Born in Italy, Anita was bitten by the travel bug before she could walk. After a short experience in the UK, she literally went on the other side of the world and landed in French Guiana. Besides launching rockets, she loves everything about traveling and living abroad and (of course) writing about it!
Are you looking for the best hotels to stay in Rhodes Old Town? You are in the right place! Based on the reviews of real customers, I have selected the best hotels you should consider when visiting Rhodes. With their luxurious vibes and authentic atmosphere, these charming boutique hotels will steal your heart. Situated just a few minutes from the main city attractions, they are an excellent solution for the travelers who like to spend the night in unusual locations. In fact, most of the boutique hotels below are situated inside the medieval buildings built by the knights of Saint John.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
I sorted the hotels geographically by distance from the Grand Master Palace. Note: this doesn’t mean that the hotels that are far from the Grandmaster Palace are in a worst position. As you can see from our Rhodes Old Town self guided walking tour, there are many things to see in the whole town, and every alley has its own charm and story to discover.
Also, there are several parking spots all around the walls, so if you are considering the walking distance to leave your rented car, consider the distance from the nearest gate. For example, if you are staying in Helios Garden Boutique, Saint Athanasios Gate is closer. While Kokkini Porta Rossa is just a few meters away from Saint John’s Red Gate.
You can locate the different hotels on the map below.
The following comparative table will help you get a global idea of the hotels in a glimpse. For more in-detail information on each hotel, go to the dedicated paragraph. If you want to check the dates/book a hotel, just click on the link.
All hotels include breakfast. Breakfast is commonly served in a designated area, a courtyard or your room. It isn’t a buffet breakfast, but it’s still very abundant and delicious. Try the yogurt with honey and fruits, you’ll thank me later! 😉
❤️ Guests loved: the abundant breakfast and the hosts, Effi and Yiannis.
Perfectly blending the medieval atmosphere with a Middle Eastern twist, Utopia Luxury Suites offer a delightful solution to those who want to explore Rhodes, while maintaining a certain independence. The suites are mini apartments equipped with kitchens.
The Junior Suite has a small private pool that was an ancient cistern, perfect to cool off after a long day of exploration. While in the King Suite, there is a jacuzzi. You can also rent a bike to explore the area and some of the closest sites.
The owner is an interior designer, and you can see the attention she puts into every detail while decorating each suite. The result is a beautiful blend between the ancient and new.
At Utopia Luxury Suites, breakfast is homemade and very abundant. There are cakes, omelettes and pies but also the typical Greek yogurt.
For an additional fee, the hotel provides with massage sessions.
❤️ Guests loved: the calm atmosphere and the host, Maria.
It’s hard to believe that Saint Artemios Boutique Hotel is situated just a few minutes from the crowded Sokratus Street. And yet this charming boutique hotel is just a few meters away from all the main town’s attractions, in a calm alley.
Saint Artemios Hotel takes its name from the medieval church that you can admire in the main courtyard. In the same private courtyard, you can also chill on the comfortable outdoor sofas, or enjoy breakfast in the morning in a peaceful location.
The boutique hotel is located in two different buildings. An original medieval building that has modern and large rooms with stone floors and walls, while a new separate building welcomes the oriental decorated rooms.
The rooms have a rustic-chic vibe given by the use of earthy colors and the exposed wooden beams.
❤️ Guests loved: the delicious breakfast and the host, Elli.
Orange, yellow, green, and blue are the names (in Greek) of the 4 large rooms inside Ellique Hotel. Quite obviously, each room respects the color code given by its name, which is a nice aesthetic touch.
The location is in a quiet cobblestone street not far from Sokratus Street, and it has easy access to all the main attractions in the town. Hellique Hotel has an adult-only policy. Children are welcome from 12 years old.
The attention to detail is one of the main strengths of this boutique hotel. The host Elli is very attentive and helpful, and provides good tips for visiting Rhodes.
The minibar service is included in the room price and is refilled daily. For an additional fee, you can rent bicycles and tour the town and surroundings.
❤️ Guests loved: the authenticity of the location and the host, Nikos.
Situated in the south-western side of Rhodes Old Town, S. Nikolis Boutique Hotel is located inside a medieval sandstone building, built by the Knights of St John. The area is even more ancient as the hotel rises on the 2000-year-old remains of the Ancient Agora. Good to know: the closest entrance is Saint Athanasios Gate.
The rooms of S. Nikolis are in two different buildings. The reception and some of the rooms are situated in a 14th century building. While the rest of the rooms are housed in a 1522 knight’s residence, which is about 100 meters away from the hotel main building.
What makes S. Nikolis stand out is the unique step-back-in-time atmosphere and setting. Take the furniture for example: inside the Superior Suite there is a beautifully handmade wooden queen-sized bed.
Even if the rooms respect the medieval character, the hotel has a few comfortable surprises, like the private jacuzzi that is in some of the rooms.
❤️ Guests loved: the serene garden and the hosts, Jay and Meike.
German/Dutch couple Jay and Meike have renovated a house and transformed it into three lovely apartments that can be an ideal pied-à-terre during your trip to Rhodes.
The apartments are tastefully renovated and fully equipped. The surfaces variate from 32 m² to 44 m² to grant you all the comfort and place you need.
The interiors with the natural stone exposed are rustic but absolutely welcoming, and the three apartments have a welcoming and cozy vibe. My favorite touch? Naming the apartments after the God of the Sun (Ilios), the Goddess of the moon (Selini), and the Goddess of the dawn (Eos).
One of the highlights of Helios Garden Boutique Apartments is the lush garden where you can have breakfast or dine. The communal courtyard also has two sundeck areas and a lounge.
❤️ Guests loved: the beautiful setting and the hosts, Nikos and Angela.
An elegant and authentic space, Kokkini Porta Rossa is a 5 stars boutique hotel situated next to St. John’s Gate. The hotel used to be a big house under the Ottoman Empire, that welcomed Greek, Turkish and Jewish families.
Tastefully decorated and renovated, the hotel includes 6 large luxurious suites each with unique features and a unique name that recalls some of the people who lived and worked inside the houses.
Guests who are looking for accommodations with a plunge pool should reserve Michalis suite. While the owners recommend Deniz for a romantic stay, the suite has a “hayat” (which translates as “life” from Arabic), which is a wooden roofed balcony that you can admire from outside the hotel.
Did you know? Kokkini translates as “red” from Greek, while porta rossa means red door from Italian.
❤️ Guests loved: the beautiful setting and the host, Toula.
From the iron entrance gate, Trinity Boutique Hotel immerses its guests in a medieval atmosphere. The Gothic building was constructed by Latvian merchants in the late 15th century.
After the island’s occupation by the Turkish Empire, the first floor was added to give the building the structure it still has today.
Trinity Boutique Hotel has 6 large and modern rooms, some of which have a comfortable jacuzzi to rest after a long day of exploration. Depending on your travel party, you have the choice between couple or family rooms.
In the courtyard you will find a nice small lounge garden where you can have breakfast or simply relax. Trinity Boutique Hotel’s interiors are tastefully decorated and furnished, allowing you to spend some quality time in Rhodes Old Town.
Every travel lover who documents and collects memories from their travels will love the Ultimate Traveler’s Edition of the Adventure Book. And, of course, I am no exception. I’m a huge fan! Are you still hesitating to buy it? Or would you like to see what’s inside? In my detailed review you can check out all the features of this amazing travel journal, and decide for yourself whether it’s worth the investment (spoiler alert, it absolutely is!).
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
The Adventure Book Ultimate Traveler’s Edition Review
A Quick Unpacking Overview
The book comes inside a branded cardboard box that I find very practical to keep the things stored before adding them inside. Or even some extra things that you still want to keep even though you don’t have enough space in the book itself.
Inside the box, under the book, there is also a print which says “Adventure Awaits”. You can frame it. I put mine on my desk. It’s a great reminder that there’s a world out there waiting for us to discover.
I also loved the book cover. The linen fabric makes it instantly a luxurious object that you can proudly display in your library, or on a coffee table. The size is slightly smaller than a coffee book: 8in (20,5cm) for 9.5in (24,5cm), but it’s still adapted to scrapbooking and has a lot of space for writing.
What’s Inside The Adventure Book
Nicole Nagelgast, the author, has meticulously designed this travel journal as a multifaceted tool to keep track of all your memories. Inside the book you will find journal/scrapbooking/drawing pages for each country and territory (295 in total).
Countries and territories can have full dedicated pages, or it can be a page for two. There are also a few pages dedicated to the 50 states of the US, 4 states for each page.
In addition to the creative part, there are also several bucket lists (world wonders, food, accommodations), and inspirational challenges and activities for your travels. Some of the funniest challenges include a scavenger hunt of objects you can find and stick in your travel book, and a flip through the book and traveling to the country when you stop.
