How to Spend a Day in Rhodes, Greece: Old Town and Beach Itineraries

Planning a quick stopover in Rhodes and wondering how to make the most of just one day?

Whether you’re a history enthusiast drawn to medieval architecture or a beach lover seeking crystal-clear Aegean waters, Rhodes is an epic destination, as like Hannah Montana, it offers the best of both worlds!

This one day in Rhodes guide will help you create an itinerary focused on Old Town, beach time, or a bit of both, so you don’t try to squeeze in too much and exhaust yourself racing around the island (it’s bigger than you think!)

After having explored this incredible Greek island with my family, I know how to maximize your 24 hours without breaking the bank or spending time on nonsense. Below, you’ll find mostly free or low-cost activities that still deliver that authentic Rhodes experience.

What is Rhodes Known For?

Rhodes is famous for being home to the ancient Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, though sadly it no longer exists.

However, if you’re a total nerd like me, you can visit where it supposedly stood, more on that later.

The island also boasts one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns, built by the Knights Hospitaller and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Old Town is dominated by the magnificent Palace of the Grand Master and is an epic place to see centuries of cultural influences from Greece, Rome, Byzantium, the Ottoman Empire, and Italy.

Beyond history, Rhodes has loads of stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and is one of the easternmost Greek islands—so close to Turkey that you can actually see the Turkish coast (we did from our hotel)!

Is One Day in Rhodes Enough?

Yes! If you’re not concerned with really immersing yourself in the island, you’ll only have enough time to really scrape the surface. Rhodes is one of the larger Greek islands you can visit, so if you stick to an itinerary, you’ll be able to see some of the main sites in Rhodes, but not all of them.

How to Get to Rhodes

You can reach the island of Rhodes by ferry or flight.

However, flights are the faster option, so that’s what I picked for my family on our 10-day Greek island-hopping itinerary.

We were coming in from Athens, so it just made the most sense, even though it was more expensive at the time.

Occasionally, flights are cheaper than the ferry, so make sure to compare prices with a tool like Omio before booking!

By Air:

• Flight from Athens: 1 hour
• Average cost: €60-100 per person
• Airport: Rhodes International Airport (RHO)
• Pros: Faster and sometimes more affordable
• Cons: Have to pay for non-carry on luggage

By Ferry:

• From Athens (Piraeus): 15-18 hours
• Average cost: €50+ per person (foot passenger)
• Pros: Can bring a vehicle, more budget-friendly (sometimes)
• Cons: Much longer journey, potential for seasickness

Budget Tip: Book flights well in advance for the best deals. However, if you’ve got the time and are island hopping, consider taking an overnight ferry to save on accommodation.

⛴️ Need more details to decide? Read my Greek Islands travel guide!

How to Get Around Rhodes

Rhodes is one of the larger Greek islands, so planning how you’ll get around in advance will help you save time during your one day in Rhodes.

Public Buses (RODA/KTEL): The most budget-friendly option for beach-goers

• RODA: Services the west side of the island
• KTEL: Services the east side of the island
• Cost: €2-5 per journey depending on distance
• Routes connect Rhodes Town to most villages and beaches
• Check schedules at www.rhodes.gr/bus-routes

Walking: Perfect for exploring Old Town

• The medieval city is compact and car-free
• All attractions are within 15-30 minutes of each other
• Comfortable shoes are essential for the cobblestone streets

Car Rental: Most flexible option for a beach day

• Cost: €30-50 per day for a basic car
• Requirements: International driving permit (get at AAA for $20)
• Parking: Public parking is available near Old Town and the beaches

Taxis/Ridesharing:

• Uber operates in Rhodes (Uber Taxi with local drivers, though service is said to be spotty)
• Regular taxis are frequently available at taxi stands or if you hail them down
• Can be more expensive, but are convenient for short distances

Itinerary #1: Old Town Exploration

Best for: History buffs, culture lovers, or those seeking authentic Greek atmosphere

Cost: €53-73 per person (most attractions are free or low-cost)

Transportation: Walking only

Morning (9:00 AM – 12:30 PM)

Castle of the Old Town (9:00 AM – 10:30 AM)

Start your one day in Rhodes early at the Castle of the Old Town before cruise ship crowds arrive! Especially if you’re visiting in the dead of summer.

We were there in September and didn’t see any crowds, but it can vary.

Rhodes Old Town is a medieval city constructed within a castle featuring six impressive gateways—think Game of Thrones‘ King’s Landing brought to life.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the few medieval towns still in excellent condition.

