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Rhodes Cruise Port Guide

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Rhodes, a sun-drenched Greek island, offers independent cruise passengers a rich blend of history, culture, and beautiful sandy beaches. Your cruise ship docks just a 5-minute walk from the captivating Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This medieval city, left behind by the Knights of St. John, is dominated by the mighty Palace of the Grand Masters and includes the 15th-century Hospital of the Knights, now an archaeological museum. Note that while the museum has an elevator for disabled access, there are a few steps on the second floor. A large duty-free store is conveniently located within the port area.

Getting Around from the Port

The historic Old Town is exceptionally accessible, just a 5-minute stroll from your ship's pier. For exploring beyond the immediate port area, a 30-minute walk through the walled Old Town or a 10-minute walk along the harbor front will bring you to Rimini Square, a central hub for local buses and taxis.

A Hop-on/Hop-off bus service is available, departing hourly from 10 am from the Tourist Harbor (near the cruise terminal) and costs 12 Euro. Additionally, a charming little tourist train offers tours around Rhodes Town, and a complimentary shuttle operates within the picturesque Old Town, making it easy to navigate its narrow streets. For excursions further afield, it's worth comparing options offered by your cruise line with independent tours available through platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator.

Attractions and Activities

Rhodes Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Medieval walled city is an absolute must-see and easily walkable from the port. Explore the mighty Palace of the Grand Masters, a gigantic fortress dominating the town, and visit the Hospital of the Knights, now an archaeological museum. Note that while the museum has an elevator, there are a few steps on the second floor.
Lindos: Considered a "must-do excursion," this destination boasts a stunningly preserved acropolis perched above a charming village, offering breathtaking views and UNESCO-protected status. Lindos can be reached via local buses or taxis from Rimini Square, or by booking an organized tour.
Faliraki: A popular resort town known for its glittering sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Faliraki offers another excellent option for a day trip beyond Rhodes Town, accessible by local transport or organized tours.

Shopping

Wander through the streets of both the Old Town and the New Town, where sleek boutiques compete for space with inviting pavement cafes. For souvenirs and convenience items, tourist shops and convenience stores typically remain open from dawn until well after midnight during the summer months. A large duty-free store is also located directly in the port area.

Dining

Numerous pavement cafes are scattered throughout both the Old and New Towns, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxing drink. Connectivity: While exploring the Old Town, many cafes and restaurants offer free WiFi to customers; simply make a purchase and request the password.

Safety

No specific safety concerns beyond general travel precautions were noted for Rhodes.

Currency and Language

The local currency is the Euro (€). The official language spoken is Greek.

Top Attractions

Old Town of Rhodes

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this well-preserved medieval city offers a journey back in time with its impressive walls, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings. Explore the Palace of the Grand Master, the Street of the Knights, and various museums.

Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes

An imposing medieval castle and one of the most prominent monuments in the Old Town of Rhodes. It served as the administrative center and residence for the Grand Masters of the Knights of St. John.

Street of the Knights

A beautifully preserved medieval street within the Old Town, lined with the 'Inns' of the different 'Tongues' (nationalities) of the Knights of St. John. It leads up to the Palace of the Grand Master.

Archaeological Museum of Rhodes

Housed in the magnificent medieval Hospital of the Knights, this museum displays a rich collection of artifacts from ancient Rhodes and the Dodecanese islands, including sculptures, pottery, and funerary stelae.

Valley of the Butterflies

A unique natural reserve where thousands of Panaxia quadripunctaria butterflies gather during the summer months. Walk along shaded paths, cross wooden bridges, and admire the waterfalls and lush vegetation.

Filerimos Hill

Home to the ruins of the ancient city of Ialysos, a medieval monastery, and a towering cross with panoramic views. Explore the 'Golgotha' path lined with representations of the Passion of Christ.

Mandraki Harbor

The main harbor of Rhodes Town, famously believed to be the site of the Colossus of Rhodes. Today, it's guarded by two bronze deer statues and is a bustling hub for yachts and excursion boats.

Acropolis of Rhodes

An ancient site featuring the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, an ancient stadium, and a small theater. It offers a glimpse into the Hellenistic period of Rhodes and provides views over the modern city.

Seven Springs

A lush, shaded oasis where seven natural springs converge, forming a small lake. Visitors can walk through a dark, narrow tunnel to reach the lake, or simply enjoy the cool environment and peacocks.

Tsambika Beach

A long, sandy beach with shallow, clear waters, perfect for families. It's well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, and offers various water sports activities.

Rhodes Lighthouse

Located at the end of Mandraki Harbor, this historic lighthouse is built on the medieval Fortress of Agios Nikolaos. It offers scenic views of the harbor and the open sea, especially at sunset.

Ancient Kamiros

One of the three ancient cities of Rhodes, Kamiros was a prosperous agricultural community. Explore the well-preserved ruins of houses, an agora, a temple, and a Hellenistic stoa, offering insights into ancient Greek life.

Elli Beach

One of the most popular beaches in Rhodes Town, known for its clear waters and pebble shore. It's well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, and is a short walk from the city center.

Prasonisi

A unique peninsula at the southernmost tip of Rhodes, where the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas meet. It's a world-renowned spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with strong winds on one side and calm waters on the other.

Aquarium of Rhodes

Housed in a unique Art Deco building, this marine biology museum and aquarium allows visitors to explore the underwater world of the Aegean Sea. See various fish, sea turtles, and other marine life in their natural habitats.

Synagogue Kahal Shalom

The oldest synagogue in Greece and the only remaining one on Rhodes, located in the Jewish Quarter of the Old Town. It serves as a testament to the island's rich Jewish history and culture.

Mosque of Suleiman

A prominent mosque in the Old Town, originally built after the Ottoman conquest of Rhodes in 1522 and later rebuilt. Its distinctive pink dome and minaret are a notable feature of the city's skyline.

Museum of Modern Greek Art

Showcases a collection of paintings, sculptures, and engravings by prominent Greek artists from the 20th century onwards. It provides insight into the development of modern Greek art.

Rodini Park

One of the oldest parks in the world, known for its lush greenery, running streams, and peacocks. It's a tranquil escape from the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Clock Tower

Located within the Old Town, climbing to the top of this historic clock tower offers panoramic views of the medieval city, the harbor, and the surrounding area.