Welcome to the west coast of Rhodes. I hope you enjoy your journey!
I know a lot of people while visiting the island of Rhodes decide for themselves which side of the island they prefer.
Some prefer the West coast and others take a preference to the East side.
The problem is, it will be hard for you to decide unless you make a plan of what you want to see and when.
Here in this section, I am going to talk about the best places to visit on the West coast of the island.
From here you can decide what it is you want to do and make your plan accordingly.
I have lived here for many years on this beautiful island, and I am one of those that has taken a preference to the West coast.
For me, it is much more beautiful than the East side, and if you like peace and quiet, beautiful scenery, nice sunsets and nice places to visit,
I would always recommend to you the West coast of the island over the East coast.
Naturally, I am going to be talking about all the island as a whole, so you will have your chance to experience the East coast too, don’t worry!
What’s On Offer Down The West Coast Of Rhodes!
If you take the main road and make your journey south from Rhodes Town down the coast, it will take you across a distance of approximately 90 km.
This is the full length of the island from top to bottom, finishing at the beautiful beach of Prasonisi.
Along the way, there is a lot to see and experience. By no means should you be starting this excursion without the intention to see some of the places along the way!
There are some beautiful coastlines and villages to soak up. Ixia, Ialyssos/Trianda, Filerimos Mountain, The Butterfly Valley, The Ancient City Of Kamiros, Tholos, The Monolithos and Kritinia Castles and Siana to name some of them.
All of these places should not be missed, and we are going to be covering these in more detail.
Important
In my opinion, one of the most common mistakes people make is not giving themselves enough time to see what is on offer.
For example.
A lot of people come here on holiday and rent a car with the idea in mind that the island is quite small and they can see it all in just a few hours.
They take the car for one day only, and come back only seeing a fraction of what there is to see.
I think this is fine if you plan to see only one or two of the sites and historical locations, but if you are visiting Rhodes for the first time, then you need a lot longer.
There are thousands of years of history here, and there is no way it can all be seen and appreciated in one day.
The West Coast of Rhodes – My Recommendation
If you are in a position to Rent A Car, then I would give yourself 2 days to see the West coast, 2 Days to see the East coast, and another 1 or 2 days to see the inner part of the island.
For sure, 6 or 7 days with a rental car, scooter, ATV will allow you to see as much as possible.
So, let’s start our journey to the west shall we?
Select your area of interest below.
Don’t forget, I am here if you have any questions. Just leave them in the comments section below!
Click From The Below Locations To Continue And Learn More About The West Coast Of Rhodes.
It looks so gorgeous there! When we have the money and time, I would love to take a vacation with my husband and baby and see some new places.
Is there a best time of year to visit Rhodes? Also, what about hiking spots? I love to hike and some good trails always draw me in!
Hey there and thank for getting in touch!
There is lot to see actually if you are interested in walking. In actual fact, there is one book in my shop here which details some great areas to see. Check it out here if you like. It details a lot of trails and great information, I think you may like it.
When it comes to the best time to visit, it comes to personal preference. If you do not mind crowds and the heat then the high season (July/August) may be for you. On the other hand you might like it a little cooler where May/June and September/October could be better.
If you check out The Climate Of Rhodes section and the comments, you will see a lot of others have asked similar questions. Maybe this will help you decide when to visit.
Thanks, and I hope this helps you. Let me know if you need anything more.
Chris
The whole entire website looks very professional and your article on the West Coast Island of Rhodes is fantastic. You even explain about the villages that you can visit along the way and places that you don’t want to miss.
In this article you briefly explain in great detail what not to miss along the way and this could be good for me someday if i want to travel at some time.
Great information and pictures to go along with it.
Thanks Josh, I am glad you found the information here interesting.
Of course the West coast of the island is only a fraction of what there is to offer.
Soon I will be adding a lot of information I have prepared for the East Coast and some of the inner island attractions. I will also be discussing the different beaches and things to do.
Stay tuned, there is a lot more to come.
If you ever get to put your plans into action just let me know. I will be happy to help you out should you ever visit the island!
Thanks Josh!
