Rhodes Old Town, Pl. Mouson 6, Rodos 851 00 · Travel guide · Updated 2026

The Timeless Allure of Rhodes Old Town

Discover Rhodes Old Town: A mesmerizing blend of medieval history, vibrant culture, and timeless charm in the heart of Rhodes, Greece.

Step back in time as you wander the cobbled streets of Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient neighbourhood, enclosed within medieval walls, is a captivating blend of history and culture. The labyrinthine alleyways lead you through a journey of the past, where every corner tells a story. From the imposing Palace of the Grand Master to the Street of the Knights, the architecture reflects the influence of the Knights of St. John who once ruled the island. Visit the Archaeological Museum housed in the former hospital of the Knights, and marvel at the artefacts that date back to ancient Greece. Rhodes Old Town is not just about history; it's also a vibrant hub of modern life. Quaint cafes, lively tavernas, and boutique shops are peppered throughout, offering a delightful mix of the old and new. Enjoy a leisurely meal in a shaded courtyard or shop for unique souvenirs in the bustling markets. Don't miss the chance to explore the hidden gems, like the Suleymaniye Mosque and the Jewish Quarter, each adding layers to the rich tapestry of this enchanting neighbourhood. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to soak in the atmosphere, Rhodes Old Town promises an unforgettable experience.

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Rhodes Old Town sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes

    Explore the Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes, a stunning medieval castle with a rich history and impressive Gothic architecture.

    Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes

    Medieval City of Rhodes

    Explore the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and step back in time amidst its well-preserved walls and historical treasures.

    Medieval City of Rhodes

    Acropolis of Rhodes

    Explore the Acropolis of Rhodes, an ancient hilltop complex with temples, stadium and stunning views. A blend of history and panoramic beauty.

    Acropolis of Rhodes

    Hippocrates Square

    Experience the vibrant heart of Rhodes Old Town: history, architecture, and lively atmosphere converge in Hippocrates Square.

    Hippocrates Square

    Medieval Clock Tower

    Ascend Rhodes' Medieval Clock Tower for panoramic Old Town views, a glimpse into island history, and a complimentary drink at the terrace cafe.

    Medieval Clock Tower

    Street of the Knights of Rhodes

    Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Street of the Knights in Rhodes, a must-visit for every traveler seeking to explore ancient wonders.

    Street of the Knights of Rhodes

    Evreon Martyron (Jewish Martyrs Square)

    A solemn tribute to the Jewish community of Rhodes, honoring those who perished in the Holocaust. A place for reflection and remembrance.

    Evreon Martyron (Jewish Martyrs Square)

    Saint Paul's Gate

    Explore Saint Paul's Gate in Rhodes, a medieval entrance steeped in history, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the island's past.

    Saint Paul's Gate

    Medieval Town Moat

    Explore Rhodes' Medieval Town Moat: a historic defense transformed into a stunning park, offering a unique glimpse into the island's past.

    Medieval Town Moat

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    Popular Experiences in Rhodes Old Town

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    Popular Hotels in Rhodes Old Town

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    Practical planning

    Rhodes Old Town Essentials

    Core city planning details in the same structured guide format used across the Country/Region page language.

    Getting There

    Rhodes Old Town is easily accessible from other neighbourhoods. If you are arriving from Rhodes International Airport, take a taxi or a shuttle bus directly to the Old Town. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. From the New Town, you can walk to the Old Town through the D'Amboise Gate, a scenic and historical entrance. Local buses also connect various parts of Rhodes, with lines running frequently to the Old Town.

    Getting Around

    Rhodes Old Town is a pedestrian-friendly area, making it ideal for walking. The narrow cobblestone streets are best explored on foot. Bicycles can be rented from various shops, and some hotels offer bike rentals as well. There are no trains or trams in the Old Town, but taxis are available for longer distances. Be cautious of electric scooters, which can be found in the area, as they share the roads with pedestrians.

    Safety

    Rhodes Old Town is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be observed. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, such as markets and popular tourist sites. While there are no specific high-crime areas, it's best to avoid poorly lit back streets at night. Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

    Emergency Situations

    In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospital, Hospital of Rhodes, is located in the New Town, just a short taxi ride away. For minor health concerns, there are pharmacies scattered throughout the Old Town. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies.

    Do's and Don'ts

    Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites like the Palace of the Grand Master. Don't wear beachwear outside of the beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow travelers. Don't eat or drink in public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good Morning). Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like moussaka and souvlaki. Don’t refuse food or drink offered to you, as it may be considered rude.

    Local Tips

    To experience Rhodes Old Town like a local, visit the vibrant local markets, such as the Old Market, where you can find fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with local artisans and shopkeepers who often have fascinating stories to share. Attend a local festival if your visit coincides with one; these events are a great way to immerse yourself in the culture. Take time to relax at a traditional kafeneio (coffeehouse) and enjoy a cup of Greek coffee while watching the world go by.

    History of Rhodes Old Town

    Follow the city from Roman Londinium to its modern global identity through landmark moments that still shape the visitor experience.

    Ancient Foundations and the Colossus

    Rhodes Old Town is built on the foundations of the ancient city of Rhodes, which was established in 408 BC. It was here that the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, stood before the harbor, symbolizing the island's wealth and power. This giant statue was erected to celebrate Rhodes' victory over Cyprus and became a lasting emblem of the island's glorious past.

