1-Day Family Adventure: Shopping and Outdoor Activities in Rhodes
Rhodes, Greece
1 days
About Rhodes, Greece
Experience the enchanting island of Rhodes, Greece, a perfect blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Rhodes Old Town, where medieval architecture meets modern culture. Visit the Palace of the Grand Master, stroll down the Street of the Knights, and marvel at the ancient Acropolis of Lindos. Enjoy sun-soaked beaches like Tsambika and Prasonisi, perfect for relaxation or water sports. Savor traditional Greek cuisine in local tavernas and experience the lively nightlife in Faliraki. With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere, Rhodes offers a unique holiday experience for all.
1-Day Itinerary
Attractions in Itinerary (4)
1Old Town of Rhodes
The Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe. It is characterized by its strong walls, narrow streets, and old buildings. It is home to the Palace of the Grand Master, the Street of the Knights, and numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants.
2Palace of the Grand Master
An imposing fortress that served as the residence of the Grand Master of the Knights of Saint John. Today, it houses a museum displaying medieval artifacts and period furniture.
3Valley of the Butterflies
A unique natural park that is home to millions of Jersey Tiger Moths (erroneously referred to as butterflies) from June to September. The park also features a museum dedicated to natural history.
4Acropolis of Lindos
Perched on a hilltop, the Acropolis of Lindos offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It is home to ancient ruins dating back to the 4th century BC, including a Doric temple, a Byzantine church, and the remains of a Roman villa.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Moussaka
A traditional Greek dish made from layers of eggplant, minced meat, and bechamel sauce. It's a must-try when visiting Rhodes.
Souvlaki
Popular Greek fast food consisting of small pieces of meat and sometimes vegetables grilled on a skewer. It's a common street food in Rhodes.
Tzatziki
A classic Greek appetizer made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and sometimes lemon juice, and dill. It's a refreshing start to any meal in Rhodes.
Dolmades
Stuffed grape leaves with a filling of rice, often with ground meat, herbs, and spices. A common appetizer in Rhodes.
Spanakopita
A savory Greek pastry made with phyllo dough, spinach, feta cheese, eggs, and onions. A popular snack or light meal in Rhodes.
Baklava
A sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It's a traditional dessert in Rhodes.
Retsina
A traditional Greek white or rosé resinated wine, which has been made for at least 2000 years. It's a unique taste experience for visitors in Rhodes.
Ouzo
An anise-flavored aperitif that is widely consumed in Greece and Cyprus, and a symbol of Greek culture. It's a popular drink in Rhodes.
Horiatiki
A traditional Greek salad made with pieces of tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, onion, feta cheese, and olives, typically seasoned with salt and oregano, and dressed with olive oil. A common dish in Rhodes.
Pastitsio
A Greek baked pasta dish with ground meat and béchamel sauce. It's a hearty meal option in Rhodes.
Loukoumades
Small, sweet fried dough balls drenched in honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon. A popular dessert in Rhodes.
Frappé
A Greek foam-covered iced coffee drink made from instant coffee, water, sugar, and milk. It's a popular refreshment in Rhodes.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Rhodes, Greece is typically from June to September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and exploring the island's historical sites. However, if you prefer a quieter vacation, the shoulder seasons of April-May and October-November are also great times to visit, with fewer crowds and mild weather.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany |
March 18 | Mon | Clean Monday |
March 25 | Mon | Annunciation of the Virgin Mary |
March 25 | Mon | Greek Independence Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 3 | Fri | Orthodox Good Friday |
May 6 | Mon | Orthodox Easter Monday |
June 24 | Mon | Orthodox Holy Spirit Monday |
August 15 | Thu | Dormition of the Holy Virgin |
October 28 | Mon | The Ochi day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Synaxis of the Mother of God |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Rhodes. It gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. There are numerous car rental agencies available at the airport and in the city center.
Taxi
Taxis are widely available throughout Rhodes. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from designated taxi ranks. They are a convenient but more expensive way to travel around the island.
Bus
The local bus service in Rhodes is reliable and covers most of the island. Buses run regularly from Rhodes Town to other major towns and tourist attractions.
Bicycle Rental
Rhodes is a bike-friendly island with numerous cycle paths and bike rental shops. It's a great way to explore the island, especially the scenic routes along the coast.
Motorbike Rental
Renting a motorbike or scooter is another popular option for getting around Rhodes. It's a fun and flexible way to explore, but you need to be comfortable driving on Greek roads.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are not currently available in Rhodes. However, local taxi services offer a similar level of convenience.
Boat
Boats and ferries are a great way to explore the coastline of Rhodes and visit nearby islands. There are regular services from Rhodes Town and other ports around the island.
Foot
Many of the attractions in Rhodes Town and other historic sites are best explored on foot. The Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is pedestrian-friendly.
Public Mini Buses
Public mini buses are a common sight in Rhodes. They operate in Rhodes Town and its outskirts, offering a convenient way to get around the city and visit popular tourist spots.
Train
While Rhodes does not have a traditional train service, it does offer a 'tourist train' in Rhodes Town. This is a fun way to see the sights and learn about the history of the city.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+2
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 166; Fire: 112, 199; Police: 112, 100
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Rhodes, Greece as a first time visitor
1
Rhodes is the largest of Greece's Dodecanese islands and is known for its beach resorts, ancient ruins, and remnants of its occupation by the Knights of St. John during the Crusades.
2
The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
3
The currency in Rhodes is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or tips.
4
Rhodes has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 75-95°F (24-35°C), while winter temperatures range from 50-60°F (10-15°C).
5
Tipping is customary in Rhodes. A tip of 5-10% is generally expected in restaurants, while rounding up to the nearest Euro is common in taxis.
