A Perfect Day in Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes is the largest of Greece's Dodecanese islands and is the 9th largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beach resorts, ancient ruins, the historic Old Town which takes you back to medieval times with some of the oldest buildings in Europe and many medieval monuments. About an hour away is the quaint beautiful town of Lindos which is filled with shops and restaurants and is surrounded by pristine beaches and is full of ancient history. During our much too short visit to the island, we decided to rent a car and explore both Lindos and Old Town in a day. I think Rhodes was one of my favorite Greek Islands we have visited and I would love to return and stay several days so that I can explore more of this enchanting Island.

If you arrive on the Greek Island of Rhodes by cruise ship, like we did, you will disembark near the Old Town area of the Island. There is so much to see and explore within the the medieval walls of the Old City. You could spend an hour or two leisurely strolling along the cobblestone streets taking in the ancient monuments, art galleries, shops and traditional tavernas or even longer if you plan to visit all of the many monuments and attractions.

It was our intention to visit Lindos as well, which is a little over an hour's drive from the Medieval City. Therefore, we decided to rent a car from one of the numerous car rental agencies situated immediately outside of Old Town as soon as we disembarked. The car rental process is very quick and easy, so don't be intimidated by exploring on your own. Of course you could also hire a driver or book one of the many tours available.

With map in hand, we started our journey towards Lindos giving ourselves plenty of time for the drive and stops along the way with the expectation and confidence that we would get back to the Medieval City with plenty of time to explore before our ship's departure.

The views as we approached Lindos Beach were breathtaking. After our long drive, we were ready for an early lunch but first had to navigate the traffic and find a parking spot. Note: This area is very busy, the line to get close to the city center was quite long and congested.

After doing some research we decided to try Mythos All Day Restaurant and we could not have been happier about that decision. We were seated on the rooftop patio, the views of the Acropolis, Lindos Village and the Harbor were spectacular, the service was beyond friendly and attentive and the food was delicious. They get very busy, but we were so early that we had no problem getting a table. You can call in advance for a reservation.

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They are open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. I was wishing we could go back later for the sunset that I was sure would show off and be amazing. But we only had time for lunch and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Their menu is locally sourced, farm fresh and the fish is straight from the sea in Lindos.

Depending on how much time you have there are so many incredible activities and attractions to explore that truly showcase the beauty and culture of this enchanting city. From the iconic Acropolis of Lindos perched atop a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea to the charming whitewashed buildings that line the narrow cobblestone streets of the town, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this picturesque setting.

One of the best things to do in Lindos is to visit the Acropolis, a historic site that dates back to the 4th century BC and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. As you wander through the ruins of the ancient temple and amphitheater, you can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the rich history that unfolds before you.

For those looking to relax and unwind, Lindos Beach is a must-visit spot. With its crystal-clear waters and soft golden sands, this beach provides plenty of enjoyable activities to keep you entertained throughout the day. You can bask in the sun, take a dip in the pristine waters, hire a kayak or a small boat, or even sign up for a glass-bottom boat tour, among other options.

Whether you're a history buff, a beach lover, or a food enthusiast, Lindos has something to offer everyone. So, be sure to add this enchanting Greek town to your travel itinerary and experience all the best things it has to offer.

I was really wishing we had more time to truly take in all that this area had to offer, but since we only had one day on the Island, after exploring for a couple of hours, we knew we better head back in the direction of the Old Town. I would love to revisit and even reserve a stay at one of the beautiful resorts or rentals overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

On our way back we made a few stops at some small olive oil shops along the road, where we bought some olive oil. The we stopped for a drink at Tassos Beach and Canteen. In contrast to the very populated touristy area of Lindos, this was was clearly a local place and we loved the relaxed vibe. The food looked really good too. It is a great place for swimming, very quiet area, and there were several shallow pools of water. You can rent sunbeds for only 7€ per person. If you are looking for a quiet non touristy area to relax, this is a great place. I was wishing I had my swimsuit!

If you are looking for a quiet non touristy area to relax, this is a great place. I was wishing I had my swimsuit!

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We found the Majestic city of Old Town Rhodes to be truly fascinating and full of history, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets lined with picturesque buildings dating back to the Byzantine era. The walls that surround the Old Town are a testament to its strategic importance throughout history, offering visitors a glimpse into the island's past as a major trading hub in the Mediterranean.

Wandering through Old Town Rhodes feels like stepping back in time, with its medieval architecture, ancient ruins, and numerous landmarks such as the Palace of the Grand Master and the Street of the Knights. The town is also home to charming cafes, traditional tavernas, and artisan shops selling local handicrafts, providing a vibrant atmosphere for both tourists and locals alike.

Visitors can explore the rich history of Old Town Rhodes by visiting its museums, churches, and historic sites, each offering a unique perspective on the island's cultural heritage. The blend of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences can be seen throughout the town, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers.

As the sun sets over Old Town Rhodes, the narrow streets come alive with a bustling nightlife scene, offering a variety of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Whether exploring its historical sites by day or enjoying its vibrant nightlife by night, Old Town Rhodes is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the Greek islands.

The contrast between the ancient streets of Old Town Rhodes and the serene beauty of Lindos creates a well-rounded experience of the island, there is so much more to do and see, but if you only have one day exploring both areas was well worth. Whether you're captivated by the ancient ruins, mesmerized by the turquoise waters, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, Rhodes offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.