Rhodes is much more than just sunshine and lazy beach days. Here are seven experiences that are perfect for the whole family and will make your holiday on Rhodes complete.
Actually, I didn’t have very high expectations for Rhodes. I had always thought of it as a typical “soulless charter destination.” I couldn’t have been more wrong!
Rhodes is an incredibly beautiful island, packed with history and exciting activities for the whole family.
Here are seven things to do on Rhodes, whether you’re traveling with family, your partner, friends, or on your own.
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1. Explore the Old Town of Rhodes
Rhodes Old Town is overflowing with both history and life. Medieval buildings stand side by side with tavernas and art galleries, bars tempt you with Aperol spritz, and shops display flowing dresses, sparkling jewelry, and countless souvenirs featuring the famous blue eye amulet (mati).
Highlights in Rhodes Old Town
Street of the Knights
Ippoton Street, also known as Street of the Knights, takes you straight back to the Middle Ages when the knights of the Order of St. John rode their horses through this narrow cobblestone street.
Many medieval buildings still remain, and you can see several monuments and memorials along the way.
Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
This large palace was built in 1523 on the ruins of a temple dedicated to the sun god Helios.
Walk through the rooms and arched hallways where noble knights once walked. Today the palace houses several exhibitions, and there is also a beautiful courtyard with statues.
One of the highlights is supposedly climbing up on the castle walls, but it was closed when we visited. Unfortunately, they didn’t inform us before we bought the tickets — so it’s a good idea to ask before entering.
Shopping
In Rhodes Old Town you won’t find big chains like H&M or Zara, or luxury brands like Versace and Gucci. Instead, you’ll find small, unique shops selling everything from clothes and jewelry to amulets and dreamcatchers.
Tip for families visiting the Old Town
If you’re visiting Rhodes Old Town with kids, stop by Hans & Gretel for gelato, chimney cakes, bubble waffles and other sweet treats.
2. Climb Up to Tsambika Monastery
Tsambika Monastery is about a 30-minute drive from Rhodes Town, located on a hill about 140 meters above sea level. That means stunning views from the top — but also a bit of effort to get there.
The small whitewashed monastery is a popular pilgrimage site. Many Greek women come here to pray for fertility. According to legend, if you climb the 300 steps barefoot, the Virgin Mary will bless you with children.
There is also another parking area further up the hill if you dare to drive a very steep road (our rental car barely made it!).
3. Beaches on Rhodes
Rhodes is often called “The Island of the Sun”, as it is associated with the sun god Helios. The name fits well — the island enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year.
You’ll find beaches for everyone here, from family-friendly sandy beaches to small rocky coves with crystal-clear water.
We spent an entire day at Tsambika Beach, a long golden beach with plenty of space and shallow water — perfect for both play and relaxation.
Other popular beaches include:
- Faliraki
- Anthony Quinn Bay
- Agathi Beach
4. Splash Around at a Water Park
Do you prefer pools over beaches — and maybe a little adrenaline?
Then a visit to Faliraki Water Park is a must. It’s actually one of the largest water parks in Europe, with everything from wave pools and lazy rivers to adrenaline-pumping slides.
5. Try Water Sports
Want even more excitement on the water?
Rhodes offers many water sports, including jet skiing, banana boats, SUP and parasailing. There are also calmer areas perfect for kayaking and snorkeling.
We tried a family-friendly speedboat inflatable ride, which was great fun.
6. Take a Day Trip to Lindos
Lindos may be the most photogenic town on Rhodes. White houses climb the hillside, with the Acropolis on top and a turquoise bay below.
The narrow car-free streets are full of cozy restaurants and shops selling clothes, shoes, jewelry and souvenirs.
At the top of a 116-meter cliff sits the majestic Acropolis of Lindos, offering panoramic views of the sea, the village and the heart-shaped St Paul’s Bay.
It doesn’t get more Instagram-friendly than this!
The site is connected to the goddess Athena Lindia and dates back to the Geometric period (9th–8th century BC).
7. Eat Tons of Greek Food
There’s something special about eating Greek food in Greece. We enjoyed tzatziki, grilled fish, souvlaki, and of course gyros in pita bread. Many tavernas are family-run kitchens with their own recipes and variations of the classics. Order several small dishes and share them — just like the Greeks do!
We had a rental car while exploring Rhodes, which is something we highly recommend. The extra flexibility you get is worth its weight in gold!
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