And, of course, there are also maps and check-lists to have a visual track of your world exploration. If you feel that something is missing, don’t worry! At the end of the book there are a few extra pages where you can add anything you like.
Would you like to see more pages? Check out my go-through video!
My Impressions About The Adventure Book
The layout is both visually appealing and functional. Of course, it’s very plain, as YOU are ment to customize it with colors, stamps, prints, tickets, and whatever fits for you.
I really liked the inclusion of the independent/semi-independent territories, which makes it more complete compared to the pocket edition. My favorite was the whole page for French Guiana, where I’ve been living for more than 10 years.
The thing I appreciate the most about this book, is the fact that it will help you keep your memories alive. I have always collected stuff from my travels that often end up forgotten in a shoe box. Thanks to The Adventure Book, now I’m able to go through my travel memories in a very easy and practical way.
In case you didn’t know, there are two editions of The Adventure Book. The ultimate traveler’s edition and the first edition. Let’s see what the main differences are:
The first edition is the size of a bullet journal (7.8in x 5in, 197mm x 125mm) and has 220 pages. Inside you will find the 196 independent states as well as a few challenges and travel trackers.
The ultimate traveler’s edition is wider (9.5in x 8in, 24,5cm x 20,5cm), it includes 68 independent territories, and has 288 pages. There are also more games/activities and trackers.
How To Choose The Right Edition Of the Adventure Book
So how do you choose which is the best edition for you? While the first edition of The Adventure Book is the perfect carry-on to write your journal on the go. Due to its larger size and weight, the ultimate traveler’s edition is a travel journal/scrapbook you can calmly complete once you are back home.
I personally prefer to wait until I’m home, and have the retrospection of the whole journey. After all, the writing space for each country is limited, so you have to fill the pages mindfully, even if there are many tricks to add a little extra space to each country.
The Europe Edition And North America Edition
Are you living in the US? Or taking a gap year in Europe? Then you should consider adding the North America or Europe edition to your collection.
Both focusing on a specific geographical area, the two travel books are a great way to inspire you to thoroughly explore these awesome continents. There are specific checklists, like the national parks in both North America and Europe, or the landmarks’ bingo.
I fell completely in love with the ultimate traveler edition, so I’m considering offering myself the Europe edition as well. Maybe there will be a new review post soon! 😉
The medieval town of Rhodes is a paradise for history lovers, as it’s one of the most well preserved in Europe. In this guide I highlighted the most important sights and attractions you should see when going a self guided walking tour of Rhodes Old Town. As I love maps (and they are also very practical), you can also find one to save in the first paragraph of this post.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
Rhodes Old Town Self Guided Walking Tour Map (+ Mandraki Harbor)
If you follow our route, it will take you about an hour to walk from d’Ambroise Gate to Rhodes Aquarium. It’s a 5 kilometer walk. Of course, I’m not counting the time to visit the different attractions and a 1-2 hour lunch break. That will take you the whole day, it may seem a lot, but there are so many things to do, see, and shop!
Is Rhodes the most well-preserved Middle Age town in Europe? Maybe, but there’s a little trick though! From 1912 to 1947, Rhodes was under the control of the Italian administration. The Italian colonists preserved the buildings from the Knight’s period (1309 – 1522), while they demolished the Ottoman buildings (1523 – 1912). They also reconstructed many of the buildings that were neglected or destroyed, including the Grand Master’s Palace.
D’Ambroise Gate
There are several gates to access the citadel. If you are NOT staying inside the walled town, or visiting on a cruise excursion, d’Ambroise Gate is the perfect starting point for your Rhodes Old Town self guided walking tour. The northwestern gate has a scenic moat bridge from where you can admire the walls circling the town.
To enter the town, there is a scenic stone hallway where you can often find a street musician. Enter the second wall line, and you will find yourself in a larger pedestrian street with the left side of the Grandmaster Palace in the background. I particularly loved this part as it’s really picturesque, there are a few portrait painters and so many cats sleeping around!
The Medieval Clock Tower
As you pass another smaller gate, you will enter Rhodes Old Town. Picturesque two-floor stone houses line the street with colorful shops and restaurants, and in the distance you will notice Roloi the clock tower.
This tower is the highest point in Rhodes Old Town, and it has the best view. The small fee to enter includes a free beverage, coffee or tea.
Suleymaniye Mosque and the Rainbow Stair
While you are in the tower, take the chance to have a glimpse of Suleymaniye Mosque, one of the few Ottoman buildings that survived the wars and the Italian renovation works. Today the mosque is closed except during special events or religious festivities.
Following our path, you will also pass by the mosque very close on all sides. Go up to Panaitiou Street and, after the dummy with a medieval armor, turn right for a quick photo stop on the rainbow stair.
The Grandmaster Palace
Seat of the Knights of Saint John’s power, the Grandmaster palace is one of the most impressive sights in Rhodes. The imposing castle was renovated by the Italians (who controlled Rhodes from 1912 to 1947), after the explosion of a gunpowder storage in 1856 severely damaged the area.
Even though most of the castle has been rebuilt, the place has a really immersive atmosphere that will take you back to when the Knights of Saint John controlled the island. On the other hand, the Italians made some important modifications. For example, while renovating the castle, they took many damaged mosaics from Kos and placed them inside the palace. You will also notice many Roman symbols, like the Capitoline Wolf or the Eagle, both taken by Fascism from the Roman Empire symbolism.
The ticket entrance will give you access to an interesting exhibition of objects, a few very ancients. The final part of the museum is dedicated to the Knights of Saint John and their history on the island.
The Street of the Knights
Your journey to discover Rhodes Old Town continues outside in one of the most emblematic places of the town, the Street of the Knights, which is considered one of the most well preserved medieval alleys in Europe.
This cobblestone street, also known by the name of Ippoton, is lined with 15th – 16th century buildings that were once the inns where the knights lived. Today, several of these buildings have been converted into embassies.
I highly recommend exploring the 650 ft (200 mt) alley, and appreciate the small details hidden among the ancient walls. On our map you will notice a short deviation to explore the narrow alleys around. The one I’ve put in the tour has a panel that illustrates the different buildings lined up on the main street.
The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
Rhodes’ largest collection of archaeological finds, is inside the scenic ancient hospital of the Knights of Saint John. As I mention in the best Rhodes Instagram spots, the location itself is absolutely worth the entry fee. The two level stone building features a mix of romanesque architecture and some elements from the Middle East, recalling the caravanserais.
The museum displays many objects from the Hellenist era, like vases and other daily objects, but also burial finds. There is also an outdoor garden with some ancient statues that are well worth seeing.
Personally, the Hospital of the knights was my favorite attraction in Rhodes Old Town.
The Jewish Martyrs Square
When passing through this bustling square, the monument to the Jewish martyrs may easily go unnoticed, shadowed by the large trees in the center of the square.
Dedicated to the memory of the Jews who were deported from Rhodes and Kos by the Italians and Germans during World War II, this memorial is an important piece of the modern history of Rhodes Old Town, that wasn’t spared by the war.
Church of the Virgin Mary of the Burgh
Most cities would probably organize the area of the Church of the Virgin Mary of the Burgh, and make access available for a small fee. Not in Rhodes, you can freely walk among the ruins of this medieval church. That’s also one of the reasons I loved exploring the town so much. It feels authentic, like a step back in time.
The Gothic church was built in the 14th century by the Knights of Saint John Hospitaller. Through the years, the church has been abandoned, and the roof as well as many of the walls collapsed. Nowadays, you can admire the arches supporting the sky and a large colony of cats living among the ruins.
Before heading back to the city center, admire the view from the gate that takes the name of the church, the Virgin Mary or Panagia Gate. It’s indeed one of the loveliest views in the town.
From Sokratus Street to the Liberty Gate
Even though it’s a very touristy location (you could say tourist trap), I loved shopping on Sokratus Street! There are so many shops of all types, from jewelers to the usual kitsch stuff, that I’m the first to buy. It’s unlikely you won’t give in to the temptation of buying something.
My only advice is to pass by Argyrocastrou Square Fountain, one of the cutest photo spots in Rhodes Old Town, and the Temple of Aphrodite, which is one of the oldest ruins in the town. The ruins of this temple are worth seeing, even if it will only take you a few minutes.
Leave Aphrodite Temple and the Old Town from the Liberty Gate and find yourself in Mandraki Harbor.
The Three Windmills and the Doe
Considered one of the landmarks of Rhodes, the three windmills, stand on the right side of Mandraki, on the same pier to go to Saint Nicholas Fortress. The three windmills have been renovated and are the few survivors of a series that once served both for agriculture and defensive purposes.
Even before thinking of visiting Rhodes, you probably come across it during history class because of the mythical Colossus. Known as one of the Ancient 7 World Wonders, the Colossus didn’t survive the test of time. To celebrate Rhodes symbol, a statue of a doe on the right side, and one of a deer on the left side, have been placed where the feet of the Colossus stood.
