Where to Stay in Rhodes: Best Towns & Hotels

Rhodes is the largest island in Greece’s Dodecanese island group, which is set in the southeastern Aegean Sea off the coast of Turkey. And boy, it sure has some stories to tell. With ruins and archaeological sites strewn over the island dating as far back as Hellenistic Ancient Greece, the rest is a tale of Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and even Italian rule. Taking time to lap up the historical sights of this island would be a fine way to spend your time here; from old fortresses to Greek temples, almost all styles of classical architecture exist.

Then there’s the charming Dodecanese flavor of the streets. Whitewashed houses and historical residences share the same cobbled streets in its charming towns, while ruined acropolises tower above settlements – reminders of a bygone age.

Map of Towns in Rhodes

Of course, it isn’t all about history; you may just want to get away from it all. If that’s the case, Rhodes certainly has enough sun, sea, and sand for everyone. Choose from a beachside destination in the north that’s perfect for watersports, or laze on a beach in the southeast for a relaxing time. If you are here to party, you’ll find that too – Faliraki is famous for it.

There is a whole lot of accommodation on offer in Rhodes. The most budget of guesthouses and hostels cater to the lower end of the spectrum, while self-catering studios and apartments and 5-star boutique resort offerings provide a more luxurious stay. Combine this with ferries for exploring further afield and a bus network to get you around the island, and you have a Greek island destination that’s got it all.

Rhodes Town

Rhodes Town is, fittingly, the main town of Rhodes. Though there is a modern part to this area – usually just referred to as the New Town – it’s the Old Town that gets all the attention. At its heart is the citadel, featuring improvements on the town’s old Byzantine fortifications enacted by the Knights Hospitallers in 1309.

Add to that the Roman ruins and gothic Palace of the Grand Master, and wandering around this part of Rhodes’ major town is bound to transport you back in time. Accommodation ranges from affordable guesthouses to fancy boutique hotels set in medieval buildings with period features intact.

The New Town is to the north of this historical gem and is the place to go for its beachside bars, backstreet cafes, and larger, more modern lodgings. Sunsets from here are beautiful.

Where to Stay in Rhodes Town

luxury
• Mitsis Grand Hotel Beach Hotel – Overlooking a spectacular sandy beach on the stunning Aegean Sea, Mitsis Grand Hotel Beach Hotel is a posh 5-star property that is known for its world-class luxury. Located 10 minutes from the Old Town, this lavish hotel boasts three swimming pools, a floodlit tennis court, and four restaurants serving international cuisine. You can select from a wide range of guestrooms and suites with warm interiors and classy wooden furniture. And, if you want to have some fun, you can go windsurfing and catamaran sailing.

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• Island Boutique Hotel – Featuring highly aesthetic guestrooms and suites that open up to the panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the fascinating Rhodes town, Island Boutique Hotel is only 700 meters from Mandraki Port. Offering a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves some of the best Mediterranean and international delicacies, and a well-stocked bar, this beachfront hotel is the ideal spot to have a good time. The modern-day artistic rooms and suites come with a matching bathroom and a balcony with views to die for. Some of them also have a private pool!

budget

• Hotel Angela Suites & Lobby – Located a stone’s throw away from Academia Square, Hotel Angela Suites & Lobby is one of the most idyllic, budget-friendly properties in Rhodes. Presenting the magnitude of their luxurious services with a minimalist yet elegant design, the property offers fully-equipped apartments with dedicated living rooms. Grab a drink at the lobby bar, enjoy a refreshing dip in the freshwater pool, or head over to one of the many cool spots in the city center to experience the excitement of Rhodes’ nightlife.

Lindos

If you’re coming to Rhodes for the history, Lindos is a great option. Away from the more crowded Rhodes Town in the north, Lindos is a relatively small town set on a small peninsula towards the southeast of the island.

Next to its charming whitewashed houses and winding streets is a full selection of archaeological sites to marvel at. Places like the picturesque Temple to Athena Lindia – dating back to 300 BC – and the iconic Acropolis of Lindos towering over the town make Lindos a fascinating area.

