Rhodes in Style:

Where to Stay, Play and Wine Your Way Through 2025

Rhodes isn’t just another Greek island - it’s a full-blown mood. A place where medieval castles guard turquoise coves, where beach clubs serve rosé with fireworks, and where every alleyway in the Old Town whispers stories from centuries past. You can explore ancient ruins in the morning, feast like a local at a taverna by noon, and be sipping cocktails with a sea view by sunset. It's history with a tan, basically, and this time around, we did it right.

Oh, and if you’re thinking “Is it like Mykonos?” - yes, but with actual soul and prices that won’t make your credit card cry.

Rhodes beach, Greece — Greek sunshine! Perfect for the soul!

Where to Stay in Rhodes

On our last visit, we stayed in Ixia, which is great for sunsets and resorts, but a bit removed from the island’s cultural pulse. This time, we shifted closer to the Old Town and found a gem of a hotel just 10 minutes away on foot, and on the beachfront. Best decision ever. From morning swims to late-night cocktails in the old city, it struck the perfect balance between chill and buzz. There was always something happening.

💡 Plan & Book Your Rhodes Escape Like a Pro

If you're ready to turn this Rhodes trip into reality, use my favorite tools, starting with your accommodations!
Want beach access, walkability to Old Town, and zero stress? Browse Rhodes hotels on Hotels.com - from boutique charmers to stylish seaside resorts, you’ll find a match for every vibe and budget.

Bonus: many properties offer free cancellation!

What to Explore on the Island

The Old Town, Rhodes, Greece — The colorful and bright Old Town in Rhodes, Greece

The Classics (and for good reason) - Old Town & Coastal Icons

Rhodes Old Town – A UNESCO World Heritage site and living postcard. Don’t miss the Palace of the Grand Master. Wander through the colorful alleys, enjoy the beautiful boutiques, and cozy traditional tavernas. Outside wander the Marina and port area. Perfect for watching sunsets.
Lindos – A picturesque village with whitewashed houses, an ancient acropolis, and two gorgeous beaches below. Anthony Quinn Bay is unmissable!
Tsambika Beach – Soft golden sand and crystal-clear water. A beach day done right.
Vliha Bay – Peaceful, scenic, and ideal for a long lunch with sea views.
Kallithea Springs – A restored 1920s spa meets a rocky cove paradise. Glamorous and serene. Entry costs just 5 Euros. Beach beds cost 25 Euros per set, including shade, of course.

Kallithea, Rhodes, Greece — Kallithea Springs, Rhodes

Charming Villages & Scenic Stops

Stegna & Charaki – Laid-back fishing villages perfect for lazy lunches and a dose of authenticity.
Faliraki – Lively, colorful, and full of beach bars. Great for people-watching and good vibes.

Western Rhodes Wonders

Monolithos Castle – Wild cliffs and dramatic views. Pack your camera.
Butterfly Valley (Petaloudes) – A tranquil nature reserve, best from June to September. A narrow wooded area threaded with attractive footpaths, it comes alive in summer with colourful butterflies, drawn by the resin exuded by storax trees.
Embonas Village – Known for local wines and hearty mountain hospitality. A great inland detour.

Inland & Off the Beaten Path

Mount Filerimos – Sweeping views, a peaceful vibe, and even wild peacocks. In addition to the view of the Aegean Sea, here once stood the Acropolis of the Ancient Ialyssos with a very important temple dedicated to Athena Polias. The monastery can be explored, and behind the church, the monks’ cells can be found.
Kritinia Castle – A remote and romantic destination with fewer tourists.
Ancient Kamiros – Rhodes’ answer to Pompeii. Underrated and fascinating.
Seven Springs (Epta Piges) – Lush, shaded, and cool—walk the tunnel if you dare.

Rent a Car, But Make it Sexy

You’ll need a car to truly explore Rhodes, and not just any car. We rented from Exotic Cars Rhodes, and it added a whole layer of fun to the journey. Sleek, reliable, and surprisingly affordable. Want to feel like you’re starring in your own Mediterranean road movie? Ask for the convertible. Trust me.

🌊 Get Adventurous

Want to try stand-up paddleboarding, diving, or even paragliding? Manawa has loads of outdoor experiences in Rhodes for all thrill levels—and trust me, that coastline was made for it.

GO EXPLORE!

🎟 Must-Do Activities & Tickets

Skip the ticket queues and secure your spot at top attractions like the Lindos Acropolis or Kallithea Springs. I use Tiqets for fast, mobile-friendly booking - perfect when you're planning on the go.

Best Beach Clubs in Rhodes

Rhodes isn’t just about history; it’s got serious beach club energy too. Here are my top picks if you’re looking to sip, dip, and party in style:

Ronda Beach Club – Daytime chill, nighttime glam. White napkin parties? Legendary! Fireworks, dancing. The full production. Best night ever!
Elli World Beach Club – Trendy and tasty with glorious views. Great for a beach day and a bottle service sunset.
Grand Beach Club – Stylish yet chill, with a serious cocktail game.
Nor – Clean lines, calm vibes, and a cool crowd.
Azul Beach Club – Bold decor, stylish, live DJs, and photogenic.

Taverna Faves Along the Way

Tavernas - One of my main reasons for visiting the Greek Islands.
Greek cuisine is honestly to die for, and there’s nothing I love more than stumbling into a traditional taverna where yiayia is still in the kitchen, working her magic. No frills, no Instagrammable plating - just melt-in-your-mouth food, warm hospitality, and the kind of soul you can’t fake. These are the meals that make you linger, toast to nothing, and forget what time it is.

Yamas – Traditional Greek, the way yiayia intended.
Koutouk 42 – Cozy and quirky. A little off the radar.
Archipelagos – Fresh seafood and a killer sea breeze.
Romeo (Old Town) – Romantic courtyard, perfect for date night. Live Greek music completes the amazing vibe. And get this, you can smash plates! This is a traditional Greek symbolic ritual, super fun to engage in, that has sadly disappeared over the years. It is used to signal the end and the beginning, to ward off evil spirits, and to express abundance.
La Varka – Authentic flavors in the Old Town, off the center. Very hospitable, kind owner and staff.
Yannis – No menu needed. Just ask what’s good today and let yiayia make it!
Meli – Simple Greek classics with modern flair.
Aktaiou – Overlooking the port with stunning sea views, this spot hits the sweet spot between relaxed and lively. Think delicious food, proper cocktails, and live music that sets the tone, not the volume. The crowd? Mostly locals, which gives the whole evening a warm, genuine energy that feels worlds away from the tourist traps lining the waterfront. It’s the kind of place where you sip slowly, stay longer, and maybe even join a dance or two.

Greek food, Rhodes — Greek food is divine, right?

⛴ Island Hopping?

If you’re extending your trip to Symi, Kos, or beyond, FerryScanner makes booking ferries super easy. Compare routes, times, and prices in one click. No port-side panic required.

Final Thoughts

Rhodes nails the balance between ancient soul and modern energy. Whether you're hiking castles, swimming in hidden bays, or dancing under beachside fireworks, the island knows how to keep you coming back. So my fellow adventurers! Pack your bags, grab your camera, and let the Grecian magic unfold!

Ronda, Rhodes — Ronda beach club, Rhodes

Got questions or need my route? Leave a comment or slide into the DMs on social - @mytrendytrail

I’ve got your back.

Rhodes Unfiltered: Where to Swim, Sip, and Soak in 2025 - The Perfect Rhodes Travel Guide!