The location is also a perfect view of the harbor with the old town in the background and the Italian buildings in the modern part.
The Seaside Promenade to the Aquarium
Back to the harbor and Nea Agora, take your time to admire the neoclassical architecture built under Italian dominance. There are several administration buildings that will remind you of the buildings you can find in the EUR neighborhood in Rome. Among the most noticeable, check out the market of Nea Agora and the Casino, both marked on the map.
The last stop of our Rhodes Old Town Self Guided Tour is the northernmost building on the island, the aquarium. The aquarium itself is very small, and you may skip it, but the area is very nice, and I recommend going there also to relax and admire the sunset on the western coast.
Are you planning to visit Rhodes? You will love it!
This island has so much to offer and there are so many interesting activities to do. Need inspiration to craft your itinerary? Check out our 7-day itinerary for the island that includes a day in Symi.
A walled medieval city, amazing natural bays, and an incredible acropolis overlooking the sea. These are only a few of the many stunning Instagram spots you can find in Rhodes. In this blog post you can find them all, in geographical order starting from the north, and complete with a map.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
There is nothing better than a good map to help you find all the most instagrammable places in Rhodes, so here we go!
The Three Windmills of Mandraki
If Rhodes’ Colossus had survived the test of time, today it would be the best photo spot in Rhodes without any doubt. Instead, the star of Mandraki harbor today are the three famous windmills, lined on the walk to Saint Nicholas Fortress.
These windmills were built under the Knights of Saint John, around the 14th century. Documents attest that there were several at the time and they also served as defensive towers.
Nowadays, a symbol of Rhodes, the three famous windmills have been renovated and are an iconic spot to pass by.
The Grandmaster Palace
During the Middle Ages, the Knights of Saint John controlled Rhodes and built many fortresses that can still be admired throughout the island. The most famous of them all is undoubtedly the magnificent Grandmaster palace in Rhodes Old Town.
The castle was severely damaged during an explosion in 1856, when a gunpowder depot was struck by lighting. The palace stayed in ruins until the Italians, who took control of the island in 1912, rebuilt it.
There are several interesting photo drops, although the best ones are probably the main gate, the courtyard, and the main stair (on the left after the main entrance).
Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
There are countless picturesque spots in Rhodes Old Town (and you can check them out in our Rhodes Old Town self guided walking tour), but the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is my absolute favorite with its awe-inspiring arches.
The imposing structure was anciently the hospital of the knights of Saint John. Nowadays, it features a large collection of objects. Its central courtyard is also perfect for taking beautiful photos of this Medieval building.
Filerimos Monastery
Filerimos Monastery is one of the most overlooked attractions in Rhodes. Despite being an important cultural landmark, the Byzantine monastery is also the ideal location for taking some amazing photos.
First, because of the views. There are a few panoramic points where you can admire Rhodes coast up to the city, the Turkish coastline and Symi island. Second, Filerimos monastery. Besides the fascinating interiors, the monastery also has a picturesque courtyard and architecture.
And last, the lovely peacocks that live in the sacred site. There are so many of them! Always parading for the females’ attention, you will have the chance to see many males making the wheel. Sometimes they even do it for visitors, when there are no females around.
Kallithea Springs
If you like frames and geometric elements, Kallithea Springs is your go to for your Instagram photos. This delightful art déco complex was built by the Italians around 1920, on the natural springs of Kallithea that have been known since ancient times.
For a small fee, you can freely wander about the thermal buildings and take some jaw dropping photos. I highly recommend you to step inside the Rotonda Hall (down the main entrance stairs), and the exposition halls, where they also make wedding receptions.
Kallithea Springs is the ideal also for its rocky coastline. You can have a dip on one of the most beautiful beaches in Rhodes, or tan under the sun.
Profitis Ilias View Point
Very appreciated by locals, but less known by tourists, Profitis Ilias is my favorite panoramic point in Rhodes. The breathtaking view will let you see from Kallithea Springs promontory to Afandou beach. But the best part is, of course, the view of the idyllic Anthony Quinn Bay and Ladiko beach.
There are several points on the promontory from where you can enjoy the breathtaking view. The pinned location will send you to a concrete platform near a World War II bunker where you will have Anthony Quinn Bay at your feet.
If you stop at the small parking lot, before arriving at the small church on top, on your right, you will have an amazing view of the southern coast, including Anthony Quinn Bay and Ladiko beach.
Anthony Quinn Bay
Hollywood star Anthony Quinn engraved its name in Rhodes history by acquiring the bay in the 60s. Luckily for us, the iconic bay became a public property again in 1984.
Anthony Quinn Bay with its rocky beach is definitely one of the most beautiful sights on the island. An advice if you like prefer crowd less pictures get there early. The beach is one of the most popular in Rhodes and it can get very crowded.
Seven Springs
Epta Piges, which translates Seven Springs, is a quiet location in the hinterland where you can find a dam that is a very nice backdrop for your Instagram photos.
The funniest part is getting there. You can either walk through an underground tunnel for about 500 ft (150 mt) in complete darkness. If you are not claustrophobic, I highly recommend this experience. Or you can walk on the surface, which’s hilly ground, and reach the dam.
Once you are arrived, there is a wooden stair to get down to the waterfall. When taking your photos in front of the waterfall, be careful of the ground. It’s very slippery!
Disclaimer: As for any time you are exploring urbex, venture forth responsibly, carefully, and within the boundaries of law.
Once known under the name of Campochiaro under Italian dominance, Eleousa is now a quiet village in the central mountains of Rhodes. What makes Eleousa interesting for incredible photos? The ghost buildings of the rectangular square where there is the orthodox church of Saint Karalampos.
Once the core of the Italian village, you can still enter inside the administration building and the complex of shops, houses, and even a screen room that are now completely abandoned.
Acropolis of Lindos
I personally preferred discovering Rhodes Old Town, but I must admit that Lindos is the most “instagrammable” location in Rhodes, and the Acropolis is the best location for the most memorable photos.
It could be because of the breathtaking views of the surroundings, or the ruins of the Greek buildings that overlook the sea. All I can say is that among all the acropolis that survived the test of time, this is probably a top contender for the title of Acropolis with the best views!
Lindos Village
Lovers of the white cubique typical Greek villages, Lindos is perfect for you! The quaint cobbledstone streets lined with shops and restaurants are ideal to walk by and take memorable photos.
A top tip? Have a lunch break in one of the rooftop restaurants. The views are so good! Also, if you are spending more days on the island, remember to visit Lindos on a cruise-free day, it can be very crowded.
Monolithos Castle
The sea, a cliff, Monolithos fortress. I’m talking about one of the most unforgettable locations on the west coast. This fortress was built under the dominance of the Knights of Saint John, to control the southwestern coast of Rhodes.
The place is completely abandoned and left in ruins, but it maintained its charm. You can admire an unobstructed view of the western coast and the surrounding islands, and take some special photos by using the ruins of the castle as a frame.
I was so surprised by the beauty of Rhodes, and I really understood all the hype this island gets. If you are still in the early phases of planning your trip, check out our 7-day itinerary covering so many amazing locations this island has to offer.
Just like many other Greek islands, there are some incredible beaches in Rhodes that one can only dream of. During our one week stay on this amazing island we explored many of them (all the most famous except for Prasonisi). This is our final selection of the best ones you will find on the island. For every beach, I’ve highlighted what the beach is best for, the soil type, and if you can rent beach equipment. Don’t forget the map to help you easily find them once you are in Rhodes.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
I ordered the beaches on this list by geographical area, starting from the east coast, Lindos, and going up to the north to circle back to the west coast and Prasonisi in the south. You can find them all on the map below.
St Paul’s Bay, Lindos
Best for: the view of Lindos Acropolis. Type of beach: sand. Beach equipment on site: tents, umbrellas, sunbeds.
St Paul’s Bay is a small bay on the right of the beautiful Lindos acropolis. When you are on top of Lindos acropolis you can’t see the entrance of the bay, so it looks like a lake.
Despite being mainly rocky, St Paul’s bay has a small beach where you can relax on the sea shore while admiring the acropolis on your left.
Prices to rent the beach equipment are quite expensive comparing to other beaches around the island, but the location is also one of the most beautiful in Rhodes, so it’s still worth it!
Lindos and Pallas Beaches, Lindos
Best for: the view of Lindos Acropolis. Type of beach: sand. Beach equipment on site: umbrellas and sunbeds.
Lindos and Pallas beaches are on the left of the village of Lindos. Often referred to as Lindos beach, Pallas is the small sand beach closer to the acropolis hill. Both beaches have a shallow seabed which is ideal for kids.
Prices for renting beach equipment and at the bar/restaurant are less expensive than in St Paul. The only flaw of this bay is that there can be many boats.
