Rhodes 3-Day Itinerary

A day-by-day plan for Rhodes: the best attractions in order, where to eat, how to get around — with free hotel briefings for your stay.

Day 1

Arrive & Explore the Highlights

Morning
Palace of the Grand Master (Outer Courtyard & Views)

The main palace charges entry, but the outer courtyard and surrounding fortifications are free. You get excellent views over Rhodes Old Town and the harbour without paying.

🕐 Outer grounds open daylight hours; gardens close at dusk

Free entry

💡 Go at sunset for the best light on the harbour. The free area includes parts of the moat and outer walls – walk the entire perimeter.

Hotels near Palace of the Grand Master (Outer Courtyard & Views) →
Afternoon
Street of the Knights

The main thoroughfare of the medieval Knights' quarter. Lined with stone inns and cobbles, it's a living museum and costs nothing to walk. The Knights' Hospital (Archaeological Museum) is inside, but

🕐 Accessible 24/7; museum entry €6, but street is free

Free entry

💡 Walk it early morning before the crowds – the quiet stone echo is memorable. The side alleys off the street have original Crusader carvings.

Hotels near Street of the Knights →
Evening
Where to eat

Norske Baren · ££

Myrovolis · ££

Day 2

Deeper Into Rhodes

Morning
Elli Beach

A pebbly public beach just east of the Old Town walls. Clear water, free sunbeds if you buy a drink from the nearby bars, and a good spot for swimming without resort costs.

🕐 Always open; lifeguards 10am–6pm June–September

💡 Arrive before 10am to claim a free sunbed at one of the public sections. The beach bar at the south end does cheap frappés.

Midday
Rhodes Old Town Walk (Forteza Walls Public Path)

The entire medieval walled city is pedestrianised and free to explore. The 'Forteza' section – a 1.5km public walkway along the top of the walls – gives great views over the harbour and rooftops.

🕐 Walkway open daylight hours; gates unlocked 8am–8pm in summer

💡 Start at the Eleftherias Gate and follow the wall clockwise – you'll pass the Grand Master's Palace and the sea. Do it at 6pm for cool breezes. The path is shaded in parts.

Evening
Dining tonight

Άσπρο Πιάτο

Tamam

Day 3

Final Favourites & Departure

Morning
Monte Smith Hill

A pine-covered hill with ancient ruins (the acropolis of Rhodes) and panoramic views over the city and sea. The main site is free, though some fenced areas requ

💡 The best viewpoint is at the top near the ancient stadium – no ticket needed. Bring water; no shops up there. Great for a picnic or run.

Final meal

Therme

Romeo

Getting Around Rhodes

KTEL Rhodes Island Bus From €2.00 20 min

Get a day pass (€8) from the central bus station if you plan multiple stops. The bus runs along the east coast and is the cheapest way to reach beaches, but expect standing room only in July.

Public Bus Line 23 From €2.50 30 min

Buy ticket from the kiosk inside airport arrivals—driver won't take cash. Bus drops you a 5-minute walk from the hotel near the old town walls.

Rhodes Airport Taxi From €30 15 min

Fix the price before you get in. Official taxi rank outside arrivals; no surcharge at night but confirm you're not paying tolls or extras.

Local Rhodes Town Taxi From €45 50 min

Haggle for half-day round trips—drivers will wait at Lindos for €60–70 total. Avoid meter-only trips on this route; always agree a price first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 3 days enough for Rhodes?

Three days covers the main highlights well. You can see the key attractions like Palace of the Grand Master (Outer Courtyard & Views) and get a genuine feel for the city. For a more leisurely pace or to explore neighbourhoods in depth, a 5-day trip is better.

What is the best time to visit Rhodes?

See our full best time to visit Rhodes guide — it covers weather month by month, peak vs. shoulder seasons and how to avoid the crowds.

Where should I stay for this itinerary?

A central location saves transit time between sites. Top options include Nafsika, Flat to Let, Antifanous Apartments. See the full ranked list with free briefings for each.