Park outside the city walls where you’ll find public parking (you may need to hunt for a spot during busy times), then enter through one of the gateways.

Inside the fortified walls, you’ll find churches, mosques, palaces, squares, gardens, and courtyards alongside souvenir shops, cafes, boutiques, and jewelers.

The streets are car-free, making it wonderfully pedestrian-friendly for a self-guided walking tour.

Alternatively, you can book a guided tour for more info! My family isn’t as history-obsessed as I am, so we skipped this, but I think it would be wonderful!

⏳ Duration: 1.5 hours
💰 Cost: FREE

Palace of the Grand Masters (10:30 AM – 12:30 PM)

The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is a medieval fortress and one of the few examples of Gothic architecture in Greece.

Previously serving as both a palace and a fortress for the Knights Hospitaller, it was their headquarters during the Crusades (yes, it feels like a Dan Brown novel should take place here).

Restored in the 1930s, the Palace now houses an impressive collection of mosaic floors salvaged from various island monuments and medieval furniture.

Two permanent exhibitions offer fascinating insights into Rhodes’ history, from its founding in 408 BC to its Ottoman conquest in 1522.

What to See:

• Stunning mosaic floors throughout
• Medieval armor and weapons displays
• Gothic architectural details
• Panoramic views from upper levels
• Ancient artifacts and pottery
• Gold ornaments and jewelry

Historical Note: The Knights Hospitaller were a healing brotherhood, distinct from the purely military Knights Templar. While their military role grew over time, they never abandoned their hospital mission—each chapter was charged with building and maintaining hospitals.

⏳ Duration: 2 hours
💰 Cost: €20, or spend a little more to add an audio guide with comprehensive history

Afternoon (12:30 PM – 3:30 PM)

Lunch at Hippocrates Square (12:30 PM – 2:00 PM)

Take a break at Hippocrates Square, the bustling heart of Old Town.

This vibrant plaza offers numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars surrounding the Syndriváni—a fountain topped with an Italian ornament.

What to Eat:

• Gyros (€5-8) – We found a quick takeout place to grab one (I believe it was Pitafan Yeeros Old Town), which was my mom’s favorite gyro she had in Greece; cheap and easy street food to walk around with
• Greek salad (€6-9) – Was a wonderful pick for the vegetarians in my group
• Souvlaki (€7-10)
• Gelato for dessert (€3-5)

Budget Tips:

• Look for restaurants slightly off the square for better prices
• Many places offer lunch specials, so if you’re looking to save, do lunch instead of dinner
• Share appetizers (mezze) to try more dishes
• Avoid places with aggressive servers at the entrance enticing you to come in
• Check prices before ordering

The square comes alive during both day and night, making it perfect for people-watching.

Also, make sure to head to the southeastern corner, where the Kastellanía, a building that served as a medieval courthouse and commercial tribunal for the Knights, now functions as the public library and town archives.

⏳ Duration: 1.5 hours
💰 Cost: €8-15 per person

Street of the Knights (2:00 PM – 2:30 PM)

The Street of the Knights stands as one of the world’s best-preserved medieval streets.

Its cobblestones and arched doorways were crafted wide enough to accommodate a horse and carriage or a knight on horseback.

Seven inns line this historic road, each representing one of the Knights of St. John’s countries of origin.

The Knights Hospitaller, who governed Rhodes, organized themselves into seven ‘tongues’ (languages) according to birthplace—England, France, Germany, Italy, Aragon, Auvergne, and Provence—with each tongue responsible for defending specific sections of the fortifications.

What to See:

• Seven historic inns (buildings)
• Gothic architectural details
• Informative wall displays
• Cobblestone street preserved for 600+ years
• Photo opportunities at every turn

⏳ Duration: 30 minutes
💰 Cost: FREE

Archaeological Museum of Rhodes (2:30 PM – 4:30 PM)

Also known as the Hospital of the Knights, this museum occupies the building that once hosted the Knights Hospitaller.

Built in 1440, it showcases an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient Rhodes.

The main exhibition features discoveries from Ialissos and Kamiros (two of the three ancient cities of Rhodes) dating to the Hellenistic and Classical Greek periods, including marble statues, pottery, and ancient artifacts.

Highlights:

• Beautiful courtyard with arched hallways (reminiscent of Harry Potter‘s Cloisters)
• Ancient mosaics on walls and floors from Hellenistic villas
• Pottery and vase collections
• Marble sculptures
• Gold ornaments and jewelry
• Ancient medical instruments

⏳ Duration: 1 hour
💰 Cost: €10 ticket

Late Afternoon/Evening (4:30 PM – 8:00 PM)

The Colossus of Rhodes Site (4:30 PM – 5:00 PM)

This stop requires some imagination, as the Colossus of Rhodes disappeared centuries ago!

