Rhodes is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean, with over 2.5 million visitors per year. No wonder, as countless dream beaches invite you to swim along the 220-kilometre-long coast. Interestingly, the most popular Rhodes Resorts are on the east coast.
“Kallithea, Faliraki, Kolymbia, Stegna & Co.: Where to go in Rhodes?”
From the capital in the north to Gennadi in the far south, there are Rhodes resorts for all tastes, from sleepy and quiet to turbulent and noisy. Especially in summer, the coastal holiday resorts of Rhodes are packed with people. Individualists looking for peace and relaxation will find their holiday happiness in the hinterland of Rhodes.
In this article, we’ll tell you where you can have a good vacation on Rhodes, from modern holiday resorts with plenty of shopping facilities to quaint villages with a typical Greek flair.
🏖️ Dream beaches & hidden bays
🍽️ Restaurants, tavernas & cafés
🏛️ Must-see highlights & ancient sites
🗺️ Worthwhile spots & insider tips
🚘 Practical info like rentals & parking
♾️ Lifetime access & updates
Rhodes Resorts in the North
#1 Rhodes Town
Rhodes Town offers an interesting mix of history and modern life. The Old Town of Rhodes, a medieval maze of cobblestone alleys, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and transports you to another era. In cosy tavernas you can explore the full variety of traditional Greek cuisine. In the numerous bars and cafés, life pulsates day and night.
- Top landmarks in Rhodes Town: Old Town of Rhodes, Grand Master’s Palace, Mandraki Port, Acropolis of Rhodes
- Beaches in Rhodes Town: Elli Beach, Zefyros Beach, Akti Kanari Beach
- Hotel tips in Rhodes Town (Links to Booking.com*): Koukos Rhodian Guesthouse*, Bellevue On The Beach Suites*, Casa Natura*
Whether in the old town or the new town, the compact size of the island’s capital makes it easy to explore on foot. From simple hostels to apartment complexes to luxurious boutique hotels, there is no shortage of places to stay in this city of 50,000. When we are on the island, we like to spend one or two nights in the old town of Rhodes to soak up the wonderful atmosphere.
➲ To package tours for Rhodes Town (Holidaycheck)*
Information about Rhodes Town:
- Near the airport: approx. 20 min.
- Location on Rhodes: northern tip of the island
- Infrastructure: All necessary facilities are in place, including supermarkets, pharmacies, petrol stations, ATMs, a hospital and car rental companies
- Bus connection: Well connected with regular bus services. A good starting point for excursions to other parts of the island
- Gastronomy: A wide variety of tavernas, restaurants and cafés
- Nightlife: Lively clubs and bars (mostly in the new town)
- Shopping: Numerous boutiques, shops and shopping centres, as well as weekly markets (including Nea Agora)
#2 Ialyssos & Ixia
Ialyssos and Ixia are two resorts on the northwest coast that have almost merged into one over the last two decades. Thanks to their proximity to the airport, these holiday resorts are growing in popularity. For kilometres on end, hotels line the coast with only a brief gap near the airport before continuing to the town of Theologos.
- Top sights near Ialyssos: Filerimos Hill, Valley of the Butterflies, Rhodes Old Town
- Beaches in Ialyssos: Ixia Beach, Ialyssos Beach
- Hotel tips for Ialyssos (Links to Booking.com*): Elite Suites by Rhodes Bay*, Platoni Elite*, Sea Melody Beach Hotel Apartments*
Along the long beach promenade, numerous restaurants and bars await holidaymakers. Ialyssos itself, situated just below Filerimos Hill, is largely characterised by modern concrete architecture. Only in the old town centre, about 2 km inland, is there still some authentic character. If the constant aircraft noise does not bother you, you will find Ialyssos mostly offers good holiday deals.
➲ To package tours for Ialyssos (Holidaycheck)*
Information about Ialyssos:
- Near the airport: approx. 10 min.
- Location on Rhodes: Northwest Coast
- Infrastructure: Good supply of supermarkets, pharmacies, petrol stations, ATMs and car rental companies
- Bus connection: Efficient bus connections for nearby excursions and further tours (e.g. to Lindos)
- Gastronomy: Good selection of tavernas, restaurants and cafés
- Nightlife: Some bars and clubs nearby
- Shopping: Local shops, markets and many souvenir shops
✓ Full coverage & unlimited mileage included
✓ Free cancellation until 24h before pickup
✓ Best price guarantee via Discover Cars
#3 Kallithea
Between Rhodes Town and Faliraki, directly on the turquoise-blue sea, lies Kallithea. It is not a classic village but rather a scattered holiday settlement along the main road. By the sea there are some large hotel complexes, including all-inclusive resorts, with apartment complexes and countless villas spread through the hinterland. The name of the region goes back to the springs of Kallithea, which are now used as a local recreation area.
