Mediterranean
Ships dock at the Commercial Port of Rhodes (also known as the Central Port), located directly adjacent to the medieval Old Town walls, making this one of the most conveniently situated cruise terminals in the Mediterranean.
Rhodes is one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating cruise stops — a sun-drenched island where a UNESCO-listed medieval city meets crystal-clear Aegean waters and centuries of layered history. Whether you have a few hours or a full day ashore, this island punches well above its weight. Here’s how to spend your time wisely.
Arriving by Ship
Cruise ships dock at the Commercial Harbour, just a short walk from the entrance to Rhodes Old Town. The famous bronze deer statues — said to mark the spot where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood — greet you as you step off the tender or gangway. The port itself is compact and easy to navigate, with taxis, local buses, and tour operators all within easy reach of the quayside. If you’re planning to explore beyond the Old Town, grab a taxi or book transport in advance — the island is larger than it looks on a map.
Things to Do
The Old Town of Rhodes is the star attraction, and for good reason. Enclosed by massive medieval walls built by the Knights of St John, this labyrinth of cobbled streets, Ottoman mosques, Byzantine churches, and Venetian mansions is extraordinary to wander. Don’t miss the Street of the Knights (Ippoton), one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe, and the Palace of the Grand Master, which towers over the northern end of the Old Town.
If you want to cover the island’s highlights efficiently, a guided excursion saves you valuable time. 🎟 Book: The Very Best of Rhodes For a deeper dive into local culture and history beyond the walls, consider booking a curated experience that takes in both the ancient city of Lindos and the more overlooked corners of the island.
For something more adventurous, the island of Symi is just a short ferry ride away — or you could hop across to Fethiye in Turkey if your itinerary allows for a spontaneous international detour. 🎟 Book: Ferry Tickets Between Rhodes (Greece) and Fethiye (Turkey)
Local Food
Rhodian cuisine is a delicious blend of Greek staples and influences from the island’s layered past. Look out for pitaroudia (chickpea fritters), moussaka, fresh grilled octopus, and loukoumades (honey-drenched doughnuts) from street vendors in the Old Town. Seafood is excellent here — find a taverna on one of the quieter squares and order whatever came in that morning.
Wine lovers will be pleasantly surprised by Rhodes. The island has its own wine-producing tradition, particularly around the Emery Winery in the interior, producing crisp whites from the Athiri grape. A dedicated tasting session is a lovely way to spend an hour away from the tourist crowds. 🎟 Book: Rhodes Wine Tasting Experience If you prefer a broader tasting experience covering local flavours beyond just wine, a food tour is equally worthwhile. 🎟 Book: Tasting Rhodes
Shopping
Rhodes Old Town is a treasure trove for shoppers, provided you know where to look. Skip the cheap souvenir shops on the main tourist drag and head deeper into the medieval streets, where you’ll find independent jewellers, ceramic artists, and small galleries selling hand-painted icons and traditional crafts. Rhodian gold jewellery is particularly renowned — the island has a long metalworking tradition, and quality pieces are widely available.
For local edibles to bring home, pick up jars of local honey, packets of dried herbs from the island’s hillsides, or bottles of Rhodian wine. The covered market near Sokratous Street is a good hunting ground for both food products and handmade goods. Bartering isn’t expected in most shops, but a friendly smile and genuine interest in the product often goes a long way.
Practical Tips
- Currency: Greece uses the euro. Most shops and restaurants in the Old Town accept cards, but carry some cash for smaller vendors and street food stalls.
- Walking shoes are essential: The Old Town’s cobblestones are beautiful but uneven — leave the sandals for the beach.
- Heat: In summer, temperatures regularly exceed 35°C. Carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan your walking for the morning when it’s cooler.
- Getting back: Make sure you know your ship’s all-aboard time before heading out. The walk from the Old Town gates back to the Commercial Harbour takes about 10–15 minutes — budget accordingly.
- Transfers: If you’re flying in or out of Rhodes separately from your cruise, private airport transfers are reliable and affordable. 🎟 Book: Rhodes Private Departure Transfer to Rhodes Airport
Rhodes rewards those who slow down and look beyond the obvious. Even a single day here leaves you with the sense that you’ve touched something genuinely ancient — and probably craving a return visit with more time to spare.
🎟️ Things to Book in Advance
These highly-rated experiences fill up fast — book before you arrive to avoid missing out.
This page contains affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Getting Around from the Port
Walk
The cruise pier is within easy walking distance of the Rhodes Old Town entrance gates; the historic centre is essentially on your doorstep.
Taxi
Taxis are available at the port exit and from the main taxi rank near Mandraki Harbour; metered fares apply but agree on price for out-of-town destinations like Lindos.
Bus (KTEL)
Rhodes has two bus stations: one near Mandraki Harbour (east coast routes including Lindos) and one on Averof Street (west coast routes); buses are inexpensive but can be crowded in peak season.
Rental Car or Scooter
Several rental agencies operate near the port and Old Town; a car or scooter gives excellent flexibility to explore the island independently, though Greek traffic laws and road conditions outside town warrant caution.
Tour Bus / Shore Excursion Coach
Organised coach excursions depart from the port area and cover key sites such as Lindos, Valley of the Butterflies, and island panoramic tours; bookable through your cruise line or local operators at the pier.
