One Week in Rhodes: The Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary

You’re about to discover why Rhodes deserves every minute of your seven-day escape. This Greek island blends medieval history with Mediterranean charm, offering everything from ancient ruins to secluded beaches. You’ll wander through UNESCO-listed streets, swim in crystal-clear coves, and savor authentic Greek cuisine—all while avoiding tourist traps. Ready to transform your week in Rhodes from ordinary to extraordinary? Our day-by-day guide guarantees you won’t miss a thing.

Key Points

• Explore Rhodes’ Medieval Old Town with its Palace of Grand Masters, Street of Knights, and 4km-long defensive walls.
• Visit Lindos Acropolis for ancient ruins and panoramic views, then enjoy the traditional village and nearby beach.
• Take a day trip to Symi Island to experience its colorful architecture, Panormitis Monastery, and local seafood cuisine.
• Relax at Faliraki Beach and try water sports, or visit during shoulder seasons to avoid crowds.
• Experience local culture through Byzantine mosaic workshops, wine tastings, and shopping at Sokratous Street Bazaar.

Arriving in Rhodes: Discovering the Medieval Old Town

As you set foot in Rhodes, the Medieval Old Town immediately transports you back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage site, built between 1309 and 1523, is Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited medieval city.

Begin your exploration at the Palace of the Grand Masters, a Gothic masterpiece at the heart of the Old Town. Then, wander down the Street of the Knights where different “tongues” of the Knights Hospitaller once resided.

The majestic Palace awaits your discovery, followed by a stroll through history along the multi-cultural Knights’ Street.

You’ll love getting lost in the labyrinthine layout with its narrow streets and hidden courtyards.

Don’t miss the blend of Gothic churches, traditional fountains with oriental motifs, and impressive fortifications that tell the city’s defensive story. While Athens offers ancient Greek ruins that date back to classical antiquity, Rhodes presents a different historical period altogether.

With over 200 streets to explore and 6,000 residents maintaining its medieval charm, you’re stepping into living history. The city’s impressive 4 km-long defensive walls were continuously maintained and upgraded to withstand various historical sieges throughout the centuries.

Lindos: Ancient Acropolis and Pristine Waters

Perched dramatically on a towering rocky outcrop above the charming village of Lindos, the ancient acropolis stands as one of Rhodes’ most spectacular historical treasures.

Dating back to the 9th century BC, this natural fortress has been shaped by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and the Knights of St. John.

You’ll explore the magnificent Temple of Athena, admire the Hellenistic stoa, and discover the Byzantine chapel that showcases the site’s diverse religious history.

Danish archaeologists unearthed many treasures here in the early 20th century, with restoration work continuing to this day.

After climbing to the summit and soaking in breathtaking views, head down to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Lindos Beach.

The European charm of Rhodes offers a stark contrast to tropical destinations like the Maldives, giving travelers a unique historical experience alongside beach relaxation.

The surrounding village, with its traditional Aegean architecture, offers delightful spots to enjoy local cuisine. The impressive 87-meter-long Hellenistic Stoa with its 42 Doric columns provides a glimpse into the architectural grandeur of ancient Lindos.

Sun, Sea, and Sand: Beach Day at Faliraki

After the ancient wonders of Lindos, it’s time to swap history for hedonism at Faliraki Beach. This 4km stretch of golden sand along Rhodes’ northeastern coast offers something for all.

Dive into the crystalline turquoise waters or try your hand at jet skiing, wind surfing, or paragliding. For underwater enthusiasts, scuba diving reveals hidden treasures beneath the waves. The beach is well-equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, and toilets for your comfort. Located just 12 km south of Faliraki town, this beach has earned the prestigious Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024 award.

When hunger strikes, you’ll find plenty of taverns and beach bars serving refreshments. Visit during May, June, September, or October to avoid the peak season crowds of July and August. While Rhodes offers stunning beaches, many travelers debate whether Santorini is worth the hype compared to other Greek islands.

The southern end features a designated nudist area, while other sections cater perfectly to families seeking both relaxation and fun.