- Top landmarks near Kallithea: Kallithea Thermal Baths, Koskinou Village, Waterpark Rhodes
- Beaches in Kallithea: Kallithea Beach, Kavourakia Beach, Tasos Beach
- Hotel tips in Kallithea (Links to Booking.com*): Elysium Resort & Spa*, Stavros Melathron Studios*, The Red Door Koskinou*
There are a few scattered beaches and bays with beach bars and restaurants by the sea. Further south from Ammoudes begins the long Kavourakia Beach, home to the largest Water Park of Rhodes. Above the coast is the village of Koskinou, where you will discover a typical Greek flair with white alleyways and colourful doors.
➲ To package tours for Kallithea (Holidaycheck)*
Information about Kallithea:
- Near the airport: approx. 20 min.
- Location on Rhodes: North East Coast
- Infrastructure: Along the main road there are pharmacies, petrol stations, ATMs and car rental companies, as well as a few mini-markets
- Bus service: Regular bus services allow trips to other parts of the island
- Gastronomy: Numerous tavernas, restaurants and cafés
- Nightlife: A few beach bars that function as clubs in summer (including Oasis Beach Bar)
- Shopping: Some shops and souvenir shops along the main street
#4 Faliraki
Since the 1980s, holidaymakers from all over the world have been drawn to the long stretch of coast in the northeast. Many hotels have been built, including several all-inclusive resorts, and Faliraki has become a symbol of Greek mass tourism. Here you will find a mix of relaxed beach life and lively entertainment, with a wide variety of restaurants, bars and shops that bring this town of 2,000 souls to life.
- Top sights near Faliraki: Anthony Quinn Bay, Faliraki Water Park
- Beaches in Faliraki: Faliraki Beach, Kathara Beach
- Hotel tips in Faliraki (Links to Booking.com*): Ammades All Suites Beach Hotel*, Marini Seaside*, Dimitra Boutique Rooms*
Faliraki is arguably the most popular holiday resort on Rhodes and has long since ceased to be an idyllic village. But typical of Rhodes, the locals are warm and hospitable, and the resort is varied, offering an exciting nightlife for couples and water parks for families alike. If you are looking for peace and quiet, you will not find it in Faliraki.
➲ To package tours for Faliraki (Holidaycheck)*
Information about Faliraki:
- Near the airport: approx. 25 min.
- Location on Rhodes: Northeast Coast
- Infrastructure: Good infrastructure with supermarkets, pharmacies, petrol stations, ATMs and car rental companies
- Bus service: Regular bus connections to the surrounding area. Well suited for excursions across Rhodes
- Gastronomy: Numerous tavernas, as well as restaurants and cafés by the sea
- Nightlife: Known for its vibrant nightlife with many clubs and bars
- Shopping: Local shops as well as many souvenir and tourist shops
Rhodes Resorts in the East
#5 Afandou
Afandou is becoming increasingly popular as a holiday destination on Rhodes. Along the kilometre-long Afandou Beach there are some cosy hotels and holiday villas. Afandou itself is a large village about 2 km from the coast. With its lively and authentic atmosphere, it offers an interesting contrast to the otherwise touristy region.
- Top sights near Afandou: Anthony Quinn Bay, Traganou Caves
- Beaches in Afandou: Afandou Beach, Traganou Beach
- Hotel tips in Afandou (Links to Booking.com*): Pantheon Luxury Villas Rhodes Island*, Muses of Art Villas*, Johannes Boutique Apartments & Suites*
In the village you will be struck by the special warmth of its inhabitants. Traditional tavernas and cosy cafés invite you to linger and settle into a holiday rhythm. Afandou remains one of the quieter villages of Rhodes, and large stretches of the coastline are thankfully not yet built up. When we are in the area, we always enjoy returning to the Sundalia on the Beach Bar.
➲ To package tours for Afandou (Holidaycheck)*
Information about Afandou:
- Near the airport: approx. 25 min.