Chris
Hi,
Thanks so much for your tips! It’s always good to know what to do and how to understand better a touristic place from local people.
I have never been in Greece but I’m looking forward to it. I hope it will be soon.
So, I will save this post (and others from your site) to learn more about Rhodes and its beautiful places.
Thanks.
Hi Darmendra and thanks for passing by,
Rhodes is full of amazing places and the west coast has a lot to offer. Make sure you check out all the posts on the west coast. There is more coming too!
If you have never been to Greece, then there is a real great time waiting here for you to discover. I hope it will be soon for you too 🙂
Thanks Darmendra. Nice to meet you.
Chris
We went to Rhodes about 5 years ago and man, I wish I came across your website earlier!
When we were there, me and my wife were just exploring, and walking the nice beaches.
I have the feeling we could’ve just done so many more things. We went to the west coast, but I think the nicer beaches are on the other side. Am I right?
I think you have offered us a reason to go back!
Johny, hi and thanks for getting in touch!
Over the last 5 years since your visit, there have been some changes on the island.
The road system on the East Coast will be different to what you remember it. A lot of improvements have been made which makes it easier when trying to navigate your way around.
The nicest beaches on the island are on the East Coast, you are quite right.
On the west side of the island most of the beaches are pebbled and with stones. Although they are nice to visit, there is nothing quite like a sandy beach.
For this reason most people venture to the East Coast when choosing to go to the beach. Faliraki and Tsampika Beaches being the most popular.
I always remind people though, that if you go to the area of Kamiros on the West Coast, there is a wonderful sandy beach there with a beautiful restaurant called Porto Antico, This is always worth a visit too 🙂
There is tons to see and do though Johny, and I will be covering everything on this site.
If you decide to make another visit, be sure to come back here for all the latest information.
Thanks my friend.
Chris
Wow, Rhodes looks so incredibly beautiful. I have always wanted to visit Greece.
I love the history of the region. Now I will have to add Ancient Kamiros In Rhodes to my list.
Quick question, are there ATV trails throughout the Island?
That would be an awesome way to travel there, very slowly!
Thanks for that insider’s view.
Hey there, thanks for getting in touch!
The Ancient City Of Kamiros is amazing yes, and if you love history – well, it does not get much better than this. It is really awesome. So make sure you have it on your list of things to see during your visit 🙂
As for the ATV trails, I know there is an off road trail which is down in Kiotari on the east coast of Rhodes.
On saying that, you are actually allowed to ride the ATV (Quad bikes) on the main roads too. I think this is also the same on the island of Santorini. I am not sure if the law on this is going to change soon though. I will keep you posted on the website.
I just wanted to mention here though, that it is good to have a little experience riding these vehicles. There are sometimes accidents and people get hurt as they are not used to controlling them
People think they are safer on 5 wheels, but these bikes can easily overturn if you do not know what you are doing
Hope this helps you. Let me know if you need anything else.
Thanks
Chris
Thanks for the tour Chris
With all the areas you show to visit, I could see it being impossible to take it all in in a day. The Ancient City Of Kamiros looks apt for a visit
I like how you answered to one of your visitors about where to go if you only have a day and this ancient city would have been your choice.
Are the locals friendly? Should you learn Greek before your stay? I hear that a lot of the populace speak English anyway as a second language. Is that right?
I know, so many questions. Looks really quiet and peaceful and would really like to visit.
Hey Jason, nice to meet you and thanks for your comment.
There is a lot to see in Rhodes and the west coast is packed with great places. The Ancient City Of Kamiros is of course only one of them, but it is a highlight for sure. This place should not be missed.
The local people in Rhodes are very friendly and hospitable yes. They will always make you feel welcome and ensure you have a pleasant stay on the island.
You will find most of the Greek people do speak English too yes. On saying that, there is nothing the Greeks like more than seeing people try to speak Greek. You do not need to be perfect, but just to learn a few words will help a lot and you will be respected for it.
If you struggle in this area though, no problem. The Greek people have a good grasp of the English language among others!
Hope this helps you Jason, and hope you manage to visit some day!
All the best
Chris
Hello Chris!
