roam the area on my own, exploring the famous Street of the Knights, the clock tower, and other key historical landmarks. There’s also a huge area of shopping, bars, and restaurants walkable from this area. If you need a break, stop by at Stoa Cafe-Bar, a music-inspired bar, for a snack and a cocktail after a long day out exploring in the heat.
Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
Emily Caldwell / The Manual
A walk through the Place of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is one of the most popular things to do in Rhodes, Greece. This spot served as a seat of power for the Knights of St. John (Hospitallers) that once ruled Rhodes from the 14th to 16th centuries. Today, the space houses many medieval artifacts to explore and serves as a UNESCO landmark within the Medieval City of Rhodes.
If you’re planning to visit this landmark, I recommend buying tickets online before your arrival to ensure you can get in. During the peak summer tourist season, this place can get pretty busy. I spent about one hour here browsing on my own.
Eat & drink authentic Greek food
Emily Caldwell / The Manual
As a true foodie traveler, I’m not ashamed to admit trying new foods is my favorite part of visiting any new country. Greek food is pretty fantastic as a whole, but while in Rhodes, don’t miss your chance to try Pitaroudia. Pitaroudia is a classic Rhodian food which reminds me a bit of a hybrid between a latke and a zucchini fritter.
This appetizer is made from chickepeas combined with onion, tomato, mint, and spices, creating a crispy, crunchy bite on the outside with a soft inside. Since this food is such a staple in Rhodian cuisine, it’s pretty to easy to find on the menu of any classic Greek restaurant. If you’re also a foodie, there’s no shortage of amazing foods to try here (so do your research before you go!)
Visit the beaches
With limited time on my cruise schedule, I did not get time to explore Rhodes beautiful beaches. However, if there’s one thing all of the Greek islands are known for, it’s their beautiful beaches. In chatting with other travelers, I learned that there’s a variety of sandy beaches here with calmer water, as well as some windier, pebble beaches that are great for water sports.
Unlike the beaches many travelers are often accustomed to in the U.S., beaches in Europe are much smaller and can get crowded much faster. So, if visiting a beautiful Rhodes beach is apart of your travel plans, I recommend arriving earlier in the day to secure a spot (especially if visiting in August).