Combined with its small-town feel and numerous coves, this part of Rhodes is a dreamy place stay. Picking your spot is made easy due to the smattering of accommodation options, with studios and hotels running the gamut from affordable to high-end.

Lindos also features a large ferry port, meaning you can get around to other Greek islands from here with relative ease.

Where to Stay in Lindos

luxury
• Lindos Royal Resort – A posh, 5-star hotel located on the shores of Vlycha beach, Lindos Royal Resort is an all-inclusive resort perfect for a fun-filled holiday. Surrounded by swaying palm and bougainvillea trees and the picturesque Aegean Sea, this colonial-style property boasts five outdoor pools, three themed restaurants, and a tennis court. The spacious and elegant guest rooms and suites offer enchanting views of the ocean, gardens, or one of the many pools. They even come with a spacious balcony that gives you an unadulterated view of the beautiful surroundings.

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• Lindos View Hotel – Located within spitting distance of the Mediterranean Sea and Lindos Acropolis, Lindos View Hotel is a 4-star property that offers unparalleled views of Lindos town. The hotel boasts two outdoor pools that come with several sun loungers and umbrellas, leaving ample space for everyone to enjoy. There is also an on-site multi-cuisine restaurant. The contemporary studios and apartments are complemented by a balcony or terrace, offering views of the sea and the ruins of the historic ancient citadel. Some even come fitted with a hot tub!

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• Lindian Jewel Hotel and Villas – Nestled on the shore of a private beach, Lindian Jewel Hotel and Villas enjoys stunning views of the Lindian Gulf. This 3-star property comprises a brilliant on-site restaurant that serves the best Mediterranean and international cuisines, and a snack bar located right on the beach. Sporting bright colors and exhilarating views of the ocean, the guestrooms and suites are spacious and contemporary. Most of them also come with a separate balcony that opens up to the Aegean Sea.

Faliraki

With no shortage of places to stay, a sweeping stretch of sand, and a booming nightlife, Faliraki isn’t necessarily the place for history lovers or travelers after a taste of Rhodian culture.

The center of town is all about bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, offering visitors the chance to have fun in a seaside destination. While it can get a little bit rowdy, staying at either the northern or southern ends of Faliraki is a much more relaxing option, and is suited to those looking for a quiet alternative.

Families can enjoy Faliraki too – there’s even a waterpark here! The beach is well maintained and boasts beachside accommodation, places to eat and drink, and plenty of sun loungers, beach umbrellas, and lifeguards. There’s something for all budgets and types of travelers in Faliraki, and with good bus links around the island, getting to see some culture is easy.

Where to Stay in Faliraki

luxury
• Esperos Village Blue & Spa – A swanky, 5-star hotel, Esperos Village Blue & Spa is an adult-only holiday property that is perched upon a hill with magnificent views. The rooms at this classy resort are decorated with cool tiled floors and elegant wooden furniture. Most of them even come with a bathtub and a spacious balcony. Additionally, the property boasts two swimming pools, five multi-cuisine restaurants, a posh pool bar, and a fitness center equipped with a sauna and hot tub. Tennis enthusiasts can even make use of the well-maintained tennis court.

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• Pegasos Beach Hotel – Set next to Faliraki Beach, this sprawling hotel features a wide variety of upbeat and chic rooms, each with a private balcony overlooking the ocean, mountains, or an unparalleled view of the town. A private beach area, freshwater swimming pool with numerous sunbeds, a specialized Greek restaurant, an international eatery, and a dedicated children’s pool are only some of the many amenities that Pegasos Beach Hotel flaunts. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a game of tennis, beach volleyball, or even attempt some water sports.

Ialysos

To the west of Rhodes Town on the northern coast of Rhodes, Ialysos is an excellent all-round destination on the island. There are nightclubs found here, a good stretch of beach (ideal for windsurfing), numerous restaurants, bistros, cafes, and other eateries – as well as some history and culture.

Ialysos is named after the ancient Greek town of the same name – one of the most significant archaeological sites on the island. Located on a hill slightly inland, here you can see two-millennia-old temples dedicated to deities Zeus and Athena Poliada. There are even Byzantine-era fortifications to marvel at.