I’m starting to be a huge fan of your blog. Even though I’m from Greece, Rhodes has been on my travel list for a while, but I haven’t been able to cross it out yet.
I’m sure before I visit I will check thoroughly your blog, because it’s a complete travel guide.
I will rent a car for sure since you recommend it yourself! It seems an ideal way to see the island’s west coast.
Excellent job!
Antonis, thanks so much for passing by.
It is nice to have a native Greek person visit my information here. I am honored 🙂
Where are you from in Greece? Athens? Maybe Thessaloniki? Wherever you are in the country, for sure you are not far from Rhodes 🙂
The West Coast is definitely best seen by car yes. You can do it in your own time and at a pace that suits you.
Make sure you get here so you can tick it off your ‘to do’ list 🙂 I am waiting for you with a cold Mythos Beer!
Thanks Antonis, it is nice to meet you.
Chris
Ialyssos is beautiful!!!
I used to travel Europe during my single years. This would be somewhere I would love to take my grandson during spring break. He needs the culture, views and just know the world is bigger than his little view so far.
I’m very impressed with your information here. I hope one day I will be there to visit and see it all for myselfl
All The Best,
Sheila
Hello Sheila and thanks so much for taking a look around.
I really love Ialyssos yes. It is a place full of life, and because it was my landing place here when I came to live, i always look back on this area with great fondness.
There have been a few changes here over the years, but not so many.
I hope you will be able to visit Rhodes and Ialyssos in the future with your grandson. If you stay in this area, then you will be made to feel more than welcome, believe me 🙂
Thanks Sheila, and really nice to hear from you!
Chris
I had no idea that there was so much to see In Rhodes, I have always wanted to travel and see Greece, but didn’t even think about this island.
Thank you so much for giving me an opportunity to explore it much closer for yet another adventure.
I am currently traveling with a large family and seeing as many great places and having high quality experiences with the kids as often as possible, so thank you and please let me know if you have ideas for any experiences with 5 kids under 12 that really shouldn’t be passed up in this area.
Hey there Leigh, really nice to hear from you.
Sounds like you are having tons of on your travels. Make the most of these family times, I am sure in years to come you will have many great memories to look back on 🙂
Rhodes is actually really good for children. There is lots to do and many activities are made available for the children and parents to enjoy.
There is a lot when it comes to water activities, and if your children like the water this would be perfect for them. Apart from the beaches there is also the huge Water Park in Faliraki, known for its large water slides. It is great fun, even for the adults 🙂
Also, depending on where you stay, a lot of the hotels have entertainment for the children. There is a lot that goes on in the way of dancing, sports and competitions. There will always be something for them to do, never fear 🙂
I know it can be sometimes difficult keeping the younger generation entertained, but in Rhodes you are not short of options.
Hope this helps 🙂
Thanks Leigh
Chris
Chris, the island is beautiful!
The picture tours of Rhodes you provide in your post are breath taking.
I know you prefer the west side over the east side due to the scenery, but what else makes it better than the east side?
I want to plan a holiday to Rhodes soon! I will be traveling from the U.S., how much should I budget for a trip to Rhodes?
Hello there Edgar, and greetings to you all the way in the US!
I do prefer the West Coast of Rhodes to the East Coast, but that is not to say everyone will see it the same. it all depends on what you like and of course it comes down to personal taste.
The East Coast does have some beautiful places don’t get me wrong. Places such as Lindos, Tsampika Mountain, Anthony Quinn bay and many more. I prefer the West Coast though, more for its peace and quiet.
The East Coast is a very busy side of the island. Lindos is one of the main attractions, and it is on the main road from the city of Rhodes. This leads to huge traffic issues and to be honest, most of the East Coast is a big road connecting the two areas.
If you go down the West side though and head past the area of Soroni, it becomes beautiful and quiet. There is little in the way of traffic, there is beautiful scenery and fresh air. I find it a lot more relaxing, enjoyable and stress free 🙂
That is not to say avoid the East Coast though. There are some important areas there for you to see!
When it comes to budgeting your money, again that all depends on your situation and how long you plan to stay!
