Some places look beautiful in photos, but others truly make you feel something when you’re there. Rhodes Old Town is definitely the second kind.
We visited three times at different times of day. And while it’s impressive no matter when you go, it wasn’t the busy mornings or even the lively nights that stayed with us. It was that quiet moment in the late afternoon. The heat softens, the crowds thin out just enough, and the whole place feels like it exhales.
You walk through narrow cobbled streets, past stone houses with half-open shutters, sleepy cats stretched in the shade, and the occasional glimpse into someone’s courtyard. A taverna here, a small piazza there. Nothing loud, nothing forced. Just a place slowly revealing itself.
Most guides list the main things to do in Rhodes Old Town, but this place doesn’t really feel like something to be checked off a list. It’s not about ticking off landmarks, it’s about experiencing the atmosphere, and letting the place unfold as you walk through it.
There’s no real sense of direction here—and that’s part of the experience. You don’t really “navigate” Rhodes Old Town, you just move through it.
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Table of Contents
Is Rhodes Old Town Worth Visiting?
Short answer: yes – but probably not for the reasons you’d expect.
It’s not really about ticking off landmarks. It’s more about the feeling you get while wandering around. Getting a little lost without checking your phone. Turning down a random street and ending up somewhere you didn’t plan to see.
That said, it’s not perfect. Around 10 AM, the crowds start to build, and it can feel a bit overwhelming in some areas. Some of the restaurants are clearly geared toward tourists, so the experience can feel less local at times.
But if you catch it at the right moment – early in the morning, or even better, in the late afternoon just before sunset. That’s when it really slows down. And that’s when it starts to feel a bit more special.
Old Town vs New Town: What’s the Difference?
Rhodes Town is split into two completely different worlds and the contrast is part of what makes it so interesting.
On one side, you have the Old Town. Surrounded by medieval walls, it feels like stepping into another time. The streets are narrow and cobbled, buildings are made of stone, and everything has this slightly worn, historic charm. It’s the kind of place where you slow down without really meaning to, where getting lost is part of the experience rather than something to avoid.
On the other side, there’s the New Town. It’s more modern, more practical, and much easier to navigate. This is where you’ll find most of the hotels, bigger restaurants, shops, and beach access. It’s busier in a different way—less about history, more about convenience and everyday life.
You’ll probably spend time in both, and that balance works really well.
But if there’s one place that feels truly memorable, it’s the Old Town, the part that stays with you long after you leave.
How to Get to Rhodes Old Town
Getting to Rhodes Old Town is surprisingly easy, no matter where you’re staying in Rhodes Town. It sits right between the harbour and the modern part of the city, so you’ll naturally find yourself close to it at some point during your stay.
If you’re arriving from further away, most people start from Rhodes Port or the New Town area and simply walk toward the medieval walls. The Old Town isn’t hidden – it slowly appears as you approach the gates, almost like the city is revealing itself before you even step inside.
Once you reach the entrance, whether it’s one of the main gates or a smaller passage, you’ll immediately feel that shift from modern streets into something older, quieter, and more enclosed.
How to Explore Rhodes Old Town
Forget a fixed plan. Wander. Turn random corners. Let the streets unfold.
Best time to visit: early morning or late afternoon, just before sunset.
Getting there: walk from Rhodes Port or New Town. Old Town gradually appears through the gates.
Entering the City: Gates & First Impressions
One of the things that makes Rhodes Old Town so special is that you don’t just walk into it, you enter it.
The whole place is surrounded by these massive medieval walls, and there isn’t just one main entrance. There are several gates, and we actually ended up going in through different ones each time we visited. It sounds like a small detail, but it really changes how the experience starts.
The Gate of Saint Athanasios felt a bit quieter, almost like easing into the Old Town without too much going on. Then there’s the Liberty Gate, which is one of the main entrances – closer to the port, a bit busier, and with that feeling of “okay, we’ve arrived.” The Gate of Saint John felt somewhere in between, not too crowded but still very atmospheric.
All of them date back to when the Knights fortified the city, and you can still feel that history as you walk through. The scale of the walls, the heavy stone, even the way the light shifts for a second. It all adds to that feeling that you’re stepping into a different time.
And once you’re inside, it quickly turns into a bit of a maze, but in a way that makes you want to keep wandering.
Walking Along the Walls That Surround Rhodes Old Town
One of the things you keep noticing as you move through Rhodes Old Town is just how present the walls are. You don’t really think about them at first, but they’re always there, rising above the streets, appearing between buildings, or guiding you without you even realizing it.
