Rhodes road trip: 7 days of culture, nature and beach

Route

You explore Rhodes from the northern part of the island, with excursions to Rhodes Town, Lindos, the east coast and the green inland area around Petaloudes and Kolymbia.

Pace

Lightly active and family-friendly. You combine short walks such as the Butterfly Valley (Petaloudes) and the Seven Springs (Epta Piges) with beach time and cultural visits.

Highlights

Rhodes Town (UNESCO), the Acropolis of Rhodes with the Temple of Apollo, the Butterfly Valley, Lindos and St. Paul’s Bay.

Accommodation

You stay in a carefully selected hotel in the north of Rhodes, an ideal base for this 7-day road trip.

Profile

Travellers who want to combine culture, nature and beach without strenuous effort. Suitable for couples and families who wish to explore Rhodes by rental car at their own pace.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN RHODES & START OF YOUR ROAD TRIP

Upon arrival at Rhodes Airport, you collect your rental car. Your road trip through northern Rhodes begins right away. Once the luggage is in the car, you drive to your accommodation for the coming days. First impressions feel instantly relaxed: bright light, dry hills and the sea never far away.

DAY 2: RHODES TOWN & MEDIEVAL HERITAGE (UNESCO)

Today you explore Rhodes Town, about a 30-minute drive away. The Old Town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. You stroll through narrow streets, walk along the fortified walls and visit the impressive Palace of the Grand Master. In ancient times, the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, stood here. The statue is long gone, yet the atmosphere, history and lively squares invite you to linger. End your visit at Mandraki Harbour, where yachts gently sway in the golden afternoon light.

DAY 3: WALKING IN THE BUTTERFLY VALLEY (PETALOUDES)

Today you head inland to the famous Butterfly Valley, also known as Petaloudes. This green gorge offers a striking contrast to the dry coastline. During an easy two-hour walk (3 km), you cross wooden bridges and follow small streams. In summer, hundreds of butterflies gather here. A light and pleasant nature activity, ideal within your Rhodes road trip.

DAY 4: LINDOS & BEACH ON THE EAST COAST

After a few active days, you set your own pace. Drive to Lindos, one of the most beautiful villages on Rhodes’ east coast. Relax on Lindos Beach, where the water is clear and calm. Prefer something more secluded? St. Paul’s Bay is perfect for snorkelling among the rocks. If you feel like a short climb, walk up to the Acropolis of Lindos for panoramic views over whitewashed houses and turquoise bays.

DAY 5: RELAXATION DURING YOUR RHODES ROAD TRIP

Today there are no plans. This road trip through Rhodes intentionally includes time to unwind. Enjoy the pool, book a spa treatment or finally read that book you packed.

DAY 6: THE SEVEN SPRINGS OF KOLYMBIA (EPTA PIGES)

On your final active day, you visit the Seven Springs of Rhodes, known as Epta Piges, near Kolymbia. Seven natural springs meet in a shaded natural area. For a slightly more adventurous option, a narrow 200-metre tunnel leads to a small lake. Prefer to stay dry? Take the path over the hill instead. A pleasant short walk to round off your road trip through Rhodes.

DAY 7: RETURN HOME

After breakfast, you drive back to Rhodes Airport. You return the rental car and fly home.

WHAT BUDGET SHOULD YOU EXPECT?

For this road trip, you can expect a starting price from 7,000 euros for 2 people. This price includes international flights, a rental car and accommodation in a room with breakfast. The final amount depends on your travel dates, hotel selection and any extras such as excursions or extensions.