Things to do and places to visit

Experience nature

Image © Rhodes Guide / RhodesGuide.com

Things to do and places to visit in Rhodes

Discover the vibrant and multifaceted island of Rhodes, where adventure and enchantment await at every turn. Immerse yourself in the island's captivating natural wonders and venture off the beaten path to uncover secluded mountain retreats and rich historical treasures. Embark on a journey across this enchanting Greek island and uncover a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored.

The mild climate, the regenerating sun, the numerous freshwater springs and the refreshing sea breeze allow more than 1000 tree and plant species to thrive on the island, numerous vegetable and fruit species to be cultivated and a variety of bird and animal species to live.

The Butterfly Valley is a unique biotope of rare natural beauty and has enormous ecological value as a habitat for the butterfly Panaxia Quadripunctaria, and is a popular destination for thousands of visitors to the island of Rhodes. Also worth a visit is the Museum of Natural History of Rhodes Island - located directly at the entrance of the valley where visitors have the opportunity to discover the secrets of a unique ecosystem.

In the freshwater rivers of the island lives the endemic fish species Ghizani, which bears the name of the scientist who discovered it on the island (Ladigesocypris Ghigii).

The miniature horse of Rhodes in Archangelos have been living for some time in a semi-wild state in the lush green forests of the region. Their size varies from 0.80 to 1.20 m. They have a black, brown or reddish brown colour. Today there are hardly more than 10 animals that are protected in an enclosure.

The Prophet Elias Mountain is richly blessed with pine and cypress trees, rare bush and plant species such as the Paeonia Rhodia and numerous orchids  (10 orchid species are endemic plants).

Due to the important monuments and the unique landscape of the regions from Kamiros to the mountains of the Prophet Elias, Atavyros, Akramyti, Kymisala, Vasilikos as well as Fourni and Prasonisi, they are part of the nature conservation programme of the EU NATURA 2000. Under the same programme, sections of the sea of the region where the sea turtle Caretta Caretta (Loggerhead sea turtle) and the Mediterranean seal Monachus Monachus live and reproduce are also protected, as is the air route of the birds to the south leading to warmer countries, with a stopover in Prasonisi.

Butterfly Valley (Valley of Butterflies, Petaloudes)

On the western side of the island of Rhodes, approximately five kilometers south east from the village of Theologos (or Tholos), there lies the Valley of the Butterflies - also known as Butterfly Valley (Petaloudes in Greek). This is one of the most attractive destinations on the island.

Filerimos

Mt. Filerimos, known in Greek as Φιλέρημος, rises 267 meters above sea level, approximately 15 kilometers from Rhodes Town. This notable hill, near the village of Trianta, occupies the historical site of the ancient Doric city of Ialysos. Filerimos's location offers both a rich historical context and panoramic views, making it a significant landmark on the island of Rhodes. The area is steeped in history, inviting visitors to explore its past while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Holy Monastery of Saint Nektarios of Kryoneri

The Monastery of Saint Nektarios of Kryoneri is a beautiful church located on your way to Archipolis village, as you drive inland from Kolymbia. With a beautiful surrounding area, it makes an excellent combination with a visit to the Seven Springs (a spot of incredible natural beauty), which is just a few minutes drive away.

Kalopetra Monastery

The Holy Monastery of Kalopetra (Kalopetra Monastery) dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is located next to the Butterfly Valley, 8 km south of the village of Theologos and 23 km. from the city of Rhodes.

Rhodes Aquarium

The Marine Aquarium in Rhodes is located in the basement of the Hydrobiological station and offers visitors the chance to have a close up view of the marine life of the Eastern Mediterranean, providing the impression of being underwater.

Rodini Park

Rodini Park was probably the first landscaped park in the world. It was still popular with the Romans some years later and they left a bit of an aqueduct here.

Seven Springs (Epta Piges)

One of Rhodes' most recognizable locations, Seven Springs (Epta Piges), draws many tourists each year. Seven Springs is a cool, magical landscape, a real oasis even in the heat of high summer, swamped in greenery. A Natura-2000 protected zone that is waiting to welcome you to experience a unique tranquil experience!

St. Nikolaos Foundoukli Church

As you embark on the serpentine journey through the sinuous road that meanders amidst the embrace of Mount Profitis Ilias, Rhodes' third-highest summit, an enchanting spectacle unveils itself. A resplendent tapestry of emerald unfolds, adorned with majestic olive trees whose gnarled limbs tell tales of centuries past, intermingled with the graceful presence of ancient figs and stately plane trees. Amidst this verdant sanctuary stands a petite stone chapel, a humble sentinel of the ages.

Tharri Monastery

Tharri Monastery is surrounded by nature, a perfect place to experience calmness and tranquility. The Monastery is well known for its hospitality and attracts many visitors.

Tsambika Monastery

The old monastery of Tsambika is built on top of a hill with gorgeous view to the sea and the surrounding area, offering breathtaking views over the beaches of Tsambika and Kolymbia.