For a first trip to Rhodes, I would choose Rhodes Town for sightseeing and restaurants, Faliraki for a beach holiday with plenty of facilities, or Lindos for a stay around its whitewashed village and bays.
In this guide you will get an overview of the best areas to stay in, whether you are into historic ancient cities, luxurious resorts or authentic Greek villages.
The key is to distinguish a hotel in the village or town from a resort carrying the same destination name several kilometres away. Below, I explain those trade-offs and highlight who each hotel suits.
Best Areas in Rhodes
Here is a quick overview of the best areas to stay in Rhodes:
- Rhodes Town (Old and New Town) – Historic UNESCO World Heritage Site with Medieval Charm 🏰
- Faliraki – Festive Beach Area with Water Park 🏖️
- Lindos – Picturesque Village with Acropolis 🏛️
- Ixia & Ialyssos – Modern Resorts and Water Sports 🏄♂️
- Kolymbia – Relaxed Holiday Atmosphere for Families 👨👩👧👦
See the best hotels in the area by clicking on the link above.
The guide to where to stay in Rhodes continues below with a review of the areas and hotels I recommend.
1. Rhodes Town – Best Area for History Lovers 🏰
Rhodes Old Town is a walled medieval quarter recognised by UNESCO. Staying inside the walls puts you close to historic sights and restaurants, but check the last part of the journey from your taxi drop-off to the hotel.
The Old Town and New Town offer different stays. Inside the walls you get historic lanes; the New Town can be more convenient for beach access and vehicle drop-offs. Allow extra time for airport transfers and luggage if your accommodation is on a pedestrian lane.
The atmosphere is magical, especially in the evening when the tourists go home and the narrow, cobbled streets become quieter.
See the best hotels in Rhodes Town here.
The main attractions, such as the Palace of the Grand Masters and the Knights’ Castle, are right on your doorstep.
And then there is the New Town of Rhodes Town, which is the modern heart of the island. Here, you will find a perfect mix of Greek city life, international shops and a lively harbour promenade.
The area is reminiscent of the new part of Chania in Crete or Olbia in Sardinia.
The shopping opportunities here are fantastic, with both souvenir shops and local artisans. The restaurant scene is a mix of tourist traps and authentic tavernas, so check the reviews.
The price level is on the higher end, but you are paying for a unique historical experience.
Uneven cobblestones, steps and restricted vehicle access can make some Old Town hotels awkward with heavy suitcases or limited mobility. Ask the property about its entrance and arrival assistance before booking.
The atmosphere is reminiscent of the old town in Prague or particular areas of Budapest but with a touch of the holiday atmosphere we know from other Greek islands.
Shopping is at the forefront with everything from Greek designer stores to international chains. The restaurant scene is varied, with both traditional tavernas and modern fusion cuisine.
The Mandraki Port and the aquarium are must-sees, and the nightlife is lively without being overwhelming.
New Town hotels are worth comparing if you want shops, restaurants and beach time on the same trip. Check street-facing room reviews for noise and the actual route to the beach.
Places to stay in Rhodes Old Town
Spirit Of The Knights Boutique Hotel
This charming boutique hotel is housed in a renovated 15th-century knight’s building. The only six rooms are decorated with antique furniture and modern amenities. The lush courtyard is perfect for breakfast.
See more photos and book here.
Kokkini Porta Rossa has six individually designed suites in the medieval town. It is a small-property choice for travellers who prefer a historic setting to a large resort; check steps and taxi access when arranging arrival.
See more photos and book here.
Places to stay in Rhodes New Town
Rodos Park is a luxury hotel beside the Old Town, with an outdoor pool in the gardens. The rooftop space is its Galaxy Roof Lounge Bar, rather than a rooftop swimming pool. Choose it for a town stay with somewhere to relax between sightseeing trips.
See more photos and book here.
Well-maintained hotel with a central location. Modern rooms, a good pool and an excellent breakfast buffet. Perfect for both business and leisure.
See more photos and book here.