6
The island is generally safe for tourists, but as with any travel destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
7
Public transportation is reliable and affordable. Buses and taxis are the most common ways to get around the island.
8
Rhodes is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).
9
The island has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (June-August).
10
Traditional Greek cuisine is a highlight of any visit to Rhodes. Local specialties include moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood.
11
Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available and recommended for those with sensitive stomachs.
12
The island's pharmacies can provide basic medical supplies and over-the-counter medications. For more serious medical issues, Rhodes has several hospitals and clinics.
13
Rhodes has a vibrant nightlife, with a mix of traditional Greek tavernas, modern bars, and nightclubs.
14
The island has a variety of shopping options, from local markets selling traditional crafts and produce, to high-end boutiques and international brands.
15
Rhodes operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. The power sockets are of type F, so you may need a travel adapter if your devices use a different plug type.
16
Public Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. However, it's recommended to use a VPN for security reasons.
17
The sun can be intense, especially in the summer months. It's recommended to wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and seek shade during the hottest part of the day.
18
Rhodes is home to many stray cats and dogs. While they are generally harmless, it's best to avoid feeding or petting them.
19
Smoking is very common in Greece and is allowed in many public places, but there are restrictions in some areas such as restaurants and public transportation.
20
The island is very pedestrian-friendly, with many areas in the Old Town and other tourist spots being car-free. However, be aware that the cobblestone streets can be uneven and slippery, especially when wet.
Basic Greek to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Γεια σας | Yia sas | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Αντίο | Antio | Leaving or saying goodbye to someone |
Please | Παρακαλώ | Parakalo | When asking for something |
Thank you | Ευχαριστώ | Efharisto | After receiving something or someone's help |
Yes | Ναι | Nai | Agreeing with someone or something |
No | Όχι | Ohi | Disagreeing with someone or something |
Excuse me | Συγνώμη | Signomi | Getting someone's attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | Δεν καταλαβαίνω | Den katalaveno | When you don't understand what was said |
Do you speak English? | Μιλάτε Αγγλικά; | Milate Anglika; | When you want to find someone who speaks English |
I'm lost | Έχω χαθεί | Eho hathei | When you can't find your way |
Where is the bathroom? | Πού είναι η τουαλέτα; | Pou einai i toualeta; | When you need to find the restroom |
How much does this cost? | Πόσο κοστίζει αυτό; | Poso kostizi afto; | When you want to know the price of something |
I would like... | Θα ήθελα... | Tha ithela... | When you are ordering food or drinks |
Help! | Βοήθεια! | Voitheia! | When you are in need of assistance |
Call the police! | Καλέστε την αστυνομία! | Kaleste tin astynomia! | When you need to call the police |
Good morning | Καλημέρα | Kalimera | Greeting someone in the morning |
Good night | Καληνύχτα | Kalinichta | Saying goodbye in the evening or before bed |
Water | Νερό | Nero | When you want to order water |
Food | Φαγητό | Fagito | When you want to order food |
Beer | Μπύρα | Bira | When you want to order a beer |
Packing List
Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Hat
Light jacket or sweater for the evening
Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo
Travel-size body wash
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Hand sanitizer
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Health insurance card
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency (Euros)
Hotel reservation confirmation
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Memory card for camera
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel guidebook for Rhodes
Map of Rhodes
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Travel pillow
Travel first aid kit
Weather Conditions
Rhodes, Greece is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. If you're planning to visit Rhodes during the summer months, from June to August, expect temperatures to range from 84°F to 95°F (29°C to 35°C). It's the perfect time for beach activities, so don't forget your sunscreen, hats, and light clothing to protect yourself from the intense sun. The shoulder seasons, which are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), are also great times to visit. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 79°F (20°C to 26°C). It's an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities, as the weather is not too hot. Winter, from November to March, is the off-peak season in Rhodes. The weather is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 59°F (10°C to 15°C), and there's a higher chance of rain. If you prefer a quieter vacation and don't mind the occasional rain, this could be a good time to visit. However, do pack some warm clothing and a waterproof jacket. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to Rhodes, Greece. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities accordingly.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 15° / 9° | January is the coldest month in Rhodes, Greece, but it's still relatively mild with occasional rain. |
February | 15° / 9° | February is similar to January with mild temperatures and occasional rain, making it a quiet time for tourism. |
March | 18° / 10° | March sees a slight increase in temperature and the beginning of the spring season, but it's still off-peak for tourism. |
April | 23° / 13° | April is when the weather starts to warm up significantly, and the island becomes more vibrant with blooming flowers. |
May | 27° / 17° | May is a great time to visit Rhodes, Greece, as the weather is warm but not too hot, and the tourist crowds are still manageable. |
June | 31° / 21° | June marks the beginning of the summer season with hot temperatures and a high influx of tourists. |
July | 34° / 24° | July is the hottest month in Rhodes, Greece, with high temperatures and a bustling tourist scene. |
August | 34° / 24° | August is equally hot as July and is the peak of the tourist season, with many events and festivals taking place. |
September | 31° / 21° | September is a great time to visit as the weather is still warm, but the tourist crowds start to thin out. |
October | 27° / 17° | October sees a drop in temperature but it's still warm enough to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. |
November | 23° / 13° | November is the start of the off-peak season with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. |
December | 16° / 10° | December is a quiet time to visit Rhodes, Greece, with mild temperatures and minimal tourist activity. |
Did you know?
Places near by Rhodes, Greece
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Fethiye
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Symi
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Chalki
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Bodrum
A city known for its historic sites, such as the Castle of St. Peter and the ancient theater of Halicarnassus.
Kos
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Datça
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Tilos
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Nisyros
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Kastellorizo
The easternmost island of Greece known for its colorful architecture and crystal clear waters.