- Location on Rhodes: East Coast
- Infrastructure: Supermarkets, pharmacies, petrol stations, ATMs and car rental companies are available
- Bus service: Solid bus connections for local sightseeing and excursions
- Gastronomy: Traditional tavernas and restaurants
- Nightlife: Quieter than most other resorts, but some beach bars are available
- Shopping: Local shops and supermarkets, only a few souvenir shops
#6 Kolymbia
Kolymbia is located on the east coast of Rhodes, nestled in a hilly landscape and blessed with two beaches. With just under 300 inhabitants, the atmosphere here is relaxed and well suited to a peaceful holiday away from the hustle and bustle. Kolymbia has some shops and souvenir stores as well as restaurants in the village and directly on the beach, though it does not have a proper beach promenade.
- Top landmarks near Kolymbia: Seven Springs (Epta Piges), Tsambika (Monastery & Mountain Chapel)
- Beaches in Kolymbia: Kolymbia Beach (North and South), Tsambika Beach
- Hotel tips in Kolymbia (Links to Booking.com*): Atlantica Imperial Resort*, Aesthisis Sensational Accommodation*, 12 Islands Villas*
The small harbour of Kolymbia with its colourful fishing boats and the blue-and-white chapel of Agios Nikolaos exudes the typical flair of the Greek Islands. The tour operator TUI has established several hotel complexes around the town, all of which enjoy a good reputation among holidaymakers. Those who prefer a more individual stay will also find some very stylish apartments in Kolymbia.
➲ To package tours for Kolymbia (Holidaycheck)*
Information about Kolymbia:
- Proximity to the airport: approx. 30 min.
- Location on Rhodes: East Coast
- Infrastructure: Well equipped with small supermarkets, ATMs and car rental companies, as well as a pharmacy and petrol station
- Bus service: Regular bus services for local excursions
- Gastronomy: Tavernas, restaurants and cafés available
- Nightlife: Rather quiet, beach bars only
- Shopping: Few shops and souvenir stores
#7 Stegna
Stegna is our personal favourite for a relaxing beach holiday on Rhodes. The former fishing village near Archangelos has changed over the last ten years, but it remains very authentic and far from the hustle and bustle of the major tourist centres. Only in July and August does it get a little livelier. In the village you will find some apartments, rustic family hotels and modern boutique hotels.
- Top landmarks near Stegna: Archangelos Castle, Tsambika Monastery
- Beaches in Stegna: Stegna Beach (North and South), Grand Blue Beach, Tsambika Beach
- Hotel tips in Stegna (Links to Booking.com*): Stegna Dream*, Stegna Akti Luxury Suites*, Hotel Porto Angeli Beach Resort*
The village of around 100 inhabitants has two sections of beach, the northern one of which is largely unspoilt. The waterfront promenade along Stegna Beach is wonderfully suited for a stroll. We are very fond of Stegna as a Rhodes holiday resort and always enjoy returning to Restaurant To Kyma, where tables and chairs sit directly on the golden sand beneath the shade of banana palms.
➲ To package tours for Stegna (Holidaycheck)*
Information about Stegna:
- Proximity to the airport: approx. 40 min.
- Location on Rhodes: East Coast
- Infrastructure: Mini-markets and car rental companies available; more shops (including a pharmacy and petrol station) can be found in the upper village of Archangelos
- Bus connection: Limited connections, rental car recommended
- Gastronomy: Restaurants, cafés and fish tavernas available
- Nightlife: Quiet and relaxed
- Shopping: Few local shops and souvenir stores
#8 Charaki
A few kilometres south of Stegna lies Charaki. Here too it is very quiet, and you will look in vain for large hotel chains. The Rhodes village of Charaki sits on a rounded bay with a pebble beach. There is a family atmosphere in the village, and Rhodians often spend a day at the beach here at weekends. The infrastructure is simple, with traditional tavernas and even fish restaurants, but few shops to browse.
- Top sights near Charaki: Feraklos Fortress, Kamiri Monastery
- Beaches in Charaki: Charaki Beach, Agathi Beach, Kalathos Beach
- Hotel tips in Charaki (Links to Booking.com*): G&K Stone Suites*, Skizenas Waterfront Apartments*, Haraki Bay Hotel*
Above the village stands the Feraklos Fortress, giving Charaki a picturesque landmark. South of the village, along Kalathos Beach, a number of hotel complexes have been built. We were not immediately taken with the modern seafront at first glance, but after a freddo espresso at the cosy Bottoms Up Kitchen Cafe right by the sea, we quickly warmed to it.
Information about Charaki:
- Proximity to the airport: approx. 40 min.
