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Where to Stay in Rhodes: Best Areas & Resorts

By Rhodes Things To Do

Choosing the right base makes a big difference on Rhodes, because the island is large — around 80 km long — and each area has a distinct character and pace. The wrong choice can mean long daily drives; the right one puts the experiences you want on your doorstep. This guide breaks down the best areas to stay in Rhodes by traveller type, with the pros, cons and who each suits.

Rhodes Town & the Old Town

Best for first-timers, culture lovers and short trips. Staying in or near Rhodes Town gives you history, restaurants, shopping and nightlife on your doorstep, the town beach (Elli) nearby, and by far the best bus connections on the island. Within the medieval Old Town you can sleep inside the walls in atmospheric boutique stays — magical, though it means cobbled streets and some walking with luggage. The New Town just outside is handier for the beach, modern hotels and car hire. If you have only a few days or no car, this is the smart choice.

Pros: central, walkable, great transport, year-round amenities.
Cons: the Old Town can be busy and noisy in peak season.

Lindos

Best for couples and a postcard setting. Lindos is the most scenic place to stay on Rhodes, with boutique hotels and villas in restored captains' houses, rooftop restaurants and two beautiful bays. It is busy with day-trippers by day but becomes magical in the evening once the excursions leave. Note that the village is car-free, so expect to walk with your bags, and it is about an hour from the airport.

Pros: stunning setting, romantic, great dining, walkable to beaches.
Cons: far from the airport, crowded midday, limited car access.

Faliraki & the east coast

Best for families and beach holidays. Faliraki offers long sandy beaches, watersports, big resorts and a lively scene, with plenty of family-friendly hotels and easy bus links to Rhodes Town and Lindos. Nearby Kalithea and Ladiko provide quieter alternatives within easy reach. This stretch is the sweet spot for sun-and-sea holidays with lots to do.

Pros: great beaches, family amenities, value, good bus links.
Cons: the resort centre can be lively/late in peak months.

Ixia, Ialysos & the west coast

Best for resorts, spas and watersports. A strip of larger hotels just outside Rhodes Town, with pebbly beaches and reliable afternoon breezes that windsurfers love. It is close to the city (a short bus or taxi ride) while feeling more resort-like, with many four- and five-star options and spa facilities.

Pros: upscale resorts, close to town, windsurfing.
Cons: pebbly beaches, less character than the Old Town or Lindos.

The quiet south (Gennadi, Lachania, Kiotari)

Best for a relaxed, authentic stay. The south offers long, quiet beaches, a slower pace and a more local feel, away from the crowds. It rewards travellers who want peace and space — but a car is essential, as bus links and amenities are sparser.