Where to stay in Rhodes
Rhodes is defined by the medieval fortification of the Old Town and the expanding modern sprawl of the New Town. Choosing your base depends on whether you prefer historic stone alleys, sweeping sandy beaches, or a quiet escape. Because the island is large, staying centrally near the Mandraki harbor allows the best foot access to transit hubs, while coastal villages require a rental car for any meaningful exploration beyond your immediate hotel doorstep.
Old Town
Stepping through the stone gates feels like entering another century. You navigate narrow, labyrinthine alleys made of pebbles, emerging into quiet squares. It is entirely pedestrianized and highly walkable, centered around the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master. You are steps away from intense history, but be prepared for heavy cruise ship crowds during midday hours.
Neohori
This is the modern heart of Rhodes Town, filled with high-rise hotels, bars, and cafes. It sits on a peninsula, meaning you can walk to Elli Beach on either the Aegean or Mediterranean side within minutes. It feels energetic and functional, with wide streets and the Mandraki harbor market district just a short walk away for bus connections and boat trips.
Lindos
It is a steep, hillside village dominated by the ancient Acropolis that looms above the beach. You cannot drive in the center, so you will be walking up and down narrow, stepped limestone alleys. It feels like a boutique resort, offering a much slower pace than the city, though it gets very hot and crowded as day-trippers arrive to climb the fortress path.
Rent a car in Rhodes
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Compare car rentals in RhodesOne thing to think about
Avoid staying directly on the main nightlife strips of Orfanidou Street in the New Town if you value sleep, as the noise from bars persists until sunrise. Also, think twice about booking accommodation in the far northern tip of the island if you plan on exploring southern beaches, as the daily drive will consume hours of your vacation time.
Other places to stay in Greece: lastminute.com · Megabon
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Rhodes are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Top tours & activities in Rhodes
Common questions
Do I need to rent a car to explore the island?
While the main Rhodes Town is walkable and serviced by a reliable bus network to popular spots like Lindos, a rental car is essential if you want to visit isolated beaches on the west coast or mountain villages. Public transport does not reach the more scenic, rugged corners of the island's interior.
Which side of the island has better beaches?
The east coast, particularly around Lindos and Faliraki, features calm, sandy Mediterranean waters perfect for swimming. The west coast facing the Aegean is windier, prone to larger waves, and typically composed of pebble beaches. Choose the east if you prefer lounging; choose the west if you enjoy windsurfing or kiteboarding.
Is it better to stay in Old Town or by the beach?
Staying in the Old Town provides unmatched atmosphere and proximity to dinner spots, but lacks direct beach access, requiring a 15-minute walk to the nearest shoreline. Staying in Neohori puts the ocean at your doorstep but trades the historic charm for a standard, modern resort environment. Decide based on your daily priority.
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