Agathi Beach
Best for: the view, Feraklos castle, Agathi Church, and the necropolis. Type of beach: sand. Beach equipment on site: tents, umbrellas and sunbeds.
Agathi beach was very close to being my favorite beach in Rhodes, when visiting this golden sand beach is an absolute must in Rhodes. What makes it so special? For starters, Feraklos castle.
Overlooking the bay, Feraklos castle is an abandoned medieval fortress that once protected the bays of Agathi and Haraki. Nowadays, the castle is completely in ruins, and you must be careful when exploring it, some of the rocks when climbing up can be slippery. The view from the top is a 360° view of Agathi, Haraki, and the southern beach close to Lindos area. There are also some caves that you can explore.
The Mycenaean tombs on Agathi beach, and Feraklos fortress in the background.
In the northern area of the beach there are two more points to explore: the small Agathi chapel and the Mycenaean tombs overlooking the bay. Getting there is very easy, and you will have a nice view of the beach with Feraklos castle in the background.
Getting there: following Google maps, we ended up on a narrow dirt road where we almost broke our car. To get to Agathi, just follow the panels to the beach and you’ll get there.
Stegna
Best for: off the beaten path. Type of beach: sand. Beach equipment on site: umbrellas and sunbeds.
Stegna is probably the most underrated beach in Rhodes! This quiet beach has a long sandy shore in front of a promenade lined with small shops, houses, and restaurants. Despite its nice location and restaurants, it’s way less touristy than the other most popular beaches in the area.
The beach can be coupled with the exploration of Archangelos, a small and picturesque village, where you can find the folklore museum as well as the Church of Michael the Archangel.
Tsambika Beach
Best for: water sports and activities. Type of beach: sand. Beach equipment on site: umbrellas and sunbeds.
Tsambika is one of the most beloved beaches on Rhodes Eastern coast. The beach is very similar to Agathi, minus the castle overlooking the bay, a long golden sand shore with shallow waters.
The landscape itself is already worth the detour, but what makes it even better are the various water sports you can try. There is also an inflatable water park. At the extreme left of the beach there is also a small dune where you can roll on. It’s so fun!
Afandou Beach
Best for: off the beaten path. Type of beach: pebbles. Beach equipment on site: umbrellas and sunbeds.
Among so many spectacular landscapes, Afandou may look less interesting. And yet this pebble beach has everything it needs to spend a pleasant day. Crystalline waters and a few tourists around, although the water gets deep very close to the shore.
Afandou looks wilder than other more popular beaches, but there are still a few restaurants and bars you can enjoy. Also, you will have absolutely no problem finding a parking spot here.
Ladiko Beach
Best for: the view. Type of beach: sand and pebbles, rocky seabed. Beach equipment on site: umbrellas and sunbeds.
Only 5 minutes by foot from Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko beach is situated on the right side of a small bay that also has a rocky beach on its left.
The beach is very beautiful, but unfortunately there isn’t a lot of space to lay your towel on the sand. Instead, you can rent an umbrella. It can be pricey during summer, but the view is worth it.
Anthony Quinn Bay (our favorite!)
Best for: snorkeling, the view. Type of beach: pebbles, rocky seabed. Beach equipment on site: umbrellas and sunbeds.
The most famous beach in Rhodes is the beautiful Anthony Quinn bay. The iconic location is named after the Hollywood star who fell in love with it while filming The Guns of Navarone. Quinn owned the bay for a few years until a change in property law made it public again in 1984.
The beach has a small parking space for the large crowds it attracts during the high season. For this reason, I strongly advise you to get there very early in the morning. Another reason to be an early bird? The bay is perfectly lit by the sun in the morning and snorkeling at this time of the day can be magical, with many fishes swimming around.
The access to the beach is via a narrow wooden stair. It isn’t easily accessible, but we made it with a stroller. The beach also has a nice bar/restaurant with a terrace overlooking the bay. When visiting, I highly recommend wearing neoprene shoes. The pebbles are sharp, and they also get extremely hot.
Did you know? You can visit Anthony Quinn Bay on a boat. There are several 1 day or half day cruises that will couple the bay with another beach or location. Check them out on GetYourGuide and Viator!
Our pick? Fancy sailing onboard a galleon? Aphrodite Duchess is a modern boat that looks like a galleon. If you sail with them, you’ll see Kallithea Springs, Anthony Quinn Bay, and Traganou Caves. Don’t forget to book the top deck option, which includes a large cushion on the upper deck.
Pro tip: Looking for an aerial shoot of the bay? Go to Profitis Ilias Church. There are several viewpoints where you can admire Anthony Quinn Bay and Ladiko Beach on your right and Falirakis area on your left. This place is definitely one of the best photo spots in the island!
Kallithea Springs
Best for: the art déco architecture of the decorative elements. Type of beach: pebbles and rocks. Beach equipment on site: umbrellas and sunbeds.
Since antiquity, Kallithea springs have been known for their healing and therapeutic properties. During the Italian government of Rhodes, the area underwent several works that gave us the iconic complex that you can visit today.
The art déco constructions on the bay are indeed one of the most important and attractive architectural complexes to visit in Rhodes. Abandoned following the events of World War II, Kallithea springs were later restored by the Greek government.
Since then, the white rounded-shape complex has been set of some iconic films during the 60s and 70s, and it continues to attract several tourists daily.
Set in a small cove, the beach of Kallithea springs is a small stretch of pebbles with a rocky frame. There you can rent beach equipment and relax in the quiet waters of the bay. The sea bed slopes very gently, making it a great place for relaxation.
Elli Beach
Best for: close to Rhodes center. Type of beach: sand. Beach equipment on site: umbrellas and sunbeds.
The northernmost point in Rhodes is the sandy beach named Elli. Just a few walking minutes from Rhodes Old Town and the city center, Elli has clean crystalline waters despite being close to the ancient (and still active) harbor.
Due to its position, this beach can be exposed to the winds and currents; the eastern side is less exposed. It can be a great deal for families also because of the nearby aquarium. In the aerial view of Elli beach down below, the aquarium is the yellow and red building between the two shores.
Akti Kanari Beach
Best for: close to Rhodes center. Type of beach: pebbles. Beach equipment on site: umbrellas and sunbeds.
Just like Elli beach, Akti Kanari is very close to Rhodes center. Very exposed to the winds, Akti Kanari is ideal for seeing some of the beautiful sunsets on the island with the Turkish coast in the background, as well as Simi.
Kremasti Beach
Best for: water sports. Type of beach: pebbles. Beach equipment on site: umbrellas and sunbeds.
The western coast is also the most exposed to the winds. Kremasti is a nice windy pebble beach that is ideal for surfers or kite surfers.
No experience, no equipment? No problem! Thanks to Air-Riders Kite Pro Center, you can take lessons or rent everything you need to start kite surfing. Kite surfing, like snowboarding and wakeboarding, can be very demanding on your knees. If you are fit, I absolutely recommend trying it, it’s so fun!
On the beach you can also find a few military bunkers from WWII. And dulcis in fundo, Kremasti is very close to the airport and if you are passionate about planes you can see the landing or take off.
Prasonisi Beach
Best for: the view and water sports. Type of beach: sand. Beach equipment on site: none.
Prasonisi is a narrow isthmus between the larger island and a small promontory that is the southernmost point of Rhodes. The beach is very exposed and windy. Just like for Kremasti, you can try kitesurf or windsurf. On Kite Prasonisi you will find offers for beginner courses.
If you are up for exploring, you can reach the lighthouse at the south of the promontory and enjoy a beautiful view of the surroundings.
The quieter beaches in Rhodes are on the east coast, while if you want to have some fun and try water sports the west coast is your go to. During summer the island is a very popular tourist destination in the Mediterranean Sea, and if you want to be sure to find a good spot, consider getting up early. And if you are planning a trip to Rhodes, don’t forget to check out our 7 day itinerary.
There are so many activities and things to do in Rhodes that you could easily fill the planning for a 10 day stay. With a 7 day itinerary, you will be able to see the most important cultural sites and some of the most beautiful beaches that make this island one of the best to visit in the Mediterranean. This itinerary is identical to the one we used, except for the 3rd day to the south. Unfortunately, we didn’t visit Prasonisi as it’s a 3 hour round trip from Rhodes. Otherwise, you will find all our first-hand experience and some tips. Have a good read!
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
I put a lot of thought into this map so here is the final itinerary. It’s the same we did and I can confirm you that it was well optimized. Of course feel free to adjust it in case you are changing a few stops. Have a nice exploration!
Day 1 – Rhodes Old Town
I thought I had stepped on the set of an historical movie while entering the walls of Rhodes Old Town. The village looks straight out of a fairy tale with its quaint streets and Medieval buildings.
Even if partly reconstructed, the Old Town strikes for its timeless beauty and is an absolute must when visiting the island.
You could spend your day simply getting lost in the narrow streets while admiring the architecture and shops, but I highly recommend visiting the following museums and attractions.
