The Ultimate 7-Day Rhodes Itinerary: What To Do & Where To Stay

Last Updated: November 5 2023

In our opinion, Rhodes is one of the most beautiful Greek Islands. Better yet, it’s not as expensive compared to the likes of Mykonos and Santorini, making it a popular summer getaway!

Known for its medieval Old Town, idyllic beaches, and incredible architecture, this stunning island has so much to offer. Even though it’s one of the most popular Greek Islands, it still offers an authentic charm.

This Rhodes itinerary will take you through everything you need to know. That includes the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get around.

So if you’re looking to visit Rhodes, let’s dive right in!

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7-day Rhodes Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Rhodes/Rodos

Day 2: Symi Island

Day 3: Faliraki

Day 4: Lindos

Day 5: Pefkos

Day 6: Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs

Day 7: Full Day Cruise

This 7-day Rhodes itinerary will see you spend the first full day in the capital of Rodos (Rhodes Town). You’ll then head to Symi Island on day two, before having some fun in Faliraki on day three.

On day four, you’ll explore the charming village of Lindos and its acropolis, before heading to Pefkos on day five. After prioritising these places, spend the remaining days of your travels visiting some other popular destinations, and heading out on a boat trip.

For the best experience, base yourself somewhere relatively central. Don’t worry, we’ll talk about this later on in the article!

Day 1: Rhodes/Rodos

The city of Rhodes (also known as Rodos) is the island’s capital. Known for its medieval architecture, coastal views, and authentic restaurants, it’s a must for any Rhodes itinerary!

More famously perhaps, this town used to be home to the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In fact, you can still see where this iconic statue once stood.

Rhodes Town is split into two main areas; the New Town and the Old Town, with the latter dating back to the 5th century BC. Unsurprisingly, Rhodes Old Town has been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During our time on the island, we spent a full day exploring all that this place has to offer. You’ll find a variety of attractions, bars, and charming restaurants here, so the city is well-tailored to tourism.

There are also lots of luxurious hotels to be found in this area, making it a great place to stay!

The best things to do in Rhodes Town

Built between 292 and 280 B.C.E, there was once a 33-metre (108-foot) high statue of the Greek God Helios here. Known as the Colossus of Rhodes, it was built to celebrate the city’s victory, after it survived the siege of Demetrius.

Unfortunately, an earthquake destroyed the statue just 56 years later, when it snapped at the knees. Although this ancient wonder no longer exists, its location is now marked by two columns, topped with deer statues.

Here are some other popular things to do in Rhodes Town:

• The Palace of the Grand Master – This palace was built in the 14th century by the Knights of Saint John. Originally, it had 158 rooms, but today, only 24 are open to the public.

• Submarine Cruise – This 45-minute submarine cruise allows you to appreciate the area’s underwater life (including colourful fish). You’ll also get epic views of the Old Town from the deck.

• The Archaelogical Museum – Here, you’ll see a variety of items that have been excavated from the island. This includes small figurines, vases, funerary slabs, and mosaic floors.

• Old Town Walking Tour – This small-group walking tour lasts for three hours. Highlights include the Grand Master Palace, the Street of the Knights, and the Jewish Quarter.

• The Knight’s Quarter – In this part of the Old Town, you’ll find plenty of iconic sights. This includes the Street of the Knights, the Temple of Aphrodite, and the Archaeological Museum.

Day 2: Symi Island

We’d highly recommend including a trip to Symi Island on your Rhodes itinerary! It’s one of the most picturesque islands in the Dodecanese, famous for its colourful houses and crystal-clear waters.

In our opinion, it’s the perfect place to wander around and simply relax. There are plenty of charming waterfront tavernas, as well as bars, and quaint shops if you’re looking to buy a souvenir or two.

To reach Symi, you’ll need to visit on a tour from the island of Rhodes. This 9-hour boat trip departs from Mandraki Port in Rodos. After spending nearly two hours to reach the island, you’ll head to the Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis.

You’ll then head out on a cruise to the island’s West Coast, where during the summer, you’ll have a 20-minute swimming stop. Finally, you’ll be dropped off at the little harbour of Symi, where you’ll spend 3.5-4 hours exploring at your own pace.

The best things to do on Symi Island

The Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis is certainly a highlight. It’s the island’s main monastery, and it’s absolutely huge. The construction date isn’t known, but it’s believed to have been around during the 15th century.

Within the monastery itself, are stunning paintings and frescoes. There are also two museums here, one of which is home to various religious items, while the other displays items to do with agriculture, fishing, and shepherding.

