For decades, people have been coming to the Greek island of Rhodes for its clear water, perfect beaches and amazing resorts.
Most of these are located around main settlements of Lindos and Rhodes Town, where the developed beach fronts and busy urban atmosphere offer a veritable cornucopia of things to do and see.
If, however, you want to discover some of the island’s lesser-known gems, look no further than the list below.
These places offer something different to the traditional all-inclusive beach resort and really are some of the most fun and unique places to check out.
Alternative Places to Visit in Rhodes
All these locations are located within a short distance of either Lindos or Rhodes Town, these destinations all provide a calm and quiet alternative if you need some breathing space away from the beaches and resorts.
1. Acropolis in Lindos
You don’t have to travel to Athens to get a chance to visit the Acropolis, as Rhodes has its very own version of it.
Towering over the holiday town of Lindos, the imposing citadel (which is what Acropolis translates as in Greek) opens up a glimpse of antiquity and among the ruins, you can see a temple built to honour Athena – the goddess of wisdom, the relief of an old Rhodian warship and the remains of a Roman temple.
Climb the old staircase to the centre of the fortress, explore the ancient walls and, while there, pause for a second and just savour the extraordinary views of the resplendent Aegean Sea and the surrounding urban landscape of Lindos.
2. Valley of Butterflies/ Petaloudes
Every year, in late May, a kaleidoscope of butterflies assemble in the valley, which in Greek is known as Petaloudes. Attracted by the scent of the fragrant Oriental Sweetgum trees that grow in profusion across the valley, the butterflies come here to seek a mate as a part of the final stage of their life-cycle.
Located just 20 kilometres from Rhodes Town, the verdant valley is a sanctuary to a plethora of butterflies throughout the year and offers a pleasant and delightful day out for holidaymakers of all ages. A quiet river flows through the valley, and along a tranquil path leading up to a monastery, you’ll come across scores of colourful little critters.
3. Rodini Park
Founded by the Romans, the serene Rodini Park offers a quiet escape from the more bustling parts of Rhodes Town.
Located in the outskirts of the island capital, this green space is populated predominantly by pine and cypress trees. Under the shade of these green giants, you’ll find lots of little quaint things.
Kids can explore the playground and the small zoo, while history buffs can see the old Roman aqueduct, as well as the ancient tomb of the Ptolemies.
As you stroll along the quiet, shaded paths, next to the many ponds, you’ll undoubtedly come across the more colourful inhabitants of the parks, the free-roaming peacocks.
4. Mount Profitis Ilias
Mount Profitis Ilias is the 3rd-highest mountain on Rhodes and if you enjoy the outdoors and hiking then you will love visiting.
Hike through the dense forest seeing trees, flowers and fauna and then reach the top where you can see an abandoned villa that used to be owned by Italian ruler Mussolini. The views from the top of Mount Profitis Ilias are spectacular and you can get amazing views of Rhodes for miles around.
Getting to Mount Profitis Ilias is fairly easy, it is located 25 km from the city centre of Rhodes, close to Salakos village.
5. Yeni Hammam Public Baths
Yeni Hammam is a 16th century bathhouse in Rhodes Town which is popular with locals. Plan a relaxing trip here for a journey back in time to enjoy one of the favourite pastimes of locals and tourists alike. Wash or choose to get an oil massage, its a really relaxing experience.
Yeni Hammam is located next to the Sultan Mustafa mosque on Arionos Square.
6. The Valley of “Seven Springs”
Do you love nature? Keen to escape the beach and visit somewhere really beautiful? Visit Rhodes’ hidden oasis, the “Seven Springs” This whole area is really beautiful and a popular destination for local people looking to escape the summer heat. There are lots of walking trails, rivers, plants, trees, waterfalls and animals. Be sure to go for a swim in the lake before departing.
The Valley of “Seven Springs” is located 30 km from Rhodes’ city centre, near the village of Archangelos.
Greece is one of the best tourism destinations in Europe and Rhodes is one of the most popular Greek islands to visit if you fancy a summer break. The places featured on our list really are hidden gems in Rhodes and offer you the chance to go off the beaten track to see more of the island. You won’t find many tourists here, which is perfect if you are looking for a really local experience.