The Grand Master’s Palace
The center of power of the Knights Hospitaller, the Grand Master’s Palace was rebuilt under Italian control, after it was almost entirely destroyed in 1856 following the explosion of a gunpowder magazine.
Nowadays, the palace hosts an interesting museum where you can admire some archaeological artifacts as well as many mosaics coming from Kos island. And, of course, a section dedicated to the history of the Knights Hospitaller who ruled the island for two centuries.
Street of the Knights of Rhodes
Looking like a lost Gothic village in Central Europe, the Street of the Knights of Rhodes is a world apart. This is where the knights lived separately from the people from the village.
The knights grouped inside the many inns that sided the street alongside their guild, known as “tongue”. Nowadays, the majority of those inns are embassies or public buildings.
Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
The ancient hospital of the knights is home to Rhodes Archaeological Museum. I honestly think that the access to the building itself is well worth the small entrance fee, the solid structure in Romanesque style is one of the architectural jewels in Rhodes.
On the other hand, the collection of ancient artifacts is well worth it as well. From large vases to everyday objects from the Hellenistic period and also burial finds, it’s an interesting window on life before the Middle Age.
Medieval Clock Tower
The Medieval Clock Tower is surprisingly the highest point of Rhodes Old Town and once up there you can enjoy a beautiful view of the surroundings. Following the explosion that nearly destroyed the Grand Master’s Palace, the tower was rebuilt by the Ottomans and the clock still works to this day.
Suleymaniye Mosque
The Ottoman Empire controlled Rhodes for almost 4 centuries. And yet, surprisingly, only a few buildings survived the test of wars and time. Suleymaniye Mosque is undoubtedly the most important in the city. Unfortunately, its doors are closed except for some particular events. But you can still admire the architecture from the exterior.
Day 2 – Lindos and Agathi Beach
The Enchanting Village of Lindos
Together with Rhodes Old Town, Lindos is the most popular place in Rhodes. It’s also the only village on the island that has the typical white squared houses that make so recognizable the most famous villages in Greece.
Lindos village is absolutely beautiful. The picturesque narrow streets are full of life and shops. It certainly is a tourist trap but still worth exploring and enjoying.
Lindos Acropolis
Towering over the village on a dramatic cliff, Lindos Acropolis is one of the most spectacular locations in Rhodes. After the tiring climb (well I’ve still made it with a stroller!) you will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful views in Rhodes.
Once you enter the Acropolis, there are millennia of history and battles unfolding under your eyes. Lindos was well known to the Greek and Roman empires, but it also has the Byzantine church of St. John and the ancient headquarters of the Knights Hospitaller.
Pro tip: Buy the tickets to the Acropolis before getting there! We learned the lesson the hard way and almost gave up entering since there was a long line (I know of people queuing for more than an hour). Luckily, thanks to the Airalo eSim data, we were able to connect to GetYourGuide and buy our tickets from there.
It’s 4€ more than the normal ticket, but you skip the line. If you have internet, or you are traveling during the low season, you can try buying them last moment at your own risk of having to wait.
St Paul’s Bay and Lindos Beach
While on top of the Acropolis, you can see Lindos Beach and St Paul’s Bay. Both are ideal to rest your sore feet, although I slightly recommend Lindos Beach as it’s more spacious compared to St Paul’s Bay. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas in both places, but St Paul’s Bay is slightly more expensive.
The view from both beaches is insane with the Acropolis rising in the background, so if you have time, I highly recommend going down to both beaches even just to admire the view. St. Paul’s Bay is very close to the village and although it wouldn’t be my pick between the two, you should definitely check it out.
Agathi Beach
Agathi is one of the most beautiful beaches in Rhodes and my personal second favorite. If you have enough time to explore, there is an area in the north of the beach where you can snorkel and reach an arch on the rocky coast.
Note: While getting to the beach, Google maps sent us on a dirt road where we almost broke our car. When I tried the itinerary again while writing the article, it still gives you this secondary road as an option. Be careful, you may think we were clumsy, but there were three more cars who followed the same road as us. Just follow the panels to the beach and you’ll get to Agathi.
What makes this beach stand out is Feraklos castle on the right and the small church Agia Agathi Cave (Agia means church in Greek). Nearby the church on the left, you can also find a few Mycenaean tombs overlooking the beach.
If you are tired exploring you can simply lay your towel on the sand or rent a sunbed + umbrella.
Day 3 – Kamiros and the South
The Archaeological Site of Kamiros
Kamiros is one of the largest archaeological sites in Rhodes. The unfortified Dorian city was built on three levels that are still clearly visible to this day. The site is fascinating to explore as you can see the foundations of almost all the ancient constructions.
A few explanatory panels tell the city’s story and illustrate the function of the most important buildings.
Kritinia and Monolithos Castles
After leaving Kasimiros archaeological site, take the road to the south. Along the way you’ll come across two wonderful abandoned castles: Kritinia and Monolithos. You can briefly visit them to catch the amazing views before heading to the South.
Kritinia translates from Greek as New Crete and was built during the Ottoman period. Now in heavy decline, you can enjoy one of the best views in Rhodes from the abandoned castle.
Similarly to Kritinia, Monolithos fortress is perched on a rock. The fortress was strategically located under Byzantine dominance to control the South-West coast.
Kritinia Castle. Photo by Hagai Agmon-Snir. License.
Prasonisi Beach
Prasonisi is the most southern point in Rhodes connected to the mainland by a small isthmus where you will find one of the most famous beaches on the island. Due to its location, Prasonisi is very exposed to the wind, and you will almost always find kite surfers.
From Prasonisi beach you can reach the lighthouse at the end of the promontory. After a short but quite intense hike, you’ll be rewarded with a nice view of the surroundings.
The two ferries that do the journey daily are Nikolaos X and Sebeco. Nikolaos X is the most praised by locals. They will bring you to Panormitis by ferry. It’s slightly more expensive than the second one, but it also has a shuttle from your hotel. If you’re staying outside Rhodes, that’s an interesting service. Sebeco (the one we took) has a bus ride to Panormitis with a panoramic stop.
Remember that it’s a ferry excursion, not a guided tour, except for a few explanations on the bus to Panormitis (in Greek :D). And be punctual (in advance is even better) as they wait for no one! It seems recurrent that people lose their ride.
Eating during the visit to Symi can be rushed. I highly recommend packing lunch or be ok having lunch with an ice cream or a snack. Unfortunately, unless you are only visiting the town, there isn’t enough time to sit at a restaurant.
Symi harbor town
Symi is an island close to the Turkish coast that is about an hour (or an hour and a half depending on the ferry and weather conditions) from Rhodes harbor.
I was truly impressed by Symi and if you have enough time, I highly recommend spending at least a night there to truly enjoy the village and soak up in the welcoming ambiance. Unfortunately, we couldn’t squeeze it into our schedule, but still half a day is nice to enjoy and explore.
The town itself is very small, and there’s nothing more to do than wander in the picturesque streets, and shopping for souvenirs including the famous sponges that made the fortune of the island. Check out Kali Strata, considered one of the most beautiful streets in the town.
Monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis
If you got seasick after the ferry, you won’t be happy getting on board a bus for half an hour to crossing the island on winding streets. But trust me it’s absolutely worth it! The bus stops along the way to let you admire the views of the island and there are explanations about the history of the island (in Greek unfortunately).
The Monastery of Panormitis is perfectly located at the center of a nice bay guarded by a lighthouse and the scenery is breathtaking. You have about an hour to explore the monastery and admire the venerated icon of the Archangel Michael.
Mandraki Harbor in Rhodes
Back to Rhodes unless you have a drop-off, take the time to explore Mandraki harbor. The location is one of the most picturesque in Rhodes for two main reasons:
The stag and doe statues that replaced the famous Colossus.
The three photogenic windmills on the promenade.
Day 5 – Eleousa, 7 Springs and Tsambika
The Italian Urbex of Eleousa
Known as Campochiaro under Italian dominance, Eleousa is a municipality in the center of Rhodes where you can find some of the finest urbex on the island.
Disclaimer: As for any time you are exploring urbex, venture forth responsibly, carefully, and within the boundaries of law.
Siding a rectangular square, you will find four buildings:
Amid the ruins, Karalampos Church feels out of place. Its perfectly curated exteriors are in sharp contrast with the rest of the abandoned constructions. The church is also situated on top of a small hill with a large stair in the front which gives it an imposing allure despite its small size.
Facing the church there is an abandoned administration building that has been repurposed as a school in the 60s – 70s. The structure is on 2 accessible floors (and I guess one closed underneath). From the external terrace, you can admire a nice view of the surroundings.
The building on the left of the church is definitely the most intriguing. Once used to host shops, and probably a few apartments, it even has a projection room on the second floor. You can still see the white wall to see the movies. It’s unknown if it was when the building served as a sanatorium in the 70s or during the Italian period.