However, history nerds and Sid Meier’s Civilization game fans will appreciate visiting the legendary site.

The Colossus of Rhodes was a massive statue of the Greek sun god Helios, erected by Chares of Lindos in 280 BC at Mandraki Harbor.

Standing approximately 33 meters (108 feet) tall—roughly the height of the Statue of Liberty—it was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Built to celebrate Rhodes’ successful defense against Demetrius I of Macedon’s year-long siege, the Colossus stood for only 56 years before collapsing during the 226 BC earthquake.

Though parts were preserved, it was sadly never rebuilt.

What to See:

• Mandraki Harbor where it likely stood
• Bronze deer statues marking the ancient harbor entrance
• Windmills along the harbor
• Fort of St. Nicholas
• Modern marina and boats

Fun Fact: Google Maps lists the Colossus of Rhodes as “Permanently Closed”—not historically accurate since it’s dismantled, but amusing!

⏳ Duration: 15-30 minutes
💰 Cost: FREE

Optional Evening Activity

Sunset Walk on the Medieval Walls (5:00 PM – 6:00 PM)

If you have energy remaining and your feet aren’t hurting from the cobblestones, walk along sections of the medieval walls for spectacular sunset views over both Old Town and the Aegean Sea.

We did a bit of this, but also shopped since my relatives are big shoppaholics!

💰 Cost: Some sections require a ticket (€3), while others are free

Dinner in Old Town (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

End your day with dinner at one of Old Town’s many tavernas.

As the sun sets and temperatures cool, the medieval streets take on a magical quality with soft lighting and fewer day-trippers since the cruise ships have already left.

I can’t recall specifically what restarant we ate at, but there are quite a few to choose from.

Restaurant Recommendations:

• Look for places where locals eat (usually one street back from main squares)
• Traditional Greek tavernas offer better value than tourist-focused restaurants
• Evening set menus often provide good value if you’re flexible

What to Order:

• Moussaka (€9-14)
• Fresh fish (€15-20)
• Greek mezze platter to share (€12-18)
• House wine (€4-6 per glass)
• Baklava for dessert (€4-6)

Budget Tips:

• Share dishes family-style to try several things
• House wine is cheaper than bottles
• Skip restaurants with photos on the menu, as they are likely more expensive

⏳ Duration: 2 hours
💰 Cost: €15-25 per person

Itinerary #2: Beach Day Paradise

Best for: Sunbathers, swimmers, snorkelers, those seeking relaxation or water sports

Cost: €15-30 per person (not including dinner, transportation, or rentals)

Transportation: Rental car recommended, or public bus (KTEL)

Morning (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM)

Anthony Quinn Bay & Ladiko Bay (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM)

If you’re staying in New Town like we were, these beaches are at least a 25-minute drive away by car, or an hour and a half by bus, so make sure to factor that into your one day in Rhodes itinerary.

Named after the actor who filmed The Guns of Navarone here in 1961, Anthony Quinn Bay ranks among Rhodes’ most picturesque beaches.

The adjacent Ladiko Bay is walkable and offers a slightly less crowded alternative, making this destination hit two birds with one stone!

Why These Beaches:

• Crystal-clear emerald waters with excellent visibility
• Dramatic rocky coastline with pine trees
• Great snorkeling opportunities to spot fish
• Small, intimate cove setting
• Bar and cafeteria on-site
• Equipment rentals available

🧳 Important Warning: These beaches have large rocks that make wading into the water treacherous. Bring water shoes or buy them locally—your feet will thank you!

What to Do:

• Snorkeling to see colorful fish
• Swimming in clear waters
• Sunbathing on lounge chairs or towels
• Cliff jumping for the adventurous (exercise caution)

Getting There:

• By car: 25 minutes from Rhodes New Town, free parking nearby
• By bus: KTEL bus (1.5 hours, requires some walking to get to the bus stop)

Budget Tips:

• Arrive early (before 10 AM) to avoid crowds and secure a good spot
• Bring your own snorkel gear if you have it
• Pack snacks and water to avoid paying high bar prices
• Bring a towel from your hotel instead of renting chairs

🛥️ Alternative Suggestion: If I could redo my trip, I’d book a day cruise. It eliminates the logistics of getting there, includes multiple swimming spots, typically provides lunch, and avoids the rocky beach, which dissuaded my mom from going in due to her knee issues. Day cruises typically run €40-70 per person, so they can be budget-friendly if you were planning on renting a car to get here.

