Where to Stay in Rhodes
Delving into history or diving in the Aegean - where will your Rhodes base be?
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So, you’re heading to the largest (and, some would argue, the most beautiful) of the Dodecanese islands - the most important decision has been made. Next up, though, is picking the perfect spot for your Grecian base, and that's exactly where we come in. Here at Plum Guide, we're going above and beyond to help you answer the key question: where to stay in Rhodes? With beaches to die for, a rich heritage, and even a valley famed for its butterflies, it’s not hard to see why Rhodes is a firm favourite with travellers - whether they’re looking to trace the island’s tumultuous history in Rhodes Town, explore the charming streets of Lindos, or get away from it all with a relaxing seaside break in Stegna. Read on to discover the very best places to stay in Rhodes.
Rhodes Town
Lindos
Ialyssos and Ixia
Pefkos
Kallithea
Stegna
Rhodes Town
A cobblestone street lined with plans and arches in Rhodes Old Town, Greece
Even by Greek standards, Rhodes is rich in history. To be fully immersed in the island’s culture and history, make a beeline for the capital, Rhodes Town, and its well-preserved medieval Old City - home to the Gothic Palace of the Grand Master, Byzantine churches, and Ottoman-era mosques. As you walk through the old part of town you’ll notice mosques and hamams (public baths) dating from the Ottoman period, while the administrative buildings of the Foro Italico at the port of Mandraki combine Byzantine, Venetian, Renaissance, Ottoman, and Greek elements - to tell the story of Rhodes through the medium of architecture. Just because you’re in the city, don’t go thinking you’ll be missing out on time at the beach: Elli Beach, Zefyros, and Kato Petres are all prime swimming spots easily accessible from town. For a post-swim aperitif, Orfanidou Street is a one stop shop when it comes to enjoying a drink or three - dozens of bars line this lively street.
Star Roving, Plum Guide home in Rhodes, Greece
Lindos
An aerial view of St. Paul's Bay with a small pier in front of a distant town, Rhodes, Greece
No guide to staying in Rhodes would be complete without mentioning Lindos - a sheltered sandy bay overlooked by the impressive Lindos Acropolis, with a village rated by many as the most beautiful on the island. Boasting an enchanting labyrinth of cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings, Lindos is flush with Greek tavernas, international restaurants, and stylish bars. Beyond the plentiful options for eating and drinking, the village also plays host to one of the island’s most accessible and well-organised beaches. Strictly speaking, Lindos is made up of two beaches: the main beach, and the quieter Pallas Beach. Whichever you opt for, you’ll find plenty of sun loungers, spots for a delicious lunch or a beachfront beer, water sports equipment for rent, and shallow waters ideal for young children. To discover a veritable slice of heaven, head to the peaceful St. Paul’s Bay (Agios Pavlos), an idyllic cove on the edge of the village.
Cyan Horizon, Plum Guide home in Rhodes, Greece
Ialyssos and Ixia
Clear blue waves in the sea at Ialyssos Beach, Rhodes, Greece
Though most of Rhodes’ more famous resorts can be found on its eastern coast, we think the island has some western gems worth shouting about. Thanks to the meltemi - the strong, dry, northerly Aegean wind - the northwestern coast of Rhodes is a windsurfer's paradise. Here we find the adjacent beaches of Ialyssos and Ixia, both of which enjoy near constant winds, and consist of pristine white and grey pebbles. If you’re not into water sports, fear not: many visitors simply come here to channel their inner child, and enjoy jumping in the waves. The atmosphere at Ialyssos and Ixia strikes the perfect balance between lively and laidback, with dozens of restaurants and bars to choose from - whether you’re in the mood for traditional taverna fare or cocktails.
Vista Blue, Plum Guide home in Rhodes, Greece
Pefkos
A view of rocks in the clear sea on a sunny day, Pefkos, Rhodes, Greece
When deciding where to stay in Rhodes for a getaway with the family, look no further than Pefkos. Its sandy beaches and calm shallows are ideal for young children (though those looking for higher-octane fun will be kept busy too, with kite-surfing and windsurfing). Its selection of tavernas and restaurants ensures you can also enjoy an authentic Greek experience, while being confident that all the family will find something to their taste. This former fishing village is still chock-full of old-world charm, with a mixture of low-key bars and livelier haunts offering options for sampling a traditional ouzo, or partying Rhodes style. What’s more, with Pefkos set just four kilometres southwest of Lindos, you’ll be perfectly placed to visit its famous Acropolis.
Shining Bright, Plum Guide home in Rhodes, Greece
Kallithea
A large white dome-roofed building by the sea at Kallithea Springs, Rhodes, Greece
To combine a beach break with a taste of city life, Kallithea is a shoo-in. Set just six kilometres from Rhodes Town, Kallithea allows for mornings exploring medieval history and afternoons frolicking in the Aegean - whether you opt for paddling, snorkelling, scuba diving, or parasailing. What Kallithea is most famous for, though, are its healing thermal waters. Opened in the 1920s during the Italian occupation (but drawing visitors since the 7th century BC), the Kallithea Thermal Spa was designed by renowned architect Pietro Lombardi. Though the springs are no longer in use, today visitors can admire Lombardi’s remarkable Moorish-inspired architecture, dotted with ornate pebble mosaics.
Stegna
A panoramic view of the blue sea and people sunbathing on the sand at Stegna Beach, Rhodes, Greece
If “peace”, “calm” and “unspoilt” are your watchwords when deciding where to stay in Rhodes, the sleepy resort of Stegna will surely tick a lot of boxes. Compared to some of the island’s other resorts, Stegna has been relatively untouched by mass commercial tourism. Instead, its tranquil bay of white sand and shingle is backed by boutique hotels and family-run restaurants, drawing both international tourists and local visitors for its village-like atmosphere. Though Stegna is known for its relaxed “siga siga” (“slowly, slowly”) vibe, there’s always an option to up the energy levels with banana boat rides, paragliding, and water-skiing.