On the right of the church, the white building was once a school and is partly used today by the firemen who store some equipment there. The building is closed to the public.
The Abandoned Elafos Hotel and Villa Mussolini
Under the Italian occupation, the area of Eleousa and Prophet Elias Hill were colonized by people coming from Trentino Alto Adige, Italy’s North East. Imagine the surprise of finding a Tyrolean style hotel in the middle of a Greek island!
Elafos Hotel was a complex of two elegant hotels that were active during the Italian domination. One of the two is still active, while the second one has been abandoned, and you can CAREFULLY visit. Although an area is locked for storage.
Last urbex of the day is the haunting Villa Mussolini. A few meters away from the two hotels, you can see the once majestic villa is still abandoned. Dictator Mussolini himself never lived inside the villa, but Count Cesare de Vecchi ruled Rhodes with an iron fist for more than a decade.
The 7 Springs
Epta Piges, the Seven Springs are famous because of the man-made waterfall that attracts tourists as a background for Instagram shots. Although the coolest part is the 500 ft (150 mt) long and 8,20 ft (2,5 mt) high water channel dug by the Italians where you can walk in absolute darkness.
I absolutely loved the experience of walking in complete darkness just leaning on the walls to go on. It’s way easier than it seems! The hardest part? Getting your feet into the cold water. Of course, if you are claustrophobic, you should sit this one out.
Tsambika Beach
I loved Tsambika as you can simply lay down and enjoy the amazing scenery and sun while bathing, or you can try water sports for an honest fee. The location is spot on also for snorkeling.
What’s great about this beach is the fact that, besides being one of the most beautiful in Rhodes, you still have the choice between paying for an umbrella and sunbed or just bringing your own towel. The beach is also very spacious and even if it can be crowded there’s a lot of space for everyone.
Day 6 – Filerimos, Butterfly Valley, and Kallithea Springs
Filerimos Monastery
Is one of the most important archaeological sites on Rhodes. Situated on a plateau at 875 ft (267 mt), the area delights its visitors with the remains of the ancient acropoli of Ialissos and of the Byzantine period, as well as the unobstructed views of the Western side of Rhodes, the Turkish coast, and Symi.
Filerimos is also a peacock paradise. You can observe the colorful males continuously parading to attract the females’ attention as well as the tourists’ favors in the form of treats. By the way, I’m still owed the croissant they stole from me!
Farma of Rhodes Pet Zoo
I could bring my husband to the most incredible places, and yet if you ask him what was your favorite part of our trip, he will tell you Rhodes Pet Zoo. Well, I totally get him, I mean, I petted lemurs and ostriches. How cool is that?!
Anyways, traveling with kids, this stop was a must for us, and I’m really happy we took a break from the sightseeing and cultural activities to connect with the adorable pets of this farm. It’s a good way to occupy an hour or two depending of your travel companions. Animal lovers, this stop is a must for you!
Butterfly Valley
The butterfly valley can be a huge deception if you are visiting in the wrong period. In fact, the moths (yes they are not butterflies) are there from late June to September. Outside this period, you normally won’t see them. Also, through the years, due to tourism, there are fewer moths in the valley.
The hike is still nice but may be deceiving if you don’t have the information above. One last tip : when you’re considering buying a souvenir from Rhodes, remember that there are only moths in the Butterfly valley. I saw many framed butterflies sold in a few shops stating they are from the valley. That’s simply false!
Kallithea Springs
Kallithea Spring is a stunning art déco complex built under Italian domination. It also has a rocky beach with sunbeds and a very short area (I’d say about 30 feet less than 10 meters) where there are pebbles to make your descent into the water easier.
The place is a pleasant discovery even if you are not bathing. And paying for the entry ticket even to wander is absolutely worth it!
Day 7 – Anthony Quinn and Shopping in Rhodes Old Town
Profitis Ilias Church and the Abandoned WWII Bunker
Profitis Ilias Church is located on top of the peak between Faliraki and Anthony Quinn Bay. The church is very small and quaint, but, the real deal is the view, one of the best in Rhodes! On your left you will see Faliraki and even Kallithea area, while on your right you will see Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko Beach, and a third very small bay that is accessible only by boat.
Before leaving, the bravest can enter the abandoned bunker very close to the viewpoint of Anthony Quinn’s bay.
Anthony Quinn Bay
Famous actor Anthony Quinn fell in love with the bay and bought it. But, luckily for us, in 1984 the Greek government took it back and made it public. Nowadays, the bay is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the Dodecanese islands (my personal favorite in Rhodes) and attracts several tourists every year.
The beach is made of pebbles and a rocky seabed. Neoprene shoes are ideal for your comfort also because of seaweed making the soil a bit slippery in some points.
You can rent an umbrella and a sunbed or just lay your towel where you prefer. There is also a terrace restaurant if you don’t want to bring your own food.
Shopping in Rhodes Old Town
I recommend visiting Anthony Quinn Bay first as it gets very crowded early and leaving shopping for the afternoon. Of course, shopping is an excuse to enjoy Rhodes Old Town once again.
Besides the usual kitsch for family and friends, there a few products worth bringing home.
Olive soap is a very good moisturizer, antioxidant, and is rich in vitamins E and A.
Rhodian ouzo is a liqueur similar to French pastis, made from anise.
For real gourmands (like me! ;)) Loukoumi are some kind of soft fruit jelly, very sweet and delicious.
Where to Stay in Rhodes
There are some beautiful resorts on the Eastern coast, especially in Faliraki area, which also have very nice beaches nearby.
But honestly, staying in Rhodes center is more practical. During summer parking can be a pain, but it’s still ideal to enjoy the best restaurants in Rhodes city and old town, and practical when you take the ferry to Symi. And let’s be honest, how cool is it to sleep in the walls of a Medieval city?
Having a car is the best option to explore the island. There are simply no other options to get at some of the popular beaches and points of interest mentioned above, unless you are visiting with guided tours or taking a taxi.
As always when I’m traveling, I trust discovercars.com. They rely on local companies and have plenty of cars to choose from. Down below you can easily simulate or book with your travel dates.
How many days should I spend in Rhodes?
I think you could easily fill out your program for a 10 day stay. Including spending a day and a half in Symi and adding Chalki to my itinerary. Otherwise, I strongly advise spending at least 1 week. The island is beautiful, the food is great, and there are so many things to do!
In conclusion, is Rhodes worth visiting?
It absolutely is! Rhodes is a well known and appreciated destination, and it’s easy to see why! Also, the economy of the island is almost solely based on tourism. For this reason, locals are very kind to tourists and always willing to help.
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Eastern Sicily is full of surprises! I just loved exploring Mount Etna and Alcantara Gorge, but I was very surprised by the beauty of Noto. There are several towns and cities in Sicily where you can admire many baroque buildings, but Noto is probably the most famous and it has rightfully earned the nickname of Baroque’s Capital. The town is about an hour (by car) from Catania and coupled with Siracusa, it makes a great day trip to South Eastern Sicily.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
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Things to do in Noto
Stroll along Corso Vittorio Emanuele
Noto is a rather small town and can be visited in a few hours. There are many parkings where you can leave your car and be in no time in Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the most important street.
While walking admire Noto for what is famous, the Baroque architecture. Above the beautiful buildings it was Porta Reale also known as Porta Fernandinea that captured my attention. The funny thing is that this gate was built in 1838 to honor the visit of King Ferdinando II, so it wasn’t built in the same period as the other buildings, yet it perfectly blends in the town’s style.
On Corso Vittorio Emanuele you will find many artisan shops, bars, restaurants, and also monuments. However don’t forget to keep an eye on the buildings, windows, terraces, and doors are heavily decorated with Baroque elements.
San Nicolò Cathedral
Personally I think the majestic San Nicolò Cathedral is the most beautiful building in Noto. Surely it’s one of the most famous and a landmark from Sicily. What makes it so special? The richly decorated interiors but also the endless stair in the front that connects it with Corso Vittorio Emanuele.
The building dates back to the end of the 17th century but it went through many renovation works. In 1996 the dome and two naves collapsed and the cathedral remained closed until 2007.
In the same square you can find also other notable buildings such as Ducezio Palace, Lodolina Palace and Basilica Santissimo Salvatore.
San Francesco from Assisi and Santa Chiara Churches
As an Italian living abroad my friends always tell me that Italy is the country with the most churches, and of course Noto makes no exception! In addition to the imposing San Nicolò Cathedral, I highly recommend visiting two more churches in Noto.
The first is San Francesco from Assisi Church. This Baroque church was built during the 18th century and inside it has many important paintings and funeral monuments.
The second church I recommend visiting is Santa Chiara. This is one of the most important churches in Sicily because of its impressive interiors that you can visit for free. Even if I was amazed at the stucco and gilding inside, the church point of interest is the panoramic terrace overlooking the city (one of the views is the photo cover of this post). To go up to the terrace there is a small fee that gives you access to an interesting museum inside the attached monastery.