These massive medieval fortifications once protected the city when it was ruled by the Knights of Rhodes, and even now, they give the Old Town its distinct feeling of being enclosed in time. From certain streets, you catch glimpses of their scale. Thick stone, layered history, and that quiet sense of permanence that contrasts with the movement inside the city.
What’s interesting is that you don’t need to “visit” the walls in a structured way. You just end up walking beside them, under them, or past them as you explore. And in those moments, they become less of a monument and more of a silent presence shaping everything around you.
Getting Lost in Rhodes Old Town Is the Best Way to Explore It
After walking through the main gates and following a few streets and squares, the best part of Rhodes Old Town really begins when you stop trying to follow a plan. This is the moment when you just let yourself wander. You turn into narrow alleys without knowing where they lead, you suddenly find quiet corners hidden behind busy squares, and the whole place starts to feel more personal.
It’s in these unplanned moments that the Old Town really comes alive. Between locals going about their day, cats sleeping on warm stone, and small details you would completely miss if you were rushing. But Rhodes Old Town doesn’t really require a plan; you’ll find your own rhythm either way.
If you want a bit more context while exploring, there are also guided walking tours that take you through the main gates and explain the history behind the Old Town as you go. You might prefer this approach, especially on a first visit, to better understand what you’re seeing. Check out this highly rated guided tour HERE.
Or even use e-bike or Segway tours to cover more ground in less time. Find out more details about this Segway Medieval Town HERE.
Walking Highlights of Rhodes Old Town
The Street of the Knights
One place that really stood out to us was the Street of the Knights.
It’s not a long walk, but somehow it leaves a strong impression. The whole street is lined with old stone buildings that once belonged to different knightly orders, and there’s this strange feeling that not much has changed here in centuries.
If you walk it slowly, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s quieter, you start noticing the small details. The textures in the stone, the heavy doors, the way the light hits the street for just a few minutes in a really specific way.
It’s not something loud or dramatic. It’s more subtle than that. But it stays with you, and it’s probably one of the most memorable parts of Rhodes Old Town.
The Palace of the Grand Master
One of the places you naturally end up passing by while wandering through Rhodes Old Town is the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes.
It’s hard to miss, both because of its scale and because of how different it feels compared to the rest of the Old Town. The moment you see those massive stone walls and the fortress-like entrance, you instantly get a sense of how important this place once was.
Originally built as a Byzantine fortress and later rebuilt by the Knights Hospitaller in the 14th century, it once served as their headquarters. And even today, that mix of power and history is still very present when you stand in front of it.
It’s also very easy to reach while exploring, especially since it sits close to Liberty Gate. And in the middle of a hot day, it’s actually one of the better stops. You can step inside, escape the sun for a bit, and still stay immersed in the atmosphere of the Old Town.
The Palace of the Grand Master can be visited, which adds more context if you want to dive deeper into the island’s medieval history. Inside, the building has been restored after damage in the 19th century, and now functions as a museum. You’ll find mosaics, medieval artifacts, and pieces that slowly bring the history of the island back to life.
Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior alone is worth stopping for.
Medieval Clock Tower – A View Over Rhodes Old Town
As you wander through the winding streets of Rhodes Old Town, you’ll inevitably notice Clock Tower (Roloi) rising above the rooftops. Perched atop a small hill, it offers one of the best vantage points to take in the medieval city’s maze of streets and red-tiled roofs.
Climbing the tower is easy and short, and once you reach the top, the view rewards every step. You can spot the Palace of the Grand Master, the bustling Hippocrates Square, and the harbor beyond.
Even a quick stop to admire the city from below leaves an impression, making it one of those spots you remember long after your walk.
Sokratous Street – The Lively Main Street of Rhodes Old Town
As you wander through Rhodes Old Town, your steps will inevitably lead you to Sokratous Street. This bustling main street pulses with life, lined with small shops, local boutiques, and colorful souvenir stalls. There’s a rhythm here you can’t resist – you don’t so much choose to be on Sokratous Street as find yourself swept along by it.
While strolling, you can pause to peek inside shops, grab a coffee, or simply watch the mix of locals and visitors going about their day. And before long, the street naturally guides you toward the central square, offering a perfect bridge between the lively plazas and the quieter, hidden corners of the Old Town. It’s one of those spots that captures the city’s energy without ever feeling forced or touristy.
Hippocrates Square
As you continue your wanderings, you naturally drift into the open spaces that punctuate the maze of streets.
