A Weekend in Rhodes from Cyprus: Flights, Things to Do & Where to Stay

Rhodes is closer to Cyprus than most people realise, just an hour in the air. Once you land, you get one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, a whitewashed village under an ancient acropolis and a coastline of sandy bays. For expats who want a summer weekend that feels like a proper holiday without the travel time, it's hard to beat.

How do you get to Rhodes from Cyprus?

Direct flights run in summer only. From Larnaca, Aegean and Cyprus Airways fly the route. From Paphos, Ryanair does. The flight takes about 1 hour. Seats on summer weekends go quickly, so book ahead, especially for July and August. Routes and schedules change by season, so check with the airline before booking.

Rhodes airport is on the west coast, south-west of Rhodes town. Public buses run between the airport and the town, and taxis wait outside arrivals for the drive into town. If you plan to explore the island, you can pick up a hire car at the airport.

Is Rhodes good for a weekend?

Rhodes suits couples, families and friends looking for a mix of history and beach time. The old town is enough for a day on its own, and the rest of the island is easy to explore by car or bus.

As direct flights only operate in summer, plan for the warm months. Late spring, September and early October are the most pleasant, with warm seas and calmer streets. July and August are hot and busy. The island is known for its sunshine, and the wind on the west coast can be strong.

What to do in Rhodes in a weekend

Day 1

Spend the day in the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enter through one of the gates in the massive walls, then walk the cobbled Street of the Knights to the Palace of the Grand Master. Explore the side lanes, the old Jewish quarter and the squares full of cafés. In the late afternoon, stroll around Mandraki harbour, where bronze deer statues stand on columns at the entrance said to be the site of the ancient Colossus.

Day 2

Head down the east coast to Lindos, a village of white houses below a clifftop acropolis with views over the sea. Climb up in the morning before it gets hot. Then swim at St Paul's Bay just below the village. On the way back, stop for a swim at Tsambika or Anthony Quinn Bay, known for its clear water.

If you have a third day

Visit Kallithea Springs, a restored spa complex by the sea, or the Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes) inland. Another option is to take the ferry to the nearby island of Symi, known for its colourful harbour.

Where to stay in Rhodes

• Old Town – atmospheric and car-free, best for couples and first-timers.
• New Town and Mandraki – practical and lively, close to beaches and restaurants.
• Lindos – picturesque and romantic, but busy by day and further from the airport.
• Faliraki – a beach resort on the east coast, good for families and groups.

What to eat

• Pitaroudia – chickpea fritters, a Rhodian speciality.
• Melekouni – a sesame and honey bar traditionally made for celebrations.
• Souma – the island's strong local spirit.
• Fresh fish and seafood – best at a harbour taverna.
• Local wine – the villages around Mount Attavyros, such as Embonas, are known for it.

Practical tips for travellers from Cyprus

• Currency: the euro, just as in Cyprus.
• Language: Greek. If you're learning Greek in Cyprus, Rhodes is a good place to practise, though English is very widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Time difference: none, it's the same time as Cyprus.
• Passport/ID: EU citizens can travel with a valid national ID card. Cyprus isn't in the Schengen Area yet, so there are passport or ID checks even on flights within the EU. Non-EU residents should bring their passport and check the entry rules for their nationality.
• Mobile roaming: EU roaming rules apply, so you can use your Cypriot plan as you would at home.
• Local tip: Greece drives on the right, unlike Cyprus. Cars can't enter most of the old town, so park outside the walls.

For more island ideas, see Heraklion or browse our weekend getaways from Cyprus.