Here are some other popular things to do on Symi Island:

• St. Nicholas Beach – Just a short walk from the village of Pedi, this beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and relaxing atmosphere. You can also hire a sun bed if you wish to relax.

• The Kastro – Overlooking the town of Symi, you’ll find the ruins of a castle. Until the Ottoman conquest, this castle used to be owned by the Knights of the Order of St John.

• Symi Harbour – Undoubtedly one of the island’s most scenic spots, this harbour is known for its coloured houses, charming fishing boats, and waterfront tavernas, making it a must-visit.

• The Nautical Museum – Although only small, this museum is a quirky place to explore. Here, you can see old maps, diver suits, ship models, and a variety of nautical tools, among other exhibits.

• The Archaeological Museum of Symi – This museum is set over three levels, which includes two mansions. Here, you’ll learn about the island’s history from Prehistory up until the 19th century.

Day 3: Faliraki

There are plenty of places to visit in Rhodes, and Faliraki is certainly one of the most popular options. Home to a blue flag beach, a fantastic waterpark, and plenty of water sports opportunities, there’s something for everyone here.

It’s also the island’s nightlife hotspot, so is the perfect destination for keen partygoers. You’ll find an array of bars here, many of which are a great place to grab a cocktail.

Even so, Faliraki has managed to keep some of its charm and traditions. It’s a great place to try local cuisine, especially if you’re a seafood lover, as fishermen bring in fresh catches every morning.

As well as the beaches, there’s some great architecture to see too, including Saint Nectarios Church.

Many people choose to base themselves in Faliraki, as there are plenty of affordable hotels to be found here. However, in our opinion, it doesn’t offer the same charm as the island’s other villages and towns.

The best things to do in Faliraki

Faliraki waterpark is certainly the most popular attraction here. There are attractions for everyone at this waterpark including a wave pool, water slides, a lazy river, and a children’s complex. This makes it especially a great place for families, so include it on your Rhodes itinerary!

From May to October, there are free bus transfers to the park from Rhodes Town, Lindos, and other destinations. You can also purchase your admission ticket in advance if you wish.

Here are some other popular things to do in Faliraki:

• Enjoy the Nightlife – There are plenty of funky bars in Faliraki, including Jamaica Bar, Kelly’s Irish Bar, and Bliss Cocktail & Shisha Bar. As such, there are lots of nightlife and party opportunities here.

• Sea Kayaking – This 4-hour sea kayaking experience allows you to enjoy a spectacular sunrise. The tour also includes a Greek breakfast, snorkelling equipment, water, and souvenir photos.

• Anthony Quinn Bay – Just a short drive from Faliraki, you’ll find this beautiful bay. It’s a great place to relax and is known for its crystal-clear waters, charming scenery, and beach bar.

• Evening RIB Cruise – This 2-hour cruise offers you the chance to appreciate an epic sunset, with champagne and seasonal fruit provided. It’s the perfect romantic activity for couples!

• Astronomy Cafe – This awesome cafe offers two telescopes so you can admire the galaxies with your own eyes. The decor is also designed around astronomy and there are plenty of tasty drinks on offer.

Day 4: Lindos

Lindos is undoubtedly one of our favourite places on the island. With its ancient acropolis, traditional architecture, and beaches, it’s a must for any Rhodes itinerary!

This beautiful village dates back to the 10th century B.C. and was a major player when it came to trade, thanks to its location between the Middle East and Greece.

It’s easily accessible by bus from both Pefkos and Rhodes (among other destinations), and there’s a lot to do here. Not to mention, there are plenty of tourist amenities including hotels, bars, and restaurants. You’ll also find some fantastic viewpoints here, where you can appreciate the stunning vistas.

During our time in Lindos, we admired the views from the Acropolis, tried some traditional Greek dishes, and had a wander along the beach. Compared to the likes of Faliraki, this village is very peaceful, so it’s a great place to relax and appreciate the island’s beauty.

The best things to do in Lindos

No trip here is complete without visiting Lindos Acropolis. At this archaeological site, you’re not only getting a glimpse of the island’s past but you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding bay.

Although the walk up to the Acropolis can feel taxing in the heat, please don’t head up on a donkey ride. In our opinion, these donkeys didn’t look cared for at all, so please avoid this experience at all costs.

Here are some other popular things to do in Lindos:

• Lindos Beach – Known for its dramatic landscapes, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters, this beach is the perfect place to catch some rays. There are also plenty of sun loungers and parasols here too.