⏳ Duration: 4 hours
💰 Cost: Beach access FREE; Lounge chairs €10, Umbrellas €20, Snorkel gear rental available

Afternoon (1:00 PM – 6:00 PM)

Kallithea Thermal Springs (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

After your morning beach session, head to Kallithea Thermal Springs for a change of scenery.

While the name suggests hot springs, let me set some realistic expectations so you don’t hear about it forever from your relatives: the “springs” are actually a small section where water runs off rocks into a tiny pool—not the steamy natural hot tub you might imagine.

However, don’t skip Kallithea because:

• Beautiful Art Deco spa architecture
• Excellent on-site restaurant (the best meal I had in Greece was the salmon here!)
• Less crowded than Anthony Quinn Bay
• Easier beach access with fewer large rocks
• Gorgeous swimming cove with clear water
• More family-friendly atmosphere

What to Do:

• Swim in the protected cove
• Admire the restored 1920s Italian architecture
• Explore the small springs area (just for photos, not bathing)
• Have lunch at the seaside restaurant
• Snorkel in calm waters
• Relax in a more laid-back setting without having to elbow anyone

The Restaurant:

• Fresh seafood
• Greek specialties
• Reasonably priced
• Stunning terrace views of the Aegean
• Table service

Getting There:

• By car: 15 minutes from Rhodes New Town
• By bus: KTEL bus toward Faliraki, get off at Kallithea stop (€2-3, 30 minutes)

Budget Tips:

• €3-5 entrance fee is very reasonable
• Restaurant prices are fair compared to other beachside establishments
• Less pressure to rent expensive lounge chairs
• Free parking available
• Combine swimming and dining for the best value

When to Visit:

• Early afternoon after morning beach crowds disperse
• Lunch rush is 1-2 PM (arrive before or after for quieter dining)
• Swimming is lovely in the afternoon when the water is warmest

⏳ Duration: 4-5 hours (including lunch and swimming)
💰 Cost: €3-5 entrance fee (varies by season)

Head Back to Hotel to Change (5:00 PM – 6:00 PM)

Either head back to your hotel to change before dinner or go into one of the changing rooms at Kallithea so that you’re not in a wet bathing suit the rest of the evening.

Evening (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Sunset Dinner in Rhodes New Town (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

After a full day of sun and swimming, head back to Rhodes New Town for a relaxing dinner near the beach.

New Town offers a more modern atmosphere with excellent waterfront dining options.

We frequented this area as it’s where our hotel, Mitsis La Vita Beach Hotel, is located.

What to Expect:

• Contemporary Greek restaurants
• Fresh seafood
• Beachfront tavernas
• Sunset views over the Aegean
• More relaxed, less touristy vibe than Old Town

Where to Eat:

• Walk along the beach promenade to find local spots
• Look for tavernas with Greek families dining—always a good sign
• Many hotels have excellent restaurants open to non-guests
• Some beach bars transition to dinner service

Budget Tips:

• New Town often has better prices than Old Town
• Happy hour specials are offered at beach bars (5-7 PM)
• Fresh fish is priced by weight—ask first before ordering
• Skip fancy cocktails, stick to wine or beer for affordability
• Many places offer sunset specials
• If looking to really save, go inland a bit and eat then walk the beach after

⏳ Duration: 2 hours

Optional Evening Activity

Evening Beach Walk & Gelato/Cocktails (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

End your perfect beach day with a leisurely walk along the waterfront as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.

Stop for gelato and enjoy the sound of waves as the day transitions to night.

Alternatively, head to a bar (we went to our hotel bar), and sip a cocktail in the sea air.

We saw some incredible thunderstorms from this area, which were awesome to watch from our hotel rooms.

Packing Essentials for Your 24 Hours in Rhodes

For the Old Town Itinerary:

• Comfortable walking shoes with arch support and good grip for cobblestones (Dr. Scholl’s recommended)
• Cap or Sun hat with secure fit (breezy on castle walls)
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Light cardigan or jacket for evening temperature drops
• Small crossbody bag (anti-theft recommended)
• Refillable water bottle to keep hydrated
• Camera or smartphone with portable charger
• Cash (some small shops don’t accept cards)

For Beach Day Itinerary:

• Water shoes (ESSENTIAL—cannot stress this enough!)
• Swimsuit and sun shirt for those worried about burning
• Reef-safe sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours)
• Cap or Sun hat that won’t blow away
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Waterproof phone case for beach photos
• Snorkel gear (if you have your own)
• Dry bag for valuables while swimming
• Foldable beach bag
• Change of clothes for post-beach
• Sandals with grip for rocky areas
• Dramamine (if prone to car sickness on winding coastal roads)

