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 and start of your road trip
After arriving at Rhodes Airport, you’ll collect your hire car. Your tour of northern Rhodes begins straight away. Once your luggage is in the car, you’ll drive to your accommodation for the next few days. Your first impression of the island is immediately relaxing: bright light, dry hills and the sea never far away.
Day 2: Rhodes Town and medieval heritage (UNESCO)
Today you’ll explore Rhodes Town, about a 30-minute drive away. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. You’ll stroll through narrow streets, past fortress walls and the impressive Palace of the Grand Masters. In ancient times, the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, stood here. Today, you won’t find the colossus here anymore, but you will find atmosphere, history and charming squares where you’ll find yourself lingering effortlessly. Finish your day at Mandraki Harbour, where the yachts bob gently and the afternoon sun bathes everything in gold.
Day 3: hiking in the Butterfly Valley of Rhodes (Petaloudes)
Today you’ll head to the famous Butterfly Valley of Rhodes, also known as Petaloudes. This green gorge lies hidden inland and offers a striking contrast to the arid coastline. During an easy walk of about two hours (3 km), you’ll follow wooden bridges and babbling brooks. In the summer months, hundreds of butterflies gather here. The walk isn’t strenuous and is ideal for those who want to combine nature with a gentle activity during the tour.
Day 4: Lindos and the beach on the east coast of Rhodes
After the active days, today you can set your own pace. You’ll drive to Lindos, one of the most beautiful villages on Rhodes’ east coast. Settle down on Lindos beach, where the water is clear and calm. Prefer something a bit more intimate? Then St Paul’s Bay is a lovely spot for snorkelling amongst the rocks. If you fancy a short climb, walk up to the acropolis of Lindos for views over white houses and turquoise bays.
Day 5: relaxation during your Rhodes tour
Today, you don’t have to go anywhere. This tour of Rhodes has been deliberately designed to include moments of rest. Enjoy the pool, book a spa treatment or finally read that book that’s been in your suitcase for months.
Day 6: the Seven Springs of Kolymbia (Epta Piges)
On your final active day, visit the Seven Springs of Rhodes, also known as Epta Piges, in the Kolymbia region. Here, seven natural springs converge in a shady nature reserve. For those seeking a bit more adventure, a narrow 200-metre tunnel leads to a small lake. Don’t fancy getting your feet wet? Then take the path over the hill. A lovely, short walk to round off your tour of Rhodes in a relaxed manner.
Day 7: back home
After breakfast, drive back to Rhodes Airport in your hire car. Return the car and fly back home.
What should you expect in terms of budget?
For this tour, you can expect a guide price starting from 7,000 euros for two people. This price includes international flights, a hire car and accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, and depends on your travel dates, hotel choices and any extras such as excursions or extensions.
Frequently asked questions about this Rhodes tour
When is the best time to visit Rhodes?
The best months are May, June and September. Temperatures are ideal (24–28°C) for walks in the Valley of the Butterflies and city visits. Do you specifically want to see the thousands of butterflies in the Petaloudes Valley? Then plan your trip between mid-June and the end of August. Bear in mind, however, that it can get very hot in July and August, which makes for lovely days at the beach but more intense cultural visits.
Is a hire car necessary for this itinerary?
Yes, a hire car is essential to experience the diversity of the island. Although you’ll be staying in the north, natural gems such as the Seven Springs (Epta Piges) and the white village of Lindos are located in places that are more difficult and time-consuming to reach by public transport. With your own car, you set your own pace and can stop at quiet bays on the east coast that the big tour buses tend to miss.
Are the walks in the Butterfly Valley and Epta Piges difficult?
No, both locations are very accessible and family-friendly. The walk in the Butterfly Valley follows well-maintained wooden paths and steps (approx. 3 km). At the Seven Springs, you can choose whether to go through the adventurous (narrow and dark) water tunnel or take the regular footpath over the hill. Sturdy walking sandals or trainers are sufficient; hiking boots are not required for this programme.
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