• Submarine Cruise – This 2-hour submarine cruise offers fantastic views of the Acropolis from the deck, while you can appreciate the area’s underwater life below. You’ll also stop at Navarone Bay.

• Saint Paul’s Bay – Just South of Lindos, you’ll find Saint Paul’s Bay. It’s a popular spot to get married (there’s a chapel here) and boasts turquoise waters, sandy shores, and epic views of the Acropolis.

• Bay Cruise – This 6-hour all-inclusive cruise will take you around the coast of Southern Rhodes. It includes snorkelling equipment, lunch, soda, and swimming toys.

• Mythos All Day Restaurant – Found in Lindos Square, this restaurant is a great place to sample authentic local cuisine. You’ll also be treated to epic views of the village and coastline.

Day 5: Pefkos

Pefkos is where we chose to stay during our trip to Rhodes. It’s a small village, located just a 10-minute drive from Lindos. You can also get the bus to Rhodes Town from here, making it a great base.

First of all, Pefkos is a great spot for those with small children as there are tons of family-friendly hotels in this village. It’s also a very peaceful spot, as it doesn’t offer many nightlife opportunities (aside from a few bars here and there).

Whether you’re looking to relax on a sun lounger, head out on a boat trip, or sample the local cuisine, Pefkos has you covered.

With its laid-back atmosphere, variety of dining options, and great hotels, it’s a must for any Rhodes itinerary! We spent one week on the island and stayed here the whole time. However, it was super easy to visit other popular destinations too.

The best things to do in Pefkos

Pefkos Beach (also known as Pefki Beach) is a great place to relax. You can either wander along the shores or chill out on a sun lounger. Better yet, it’s a popular swimming spot, as the waters are crystal-clear.

Not only that, but there’s plenty of watersports on offer. This includes jet skiing and paddleboarding, so there’s something for everyone! It’s also an epic spot to watch the island’s beautiful sunsets.

Here are some other popular things to do in Pefkos:

• Glass-bottom boat trip – Hands down a must for any Rhodes itinerary! This awesome experience allows you to marvel at Greece’s underwater life and you’ll have swimming stops too.

• Try the local cuisine – Some of the most popular dining options in Pefkos include Philosophia Beach Restaurant, Flyers, and Taverna Nikolas, Honestly, there are so many fantastic options!

• Shop for souvenirs – Although Pefkos is only small, there are a few stores where you can pick up goods such as jewellery, ceramics, and handmade lace. However, Rhodes Town offers more options.

• Pick up a bottle of Koriantolino – This is Rhodes’ signature liqueur. It consists of Ouzo, sugar, and a type of plant that only grows on this island. You can pick it up as a souvenir if you wish!

Day 6: Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs

On day six of this Rhodes itinerary, we’d recommend heading on a tour to see Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs. These are two of the island’s most popular attractions.

This Rhodes day trip includes two hours of free time in Butterfly Valley, where you’ll get to marvel at the seemingly endless Panaxia Quatripunktaria butterflies. You’ll then head to Valley of Seven Springs, another scenic spot, known for its greenery and climate.

If you’re not too bothered about Butterfly Valley this 7-hour bus trip is also a great option! It’s run by Kariba Travel and includes a visit to Lindos Village and Seven Springs. You’ll have three hours to explore Lindos and hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.

However, we highly recommend including Valley of the Butterflies on your 7-day Rhodes itinerary. Not only is it a beautiful place but you’ll get to appreciate the area’s flora and fauna.

Day 7: Full Day Cruise

Whether you’re spending one or two weeks in Rhodes, you’ll want to prioritise this activity. Going out on a day cruise around this beautiful Greek island offers the perfect opportunity to relax and just kick back.

This full-day cruise stops several times and is an awesome way to explore the island’s coast. This family-friendly trip includes three swimming stops, snorkelling equipment, and a Greek buffet lunch.

You’ll also have unlimited drinks (including beer, wine, and juice), and there are plenty of benches and bean bags onboard so you can chill out.

This 6-hour cruise is another fantastic option! It also includes three stops, where you’ll get to visit Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Springs.

Sea inflatables and snorkelling equipment are included in this cruise, and you’ll have a buffet lunch too. Not to mention, you’ll be cruising around on a traditional wooden boat.

Helpful Information for Visiting Rhodes, Greece

How to get to Rhodes

The easiest way to get to Rhodes is by plane. The main airport on the island is Rhodes International Airport (RHO) and multiple airlines offer direct services here!

You can fly into Rhodes from all over Europe. If you can’t take a direct flight from your country, you can catch a flight to Athens and transfer, so there are plenty of options.