- Location on Rhodes: East Coast
- Infrastructure: Mini-markets and car rental companies
- Bus connection: Limited connections, rental car recommended
- Gastronomy: Restaurants, cafés and fish tavernas
- Nightlife: Quiet and relaxed, cocktail bars only
- Shopping: Small local shops and souvenir stores
#9 Lindos
Lindos is located on the central east coast of the island and can without doubt be considered the most beautiful place in Rhodes. With its narrow streets, white houses, the old St. John’s Castle and a breathtaking setting directly by the sea, Lindos radiates typical Greek charm. Word has long since got around, and so in summer Lindos only offers quiet serenity in the early morning hours and in the evenings.
- Top landmarks near Lindos: Acropolis of Lindos, St. Paul’s Bay, Kleovoulos Tomb
- Beaches in Lindos: Lindos Beach, St. Paul’s Beach
- Hotel tips in Lindos (Links to Booking.com*): Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel*, Chrysanthi Studios*, AF Lindia Nature Design Hotel*
In the traffic-calmed town centre you will find many traditional tavernas, fine restaurants and cosy cafés that bring Lindos to life. There are no large hotels here, but some boutique complexes and apartments. Around Lindos you will also find holiday villas and classic hotels, for example in Theotokos or a little further south at the Bay of Navarone.
➲ To package tours for Lindos (Holidaycheck)*
Information about Lindos:
- Near the airport: approx. 50 min.
- Location on Rhodes: East Coast
- Infrastructure: Supermarkets, pharmacies and car rental companies
- Bus service: Regular bus services, but not as frequent as you might expect. A good base for independent travellers.
- Gastronomy: Traditional tavernas, restaurants, cafés and bars
- Nightlife: Rather quiet, but some bars are available
- Shopping: Local craft shops, boutiques and souvenir stores
#10 Pefki
Pefki is located directly on the sea, just a few kilometres south of Lindos. Where only a few years ago there were just a handful of farmhouses and fishermen’s cottages, today there is a modern village with a small-town feel and all the necessary amenities, including ATMs, pharmacies, supermarkets and shops of all kinds. There is also a wide selection of places to eat, from traditional tavernas to trendy bars.
- Top landmarks near Pefki: Lindos, Monastery of Panagia Ipseni
- Beaches in Pefki: Pefki Beach, Lardos Beach
- Hotel tips in Pefki (Links to Booking.com*): St. Thomas Beach Luxury Apartments*, Milos Villas Complex*, Elements Villas*
As Pefki has a beautiful golden sandy beach, hotels and apartment complexes have accumulated here quickly. Many of them are still family-run, however, so holidaymakers soon feel at home in the friendly atmosphere. Larger hotel complexes can be found at Lardos Beach, just a few kilometres further west.
➲ To package tours for Pefki (Holidaycheck)*
Information about Pefki:
- Near the airport: approx. 1 hour
- Location on Rhodes: East Coast
- Infrastructure: Basic facilities such as mini-markets, pharmacies and car rental companies
- Bus connection: Limited connections, rental car recommended
- Gastronomy: Local tavernas and restaurants
- Nightlife: Quiet and relaxed
- Shopping: Smaller shops and local craft workshops
Holiday resorts in the south of Rhodes
#11 Gennadi & Kiotari
On the southeast coast lie the holiday resorts of Gennadi and Kiotari, just a few kilometres apart. Gennadi still has a real village structure, while Kiotari is a scattered settlement along the main road with a few shops and many hotels, including all-inclusive resorts. Things are quieter here than in the turbulent north, though the rather long journey from the airport is the one downside.
- Top landmarks near Gennadi: Asklipio village, Attavyros region
- Beaches in Gennadi: Gennadi Beach, Lachania Beach, Kiotari Beach
- Hotel tips near Gennadi (Links to Booking.com*): Mayia Exclusive Resort & Spa*, Al Mare Villas*, Atlantica Dreams Resort*
At the small port of Kiotari there are also a handful of good restaurants. The densely forested hinterland around the island’s highest mountain, Attavyros, is well worth exploring. The mountain village of Asklipio exudes a great deal of charm with its white houses, narrow streets, a handful of tavernas and cafés, and a hilltop fortress. The Xrisma Cafe at the entrance to the village is our favourite spot for a break.