Ducezio Palace
The elegant Ducezio Palace is the seat of Noto Municipality but for a small fee you can visit its interiors and the panoramic terrace.
The palace has an interesting story: the project is from the 18th century but it wasn’t until the 19th century that the first floor was built. While the second floor and the terrace were completed in the first half of the 20th century.
Corrado Nicolaci Street
Via Corrado Nicolaci (street) is one of the most famous streets in Sicily. Why? Because every year it hosts the famous Infiorata a very famous flower festival. Following a theme there are thousands and thousands of flowers covering the downhill street with intricate designs. The festival takes place from May to June.
Not able to visit during the festival? When we visited it was outside the festival dates, but even without the flowers you can get a glimpse of the designs that are still visible.
Another must visit from the location is Nicolaci Villadorata Palace. In addition to the exteriors with the famous terraces you can visit the opulent interiors that hosts the public library.
FAQ
Is Noto worth visiting?
You can get the full tour of Noto in a day and yet I highly recommend visiting it because of the Baroque buildings. Food lovers will also find their joy as Noto was elected best destination at the Food Travel Italy Awards for the year 2023.
And last but not least, it can be a great base to explore Sicily’s South. The town is close to Siracusa, Modica (where they make my favorite chocolate!), Ragusa, and of course the magical Sicilian Southern coast.
Corrado Nicolaci Palace in Noto.
When is it the best time to visit Noto?
That’s an easy question: during the Infiorata Flower Festival! The city gets more crowded, but that’s a minor price to pay to attend the event and its shows.
I got you covered with our 5 day itinerary! We just loved exploring this region. People are very nice and helpful, food is to die for, and lifestyle is straight out from la dolce vita manual. How could you ask for more? Well it’s Italy baby! Are you planning a trip to il bel paese? Check out more guides and itineraries in our Italy
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The first time I’ve visited Martinique I was mesmerized by the fact that the heavenly island perfectly blends pristine landscapes with an active lifestyle. It’s truly surprising how Martinique can be modern and wild at the same time. That’s why in this one week itinerary, the best minimum time I’d recommend to stay on the island unless of course you are visiting on a cruise stop, you will find both cultural and nature activities.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
Planning a trip to Martinique? Save money and time with the best companies!
✈️ Find the best flight deals on Skyscanner. 🏨 Looking for an accommodation? Booking is the place to go! 🎡 Add more emotions to your trip with GetYourGuide and Viator. 🚗 Need a car for your trip? Book the best one with Discover Cars. 📱 Avoid losing your connection by buying an eSim from Airalo.
Dubuc Castle.
Day 1 – Balata Garden and Nautical Sports/Catamaran
Perched on a mountain nearby the Western coast of the island, Balata Garden is a lovely walk among the many different plants you will find on the island. And not only! The garden is full of different birds and especially hummingbirds. If you don’t have the chance to admire them in the garden, next to the entrance you will find a feeder that attires them in flocks.
Having lived in French Guiana, of course there are some similarities between the plants that you may find in the equatorial area. But I still recommend visiting as there are some endemic species and hummingbirds are very easy to spot unlike in other places. It’s indeed an enchanting place to explore for a few hours.
PRACTICAL INFO Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM Website: Jardin de Balata
After the visit to Balata reach one of the Western beaches after Fort de France (if you go up North). I highly recommend the Plage du Coin (look for it on google maps), translates literally as Local Beach, as there are many bars where you can eat and also several services like water sports (I loved wake board!).
Where to sleep?
I’d recommend you to spend the first night in Fort de France. The city has several accommodations on booking.com you will have plenty of options. We stayed in an apartment and dined in. But there are also hotels, and you can rent full villas especially if you are traveling with your friends. Using booking map you can also move your research North.
First stop of the day, Martinique Zoo and Latouche Dwelling. I’ve dedicated a complete blog post about this 2 hours activity that will let you discover an ancient distillery that has been damaged during the eruption of 1902. The dwelling hosts now also a zoo which is managed by the same company that runs French Guiana’s Zoo.
After the visit of Latouche Dwelling direct yourself to Saint Pierre, a small fisherman village that became sadly famous after the eruption of Montagne Pelée in 1902, the deadliest of the 20th century. The village has been reconstructed since but there is an interesting memorial the Museum Franck Perret that features many documents of the period as well as informations about volcanology.
In the afternoon go climb an active volcano, and of course I’m talking about Pelée Mountain. There are 4 different trails :
Grande Savane, is the shortest (2h) and easiest trail on the volcano.
Aileron Trail, is the most popular even if it’s quite long 4 hours and the level is intermediate/difficult depending also on the weather conditions.
Hike from Beausejour and hike from Macouba both are 4 and a half hours and they have the highest elevation gain.
Personally I recommend the Aileron Trail as it’s the most interesting and also considering that you will come from Saint Pierre village. No matter the trail you will choose, don’t be surprised by the humidity and be careful not to slip. You may also get caught in the rain so take a raincoat just in case.
Where to sleep?
Saint Pierre can be a charming solution to spend the night. There are many restaurants serving the delicious creole cuisine, you must try the accras de morue (fried fish balls)! Our top pick? Kai Raymond Restaurant, his juices are so delicious!
Day 3 – Dubuc Castle, Atlantic Side, and Habitation Clément
Cross Martinique to reach the Atlantic coast and the ruins of Dubuc Castle. Situated on La Caravelle peninsula Dubuc Castle was a flourishing estate that produced sugar and tobacco in addition to being a place for the trade of slaves. The place is very interesting to explore and with the ticket you can ask an audioguide for a self-guided tour.
Fondation Clément celebrates the heritage of one of the richest families in Martinique, the Clément family. Rhum Clément has become one of Martinique’s unofficial symbols, and you can visit the distillery. Nowadays the domain also host a permanent exhibition of modern art, the largest in Martinique.
PRACTICAL INFO Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6.30 PM Website: Fondation Clément
Where to sleep?
The Atlantic coast has several nice options, you’ll also find that the best rated are often villas or apartments, like the beautiful Anagani suites in Le François. The only inconvenient about these accommodations is that breakfast and dinner aren’t provided, but mostly have fully equipped kitchens.
Day 4 – Pétrifications and les Salines
On day four I propose you to discover two amazing landscapes in the South East of Martinique: Pétrifications and les Salines beach.
Start the day early (very early) to avoid the harsh sun while walking through the Pétrifications. The beautiful landscape has only a flaw: it’s a rocky land with amazing views but with no shadows, therefore the advice to start your trek early and bring water. After about 1 hour you will discover the heavenly and wild beach of Anse Trabaud, perfect for a picnic!
In the afternoon head to one of the most famous beaches of Martinique, les Salines. How to describe it? Well do you have in mind the postcard white sand beaches with coconut trees and turquoise waters? That’s it! Les salines is probably one of the most idyllic places I’ve had the chance to visit.
If your itinerary allows you avoid visiting during the weekend as its assaulted by locals and tourist. Also I absolutely recommend tasting the delicious coconut ice cream they sell!
Where to sleep?
The area called Rivière-Pilote is perfect to continue your exploration in the South of the island. You can also get closer to Le Diamant, the village in front of Diamond Rock.
Diamond Rock is a natural reserve to many sea bird species and while cruising around it you can admire many of them. There are several catamarans sailing everyday to Diamond Rock and Martinique’s southern coast. One of the best features of this excursion is the possibility to swim with sea turtles and observe many other sea creatures in their natural habitat.
After your excursion before getting back to your hotel stop by the panoramic point on D37 the road between Les Anses d’Arlet and Le Diamant. On the same road you will also find the Memorial 110, a tribute to the slaves that were imported in the West Indies.
Where to sleep?
As distances aren’t far in Martinique (just remember car traffic!) you could either get back to Rivière-Pilote, or go in the area of Trois Ilêts. I’d recommend you the latter option as Trois Ilêts has some of the coolest and most famous accommodations in Martinique. Check out La Suite Villa or Hotel Bakoua just to mention two.
Photo by Teddy Charti.
Day 6 – Anses D’Arlet (Arlet’s Bays)
Arlet’s Bays are a group of 5 small bays in the South West of the island that are extremely popular for their beauty, wilderness, and for swimming with turtles!
Coming from the South you will find Small Bay, Arlet’s Bay, Large Bay, Dufour’s Bay, and Black Bay. Arlet is a lovely (and very instagrammable!) fishing village on the South West coast of Martinique. Its bay is one of the most photographed in Martinique, because of the picturesque church in front of the beach.
Besides visiting Arlet I highly recommend exploring Dufour’s bay, one of the turtle’s favorite locations and Black Bay, the only black sand beach in the South, funnily it’s only a few meters from Dufour’s bay which has white sand.