Back in town, there’s a host of accommodation options – studios, apartments, guesthouses, upscale hotels – some beachside – which means you will be spoilt for choice. Almost a suburb of Rhodes Town, getting to this hub is easy with the bus network.

Where to Stay in Ialysos

midrange
• D’Andrea Mare Beach Hotel – An all-inclusive property positioned right on Ialyssos Beach, D’Andrea Mare Beach Hotel is the undefeated champion of good times and lavish holidays. Boasting free-form pools fitted with waterslides, a lazy river, a wellness center, a mini-market, and plenty more, the swish property also has a special animation team and playground to keep your young ones busy while you enjoy a refreshing cocktail at the poolside bar. Rooms feature contemporary décor with a matching ensuite bathroom and private balcony.

budget

• Villas Duc – Rhodes – A stone’s throw away from the sea, Villas Duc offers the most comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation that is suitable for all types of visitors. Sporting a range of self- catering units, this modern aparthotel also boasts a sizable swimming pool, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a stylish poolside and lobby bar. When here, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa and massage session at the property, and let your kids have a fun time at the exclusive children’s pool.

Archangelos

Archangelos is located just inland from Rhodes’ east central coast. While not a beachside location in itself, this town is located just off the main ring road that connects the majority of the island’s large towns, giving it a convenient position for car hire and traveling around by bus.

That said, the nearby Stegna – with its own beach – offers its own, sometimes quite high-end accommodation options, though there are also a few affordable hotels in town itself. Archangelos isn’t all about its location on the island.

There are some interesting sights in town, including the main church, which features a bright white, extremely ornate bell tower. There’s also the ruins of the Castle of Saint John, a fortress built by the Knights Hospitallers after the Ottomans took Constantinople in 1453.

Where to Stay in Archangelos

• Porto Angeli – Located on the prominent Stegna Beach, this 5-star property is immersed in premium luxury and ultimate comfort. Featuring a range of world-class amenities – such as two outdoor pools with parasols and plenty of sunbeds for everyone, multiple children’s pools, two highly popular international restaurants, a floodlit multi-functional courtyard, and much more – the hotel is perfectly secluded from the humdrum of the main town, yet has easy access to everything. At Porto Angeli, you get to stay in lavishly decorated rooms, some of which offer a turndown service!

Pefkos

Set just around the coast to the south of Lindos on Rhodes’ eastern coast is the little town of Pefkos. If Lindos has a small-town feel with its winding streets and historic residences, then Pefkos has a small village feel.

That said, there is still quite a lot going on here; Pefkos is a place that is continually developing. Bars and restaurants dot the streets, set back from Pefkos’ own slice of southwest-facing beach, while there are a few different places to stay here.

Choose from a large resort set away from town, or your own self-catering lodgings in the action of the settlement itself. The beach was awarded Blue Flag status back in 2008 and is a good place for watersports or to simply unwind and soak up the sun.

Where to Stay in Pefkos

• George Beach Studios – Engulfed in the lush greenery of the surrounding gardens, George Beach Studios offers a variety of budget-friendly, self-catering units within walking distance of Kavos Beach. Especially apt for long-term guests, there are numerous mini markets and taverns around the property. While the accommodation units follow a minimalist design, they come equipped with modern amenities, such as a kitchenette with cooking hobs and a refrigerator, a dedicated dining area, and a balcony. Some of them even have a fireplace!

Kiotari

On the southeastern coast of Rhodes is the small area of Kiotari. Centered around the beach of the same name, this place certainly feels a lot more like the place in Rhodes you come to get away from it all than other destination on this Greek island.

There are a fair few high-end hotels to choose from. In terms of other amenities, there are several bars, local tavernas, and restaurants. Dotting the hills are the villas of wealthy residents.

Further along the beach – which is populated by many sun loungers and beach umbrellas and is popular for watersports – is the town of Gennadi. A vast stretch of sand and pebbles which occasionally hosts DJs, music, and dancing well into the night, this is an old village that is well worth a wander.

