Rhodes is the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, celebrated for its medieval Old Town, sunny coastline and layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Knights Hospitaller history. The island’s main city combines lively waterfront streets with impressive fortifications, archaeological remains and traditional neighbourhoods.

cruise ships arrive at Rhodes Cruise Port, close to Rhodes Town and the UNESCO-listed Medieval City. The port is also the gateway to Lindos, a picturesque village on the east coast known for its whitewashed houses, ancient Acropolis and beautiful bays. A day in port can be spent exploring Rhodes Town, visiting Lindos, or combining historic sights with time beside the sea.

Top attractions and sights

The Medieval City of Rhodes is the island’s essential attraction. Enter through its monumental gates to discover the Street of the Knights, stone-paved lanes, historic mansions and the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, housed in the former Hospital of the Knights, displays artefacts from across the island.

• Palace of the Grand Master: A formidable landmark with medieval architecture, courtyards and exhibitions exploring the history of Rhodes.
• Street of the Knights: One of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe, lined with former inns belonging to the Knights of Saint John.
• Mandraki Harbour: A scenic waterfront area associated with the ancient Colossus of Rhodes and marked by the statues of a stag and hind at its entrance.
• Acropolis of Rhodes: Located on Monte Smith, this archaeological site includes the Temple of Apollo, an ancient stadium and a theatre, with broad views over the city.
• Lindos: The village’s narrow lanes lead towards the Acropolis of Lindos, where the Temple of Athena Lindia stands above the Aegean Sea. The climb is rewarding but can be steep and exposed in hot weather.
• Ancient Kamiros: This atmospheric archaeological site on the west coast reveals the remains of one of ancient Rhodes’ important cities.

Beaches

Rhodes offers many attractive beaches, although the most convenient choice depends on whether you stay near Rhodes Town or travel towards Lindos. Elli Beach, beside Rhodes Town, is easy to reach from the port and is well suited to passengers looking for a quick swim by the city.

Near Lindos, St Paul’s Bay is a striking sheltered cove beneath the Acropolis, while Lindos Beach offers calm, clear water close to the village. Anthony Quinn Bay, near Faliraki, is known for its rocky scenery and vivid water. Tsambika Beach, farther along the east coast, has golden sand and a broad setting, but visiting it requires more travel time and careful planning around your ship’s departure.

Local products and shopping

Rhodes is known for local food products, handmade crafts and souvenirs inspired by the island’s history. In the Old Town, shops around Sokratous Street and the surrounding lanes sell jewellery, leather goods, ceramics, woven textiles and decorative items with Greek designs.

• Rhodes honey: Island honey, including varieties flavoured by herbs and wildflowers, makes a practical edible souvenir.
• Local olive oil and olives: Greek olive products are widely available in speciality food shops and markets.
• Rhodes wine: The island has a long winemaking tradition, with both red and white wines produced locally.
• Ceramics: Hand-painted pottery and traditional-style ceramics are popular choices for gifts.
• Embroidered textiles and woven goods: These reflect the craft traditions of Rhodes and the wider Dodecanese.
• Natural sponges: Sponges from the Dodecanese are commonly sold as traditional bath and household souvenirs.

Food and local cuisine

Rhodes combines classic Greek flavours with culinary traditions from the Dodecanese. Look for tavernas serving grilled seafood, fresh salads, local cheeses and dishes prepared with olive oil, herbs and seasonal vegetables. In Lindos, rooftop and terrace restaurants provide memorable settings for a meal with views towards the Acropolis or the sea.

• Pitaroudia: Fried chickpea fritters flavoured with herbs, a traditional Rhodes speciality.
• Kapamas: A festive dish of stuffed goat, traditionally associated with local celebrations.
• Melekouni: A sesame-and-honey sweet from Rhodes, often flavoured with orange or spices.
• Local cheeses: Try Greek cheeses such as ladotyri, a firm cheese traditionally preserved in olive oil, when available.
• Greek coffee and mountain tea: These make a relaxed break while exploring the Old Town or Lindos.
• Rhodes wine: Sample a local wine with seafood, grilled meats or meze at a traditional restaurant.

Tips for cruise passengers

Rhodes Cruise Port is close to Rhodes Town, making the Medieval City and Mandraki Harbour convenient options for a day ashore. Depending on your berth, you may be able to reach the historic centre on foot, while taxis and local transport are useful for passengers carrying luggage or travelling in the heat.

Choose your main excursion before leaving the ship. Rhodes Town is the easiest option for independent exploration, while Lindos requires more travel and time but offers one of the island’s most memorable combinations of village scenery, ancient history and coastal views. Organised shore excursions, taxis and rental vehicles are commonly used for Lindos, but allow plenty of time for the return journey.

Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven stones of the Old Town and the climb to the Acropolis of Lindos. Carry water, sun protection and a hat, especially during the warmer months. Shops and restaurants in the most visited areas may become busy when several cruise ships are in port, so starting early helps you see the main sights at a more relaxed pace. Keep your ship’s all-aboard time in mind, and return to the port with a generous buffer if travelling beyond Rhodes Town.