A practical city hotel with a good location. Simple but comfortable rooms and helpful staff. It is the perfect base for shopping and city life.
See more photos and book here.
2. Faliraki – perfect for beach life and partying 🏖️
Faliraki is Rhodes’ liveliest seaside resort with a 5 km long sandy beach and famous nightlife. The place is reminiscent of Magaluf in Mallorca but has received a quality boost in recent years and attracts many families.
Faliraki has a long beach, bus connections to Rhodes Town and a substantial water park nearby. Check the water park’s seasonal opening dates and the distance from your hotel if it is a major part of the trip.
In addition to the beach and partying, you will also find Rhodes’ best water park, go-kart track and mini golf.
The restaurants are mainly international, with a few Greek tavernas. Bar Street is the centre of nightlife with clubs and bars.
See the best hotels in Faliraki here.
Central Faliraki is useful for restaurants and nightlife, while the larger beachfront resorts farther along the coast have a different atmosphere. Check the exact address and recent noise reviews if you want early nights.
This area is excellent for families with children and those wanting to let loose on your holiday. However, be careful to choose a hotel with the proper facilities for your dream holiday.
Places to stay in Faliraki
Mitsis Selection Alila is a five-star all-inclusive beachfront resort in the Faliraki-Kallithea area. It offers several pools and a broad choice of dining venues. Check which restaurants require reservations and what your package includes; sea views depend on the room you select.
A guest review on Booking.com describes the Alila team: “The service provided by the hotel staff and the restaurant waiters was positive and professional.”
See more photos and book here.
A well-maintained beach hotel with a nice pool and garden. Clean, comfortable rooms and good entertainment. A popular choice for families.
See more photos and book here.
3. Lindos – a picturesque village with history 🏛️
Lindos is a postcard that comes to life with its whitewashed houses, narrow alleys and impressive Acropolis on top.
This is the most photogenic place in Rhodes and reminiscent of Sicily’s most beautiful villages.
The area is 50 km from Rhodes Town, and the transport takes about an hour. The car-free old town and the three beaches make it perfect for exploring on foot. The atmosphere is romantic and authentically Greek.
See the best hotels in Lindos here.
The Acropolis is an absolute must-see, but the small art galleries and traditional artisans are also worth a visit.
The restaurants are a good mix of traditional tavernas and fine dining with sea views.
Lindos village has steps, steep lanes and pedestrian sections. Check where you will be dropped off and how you reach the hotel, especially if travelling with luggage or a pushchair.
Places to stay in Lindos
An exclusive boutique hotel overlooking the bay. It is decorated with antique furniture and local crafts and has a magical rooftop restaurant.
See more photos and book here.
Lindos Blu is a five-star adults-only hotel above Vlycha Bay, outside Lindos village. Choose it for a resort stay with pools and sea views, and plan transport for evenings in the village rather than expecting to step directly into the old lanes.
See more photos and book here.
4. Ixia & Ialyssos – modern resorts and water sports 🏄♂️
These neighbouring towns on the west coast are known for their modern resorts and perfect conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
The area is reminiscent of some of the best resort areas in Kos.
Ixia and Ialyssos stretch along the west coast between Rhodes Town and the airport. Transfer times vary by hotel. The windier setting can appeal to windsurfers, while travellers mainly interested in calm swimming should compare the individual beaches and daily conditions.
See the best hotels in Ialyssos here.
The beaches are pebbly and perfect for water sports. There are good surfing schools and equipment rentals. The restaurants are a mix of hotel restaurants and local tavernas.
Compare the beach access as well as the resort facilities: some hotels involve crossing the coast road, and the shore can be pebbly. Ask about the practical route from your room to the water if travelling with children.
Places to stay in Ixia & Ialyssos
Luxurious resort with spectacular sea views. Elegant spa, several pools and gourmet restaurants. Spacious rooms with modern design.
See more photos and book here.
It is an all-inclusive hotel with a good beach and facilities. Perfect for families with lots of activities. Good value.