Not accounting for your accommodation and flights, I would say your spending money would need to be around 100 Euros per day. This will allow you to see what you want to see, cover travelling costs and allow you to visit some of the sites. This is an average figure, some will need more, some less.
Hope this helps you Edgar, and hope you manage your visit here from the US soon!
Thanks
Chris
Hello Chris,
My husband and I visited France over the summer. Even with 2 weeks exploring France we didn’t get to see what we wanted to see. It had too many good places to visit.
I was wondering if there’s is a excursion package for tourists?
Hi there kelyee.
Although Rhodes is far smaller than France, it does have its fair share of places to go and things to see.
It is sometimes hard to fit them all in, and naturally this also depends on the length of your stay!
If you come here with a tour operator, they can arrange days out for you. I know sometimes this costs a little more, but you will see what you want to see if you listen to their advice.
Tour operators provide all holiday makers with a welcome meeting which is planned upon your arrival. From there they will explain the best places to go, what is important etc. From there you can make your own decisions.
A lot of people prefer to rent a car and do things according to their own schedule. This is another option for you to consider.
Don’t forget, that this site is always here too. It will keep developing and you can make your own excursion plan with the information you find here.
Let me know if you need something more too Kelyee. I am always here to help 🙂
Thanks
Chris
Thank you Chris yeah we will sure to look into it. My husband and I are always looking for places to go and plus my husband is also a diver.
Hopefully there are some great place to go under the sea there as well.
Hey again Kelyee!
You husband will not be disappointed if he is a lover of Diving.
There are lots of good diving opportunities here in some stunning waters. This is one of the activities I will be talking about as I develop this website. There is a company on the island which takes care of all your diving needs. It is called Waterhoppers.
I promise there is more coming on this soon 🙂
Thanks Kelyee!
Chris
Hello Chris,
I wish to go on holiday to Rhodes. It must be very beautiful there and as my husband and I like to visit historic places, it’s a perfect holiday destination for us.
We like to rent a car when traveling around abroad. I appreciate your recommendations on how many days to spend at the different parts of the island. A question came up just this moment: Is there right- or left hand traffic on Rhodes?
At what time of the year do you recommend to visit Rhodes?
Already looking forward to the holidays next year!!
Pernilla
Pernilla, hi and thanks for your great question.
The traffic system on the island of Rhodes follows the same rules as mainland Europe. So, you are driving on the right side of the road, and the steering wheel is on the left side of the car.
It is an important thing to know. A lot of people travel here to Rhodes from the UK and yes, a lot of them rent cars too in order to get around and see the sites.
I have seen some near collision on the road as the UK has a different driving system. There, they drive on the left side of the road, while the steering is on the right side of the car.
I am from the UK originally and learned this system. When it came to visiting Europe I think I handled the change pretty well. On saying that, I went back to the UK around 4 years ago for a few days, and i did not adjust back to my old schooling that well 🙂
If you love history then you will love Rhodes, no doubt.
When it comes to the best time to visit it really does depend on personal taste. It depends on the weather, the high or low season, the crowds. If you take a look at the information I made on The Climate Of Rhodes you will see lots more there. I hope this helps you.
Here are a couple of links that will offer you a little more information on what we have discussed here.
Thanks Pernilla, and let me know if you need something more.
Chris
Car Rental In Rhodes Greece
The Climate Of Rhodes
Thanks for the information about the West Coast.
It looks like it has a lot of scenery and also a lot of history. I really like your advice of not doing it all in one day… that sounds exhausting!
Quick question: If you did only have one day to see some of the west coast, what area would you go to?
Thanks!
Hey there, thanks for getting in touch and that is a really great question.
I guess it is important to understand that people do not always have all the time in the world to tour around extensively. I will be the first person to admit I sometimes forget that.
Sometimes I overlook this point, as living here allows me to look around in my own time.
For those that are pressed for time, or only have time for a day trip down the west coast of Rhodes, I would say it would be important to visit The Ancient City Of Kamiros and Kritinia and Monolithos Castles.
Not only are they beautiful places to see, but they hold important historic significance when it comes to the island of Rhodes. If It was me, these would be the highlights for sure. If you can fit more in though, then all the better.
Thanks and hope this helps 🙂
Chris