March 18, 2025 | By Anita Jain Shah

Rhodes, the largest island in Greece’s Dodecanese region, is an incredible blend of history, nature, and laid-back Mediterranean charm. With its medieval Old Town, pristine beaches, and strong cultural influences from Greek, Ottoman, and Italian civilizations, Rhodes offers a European experience unlike any other.

For Indian travellers looking beyond mainstream Greek hotspots like Santorini and Mykonos, Rhodes is a refreshing alternative. It’s rich in history, offers luxurious yet affordable stays, and has experiences catering to families, honeymooners, and even MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) groups. Here’s everything you need to know about Rhodes and why Indian travel agents should start selling it.

Getting to Rhodes from India
Currently, there are no direct flights from India to Rhodes. However, there are several convenient one-stop options:
– Via Athens: The most common route is flying from India (Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore) to Athens and then taking a short 1-hour domestic flight to Rhodes.
– Via the Middle East: Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines operate flights to Rhodes via Dubai, Doha, and Istanbul.
– By Ferry: For those who want to slow travel, ferries run from Athens (Piraeus Port) to Rhodes, taking 12-15 hours. This option is ideal for island-hopping itineraries.

Medieval Marvel – Rhodes Old Town

The star attraction of Rhodes is its UNESCO-listed Old Town, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time, with Byzantine, Ottoman, and Italian influences blending seamlessly. The Palace of the Grand Master is a must-visit, showcasing the island’s knightly past from the Crusader era.

The Acropolis of Lindos
A visit to Lindos, about an hour from Rhodes Town, is a journey into ancient Greek history. The Acropolis of Lindos, perched on a hill overlooking the Aegean, is one of Greece’s most stunning historical sites. Whitewashed villages surround the base, offering an Instagram-worthy contrast against the deep blue sea.

Ottoman & Italian Influences
Rhodes’ diverse history is reflected in its Ottoman mosques, Italian-era architecture, and Jewish heritage sites. The Süleymaniye Mosque and the Rhodes Jewish Museum highlight the island’s multicultural past.

Beach Life in Rhodes
Unlike Santorini, which is more about volcanic landscapes than beaches, Rhodes boasts some of the best sandy shores in Greece.

– Faliraki Beach: Known for its nightlife and water sports, this is ideal for younger travellers.
– Tsambika Beach: A stunning stretch of golden sand with crystal-clear waters, perfect for families and couples.
– Anthony Quinn Bay: Named after the Hollywood actor, this secluded cove is a dream for snorkeling and photography.
– Prasonisi Beach: A unique spot where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet, popular for windsurfing.

Luxury and Affordable Stays in Rhodes
Rhodes offers a range of accommodations that suit all budgets while maintaining a sense of exclusivity.

1. Luxury Resorts: Resorts like Grecotel LUXME Dama Dama, Atrium Palace and Lindos Blu offer premium stays at prices lower than Santorini or Mykonos.
2. Boutique Stays: The Old Town has charming boutique hotels like Spirit of the Knights and Kókkini Porta Rossa, offering a mix of history and luxury.
3. Budget Options: Family-run guesthouses in Lindos and Rhodes Town provide an affordable yet immersive Greek experience.

A 3-Day Rhodes Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Day 1: Exploring Rhodes Old Town & Beyond
– Start your day at the Palace of the Grand Master, soaking in the medieval history.
– Walk down Street of the Knights, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe.
– Visit the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes to understand the island’s ancient Greek roots.
– Enjoy lunch at a traditional taverna in the Old Town. Try Moussaka (Greek lasagna) or fresh seafood.
– In the evening, visit Mandraki Harbor, where the legendary Colossus of Rhodes once stood.
– End the night at Elli Beach, with a cocktail by the sea.

Day 2: Lindos & the Best Beaches
– Drive to Lindos, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way.
– Explore the Acropolis of Lindos, with breathtaking views of the Aegean.
– Have lunch at a rooftop taverna in Lindos, enjoying Greek mezze.
– Spend the afternoon at St. Paul’s Bay, a picturesque beach near Lindos.
– Return to Rhodes Town for a sunset dinner at Ronda, known for its fusion Greek cuisine.

Day 3: Island Adventures & Local Culture
– Start the day with a visit to Butterfly Valley (Petaloudes) if visiting in summer.
– Take a boat trip to Symi Island, known for its colourful neoclassical architecture.
– Enjoy a seafood lunch in Symi Harbor before heading back.
– End the trip with a wine-tasting experience at a local vineyard.

Why Indian Travellers Should Visit Rhodes
– Perfect for Luxury FITs & Group Tours – Rhodes offers premium experiences without the over-tourism of Mykonos or Santorini.
– A Destination for All – Whether it’s history buffs, honeymooners, or family travellers, Rhodes has something for everyone.
– Great for MICE & Weddings – The island’s medieval charm and beachside resorts make it a fantastic setting for Indian destination weddings and corporate retreats.
– Greek Food with Vegetarian Options – While Greek cuisine is meat-heavy, there are plenty of vegetarian dishes like spanakopita (spinach pie), dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and fresh salads.

– Affordable Compared to Other Greek Islands – Indian travellers looking for a high-end European experience without breaking the bank will find Rhodes a cost-effective choice.

Conclusion
For Indian travel agents, Rhodes is an exciting, under-explored destination that can diversify Greek itineraries beyond Athens-Santorini-Mykonos. Its mix of history, beaches, and culture, combined with easy accessibility and affordability, makes it an easy sell for Indian travellers looking for a fresh European experience.

Rhodes isn’t just another Greek island—it’s a gateway to history, luxury, and adventure. It’s time Indian travellers discovered its magic.

Our itinerary was hosted and planned by WOTF Group based in Greece and represented by Global Destinations in India.