    The Knights of St. John

    From 1309 to 1522, Rhodes Old Town was transformed into a fortress by the Knights of St. John, who sought refuge from the advancing Ottoman Empire. The Knights fortified the city, constructing impressive walls, towers, and palaces, which still stand today. Their influence is evident in the architecture and layout of the Old Town, which features the Grand Master's Palace and numerous churches reflecting Gothic and Renaissance styles.

    Ottoman Rule and Cultural Fusion

    After the fall of Rhodes to the Ottomans in 1522, the Old Town experienced significant changes as Turkish influences permeated the area. The Ottomans built mosques, baths, and various public buildings, which introduced a new cultural dimension to the city. The coexistence of Christian and Muslim communities gave rise to a unique blend of traditions, visible in the bustling markets and diverse religious sites throughout the Old Town.

    Italian Occupation and Urban Development

    In the early 20th century, Rhodes became part of Italy after the Italo-Turkish War. The Italians undertook extensive restoration projects in Rhodes Old Town, enhancing its medieval character while modernizing infrastructure. This period saw the introduction of new public amenities and the preservation of historical sites, culminating in a unique architectural style that combines medieval, Renaissance, and modern elements.

    UNESCO World Heritage Site

    In 1988, the Old Town of Rhodes was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its historical significance and well-preserved medieval architecture. This status has helped promote conservation efforts and tourism, allowing visitors to experience the rich tapestry of cultures that have shaped Rhodes over the centuries, from its ancient roots to its medieval grandeur and beyond.

    Phrasebook

    Local Phrases

    Browse practical local phrases by situation. Each group opens only when needed, keeping the guide tidy while preserving the full phrase set.

    6 phrase groups English + pronunciation
    Basics
    • HelloΓεια σας
      [Yia sas]
    • GoodbyeΑντίο
      [Adio]
    • YesΝαι
      [Ne]
    • NoΌχι
      [Ohi]
    • Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
      [Parakalo]
    • Thank youΕυχαριστώ
      [Efharisto]
    • Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
      [Signomi]
    • How are you?Τι κάνεις;
      [Ti kanis?]
    • Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
      [Kala. Esi?]
    • Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
      [Milate anglika?]
    • I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
      [Den katalaveno]
    Eating & Drinking
    • I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
      [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
    • I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
      [Den troo kreas]
    • Cheers!Υγεία!
      [Ygeia!]
    • I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
      [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]
    Emergencies
    • Help!Βοήθεια!
      [Voiθia!]
    • Go away!Φύγε!
      [Fiγe!]
    • Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
      [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
    • Call a doctor!Καλέστε για γιατρό!
      [Kaleste gia yatro!]
    • I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
      [Eho hathi]
    • I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
      [Ime arrostos]
    Shopping
    • I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
      [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
    • I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
      [Apla kitao]
    • How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
      [Poso kostizi?]
    • That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
      [Afto ine poli akribo]
    • Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
      [Boreite na meiosete tin timi?]
    Time & Numbers
    • What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
      [Ti ora ine?]
    • It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
      [Ine mia ora]
    • Half past (10)Μισή (10)
      [Misi (deka)]
    • MorningΠρωί
      [Proi]
    • AfternoonΑπόγευμα
      [Apoyevma]
    • EveningΒράδυ
      [Vradi]
    • YesterdayΧθες
      [Hthes]
    • TodayΣήμερα
      [Simera]
    • TomorrowΑύριο
      [Aurio]
    • 1Ένα
      [Ena]
    • 2Δύο
      [Dyo]
    • 3Τρία
      [Tria]
    • 4Τέσσερα
      [Tessera]
    • 5Πέντε
      [Pente]
    • 6Έξι
      [Exi]
    • 7Εφτά
      [Efta]
    • 8Οκτώ
      [Okto]
    • 9Εννιά
      [Ennia]
    • 10Δέκα
      [Deka]
    Transport & Directions
    • Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
      [Pou ine ena/to...?]
    • What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
      [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
    • Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
      [Boreite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
    • When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
      [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
    • A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ....)
      [Ena isitirio (gia ....)]

    Explore Rhodes Old Town in Photos

    A quick visual tour through classic views, riverside landmarks, royal streets, and skyline moments.

    File:Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes (9451928431).jpg -  Wikimedia Commons
    File:Rhodes Knights St.JPG - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Archaeological Museum of Rhodes (exterior) 02.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Suleiman mosque Rhodes.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:View of the Roloi (Clock Tower) in the Old Town Rhodes. Rhodes, the  island of Rhodes, the Dodecanese, Greece.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Medieval tower moat Rhodes.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Marine Gate and east walls of the medieval city of Rhodes  (9451548479).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Church of the Virgin of the Burgh ruins in the northern part of the Old  Town (World Heritage City, UNESCO). Rhodes, the island of Rhodes, the  Dodecanese, Greece.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Ippokratous Square , Plateia Ippokratous, the Old Town (World Heritage  City, UNESCO). Against the background of The Citadel of Rhodes. Rhodes, the  island of Rhodes, the Dodecanese, Greece.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Fortifications Rhodes.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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