Rhodes Old Town is the oldest inhabited medieval settlement in all of Europe. So when you’re walking its streets, you are living and breathing life in the medieval period.
Day 1: Taking in the Medieval Beauty of Rhodes
Street of the Knights
We stayed on the Street of the Knights for all 4 days of our stay in Rhodes. Our airbnb was once a Knight’s residence that was restored. The entire street, in fact, is lined with Knights’ Inns from the 15th and 16th century! Every night when walked back from the center of town, it felt as if we were stepping back in time.
Skordakos
Skordakos was the first restaurant we dined at during our visit to Rhodes. This family-owned and operated restaurant features some of the most delicious gyros EVER! Homemade feta and tzatziki, traditional Greek meats, fresh pita… Located in downtown Rhodes, you have to venture outside of Old town’s walls to get there, but it is 100% worth the journey!
Lukumamma
Lukumates are a popular Greek dessert. Freshly fried dough with Greek honey and walnuts poured over top. Lukumamma is a shop located right next to Skordakos that sells these balls of deliciousness, so be sure to stop in after your gyro plate for something sweet.
Throne of Helios
We ended our evening with a 9D experience at the Throne of Helios. This is the perfect activity for your first night in Rhodes Old Town. Here you will learn the history of the island, allowing you to appreciate what you are about to see during your visit. And better yet, the staff could not be friendlier or more accommodating!
Shopping in Rhodes
There is lots of shopping to be done in Old Town Rhodes. Endless streets full of souvenirs, jewelry, statues, clothing, ceramics, and artwork. The perfect place to grab goodies for yourself and for your friends and family.
Day 2: Views, Palaces and Fresh Seafood
Old Town Corner Bakery Shop
Your trip to Rhodes would not be complete without a spinach pie or one of Greece’s famous sweet pastries. Stop in the Old Town Corner Bakery Shop one morning (or two) for the freshest and most delicious pastries we had during our trip.
Roloi Clock Tower
Located in the center of the old city, a visit to this clock tower is a must. For 5 euros, you get a fantastic view of Rhodes Old Town with a drink at the bar included in your ticket. We got some great pictures from the top of the tower, and an ice cold glass of white wine was the perfect way to unwind after.
Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights
The Palace is one of the most famous attractions in Rhodes Old Town. It is where the Grand Master of the Knights resided when the Knights of St. John occupied Rhodes. With all the artifacts, mosaic floors, ruins, and the castle in general – there is lots to take in! Be sure you leave enough time to explore the palace. (It took us about 2 hours to see it all!)
Dinoris Fish Restaurant
Your visit to Rhodes would not be complete without seafood! And for that, we highly recommend Dinoris in Old town Rhodes. Aside from the freshest seafood we’ve ever had, the restaurant is located on the same site where Richard the Lionheart resided. Awesome history, incredible food and the NICEST owner and chef. Win-win-win!
Day 3: Harbor Strolls and Ancient History
Mandraki Harbor
Taking a stroll along Mandraki Harbor is a peaceful way to start your day. Even before you enter the harbor, the sites begin at the Gate of St. Paul right at the entrance to the old city. Then, continue your walk towards the three windmills, all the way to Fort St. Nicholas.
Acropolis of Rhodes
A quick 5 euro cab ride will take you to the Acropolis of Rhodes. This acropolis is from the classical period, dating back to 5th-3rd century BC. Some of the highlights at the Acropolis are the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater and the stadium, which is still used for events today.
Anakata Gallery Café
This little café is off the beaten path, away from all the touristy restaurants that literally pull you in. It is also a gallery and shop, with some very unique items for sale. We sat outside in the garden patio using the free Wi-Fi, drinking coffee, and enjoying the freshest Greek salad ever!
Kahal Kadosh Shalom Synagogue
Located in the famous Jewish Quarter of Rhodes Old Town, Kahal Kadosh Shalom Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in Greece. It dates back to 1577, and is still used for services today! Visiting the synagogue was a very unique (and free!) experience. There is also a museum connected to the synagogue, which displays the vast history of the Jews of Rhodes.
Archeological Museum of Rhodes (Hospital of the Knights)
The Archeological Museum of Rhodes once served as the Hospital of the Knights when it was built back in the 15th century. The building now operates as a museum featuring the most significant archeological findings of all the Dodecanese islands. The coolest part for us was the large hospital room. Along the perimeter, you can still see the private rooms used for patients in isolation.
Auvergne Cafe
This restaurant was one of our favorite spots. You dine out in the courtyard with medieval buildings surrounding you. It’s away from any chaos – definitely one of the hidden gems in Rhodes town. Great drinks, delicious food and a cool vibe!
Day 4: Symi for the Day and Rhodes Night Life
Symi
From the bay in Rhodes Old town, you will also find options to embark on daily boat excursions. Whether you explore another Greek island, travel to a different city in Rhodes or shop in Marmaris, Turkey, there are plenty of destinations to consider. Thanks to Sigma Travel, we were able to see Symi, Greece. Never before have we seen a village so beautiful. It almost wasn’t real!
Stavlos
Stavlos served the best gyro we had during our visit to Rhodes. We went there around 11pm on a Friday night, and the whole area was alive and amazing. Bars and clubs lined the street, blasting great house music. Doors wide open and outdoor seating everywhere – totally our scene!
Looking back, I’d say we made the most of our 4 days in Rhodes Old Town. We fell in love with its medieval charm, ruin-lined bay, delicious food, bustling nightlife, and of course the generous people. It has everything you need to both discover AND relax!
