Rhodes: 7 Places That Reveal a Different Side of the Island

Rhodes is often introduced through two postcard-perfect icons: its UNESCO-listed Old Town and the whitewashed beauty of Lindos. Yet according to the Greek tourism authorities, Rhodes remains one of the most visited islands in the Dodecanese, welcoming travellers who increasingly seek experiences beyond the traditional sightseeing circuit.

For first-time visitors, the temptation is to spend most of a holiday between Rhodes Town, Lindos and the beach. That would be a mistake. Venture a little further and you’ll discover a very different Rhodes-one shaped by mountain villages, ancient ruins, forests and dramatic coastlines.

Beyond Rhodes Old Town

The island is surprisingly diverse for its size. Travelling from the east coast to the interior can feel like entering a different destination altogether. Many visitors choose their accommodation before planning excursions, and those comparing different parts of the island may find useful inspiration in our top-rated selection of all inclusive rhodes luxury resorts, particularly when deciding how easily they can reach some of Rhodes’ lesser-known highlights.

A practical tip: if you plan to explore several of the locations below, hiring a car for at least one or two days will significantly expand your options. Public transport connects major towns well, but some of the island’s most rewarding spots require a little extra flexibility.

Monolithos: Rhodes at Its Most Dramatic

Perched high above the sea on the island’s rugged west coast, Monolithos Castle offers one of Rhodes’ most spectacular viewpoints. The remains of the medieval fortress are modest, but the setting is unforgettable.

Visit late in the afternoon and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across the Aegean and nearby islets. Photographers often consider this one of the island’s most striking sunset locations, yet it remains far quieter than the better-known sites around Lindos.

Seven Springs (Epta Piges): A Surprisingly Green Escape

Many travellers arrive expecting beaches and rocky landscapes. Seven Springs challenges that assumption. Hidden among pine trees and natural springs, this peaceful area offers shaded walking trails and cooler temperatures during the hotter months. It is particularly appealing for families and visitors looking for a break from beach-focused days.

The famous tunnel leading to the small reservoir isn’t for everyone: it’s dark, narrow and wet. But it remains one of the island’s more unusual experiences.

Ancient Kamiros: A Different Chapter of Rhodes History

While Rhodes Town tells the story of the Knights of St John, Ancient Kamiros reveals a much older chapter. Often described as the “Pompeii of Rhodes”, this archaeological site preserves the remains of an ancient Greek city overlooking the sea. Streets, public buildings and water systems remain visible, allowing visitors to imagine daily life centuries before the medieval period.

History enthusiasts frequently find Kamiros more atmospheric than crowded tourist attractions because of its open setting and relative tranquillity.

Kritinia: A Village Built for Views

Small, traditional and refreshingly unhurried, Kritinia offers a glimpse of everyday island life away from the busiest resorts.

The village’s narrow streets and local tavernas provide a welcome contrast to the commercial areas found elsewhere on the island. Nearby Kritinia Castle adds another excellent viewpoint, particularly for travellers interested in combining history with coastal scenery.

Embonas: Discovering Rhodes’ Wine Country

Few first-time visitors associate Rhodes with wine, yet Embonas has long been considered the island’s wine-producing heart. Located on the slopes of Mount Attavyros, the village is known for vineyards, local produce and traditional cuisine. Rather than rushing through, it’s worth stopping for lunch and sampling regional specialities.

For food-focused travellers, Embonas provides one of the most authentic experiences available on the island.

Profitis Ilias: The Coolest Part of Rhodes

At higher elevation, Profitis Ilias feels remarkably different from the coast. Dense forests, cooler air and walking opportunities make it particularly attractive during summer. The area’s Italian-era buildings add another layer of interest, reflecting a period of Rhodes’ history that many visitors know little about.

If your itinerary is dominated by beaches and historic towns, this is the place that adds balance.

Prasonisi: Where Two Seas Meet

At Rhodes’ southern tip lies one of its most distinctive natural landmarks. Prasonisi is famous for the narrow strip of sand that separates the Aegean Sea from the Mediterranean. Depending on conditions, visitors can literally stand between two bodies of water.

The area has become a favourite among windsurfers and kitesurfers, but even non-sports enthusiasts come for the dramatic scenery and sense of remoteness.

Planning Your Rhodes Itinerary

To help shape your route, the table below summarises which places are best suited to different travel interests and how much time to allow for each visit.

Before travelling, it is also worth checking practical information and regional recommendations through the official Visit Greece tourism portal, which provides up-to-date guidance on attractions, transport and seasonal events.

Rhodes deserves its reputation as one of the most beautiful Greek islands for its medieval history and beautiful beaches, but reducing the island to those highlights alone misses much of its character !