A few months back, I spent a week in Rhodes, the largest island of the Greek Dodecanese islands. With 300 days of sun on average, Rhodes is known as the ‘island of the sun’. It’s the perfect destination to escape the rainy British weather, and a bit quieter, cooler, and cheaper in the shoulder seasons of September to October and March to May. The first two days were really windy — the eastern side of the island is far windier than the western side — but it was still plenty hot while I was there at the beginning of October (28C/82F every day).

Elegant poolside view at Elissa Lifestyle Resort in Rhodes, Greece during sunset with palm trees and outdoor dining — Our resort, Elissa Lifestyle Resort in Kallithea

A quick history of Rhodes

Rhodes has a fascinating history stretching back thousands of years, and you can feel it in every corner you explore. Originally founded by the ancient Greeks, it became a powerful city-state and was once home to the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Over the centuries, Rhodes has been ruled by everyone from the Romans to the Byzantines, but its most iconic chapter was in the medieval period when the Knights of St. John made the island their stronghold, building the stunning walled city that you can still visit today. After a stint under Ottoman and later Italian control, Rhodes finally became part of Greece in 1947. This rich blend of cultures has left its mark on the island, making it a treasure trove of ancient ruins, medieval castles, and vibrant Greek culture.

Explore the map below to see all the hidden gems mentioned in this post:

Hidden gems in Rhodes you shouldn’t miss

If you’re planning a trip to Rhodes, you probably already have the big attractions on your list—Lindos Acropolis, Rhodes Old Town, and maybe even a glimpse of where the Colossus once stood. But if you’re like me, you're also hunting for those off-the-beaten-path spots that give a place its real character.

One of the top sites I was excited about was the Valley of the Butterflies, but unfortunately, I missed butterfly season by just a week! (They’re only around from June 10 to September 20.) Luckily, Rhodes is packed with unique and unexpected spots that kept us more than busy.

The Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes) is one of the most unique natural attractions in Rhodes (if you manage to get there during butterfly season). From mid-June to mid-September, thousands of Jersey tiger moths gather in the cool, shaded valley to rest during the heat of the day. Even outside the season, it’s a peaceful, green retreat filled with wooden bridges, waterfalls, and forest paths—ideal for a shaded walk or nature break. Just be aware that if you’re visiting in early spring or late autumn, the butterflies will likely be gone, but the setting is still worth a stop.

Even though I missed the butterflies, I still found plenty of things to keep us busy. Here are some hidden gems in Rhodes that will make your trip unforgettable:

Decan Bistro, Koskinou

We found Decan Bistro when we were looking for a quiet cafe to do a bit of people-watching, but outside of the tourist throngs. Down a quiet cobblestone street, Decan Bistro is one of those places you’ll wish you had found sooner. It’s a cosy, stylish spot where you can enjoy a mix of modern and traditional Greek dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re craving seafood, a hearty Greek salad, or something a little more inventive, Decan Bistro delivers on both taste and ambience. Plus, the friendly service will make you feel like a local.

Omelet and toast at Decan Bistro in Rhodes

Koskinou Village

A short drive from Rhodes town, Koskinou Village is a colourful, character-filled gem. The narrow, cobbled streets are lined with colorful houses, each one a little work of art with brightly painted doors and flower-filled courtyards. It’s a perfect place to wander aimlessly and soak up the traditional village vibe. Plus, there are some amazing local tavernas serving authentic Rhodian food.

Kallithea Springs

For a mix of history and relaxation, visit Kallithea Springs, a beautifully restored thermal spa just a short drive from Rhodes Town. Entry is €3, but free if you arrive an hour before closing (note: the cafe is closed by then).

Originally developed during the Italian occupation, the site features traditional Greek and elegant Art Deco architecture. Spend a few hours soaking up the sun, or take a swim in the calm bay—it feels like a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle.

Top tip: Don’t miss the waterside cafe with tables overlooking the bay—perfect for a scenic coffee break.

The Bee Museum

You might not expect to find a bee museum on a Greek island, but the Bee Museum of Rhodes near Pastida is a must-visit. We stumbled on this by accident on our way to Seven Springs and Eleousa. Located near the village of Pastida, the Bee Museum of Rhodes is one of those quirky, unexpected spots that will leave you buzzing.