Universal Essentials:

• International power adapter (Type C or F plugs)
• Headphones for bus rides
• Hand sanitizer and tissues
• Small first aid kit (in case of blisters)
• Light, breathable clothing as Greece’s heat can be overwhelming for some

Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors

Safety & Health:

• Tap water: While technically safe, bottled water is recommended for sensitive stomachs
• Sun protection: Greek sun is intense—reapply sunscreen every 2 hours
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water, especially on beach days
• Pickpockets: Stay vigilant in crowded Old Town areas
• Heat exhaustion: Take breaks in shade during afternoon heat (2-5 PM)

Cultural Considerations:

• Tipping: 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory
• Siesta time: Many shops close 2-5 PM in summer
• Greetings: “Kalimera” (good morning) and “Efharisto” (thank you) go a long way

Timing Tips:

• Old Town: Best visited early morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) to avoid cruise ship crowds
• Beaches: Arrive early (before 10 AM) for best spot selection
• Restaurants: Lunch 1-3 PM, dinner after 7 PM following Greek schedule
• Museums: Cooler morning hours are more comfortable

Language:

• English is widely spoken in tourist areas
• Learn basic Greek phrases for respect and better experiences
• Restaurant staff almost always speak English
• Download Google Translate and the Greek language offline, especially if planning to drive

🇬🇷 For more comprehensive tips, check out my Rhodes travel guide.

Making the Most of Your One Day

Can’t Decide Between Itineraries?

Choose Old Town if you:

• Love history and architecture
• Enjoy walking and exploring
• Prefer cultural experiences
• Appreciate medieval atmosphere
• Don’t mind crowds in peak season

Choose Beach Day if you:

• Love swimming and water activities
• Want to relax and unwind
• Enjoy snorkeling or water sports
• Prefer natural settings over urban
• Need a break from sightseeing

Hybrid Option (For Ambitious Travelers):

If you’re an early riser with high energy, you can combine some of these itinerary items:

• 7:00-10:00 AM: Early morning Old Town exploration (before crowds)
• 10:00-10:30 AM: Drive to beach
• 10:30 AM-2:00 PM: Relax at Anthony Quinn and Ladiko Bay, with a light packed lunch
• 2:00-3:00 PM: Drive to back to hotel and change
• 3:00-6:00 PM: Return to Old Town for Palace and museums
• 7:00 PM: Dinner in Old Town

Word of Warning: This is an ambitious schedule, so unless you are comfortable with a lot of moving around and little downtime, I would suggest spending 2-3 days in Rhodes.

Have More Time in Rhodes?

While one day in Rhodes gives you a wonderful taste, this incredible island deserves more time if your schedule allows:

With 2 Days: Combine both itineraries—Old Town one day, beaches the next

With 3 Days: Add Lindos Village with its clifftop Acropolis and Valley of the Butterflies

With 4-5 Days: Include Ancient Kamiros, Seven Springs, Rodini Park, and day trips to nearby islands

Final Thoughts on Spending One Day in Rhodes

Whether you choose to immerse yourself in medieval history or spend your one day in Rhodes swimming in crystalline coves, this Greek island is well worth visiting.

The key to getting the most out of your 24 hours is choosing the itinerary that aligns with your interests rather than trying to do everything. Both options offer excellent options, especially during shoulder season when prices drop and crowds thin, allowing you to do more and spend less.

My personal recommendation? If it’s your first visit to Rhodes and you’re torn, choose the Old Town itinerary.

The UNESCO World Heritage medieval city is truly unique—you can find beautiful beaches throughout Greece, but there’s only one Rhodes Old Town.

Save the beach day for when you can return with more time.

However, if you’ve been sightseeing intensely on other Greek islands and need a relaxing day, the beach itinerary offers the perfect way to reset.

Whichever itinerary you choose, Rhodes will be an unforgettable trip!

Have you visited Rhodes? Which itinerary would you choose?

FAQs

Related Rhodes Travel Guides

• 14 of the Best Things to Do in Rhodes Greece
• Rhodes Travel Guide: Everything First-Time Visitors Need to Know
• How to Spend 3 Days in Rhodes, Greece’s Medieval Island
• How to Spend a Day in Rhodes, Greece: Old Town and Beach Itineraries

Want to remember this? Pin this How to Spend One Day in Rhodes: Old Town and Beach Itineraries article to your favorite Pinterest board!