Top Things To Do
1
Rhodes Old Town (Medieval City)
One of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the walled Old Town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and Venetian-era architecture. Strolling the Street of the Knights (Ippoton) and exploring the bustling market streets of Socratous is an absolute must. Allow plenty of time to get happily lost u2014 the walls alone take nearly an hour to walk.
Find shore excursions on Viator2
Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
This imposing fortress-palace at the highest point of the Old Town was built by the Knights of St John in the 14th century and is the most iconic monument in Rhodes. Inside are impressive mosaic floors (many relocated from Kos), period furnishings, and two permanent exhibitions on the history of ancient and medieval Rhodes. It is well worth the modest entry fee and is manageable in under two hours.
Find shore excursions on Viator3
Acropolis of Rhodes (Monte Smith)
Situated on a hill about 2 km from the Old Town, this ancient Greek acropolis features a partially reconstructed Temple of Apollo, a small stadium, and an odeon, offering panoramic views over the city and sea. It is far less crowded than Lindos and gives a genuine sense of the ancient city. Taxis or a short bus ride can get you there, or it is walkable for those who don't mind a gentle climb.
Find shore excursions on Viator4
Lindos Acropolis and Village
Perched dramatically on a 116-metre clifftop, the ancient Acropolis of Lindos with its Temple of Athena Lindia and Hellenistic stoa is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Greece. The whitewashed village below is picturesque but very touristy and extremely busy in summer. Note that the climb to the acropolis is steep and paved with smooth stone u2014 donkey rides are available but can be controversial. This excursion requires at least 3-4 hours and should only be attempted if your ship offers a full day in port.
Find shore excursions on Viator5
Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
Housed in the beautifully restored 15th-century Hospital of the Knights in the Old Town, this museum contains an excellent collection of ancient artefacts from across the Dodecanese, including the famous Aphrodite of Rhodes marble statue. It is compact, well-labelled in English, and gives important context for the island's rich ancient history. A worthwhile stop that pairs well with a broader Old Town walk.
Find shore excursions on Viator6
Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes)
Located about 25 km from Rhodes Town, this lush nature reserve is home to thousands of Jersey tiger moths (often called butterflies) that gather in the valley between June and September. Wooden walkways wind through streams and shaded woodland making it a pleasant escape from the summer heat and bustle of the city. Outside of summer the moths are absent, so check timing before making the trip.
Find shore excursions on Viator7
Mandraki Harbour
The picturesque ancient harbour of Rhodes is guarded at its entrance by bronze deer statues u2014 the spot traditionally said to be where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood, though this is unverified. The harbour is lined with windmills, the Church of St John, the Governor's Palace, and the elegant New Market building. It is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from the cruise port and a great orientation point for the town.
Find shore excursions on Viator8
Faliraki Beach or Elli Beach
Elli Beach is the closest sandy beach to Rhodes Town, located just north of Mandraki Harbour and walkable from the Old Town u2014 ideal for cruise passengers wanting a quick swim without travelling far. Faliraki, about 14 km south, is a larger resort beach with more facilities and water sports but requires a taxi or bus. Both beaches have sun lounger and umbrella rentals in season.
Find shore excursions on ViatorPractical Tips for Cruise Passengers
- The cobblestones throughout the Old Town are beautiful but uneven and slippery u2014 wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip, especially near the Palace of the Grand Master.
- Summer temperatures in Rhodes regularly exceed 35u00b0C (95u00b0F); carry water, wear sunscreen, and avoid the midday heat if you plan to walk extensively or visit Lindos.
- Lindos is a spectacular but time-intensive excursion u2014 only attempt it independently if your ship is in port for 8+ hours; bus journey times are long and Lindos itself gets very crowded from mid-morning.
- The Old Town is right next to the port so there is no need to rush u2014 you can walk ashore and begin exploring immediately, saving time and money on transport.
- Euros are the local currency; ATMs are plentiful in the Old Town and near Mandraki Harbour. Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but smaller stalls and local tavernas may prefer cash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes u2014 Rhodes is one of the most walkable cruise ports in the Mediterranean. The Commercial Port pier is located right next to the Old Town walls, and you can be inside the medieval city within 5-10 minutes on foot. No transport is needed to access the main historic attractions.
Most cruise ships spend between 8 and 12 hours in Rhodes, typically arriving in the morning and departing in the early evening. Some itineraries allow overnight stays. This is generally sufficient for both the Old Town and a day trip to Lindos if you are organised.
Yes, Rhodes is very safe for independent exploration. The Old Town is well-signposted and easy to navigate, and local buses and taxis to sites like Lindos are reliable and straightforward to use. It is one of the more tourist-friendly ports in the Greek islands.
Greece uses the Euro (u20ac). USD is not accepted in shops or restaurants. ATMs are readily available throughout the Old Town and near Mandraki Harbour. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors, tavernas, and entrance fees.
For passengers with 8+ hours in port, a guided visit to the Lindos Acropolis combined with the Rhodes Old Town is the classic and most rewarding excursion. For those who prefer to stay close to the ship, a self-guided walk through the medieval Old Town taking in the Palace of the Grand Master, Street of the Knights, and Mandraki Harbour offers an outstanding half-day experience without any transport costs.
Planning a Mediterranean cruise that includes the stunning medieval city and ancient ruins of Rhodes, Greece?
Compare sailings and book with no fees — best price guaranteed.