See more photos and book here.
5. Kolymbia – a quiet holiday atmosphere for families 👨👩👧👦
Kolymbia is the perfect choice for families looking for a quiet holiday away from the big tourist crowds.
This cosy area is located between Rhodes Town and Lindos and has a lovely, relaxed atmosphere.
The area is 25 km from Rhodes Town, with regular bus connections. The long eucalyptus avenue is the town’s landmark, and the beach is a mix of sand and pebbles. The atmosphere is peaceful and family-friendly.
See the best hotels in Kolymbia here.
The beautiful bay and crystal-clear water are perfect for snorkelling. There are good restaurants along the main street and the beach, especially Greek family restaurants that serve authentic food.
Kolymbia offers both family resorts and adults-only hotels, so the village’s family-friendly reputation does not mean every property accepts children. Compare the minimum guest age and room capacity before booking.
Places to stay in Kolymbia
Atlantica Imperial Resort (adults only)
Atlantica Imperial Resort is an adults-only option in Kolymbia. It is for couples or friends seeking a resort stay, rather than a recommendation for families with young children. Check the current minimum age and room location before booking.
See more photos and book here.
It is a cosy family hotel in quiet surroundings. Great pool and garden. Clean and well-maintained with Greek charm.
See more photos and book here.
Where not to stay in Rhodes? ❌
Although Rhodes is generally a safe and tourist-friendly island, some areas may not give you the best holiday experience:
Arhangelos: Although this authentic town is interesting to visit, it is not ideal as a holiday base. Accommodation options are limited, and transport links to the rest of the island are not optimal. Stay in nearby Lindos or Kolymbia.
Afandou centre: The town itself is located a little inland and lacks the charm found elsewhere on the island. The beach is nice but far from the city. Choose Kolymbia or Faliraki instead, both of which have better facilities and beach access.
The industrial area south of Rhodes Town: This area around the port and industrial district has no tourist facilities and is not particularly charming. Instead, book a hotel in Rhodes Town, where you can get much more for your money.
In general, I recommend avoiding staying too far inland, as most attractions and facilities are located on the coast. Instead, choose one of the well-established tourist areas with infrastructure geared towards holidaymakers.
Still unsure about where to stay in Rhodes?
Rhodes has something for everyone, and the choice of area depends significantly on the type of holiday you are looking for.
The old town of Rhodes Town is perfect for those interested in culture and history, while Faliraki is ideal for those looking for beaches and parties. Lindos offers the most authentic Greek experience, and Ixia/Ialyssos is perfect for water sports enthusiasts.
I especially recommend Kolymbia or the new town of Rhodes Town for families with children. If you want to combine shopping and culture, the new town of Rhodes is the obvious choice. If you are looking for more peace and relaxation, Lindos or Kolymbia are ideal.
During the high season (July-August), Rhodes Town and Faliraki can feel very hot and busy. Here, Ixia/Ialyssos and Kolymbia are better choices with more wind and space. Spring and autumn are perfect for staying in the old town or Lindos, where you can really enjoy the atmosphere without so many tourists.
For travel without a car, compare your hotel’s nearest bus stop and the timetable for the trips you want to make. A convenient service into Rhodes Town does not automatically mean easy connections to every beach or village.
Have fun choosing your perfect holiday base in Rhodes – you really can’t go wrong in the city because the island is fantastic no matter where you decide to stay.
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Frequently asked questions:
When is the best time to visit Rhodes?
Rhodes is excellent all year round, but the summer months from June to September are ideal if you love sun and heat. If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer tourists, spring and autumn are perfect – especially April and October.
What is the easiest way to get around the island?
Rhodes has a good bus network, but I would recommend renting a car or scooter if you want to explore the island’s many hidden gems.
Is Rhodes child-friendly?
Absolutely! Beaches like Faliraki and Tsambika are shallow and perfect for children. In addition, activities like the Rhodes Aquarium and the Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes) fascinate both young and old.
Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇
• Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
• GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
• Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers
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