What to Do in Rhodes: A Local’s Guide to Historic Streets and Tasty Treats

Rhodes is a place that feels like stepping into a storybook. Imagine wandering where knights once marched, and old stone walls hum with history under the bright Mediterranean sun. This island, full of brilliant blue seas and soft sandy beaches, offers more than just pretty views. Whether you’re looking to walk through medieval castles, taste flavors that tell of ancient trade, or find quiet corners away from tourist crowds, Rhodes has something for every curious visitor.

Walking Through the Medieval Heart of Rhodes

The Old Town is the island’s pride. Once a stronghold of the Knights of St. John, it still breathes the echoes of battles and banquets. As you stroll along the cobblestone lanes, you might notice the thick stone walls, narrow alleys, and towers with tiny, arrow-shaped windows. It’s like history draped over every corner.

Don’t miss the Palace of the Grand Master, a fortress that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. Its pink stone walls glow warmly at sunset. Inside, the rooms tell stories of knights, crusades, and ancient rulers. Nearby, the Street of the Knights gives a glimpse of medieval life, with centuries-old homes and inns that housed visitors long ago. It’s easy to imagine armored horsemen clanking by.

If medieval castles and knightly history fascinate you, consider reading our detailed guide to Bratislava’s Historic Castle and Old Town to explore another European city rich with fortress tales and charming streets.

Fun fact: In the past, the city’s Old Town was surrounded by a moat filled with water from the sea. It made the fortress almost impossible to attack. Today, you can see parts of the walls and imagine the strategic mind that built such defenses.

Secret Corners and Quieter Places to Visit

While the Old Town can get busy, Rhodes is full of smaller, overlooked spots that reward patient visitors. For example, the ancient Kamiros ruins are perfect if you want to see one of the island’s oldest towns without crowds. Walking through piles of stone and columns, you can almost hear the hustle of an ancient marketplace.

Nearby, the Valley of the Butterflies offers a lush, green escape. In summer, thousands of Jersey tiger moths gather here, creating a fluttering crowd that feels magical. The path winds through shady trees and cooler air, a relief from Rhodes’ warm sun.

Another lesser-known area is the village of Lindos. While Lindos’ Acropolis draws many, explore its narrow lanes early in the day to find quiet cafes where locals sip strong Greek coffee. Beyond the steep steps, the views from the hilltop temple overlook stunning beaches that shimmer like blue jewels.

Where to Stay for Easy Access and Local Flavor

Choosing where to rest your head in Rhodes depends on what you love most. For those who want history at their doorstep, staying near the Old Town means waking up to the sounds of church bells and footsteps on stones. Morning walks here have a special charm before shops and cafes open.

If beach time is your priority, areas like Faliraki offer bright sandy stretches and lively promenades with tavernas serving fresh seafood. Rooms here range from cozy guesthouses to comfortable apartments. Renting a small place gives you the chance to shop at local markets and cook with fresh olives, tomatoes, and cheeses.

For travelers seeking a quiet, traditional feel, villages on the west side of the island provide peaceful views of rolling hills and vineyards. Accommodations here often include family-run guesthouses where breakfast is homemade and conversation flows easily.

Taste Rhodes: Food and Drinks You Must Try

Rhodes’ food is as rich as its history. In the Old Town, small tavernas serve tasty dishes such as moussaka-a baked dish layered with eggplant, minced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce. Pair this with a glass of local wine from the nearby vineyards on the island.

If you wander to Mandraki harbor, fish tavernas greet you with the catch of the day. Fresh grilled octopus, tender calamari, or a simple salad of local greens with soft goat cheese are perfect for a light lunch. Don’t forget to try “pitaroudia,” spicy chickpea fritters that are a beloved snack among locals.

And for sweets? Head to the central market area where small shops sell local honey pastries and “baklava,” a crispy layered dessert soaked in syrup with nuts. A cup of strong Greek coffee or a glass of sweet “souma,” a grape-based spirit, rounds off the meal.

Moving Around Rhodes Like a Local

Getting to Rhodes usually means flying into Diagoras International Airport. From here, buses run regularly to the main town center, saving you from the hassle of crowded taxis. The public transport system is reliable and affordable, ideal for travelers wanting to experience life with locals.

Once in town, many attractions lie close enough to walk, especially in the Old Town. For farther spots like Lindos or the Butterfly Valley, buses offer direct routes. Renting a scooter or bicycle is popular among visitors who want the freedom to explore beaches and villages at their own pace.

Rhodes Customs and Local Culture

People in Rhodes are warm and welcoming. It’s polite to greet with a smile and a simple “Kalimera” in the morning or “Kalispera” in the evening. When invited to someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift like sweets or wine to show appreciation. Shops and cafes may have relaxed opening hours, especially in summer when afternoons are quiet and bustling happens later in the evening.

For those intrigued by historical flavors, Rhodes also offers delightful traditional sweets like baklava and honey pastries that capture the island’s rich culinary heritage.

One custom worth noting is the respect for the island’s religious festivals. Locals celebrate Orthodox holidays with colorful processions and lively feasts, often inviting visitors to join. It’s best to dress modestly when visiting churches and sacred places-covering shoulders or avoiding shorts is a sign of respect.

Rhodesians value their history deeply. They smile proudly when sharing stories about ancient knights, ancient ruins, or even the old colossus statue that once stood guarding Mandraki harbor. Though the statue no longer exists, the tales about it captivate young and old alike.

For a taste of similar traditional delights and the unique atmosphere of local tavernas, consider visiting our highlight on Creta’s village tavernas and rustic dining spots Creta Greece Taverns and Local Plates.

Fun Facts and Stories You Won’t Hear Often

Did you know Rhodes had one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World? The Colossus of Rhodes was a giant bronze statue that stood at the harbor entrance. Imagined towering over ships, it was said to be so tall ships could sail between its legs-though modern scholars doubt this. Sadly, it was knocked down by an earthquake centuries ago, but this myth lives on in local stories and souvenirs.

Another quirky fact: the island once served as a refuge for Jewish people during World War II. Although many faced hardships, today the Jewish community in Rhodes commemorates that history with small museums and preserved synagogues. It’s a reminder that this island’s stories are more than just about knights and gods-they carry deeper human tales as well.

On a lighter note, I met a local fisherman who swore that the sea waves around Rhodes whispered secrets of the past if you listened closely. Whether true or just a sailor’s tale, there’s a kind of magic in sitting by the shore, watching boats bobbing and knowing you are part of an ancient tradition that never fades.

Author: Olivia Martinez

Luxury travel blogger visiting the world's most iconic hotels and resorts.