Alternatively, you can also reach Rhodes by taking a ferry from Athens. Ferries leave from Piraeus Port 4 or 5 times a week and the journey takes approximately 16 hours.

Ferries also leave for Rhodes from Kos, Leros, Patmos, and Simi. In the summer, you might even be able to jump on a ferry from Santorini to Rhodes. Definitely a bonus for those looking to island-hop!

How to get around Rhodes

To make the most of your Rhodes itinerary, we’d recommend hiring a car. There are plenty of rentals to be found on the island and they are very affordable.

Our top choice for hiring a car in Rhodes is Europcar. Europcar has an excellent reputation, they offer very reasonable prices, and you can pick up a car from the airport. A 4-seater car can cost as little as £9 per day, making them perfect for budget travellers!

Having a hire car opens up a huge range of possibilities. You can easily reach hidden gems and you don’t have to worry about sticking to public transport schedules.

If you don’t feel confident enough to drive, there are bus services in operation across the island. You will have to stick to the bus schedules but you can travel pretty far. We used the buses to easily travel from Pefkos all the way to Rodos.

The best time to visit Rhodes

Rhodes is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a sunny summer holiday. If you love hot sunny days, the best time to visit the island is between June and September, when temperatures consistently reach 30°C (86°F).

July is the hottest month, with an average daily high of 30°C (86°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F). Even the winters in Rhodes are quite mild so you can expect a warm break no matter when you visit.

As you would expect, July is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit Rhodes, so you might want to consider that. If you want to visit the island when it’s more affordable and less crowded, we recommend booking your stay for May or October.

Despite being quieter and more affordable at this time of year, temperatures still regularly sit around 28°C (82°F).

Exploring Rhodes on a tour

To make the most of your Rhodes itinerary, you can always head out on a tour. We choose to explore self-guided if we can, but there’s no denying that tours allow you to see a lot in a short amount of time. You’ll also get a unique insight into the island from your local guide.

Here are some of the most popular tour options on Rhodes:

• Guided tour of Lindos, Rhodes City, and Kallithea – This 6.5-hour tour will take you to some of the island’s best spots on a bus. You’ll also have a guide who will teach you all about the island.

• Rhodes: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour – This bus ticket offers a great way to explore Rhodes. You’ll be travelling around on an air-conditioned bus and you’ll have an audio guide.

• Rhodes: Filerimos Hill and Butterfly Valley Bus Trip – This 6-hour tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. You’ll head up to Filerimos Hill and you’ll get to explore the Valley of the Butterflies.

Where to stay on Rhodes

Whether you’ve got 5 days in Rhodes or two weeks, you’ll need a great base. Somewhere you can relax, that has plenty of amenities, and preferably, has a beach nearby.

If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Rhodes, then we’ll outline the most popular options below!

Rodos

As the capital of the island, Rodos is the perfect place to stay. It’s divided into two parts; the New City and the Old Town, with the latter being one of the best-preserved European medieval settlements.

Not only are there plenty of hotels and apartments found in Rodos town (also known as Rhodes), but there are ample tourist amenities here too, including bars and restaurants.

Some of the best attractions in the island’s capital include the Palace of the Grand Master, the Archaelogical Museum, the Knight’s Quarter, and the Street of the Knights. As such, you won’t run out of things to do if you stay here.

The best places to stay in Rodos:

• Budget: STAY Rhodes Hostel is one of the most affordable options. If you stay here, you’ll benefit from cosy shared areas such as a games room and home cinema, as well as a kitchen and lounge.

• Mid-range: Diana Art Boutique Hotel is just a short walk from Akti Kanari Beach. As well as a shared lounge, this property offers spacious rooms, some of which feature a private balcony.

• Luxury: 10GR Boutique Hotel & Wine Bar offers gorgeous rooms and you’ll have breakfast included. On-site, there’s a bar, a restaurant, and a spa, where you can relax in a jacuzzi or hot tub.

Lindos

Lindos is one of the island’s most charming villages. It’s dominated by an ancient acropolis, one of the area’s highlights, along with Saint Paul’s Bay, which is known for its crystal-clear waters.

With its traditional whitewashed houses, narrow alleyways, and charming architecture, this village has so much to offer. Especially, as you’ll find plenty of great places to stay here.

Lindos is just a short drive from Pefkos (also known as Pefki) and is also under an hour’s drive from the island’s capital. As such, it’s a great place to base yourself, with public transport running from here.

The best places to stay in Lindos:

• Budget: Vassos Apartments is a very affordable option, offering units for 2-4 people. Some of these feature stunning sea views, and you’ll also benefit from a private bathroom, kitchen, and WiFi.