➲ To package tours for Gennadi & Kiotari (Holidaycheck)*
Information about Gennadi:
- Near the airport: approx. 1 hour
- Location on Rhodes: Southeast Coast
- Infrastructure: Supermarkets, pharmacies and car rental companies
- Bus connection: Limited bus connections, rental car recommended
- Gastronomy: Local tavernas and restaurants
- Nightlife: Limited options, rather quiet
- Shopping: Few local shops
Alternative holiday resorts in Rhodes
In addition to the Rhodes holiday resorts already mentioned, there are of course many other places for a great holiday on the island. Even in the remote south, the quiet coastal settlement of Plimmiri (also Plimmyri) has seen hotel complexes spring up, including the highly regarded Atrium Prestige Thalasso Spa Resort (View on Booking.com*).
Individualists seeking peace and quiet away from the coastal bustle can stay in the island’s hinterland. The relentless construction boom has not yet reached these parts, and in the charming villages you are welcomed with open arms as a touch of the original Rhodes still lingers in the air. The following Rhodes holiday resorts are worth considering:
- Archangelos
- Kattavia
- Kiritinia
- Koskinou
- Lachania
- Lardos (village)
- Monolithos
🗺️ 10 road trip routes with maps
🏖️ Beautiful beaches & swimming spots
🏛️ All top sights & attractions
🤫 Unpublished insider tips
🍽️ Accommodation, tavernas & cafés
→ More articles and numerous travel tips for Rhodes can be found here:
FAQ about Rhodes holiday resorts
Where is the best place to stay in Rhodes?
That depends on your preferences: Rhodes Town is recommended if you are looking for culture, shopping and nightlife. Stegna or Charaki are ideal for a quiet beach holiday. Faliraki is perfect for families, with its water park and long beach. Lindos is the place to be if you want a unique atmosphere in white-washed alleyways. Our personal favourite is Stegna: the village has stayed unspoiled, the beach is gorgeous, and the To Kyma taverna is right on the sand beneath banana trees – hard to beat.
Where is the most beautiful place in Rhodes?
Lindos is undoubtedly the most beautiful place: white houses, narrow alleyways, the Acropolis and a spectacular setting by the sea. In summer it is only peaceful in the mornings and evenings, as it gets very crowded during the day. Stegna and Charaki are also beautiful, with their authentic fishing village character. For scenery, we recommend the southern part of the island with secluded mountain villages such as Asklipio.
Where are most tourists in Rhodes?
Faliraki is the most popular resort, with hotels and all-inclusive properties lining the streets. Rhodes Town, Ialyssos and Kallithea are also very busy. If you are looking for peace and quiet, Faliraki is definitely not the place. Since the 1980s, the town has been a symbol of Greek mass tourism, though it does offer a good mix of beaches, entertainment and water parks for families.
What is Faliraki like on Rhodes?
Faliraki is a tourist hotspot with many hotels, all-inclusive resorts, water parks and a vibrant nightlife. The long Faliraki Beach is beautiful but completely overcrowded in summer. The town has everything you need for a varied holiday, from bars and clubs to family attractions. Despite the mass tourism, the warm and hospitable locals are typical of Rhodes.
Which place on Rhodes is best suited for families with children?
Faliraki with its water park and long sandy beach, Kolymbia with its well-regarded TUI hotels near Tsambika Beach, or Pefki with its golden sandy beach, family-run hotels and relaxed atmosphere. Kallithea with the Waterpark Rhodes is also popular. Due to the constant day-tripper and cruise tourist traffic, Rhodes Town is best avoided as a family holiday base. Ialyssos can be disruptive for babies and toddlers due to aircraft noise.
Where is the quietest place on Rhodes?
Stegna is our favourite for peace and quiet, and only in July and August does it get noticeably busier. There is just one village road and the main access is from Archangelos. Charaki, Afandou and Gennadi/Kiotari in the south are also very relaxed. Even quieter are the mountain villages inland, such as Asklipio (white houses, narrow streets, a hilltop fortress) or Lachania. In these charming villages you can experience the original Rhodes.
Is Rhodes Town suitable for swimming?
Yes, Elli Beach in the new town is good for swimming. It is a city beach with cafés and bars, but not a classic dream beach. For proper beach days, head to Kallithea, Faliraki or Stegna in the south. When we are in Rhodes, we like to spend one or two nights in the old town to soak up the wonderful atmosphere, but prefer to go elsewhere for swimming.
*Support our blog Greece-Moments
This post contains affiliate links marked with an asterisk (*). If you book or buy something through one of these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us continue to provide high-quality content for free. If you enjoyed this post and would like to say thank you, just buy us a Greek coffee ☕️ To the coffee fund
Bookmark this post on Pinterest