Where to Stay in Kiotari

• Lindos Imperial Resort & Spa – Set right on Kiotari Beach, Lindos Imperial Resort & Spa most certainly features some elaborate and splendid rooms for an unquestionably lavish stay in Greece. In addition to the elegantly light-colored room décor with marble bathrooms, there’s complimentary breakfast and dinner every day, a spa facility, gourmet restaurants, and multiple pools – both indoor and outdoor. If you’re a fitness fanatic, you will especially enjoy the fully-equipped fitness center and the various playgrounds available on-site, including a mini football field and a couple of beach-volley courts.

Kolymbia

With its relaxed tempo, sea-lapped beaches, and picturesque backdrop of cliffs, Kolymbia is a chilled place to stay in Rhodes. Positioned on the island’s east coast just south of Faliraki, Kolymbia is noted for its chilled setting.

Leading from the main road to the beach is a eucalyptus-lined boulevard. The hotels work very
well with the natural surroundings, and there isn’t much of a party atmosphere. Put simply, Kolymbia is an uncrowded destination that will charm you as soon as you arrive.

Choose from one of several polished hotels in town; almost all of them have their own pools, restaurants, and countless amenities. Those visiting Kolymbia with small children in tow should head to the smaller of this town’s two beaches; the sea is shallower and calmer here than on the larger one, making for the perfect place to paddle, splash around, and play in the sand.

Where to Stay in Kolymbia

luxury
• Casa Cook Rhodes – A stylish 5-star property located within a short distance of Tsambika Beach, this adult-only hotel believes in bringing you world-class service that leaves you feeling like a celebrity. With a wide variety of sophisticated yet unassumingly designed rooms, a fully functional fitness center, and an à la carte restaurant on site, you can definitely have the time of your life on holiday. And, if you wish to take your luxury vacation up a notch, check in to one of the swim-up rooms with outstanding views of the environs.

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• Delfinia Resort – A perfect getaway for those who love the water, Delfinia Resort not only offers effortless access to the nearby beaches, but also has endless water sport activities to entertain you with, including serene boat rides to nearby villages. Featuring minimalist rooms with essential amenities, every room comes with an ensuite bathroom and private veranda or balcony. Amenities at the resort include a multi-cuisine restaurant, a children’s playground, and a well-stocked mini-market.

Ixia

This small area, almost lost in the suburban sprawl between Rhodes Town and Ialyssos, is home to a fantastic stretch of beach. Ixia is all about fun in the sun and water activities. People enjoy jetskiing here, but most of all, Ixia Beach is well known for its good kite-surfing and wind-surfing. Being on the north, windward side of the island, Ixia gets just the right breezes to make it a favorite spot for wind-propelled watersports.

This cosmopolitan beach area is also known for its high-quality accommodation just outside the main hub of Rhodes Town, meaning you can often get stylish apartments and modern hotel rooms in a fairly refined setting for a better price than equivalent accommodation on the island’s main town. Getting in and out of Rhodes Town is easy, plus the ancient sights of Ialyssos are only a stone’s throw from here.

Where to Stay in Ixia

luxury
• Villa Di Mare Seaside Suites – If there could be a single synonym for grandiose and extravagance, Villa Di Mare Seaside Suites would definitely be it. The property flaunts a range of classy and opulent self-catering units with balconies overlooking the sea or the mountains. Some even boast bathrooms with spa bath facilities or private pools. Soak in the panoramic views of Ixia bay at the café, groove to the beats of a live DJ at the pool bar, or learn how to surf – there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained.

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• Dionysos Hotel – Nestled amidst a soothing tropical garden with imposing olive and pine trees, Dionysos Hotel is located only a few steps away from Ixia beach. Amenities at this fancy 4-star property include a large water lake pool with several loungers for everybody, evenings filled with live Greek music, and dedicated areas for kids to enjoy themselves. Rooms here are simple and spacious, with contemporary facilities and a view to die for. While here, don’t miss an opportunity to relish the famed American breakfast buffet that the hotel offers.