I love a Mediterranean country during the summer months; the combination of beach, sun, and food is an experience I look forward to. This summer, I decided to visit Rhodes, Greece's crown jewel, which consistently hits the mark.
Located in the southeastern Aegean, Rhodes is a summer haven with temperatures soaring from 28°C to 31°C (82°F to 88°F) from June to August, with July and August being the hottest months. The island's medieval architecture, including the stunning, UNESCO-listed Old Town, is a major draw.
Rhodes Old Town
The Rhodes old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Walking through the stone streets of the old town in Rhodes, you'll find a variety of shops selling everything from belts and bags to jewelry, postcards, and souvenirs to bring back home. I picked up a pair of silver earrings at one of the local stores, though I'm afraid I don't recall the exact shop's name; it was somewhere within the old town's historic streets.
One of the highlights of my visit was getting lost in the old town's narrow streets. I recommend starting to walk and see where it takes you. Be sure to stroll along the Street of the Knights of Rhodes, and take a break to enjoy a drink or an ice cream.
Where to Stay in Lindos
Consider staying in Lindos, a charming town just an 8-minute drive from the city center. This vibrant destination offers a quintessential Greek holiday experience, with its picturesque white town, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. You'll find numerous shops, restaurants, and bars to suit every taste, from traditional to modern. At night, Lindos comes alive, making it the perfect place to soak up the local culture.
Parking in Lindos
Parking can be a challenge in Lindos, and many visitors opt for a taxi instead. However, there is a convenient parking lot in the town, just a 5-minute walk from the city center. The parking fee is 7 euros per day, with no time limit. If you prefer to park closer to the main town area, consider using the Lindos St. Paul's Parking.
Exploring Lindos' Food Scene
I had the pleasure of trying some delicious local cuisine during my visit. Be sure to stop by To Fresko - Fish Restaurant (Ψαροταβέρνα Το Φρέσκο Ψάρι) for an exceptional grilled fish dish in a family-run atmosphere. Their outdoor seating area, nestled among the trees, is a lovely spot to enjoy your meal. Another highlight was the local bakery, which serves mouth-watering desserts, including the famous traditional orange cake. Don't miss trying their baked goods!
Some other recommendations include:
- Souvlaki or traditional meatballs at a restaurant in the old town
- Traditional patisseries like burek, which I enjoyed at my hotel's breakfast buffet
- Traditional orange cake, also known as portokalopita, which I tried at the Glikoepiloges bakery, a local bakery with the best orange cake, though the tiramisu was also a must-try
- Osteria Restaurant, a great spot for a unique dinner experience with tables set amidst the grass
- Fine dining at AKRES Lindos, a restaurant with excellent service and fresh dishes
- Local grilled fish at To Fresko - Fish Restaurant (Ψαροταβέρνα Το Φρέσκο Ψάρι), Παραλία Αφάντου, Afantou 851 03, Greece
- Of course, no trip to Greece would be complete without trying street food like gyros, which you can find in every town
Discovering Lindos' Beautiful Beaches
The beaches I visited were generally quite crowded, but renting a sunbed and umbrella made it easier to enjoy the scenery. Keep in mind that prices vary depending on the beach and location. If you prefer to use the public beach, be aware that it can be limited and not as well-maintained as the private areas.
Some of the beaches I recommend visiting include:
- Anthony Quinn Bay: a stunning spot surrounded by nature, with beautiful blue-green water. Be prepared for crowds and boat tours, which can spoil the view. Bring your snorkeling gear and snacks, and consider renting a sunbed for a more comfortable experience.
- Agios Pavlos Beach: my personal favorite, this beach has a lovely restaurant/cafe with excellent service and delicious food. The sunbeds are 30 euros per person, but the scenery and service make it well worth it.
Lindos' Rich History and Culture
Don't miss visiting the Acropolis of Lindos, which charges an entrance fee of 20 euros.
Other Activities to Enjoy
Consider taking a day trip to nearby islands to experience the full beauty of Greece. One trip that caught my attention is the boat trip to Symi Island from Rhodes, which unfortunately I missed.
Practical Tips
What to pack: summers get warm, so bring whatever makes you comfortable and suits your style. If you're going hiking, pack proper hiking shoes and the right outfit. Definitely bring a swimsuit, though you can always buy one there if you didn't.
Public holidays and Sundays: if your rental car company asks for a full tank on return, be careful if your return falls on a holiday or a Sunday. The gas stations close to the airport were closed when I returned, and I had to drive to a few more before finding one open, and even then, they'd run out of regular fuel and only had the pricier option. Plenty of other tourists were in the same situation.