Rhodes walking route: Old Town to Lindos and Symi Island
Explore Rhodes, Greece's most compelling destinations on this 220.4 km route covering medieval charm and natural wonders. Visit the UNESCO-worthy Rhodes Old Town and Palace of the Grandmaster, ancient sites like Lindos and Kamiros, scenic beaches at St. Paul's Bay and Tsambika Beach, plus nearby Symi Island and unique spots like Monolithos Castle, Valley of the Butterflies, and Anthony Quinn Bay.
- Distance
- 220.4 km
- Mode
- route
- Start
- St. Paul's Bay
- End
- Palace of the Grandmaster
- Stops
- 10
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- St. Paul's Bay — One of the most stunning beaches on the island, nestled below Lindos village with crystal-clear waters.
- Lindos — Whitewashed village on the east coast known for its picturesque Cycladic architecture and coastal views.
- Symi Island — Nearby island accessible by boat from Rhodes, known for colorful harbor houses and quiet charm.
- Tsambika Beach — Scenic sandy beach ideal for swimming and relaxation with warm shallow waters.
- Valley of the Butterflies — Natural green hideaway featuring seasonal butterfly populations and cool vegetation in the island interior.
- Monolithos Castle — Ruined medieval fortress perched on a rocky cliff on Rhodes' west coast overlooking the sea.
- Wander Around Kamiros, the Ancient City — Ruins of a classical Greek city featuring preserved Doric temples, residential terraces, and a water system showcasing Hellenistic urban planning and architecture.
- Rhodes Old Town — Medieval Old Town, one of the best preserved in Europe, featuring narrow cobblestone streets and historic architecture.
- Street of the Knights — Historic street where the Knights of the Order of St. John resided, lined with medieval buildings.
- Palace of the Grandmaster — Massive medieval castle at the top of the Old Town, resembling a fantasy fortress with sweeping views.
Useful for your trip
- Timing
- Visit the Acropolis of Lindos early or late to dodge the heat and crowds.
- Timing
- Visit Valley of the Butterflies between June and September when butterflies are most active.
- Avoid
- St. Paul's Bay can get very crowded during peak summer season despite being small, so consider visiting during shoulder seasons.
- Timing
- Arrive at Anthony Quinn Bay early to get a prime spot as it fills up fast in summer.
- Tip
- Move quietly in Valley of the Butterflies; loud sounds and clapping scare the butterflies.
- Transport
- Take a ferry to Symi Island, just over an hour away, for a day trip with colorful neoclassical houses and seafood tavernas.
- Timing
- Visit Monolithos Castle at sunset for dramatic panoramic views over the Aegean Sea turning gold, pink, and orange.
- Food
- Try local fried shrimp with the shell on at waterfront tavernas in Symi Island.
- Timing
- Visit Kamiros ancient site in the morning or late afternoon when it's usually quiet with fewer crowds.
- Tip
- Don't rush exploring Rhodes Old Town; wander slowly through cobbled streets, stone archways, and tiny squares to fully experience the atmosphere.
- Tip
- Bring water and a hat when visiting Kamiros as there is not much shade at the open air archaeological site.
- Tip
- Climb the steep path up to Tsambika Monastery chapel above the beach for unreal views, though the hike is tough in the heat.
Video on this route
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