Rhodes holidays

The biggest of all the Dodecanese islands, holidays to Rhodes are what Grecian dreams are made of. Whether you’ve come here for some respite along its Blue Flag-lined coastline, want to dive into its lengthy history, or a bit of both - it’s all right here on this stunning sun-drenched island. 

And it’s nightlife scene is just as vibrant! Party animals will love Faliraki’s non-stop entertainment with clubs and bars promising fun late into the night. Eager explorers will appreciate the tumbling cobbled streets of Rhodes Old Town and the ancient Acropolis sitting high on Lindos’ headland. As for kids, when they’re not making a beeline for the island’s waterparks, the local aquarium promises some pretty impressive sea life sightings. 

Things to do

Holidays to Rhodes should start on the beach, and with a wealth of sandy stretches, all kissed by warm, turquoise waters, you won’t have much trouble finding somewhere to lay your towel. But there’s so much more to explore beyond the shoreline. Families shouldn’t miss a chance to visit Butterfly Valley, where they’ll be greeted by a swarm of fluttering creatures.

Or for a day of splash-filled fun, you’ll find one of Europe’s biggest waterparks in Faliraki. Elsewhere, lies some of Greece’s most fascinating ancient sites. The island lives and breathes history, from the UNESCO beauty of Rhodes Town to the natural springs of Kallithea, whose thermal waters have been attracting visitors since the 7th century BC.

Spectacular beach scenery

If your Greece holidays are all about catching some rays along the coast, you’ve come to the right place! As one of the country’s sandiest islands with an impressive 31 Blue Flag shores, it’s quite the beach destination. Fronting many of its main resorts, you’ll find some excellent stretches on the east coast, while the windier west is a magnet for keen surfers. 

Staying in Faliraki but want to venture away from the tourist trail? Leave the crowds behind at Kathara Beach. This relaxing spot complete with soft sands and the clearest, shallow waters is a must for mini swimmers. And while you’re in the area, don’t forget to stop by Anthony Quinn Bay! Perfect for romantic dips, you’ll feel completely secluded in its deep emerald waters - but as one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, you may want to get here early to avoid the swarms of tourists.

Those looking to try the island’s watersports, should hit Elli Beach. Situated just outside of Rhodes Town, this dreamy shoreline offers all kinds of wet activities and beach sports including diving, snorkeling, and volleyball. 

A magnet for history buffs

Much like the rest of Greece, Rhodes certainly isn’t lacking in history. Admire the island’s Byzantine beauty from the ancient streets of Rhodes Old Town. Tick off big-name sites like the Street of Knights, which runs all the way to the city’s highest point, the breathtaking Palace of Grand Masters. You’ll also find traces of its Ottoman Empire here, from striking mosques to public baths.

Over in Lindos, take in those Acropolis views as you sink your teeth into a warm souvlaki from one of the town’s rooftop tavernas. Then, once you’re suitably fueled, go and climb this archeological site (and the ancient Olympic Stadium) for yourself, where the vistas are even more mind-blowing.

Once you’re done visiting the most popular landmarks, there’s just as much history hiding in its traditional villages, like Afandou, one of Rhodes’ oldest settlements and home to a church housing 17th-century wall paintings. For more beautiful religious buildings, Monastery Tsambika  is worth a visit for its coastal views - just make sure you’re prepared for the 300-step climb. Alternatively, jump in a boat and do some island-hopping to nearby Symi or country-hopping to Marmaris in Turkey.

Vibrant nightlife

Aside from its beautiful beaches and rich history, Rhodes holidays are also famous for their pumping nightlife scene. Unforgettable evenings await on Faliraki’s strip, where the doors stay open until dawn. 

Whether you're a couple who wants to go bar-hopping, or a group of friends looking for a good time - Faliraki nightlife offers something for every party-goer. From all‐night karaoke bars to classic dance venues, start your evening down by the beach in one of the many waterside tavernas, then make your way to the village. 

Every night feels like the weekend on Bar Street with hotspots like Bedrock and DC Club, playing music long after the sun comes up.

Rhodes Town offers a great night out too, stretching from its harbour area to the bustling Orfanidou Street. Prefer things a bit quieter? Pefkos and Lindos promise a tamer party atmosphere. Visit Lindos’ cosy courtyard bars and rooftop terraces, ideal for taking in those illuminated views of the Acropolis. Or, hit Pefkos, whose main road is filled with chilled cocktail spots. 

Places to stay

Choose Lindos' towering Acropolis and caramel-coloured coastline as the backdrop to your Rhodes holiday. This picturesque town is perfect for both romantic getaways and lively family escapes. Or if you’re after a vibrant party scene and easy access to Rhodes Town, Faliraki is just the spot. Looking for somewhere luxurious to stay? Those seeking an adult-only base that’s right on the beachfront will love The Ixian Grand in Ixia. 

If you prefer to discover the island’s traditional charms, don’t forget to hit Pefkos on the east coast. Spend lazy days on its beautiful pine tree-lined bay, whose shallow waters are perfect for water babies. Kiotari is another low-key favourite thanks to its lengthy beach and seafront hotels including two of the island’s most stunning 5 star resorts, Mitsis Rodos Village Beach Hotel and Spa and Mitsis Rodos Maris Resort & Spa.

Airports in Rhodes

Rhodes Airport (RHO), also known as Diagorasis, is the island’s only public airport. As one of the biggest in Greece as well as its fourth busiest, it’s the main exit and entry point for tourists and locals. The airport is located near the village of Paradisi and just 15kms west of Rhodes Town. From here, you can reach popular resorts such as Faliraki and Ixia in around 20 minutes by car. The transfer time to the likes of Kolymbia, Lindos or Lardas is slightly longer, between 45 to 60 minutes.

More Travel Guides

We have travel guides available for more destinations, including Lindos | Pefkos | Rhodes Town