• Mid-range: Maris Lindos Suites & Apartments is just a 5-minute walk from the main square, and it overlooks the bay. The suites here are beautiful and many of them offer sea views.

• Luxury: Lindos View Hotel is a stunning hotel that overlooks the village. Here, there are two swimming pools, a children’s playground, a bar, a shared lounge, and a games room.

Pefkos

This is where we stayed during our time on the island. Even if you don’t decide to stay here, we’d recommend including this place on your Rhodes itinerary.

Offering a laid-back atmosphere, a blue flag beach, and authentic charm, it’s a great place to base yourself. There are also plenty of laid-back opportunities when it comes to nightlife, including karaoke spots and cosy bars.

You’ll find plenty of great restaurants in Pefkos too, where you can sample the local cuisine. After a full day of exploring the island, there’s no better place to enjoy some downtime.

The best places to stay in Pefkos:

• Budget: George Beach Studios is one of the cheapest options you’ll find in Pefkos. Here, you can pick up a really affordable apartment that sleeps up to five people, as well as cosy studios.

• Mid-range: Lindia Thalassa is where we stayed. With an outdoor pool, a swim-up bar, a restaurant, and spacious rooms with sea views, this awesome hotel has so much to offer.

• Luxury: Elements offers three-bedroom luxury villas which sleep up to 6 people. Here, you can enjoy an infinity pool with sea views, a fully-equipped kitchen, a BBQ, and a garden area.

Faliraki

Last but certainly not least, there’s Faliraki – the perfect base for partygoers. Unlike the previous destinations we’ve mentioned, Faliraki is known for its nightlife and parties.

It’s also a great destination for watersports, and it has a blue flag beach. Thanks to its location, there are ample day trip opportunities as well, whether that be by public transport or car.

There’s no shortage of accommodation options in Faliraki, so there’s something for every budget. You’ll also find plenty of bars and restaurants in this resort town. The main attraction has to be Faliraki Waterpark, the perfect day out for families!

The best places to stay in Faliraki:

• Budget: Antonios Hotel is the perfect low-cost option. You can pick up studio units here for a great price, and there are plenty of facilities including an outdoor pool, a bar, and a pool bar.

• Mid-range: Alexander Studios & Suites is an adults-only property, perfect for a romantic getaway. Here you can relax in a pool, wander down to the beach, and enjoy a tasty breakfast.

• Luxury: Dimitra Boutique Rooms is one of the more luxurious options in Faliraki. The rooms are gorgeous, boasting sea views and a balcony, and there’s an on-site restaurant.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rhodes

How many days do I need for Rhodes?

In our experience, you need to spend at least 4-5 days on Rhodes. However, if you want some time to relax as well, we’d recommend staying for 7 days.

This way, you’ll be able to explore the island’s most popular sights, as well as visit another island or two. Not to mention, there are plenty of awesome day cruises that you can take.

What is a good budget for Rhodes?

We recommend a budget of at least £45-£65 per person per day. Rhodes is one of the more affordable Greek Islands, so your money will get you much further than if you were to go to Santorini or Mykonos.

There are plenty of budget-friendly B&Bs and hotels on the island, as well as some cheap food options. Just make sure you set aside some extra funds for activities and tours, such as a boat trip.

Can you get around Rhodes without a car?

Yes, it’s certainly possible to explore Rhodes without your own set of wheels. Before we had our driving licenses, we used the island’s bus services to visit the main towns and highlights.

However, hiring a car offers you a lot more flexibility. You won’t be restricted to public transport schedules and you’ll be able to visit more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

What is the best part of Rhodes to stay in?

We’d highly recommend staying in Pefkos (Pefki) which is where we based ourselves. However, the main town of Rodos is another great place to stay, along with the charming village of Lindos.

For the partygoers out there, your best bet is to stay in Faliraki. Here, you can enjoy plenty of nightlife, and then explore the rest of the island during the day.

Final Thoughts on this Rhodes itinerary

Hopefully, this 7-day Rhodes itinerary has given you a good idea of what’s on offer. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, admire ancient sites, or try traditional food, this island has something for everyone!

If you’re wondering what to see in Rhodes, then you will be spoilt for choice. Our top recommendation would be to prioritise the island’s towns and villages first. For those who have more time, allow yourself to relax and head out on a boat trip, and visit some of the lesser-known destinations.

If you have any further questions about this Rhodes itinerary then don’t hesitate to contact us via Facebook, Instagram, or in the comments below.

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