Hippocrates Square is one of the liveliest, with cafés spilling out onto the square and people meeting without any strict plan. In the center, the small Ipokrateous Fountain blends into daily life rather than standing out as a major landmark.
The Square of the Jewish Martyrs
Not far away, things shift again at the Square of the Jewish Martyrs. The atmosphere is calmer here, almost more reflective. It feels slightly tucked away compared to the busier parts of the Old Town. It’s easy to pass through without even realizing how much history surrounds it.
And then there are the smaller details you only catch when you slow down. The Seahorse Fountain, for example, isn’t something you go out of your way to find. It’s more of a quiet surprise that appears as you wander. You might walk past it quickly, or you might stop for a moment without really knowing why.
None of these places feels like “attractions” in the traditional sense.
Suleiman Mosque – A Quiet Reminder
Finally, tucked into the Old Town is Suleiman Mosque. Unlike the bustling squares or main streets, it has a calm, reflective presence. Its elegant dome and slender minaret contrast with the medieval architecture around it, offering a subtle glimpse into Rhodes’ Ottoman past.
Even from the outside, it’s photogenic, and pausing here gives you a moment to appreciate the layers of history that make the Old Town so rich and textured.
Quiet Corners and Hidden Layers of the Old Town
Beyond the lively squares and narrow shopping streets of Rhodes Old Town, there are moments when the atmosphere shifts again, becoming quieter, almost unnoticed unless you slow down.
One of these is the Church of the Virgin of the Burgh. It doesn’t immediately stand out, and that’s exactly what makes it interesting.
You might find yourself passing by without realizing what it is at first, just a fragment of stone and history quietly sitting between more active streets. But if you pause for a moment, it adds another layer to how old this place really is.
Not far from there, Agia Triada feels more like part of everyday life than a monument. It’s simple, unpretentious, and almost blends into the rhythm of the Old Town rather than interrupting it.
Neither of these places demands attention. Instead, they reward if you happen to slow down enough to notice them.
Souvenirs, Small Shops and Little Finds Along the Way
Wandering through Rhodes Old Town, you can’t really avoid the small shops that line the streets, but they don’t all feel the same.
Some are clearly geared toward tourists, full of familiar souvenirs, ceramics, leather goods, and handmade items displayed right at the entrance. Others feel a bit more personal, almost tucked away, where you might notice something simple that catches your eye more by chance than by intention.
What we liked most was how these shops are woven into the Old Town itself. They’re not separate from the experience, they’re part of the walk. You go from a quiet alley into a small store, then back out into a sunlit street, and the rhythm just keeps changing.
We didn’t really set out to “shop” here, but we still ended up stopping more than once. Sometimes it was just curiosity, other times it was a small detail that felt too fitting to ignore: a handmade piece, a simple object, something that reminded us of the place without trying too hard.
And that’s probably the best kind of souvenir anyway.
Finding a Hidden Taverna in Rhodes Old Town
It’s true that parts of Rhodes Old Town are very much oriented toward visitors, especially around the main squares and the most central streets. You’ll notice menus displayed outside, familiar dishes, and places that clearly cater to the people passing through.
But what we quickly realized is that it only takes a few extra steps to change the experience completely.
If you move just slightly away from the busiest streets, into quieter alleys where the crowds thin out, you start noticing a different rhythm. The noise fades, the pace slows, and suddenly you come across smaller tavernas that feel more tucked away, almost hidden in plain sight.
That’s where everything changes.
We ended up sitting in one of those places almost by chance – simple tables, traditional dishes, and that feeling of not really planning it, but being exactly where you should be. There was music playing softly in the background, a relaxed kind of energy, and that easy sense of warmth that comes from people who genuinely enjoy what they’re doing.
The food wasn’t just about what was on the plate, it was the atmosphere around it. The conversation, the sound of glasses, the slow rhythm of the evening settling in.
And in that moment, it felt like the more authentic side of Rhodes Old Town revealed itself. Not in the main squares, but just a few steps away from them.
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Travel Tips For Rhodes
Best Time to Visit Rhodes
The best time to visit the island of Rhodes is between March and early November. However, during the peak season in July and August, when many visit during the summer holidays, booking your accommodation in advance is crucial to secure your stay.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, the best time to visit the island is spring and autumn. The temperatures drop, and the weather is sunny and warm, making the experience more pleasant.
How to Get to Rhodes
Getting to Rhodes is quite easy, especially during the summer season when there are plenty of direct flights and ferry connections.