Cultural Immersion: Museums and Markets of Rhodes Town

Continue to the Kahal Kadosh Shalom Synagogue, Greece’s oldest, to explore Sephardic Jewish heritage before wandering through La Juderia’s atmospheric streets.

For an authentic shopping experience, lose yourself in Sokratous Street Bazaar‘s maze of leather goods and spices. Just as Athens’ cultural allure draws visitors from around the world, Rhodes Town’s markets offer a similar immersion into authentic Greek life. Cap off your shopping adventure with a visit to La Magia, known for its unique handmade pieces inspired by Greek design.

Round off your cultural day with a Byzantine mosaic workshop or join an evening wine tasting featuring local Athiri and Mandilaria varieties – perfect ways to connect with Rhodes’ living traditions.

Island Hopping: A Day Trip to Charming Symi

Just a short boat ride from Rhodes lies the picture-perfect island of Symi, your ideal day-trip escape. Fast boats from Ialysos or Kolona Port will whisk you there in about an hour, while traditional ferries take a more leisurely 2-hour journey. Expect to pay €30-50 for your adventure, with multiple operators offering daily departures during summer.

Upon arrival, you’ll have time to:

1. Wander through Symi Town’s colorful neoclassical buildings and narrow alleys, camera ready for those postcard-worthy shots.
2. Visit the majestic Panormitis Monastery, home to a miraculous icon of Archangel Michael.
3. Cool off with a revitalizing swim at St. George’s Bay’s crystal waters.
4. Sample authentic Greek cuisine at a local taverna, perhaps trying Symi’s renowned seafood.

Don’t forget to check return times—they vary by operator and season. Most travelers give Symi boat tours a 4.5+ bubble rating, showing just how memorable this island excursion can be.

Natural Wonders: Butterflies and Thermal Springs

While Symi offers picturesque island charm, Rhodes itself harbors natural treasures that showcase the island’s biological and geological wonders.

Visit the Valley of Butterflies (Petaloudes) where vibrant Panaxia quadripunctaria moths gather around Oriental sweetgum trees from late May through September. Arrive early morning for the best viewing experience and wear sturdy shoes for the uneven pathways.

Nature’s spectacle awaits at Petaloudes, where colorful moths transform the valley into a living kaleidoscope each summer.

Don’t miss Kallithea Springs, an architectural gem blending Art Deco, Arabic and Baroque styles. This former therapeutic spa boasts mineral-rich waters once used to treat various ailments. The Italian-designed complex, just 8km from Rhodes Town, offers stunning coastal views and beautifully preserved rotundas and mosaics. The reddish water springs have been recognized for their curative qualities since ancient times, with luminaries like Hippocrates studying their therapeutic benefits.

Like the alluring landscapes of Kefalonia, Rhodes presents visitors with breathtaking natural scenery worth exploring.

Though you can’t swim in the historic pools, you’ll find coastal access nearby. Both sites represent Rhodes’ perfect balance of natural beauty and cultural significance.

Your Final Day: Making the Most of Rhodes Before Departure

As your Rhodes adventure draws to a close, you should make the most of your final hours on this enchanting island. Stroll through the iconic Street of Knights one last time, savoring the medieval atmosphere before catching your flight. Drop your luggage at your hotel’s storage and head out for memorable farewell experiences. Embrace your last opportunity to explore the unforgettable adventures that make Rhodes so special.

1. Sip coffee atop Roloi Clock Tower with panoramic Old Town views that’ll make your heart ache to stay longer.
2. Hunt for the charming street cats of Rhodes – snap photos of these beloved local residents.
3. Savor a final meze platter in Hippocrates Square, letting the flavors imprint themselves in your memory.
4. Watch the sunset by the windmills at Mandraki Harbor, reflecting on your week’s adventures. Take a leisurely walk through the Medieval City with its rich historical attractions and marvel at the ancient fortifications one last time.

The Sum Up

As you pack your bags, Rhodes stays with you like sea salt on your skin. You’ve walked medieval streets, swum in crystal waters, and felt the island’s ancient heartbeat. The butterfly valley mirrors your own transformation—arriving as a visitor, leaving as an explorer. Your photos will fade, but the golden Rhodes sunset you’ve witnessed becomes part of who you are now. Until next time!