You’ll learn about beekeeping traditions, watch local sweets being made, and even sample Melekouni, the Dodecanese sesame-honey dessert traditionally served at weddings. It’s a great spot for families or anyone who wants to dive into an important part of Rhodes' agricultural history.

Admission: €4, includes a free treat

Top tip: The gift shop is great for souvenirs, with lots of local honeys on offer, and t-shirts for only €9.

Honeycomb display inside the Bee Museum of Rhodes showcasing traditional beekeeping and honey production

Fish spas in Faliraki

Faliraki is a lively tourist town on the east coast, full of cafes, beach bars, and nightlife. There are a lot of resorts and hotels in the area, and the main strip kind of reminded me of Florida in some strange way.

If you’re feeling adventurous (and aren’t too ticklish), try one of the popular fish spas in the area. These quirky spas offer a unique foot treatment where tiny fish nibble away at dead skin, leaving your feet feeling smooth and refreshed. It’s a fun and relaxing experience, perfect for a break after a day at the beach or exploring the nearby Faliraki nightlife.

Alex enjoying a Garra Rufa fish spa therapy in Faliraki, the beach resort town in Rhodes, Greece

Eleousa: the abandoned Italian village

Tucked away in the mountains, Eleousa is one of the most atmospheric places I visited. Built by the Italians in the 1930s as a model village (then called Campochiaro), it’s now a haunting, almost forgotten ghost town. Faded buildings and empty streets hint at its past, and the abandoned sanatorium in the woods adds a mysterious edge.

For those interested in history or just seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure, Eleousa’s abandoned charm is both eerie and captivating, offering a unique peek into Rhodes’ Italian era.

I wrote more about Eleousa in this post here.

Historic abandoned Italian-era building with arches and balconies in the village of Eleousa, Rhodes, Greece

Agios Nikolaos Fountoukli Church

Not far from Eleousa, this tiny 15th-century Byzantine church sits peacefully among pine-covered hills. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes that have withstood centuries. It’s quiet, spiritual, and completely off the typical tourist trail.

Seven Springs (Epta Piges)

Need a break from the busy beaches? Seven Springs is a shaded, forested oasis with seven springs feeding into a lake and waterfall. The walk through the cool tunnel is a fun surprise, especially on hot days. Bring a picnic or just enjoy a tranquil hike.

Kritinia Castle

For those who love a bit of history with a side of breathtaking views, Kritinia Castle on the island’s west coast is a must. This 15th-century fortress sits high on a hill, with jaw-dropping, panoramic views of the Aegean. It’s the perfect spot to escape for a peaceful, scenic afternoon. Best of all, it’s usually not crowded, so you can explore it in peace. Go in the late afternoon for an unforgettable sunset.

Monolithos Castle

Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the sea, Monolithos Castle is one of the island’s most remote and scenic historical sites. The walk up may be a bit steep, but the views from the top are absolutely worth it. There’s something magical about being up there with nothing but the ruins, the wind, and the sea stretching out below. It’s a hidden gem for those who love a bit of adventure and solitude.

Best snorkeling in Rhodes

The first few days were too windy for snorkeling, but once the sea calmed down, we explored as many spots as we could. While it’s not quite on par with Halkidiki or Cyprus, Rhodes still has plenty of underwater life to explore.

Anthony Quinn Bay and Ladiko Beach: Highly recommended online, but we found them far too crowded and noisy.
Agathi Beach: much more our speed! It has a golden, sandy beach, and we saw many different fish and a gigantic sea urchin in the clear waters by the rocky cliffs.
Kallithea Beach: Our favorite. Quieter, with changing facilities and a nearby cafe, it’s perfect for spotting sea cucumbers, urchins, and enjoying a relaxed snorkel next to the Art Deco buildings of Kallithea Springs.

Snorkelers enjoying the crystal-clear turquoise water at Anthony Quinn Bay in Rhodes, Greece

Wrapping up

Exploring these hidden gems in Rhodes gave us a much deeper appreciation for the island—its history, its nature, and its quiet, magical corners far from the cruise crowds. Whether you're wandering abandoned villages or watching fish nibble your toes, these spots offer something truly memorable.

Know a Rhodes gem I missed? Drop it in the comments! And check out more photos on Instagram.

Hidden gems in Rhodes: unique things to do off the beaten path