Where to sleep?
Arlet’s bays aren’t far from Trois Ilêts so I’d recommend spending a second night there.
Fort de France is a bustling city notable for its colonial architecture and delightful food. When visiting don’t miss the Grand Market (Le Grand Marché de Fort-de-France) for an immersion among tropical and heady flavors. My must buy : the famous rhum arrangé, delicious rhum flavored with different fruits. If you want to buy local fruits to bring back don’t forget to check custom’s law for transport (some fruits and vegetables are forbidden) as well as to pick the less ripe ones, or you may find jam at your arrival!
How to plan your Martinique itinerary
How many days should you spend in Martinique?
If you are travelling all the way to Martinique, you should spend at least one week on the flower island to make good use of the ticket planes. The island offers many different activities for everyone. From trekking on the Pélée Mountain to snorkeling or scuba diving with the beautiful sea turtles, without forgetting all types of nautical sports. And also history lovers will discover the interesting heritage of Martinique and its people.
Another great idea is to combine a cruise in the Caribbean starting from fort de France like we did. We loved it because we discovered many different islands, like Guadeloupe, and the day we will go back to the Caribbean we can select which islands we want to explore more thoroughly.
How to get around in Martinique?
The best way is to rent a car from the airport, there is almost no public transportation in Martinique unfortunately outside Fort de France. You can easily rent a car from the airport thanks to Discover Cars. The roads are generally in very good condition on the island but due to the volcanic nature of the island roads are often winding.
Good to know: Car traffic can be quite something! Avoid if you can the “hot” hours 7-8 AM and 4-5 PM.
It’s a wrap of our What to do in Martinique for a week
My last tip: I gave you several inspiration for the best accommodations to stay all around the island, if you enjoy driving pick your 2/3 favorite and consider spending several nights there. An example? Spend 3 nights in Fort de France (I’m counting your arrival a day before D1), 2 nights on the Atlantic side, and 3 nights in Trois Ilêts.
Are you looking for inspiration for your next trip? Check out our Destinations Page for more ideas.
Are you ready for some unbe-leaf-able puns about your favorite season? Fall puns are here and they can’t wait to be used! I feel I’m the pump-king (I should have said queen, but then it wouldn’t work), of falling leaves season. So don’t hesitate to save this post in your favorites and use it for your amazing shots of the red and yellow season. Grab your camera and let’s start!
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Before you leave, if you are passionate about travel, check out our destinations page! Having traveled since a little kid I love to travel and sharing info about the most beautiful places and locations that I have the chance to visit.
Budapest is the city of statues! Hungarians love to celebrate their heroes or even fictional characters. It could be a monument to the victims of fascism, or to some of the greatest national artists, without forgetting the small statues created by Mihaly Kolodko that are hidden all over the city. Without further ado let’s dive in the guide to find the most unusual statues in Budapest!
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
The shoes on the Danube bank are one of the most evocative memorials about the Holocaust ever built. A few meters away from the Parliament about 70 pairs of shoes stands lined on the Danube bank, remembering the thousands of Jews who were executed on the water side of the Danube.
The fascist militia obliged the prisoners to take off the only belongings they had which had value before shooting them. The shoes are often filled with flowers or candles by the locals who come to pay their tribute.
Szent István
Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the most enchanting locations in Budapest. Its romantic terraces and towers, but also its statues. And among those how not to mention the beautiful equestrian statue of Stephen I of Hungary?
The first king of Hungary is also one of the most honored Saints in both the Catholic and Orthodox Churches. The statue inside Fisherman Bastion celebrates both the hero and the saint and is a very important monument.
Anonymus
One of the most fascinating statues in Budapest is nearby the amazing Vajdahunyad Castle, which is also one of the most photogenic locations in the capital. There can be several interpretations of the faceless men that seats on a squared stone throne, but the statue is nothing less than a tribute to the mysterious figure of the chronicler of king Bela III.
Author of the Gesta Hungarorum, thanks to him we have a precious testimony of the early history of the Hungarian kingdom. According to superstition touching the point of its pen brings luck to writers.
Imre Nagy
Situated nearby Margaret Island, the statue to Imre Nagy is one of the most important in the city as a tribute to the ancient prime minister and national hero. The statue shows the politician standing halfway on a bridge, symbolizing his fight to free Hungary from the Stalinist regime.
Imre Nagy was prime minister under the communist regime from 1953 to 1955. Very popular among the intellectuals and people, he was the leader of the Hungarian Revolution in 1956, before being arrested and executed by the soviet government.
One of the most famous Hungarian poets, Attila József, sits nearby the Parliament in a melancholic pose. The statue reflects the tragic life of the poet who died at only 32 years old probably by suicide.
Under the statue you can read a transcription of one of his poems:
“As it would flown from my heart,
confusing, wise and big was the Danube.”
Ignác Roskovics
Famous Hungarian painter of the 19th century, Ignác Roskovics (1854/1915) statue perfectly celebrates the artist painting a view of the neighboring Chain Bridge.
The statue was made by Ukrainian artist Mykhailo Kolodko in two copies: the second can be found in the Ukrainian city where the painter was born Uzhhorod.
Gyula Krúdy
Famous writer Gyula Krúdy statue sits at one of his favorite places in Budapest: the ancient location of Downtown Café now Matild Café. Many of Gyula’s novels saw the light inside the café, and there is even a legend saying that he used red wine as ink for one of his short stories.
Sindbad’s author patiently awaits inspiration while saving a seat for you to pose with him. Don’t hesitate, you will also see many other people taking pictures.
Unique and Unusual statues in Budapest
The Fat Policeman
Nicknamed “Uncle Karl”, the Fat Policeman statue guards St. Stephen’s Basilica since 1987. You will notice that many people, including locals, rub his belly while passing by, according to a popular legend, this will prevent you from becoming fat.
Legend or not Uncle Karl’s fame has spread wide and sometimes you will even find lines to get shot with Budapest’s most famous policeman.
The Prince of Buda and the Princess of Pest
The romantic sculpture of the prince of Buda and the princess of Pest is worthy of a Shakespearean tragedy. It represents two lovers who are divided by the Danube river.
The real history is much less tragic and after several centuries of expansion the two cities of Buda and Pest united in 1873. The small statue, situated in the Philosopher’s Garden on Gellert Hill is also a tribute to the union of the two cities.
The tiniest statue of King Franz Joseph
While walking on the elegant Liberty Bridge, on the side from where you can see the Parliament and the city center you will notice a very small statue about 20 centimeters of the Ukrainian artist Kolodko. The statue represents King Franz Joseph peacefully lying in an hammock with beatitude.
This is only one of the many small statues that Mykhailo Kolodko has disseminated around the city as Easter eggs. The majority are quite difficult to find as they often aren’t larger than a hand.
The tiny Ferenc Liszt at Budapest Airport
Also oeuvre of Kolodko, the tiny Ferenc Liszt, outside terminal 2A close to the bus stop, was placed there to honor the musician’s 200 birthday. Positioned on a granite column, you will need to approach in order to admire the tiny statue.
A small suitcase where Liszt is seating and a paper plane at his feet complete the composition reminding the location of the statue.
The Paul Street Boys
One of the most famous Hungarian novels is celebrated with a statue a few meters away from the famous Pal Street, in via Prater.
The novel by Ferenc Molnar marked the spirits of many generations and is considered a classic book for children in many different countries. There are also several movie adaptations that were produced over the years.
Outside the Skála Metró nearby Nyugati station you will find a small boy smiling, he’s Skála Kópé, the mascot of Skála General Store.
Skála Store was a very popular shopping center in Budapest. And around the 80s it had its TV advertisement featuring Skála Kópé, a cheeky boy with a big heart, symbolizing the fact that the store was very popular.
Note: the boy’s heart used to be red but the paint didn’t stand the test of time and it’s now the same bronze color as the rest of the statuette.
Herendi Fountain
Herendi Fountain is a good marketing exemple. It was built using Herend original pieces, one of the most famous porcelain’s manufacturer. The fountain represents the tree of life.
In the same square you will find another porcelain fountain, it’s Zsolnay Fountain also built from an illustrious porcelain manufacturer Zsolnay. Both fountains were commissioned by the city of Budapest to decorate József Nádor Square.
The Little Princess
One of the most beloved statues in Budapest is the Little Princess by László Marton. The statue represents the artist’s daughter who used to wear princess-like clothes and a crown made of journal paper, which is the bizarre headdress she’s wearing.
The statue is situated on the Danube bank and has a very nice view on Buda Castle. Through the years it has become the unofficial symbol of Budapest and one of its most important statues.
It’s a wrap of the must see statues in Budapest
There are several more beautiful statues you will find while walking around, but I feel these are really the ones you shouldn’t miss! Are you preparing a trip to Budapest? Check out our travel guide for more tips and ideas on visiting.