By Plane
The fastest way to reach Rhodes is by flying into Rhodes International Airport (Diagoras), which is located about 20 minutes from Rhodes Town.
During the high season, there are direct flights from many European cities, including major hubs in Germany, the UK, Italy, and other parts of Greece.
👉 You can search and compare flight options HERE.
By Ferry
Rhodes is also well connected by ferry, especially if you’re already traveling through Greece.
The most common routes are:
- Athens (Piraeus) → Rhodes (long ferry, overnight option available)
- Nearby islands like Symi, Kos, and other Dodecanese islands
Ferries usually arrive at Mandraki Harbor, right next to Rhodes Town, which makes arrival very convenient.
👉 You can check ferry schedules and book tickets HERE.
How to Get around Rhodes
Once on the island, you can get around by renting a car, grabbing a taxi, using the local bus service, or taking a guided tour.
The easiest and most obvious option would be renting a car and discovering the island on your own terms. Some parts of the island are less developed, meaning you’ll need transport to get there. Traffic is accessible, and you’ll drive through empty roads and scenic coastal drives most of the time. It’s a fairly big island, and the attractions are far apart. A rented car will open up many options and allow you to be more spontaneous.
We booked our car through DISCOVER CARS. This is a user-friendly platform that compares deals from trusted rental companies to help you find the best price, often with insurance included.
How Many Days to Spend on Rhodes
You can easily spend 3-4 days on the island and get a glimpse of its treasures. Ideally, spending at least one week on Rhodes would be best. It will give you enough time to visit everything without rushing. You can relax at the beach, enjoy traditional cuisine, visit historical monuments, and glimpse the Greek culture.
Where to Stay in Rhodes
Choosing where to stay in Rhodes depends on your travel style, but these are the best areas to consider:
Rhodes Old Town – for history & charm
If you want a unique experience, staying inside the medieval walls of Rhodes Old Town is hard to beat. You’ll be surrounded by cobbled streets, historic buildings, and cozy tavernas.
👉 Check availability for your dates:
Rhodes New Town – best all-round base
For a mix of beach access, restaurants, and convenience, Rhodes Town is ideal. It’s especially great if it’s your first visit.
👉 Find great hotel deals:
Faliraki & Kallithea – for beaches & resorts
If you’re after a relaxing stay near the sea, look into Faliraki and Kallithea. These areas are known for their beaches and resort-style hotels.
👉 Browse top-rated resorts:
Sol by Meliá Cosmopolitan Rhodes
Lindos – for views & a romantic vibe
Lindos is one of the most picturesque spots on the island, known for its whitewashed houses, rooftop terraces, and stunning sea views. It’s perfect for couples or a more relaxed, scenic stay.
👉 See the best places to stay:
Melenos Art Boutique Hotel – one of the most beautiful luxury stays in Lindos
Caesars Gardens Hotel & Spa – stylish boutique hotel with a peaceful vibe
💡 Keep in mind: Lindos is mostly pedestrian, so you’ll likely need to walk a bit with your luggage—but the views make it worth it.
Get an eSIM before the Trip
Staying connected while traveling is essential, but roaming plans, airport Wi-Fi, or buying a local SIM can be a hassle. The easiest solution? An eSIM.
Just install it on your phone and activate it when you arrive—no lines, no physical SIM, no stress. You’ll have instant data to book a taxi, check maps, or message your hotel. It’s flexible, easy to top up, and requires no long-term commitment.
👉 Find the best eSIM plan for Greece HERE.
Final Thoughts
If you only visit Rhodes Old Town once, you’ll probably enjoy it. But to truly appreciate its charm, take your time exploring.
There are many places to visit, from the iconic Street of the Knights and Palace of the Grand Master to the Roloi Clock Tower and Hippocrates Square. And don’t miss the hidden corners, cozy tavernas, and historic churches – all perfect things to do while wandering this medieval town. Slow down, soak in the atmosphere, and you’ll discover that Rhodes Old Town isn’t just a place you visit, it’s a place you feel.
If you wish to visit other Greek Islands, you can find some inspiration from my articles:
14 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN ZAKYNTHOS
15 BEST BEACHES IN ZAKYNTHOS: WHICH ONES ARE ACTUALLY WORTH IT
HOW TO RENT A BOAT IN ZAKYNTHOS: TIPS FROM REAL EXPERIENCES
THE BEST THINGS TO DO ON SYMI ISLAND FOR FIRST TIMERS
THINGS TO DO IN RHODES: 15 BEST PLACES AND HONEST TRAVEL TIPS
