Rhodes Cruise Port: 10 Best Things to Do in Rhodes Town
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Rhodes is my favorite island in Greece. I’ve visited both on a cruise with Odyssey of the Seas and later on a land vacation, and each time I found something new to love.
As the largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes blends beaches, ancient ruins, and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.
Its history stretches back to the 8th century BC and includes layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Italian influences.
The good news for cruisers is that the port sits right next to Rhodes Old Town, so you can step off the ship and start exploring on foot.
In this guide, I’ll share practical info about the cruise terminal along with the 10 best things to do in Rhodes Town, plus tips for shore excursions and getting around.
👉 If you’ve already seen Rhodes Town and want to explore further, check out my post on the Best Rhodes Beaches and Day Trips from the Cruise Port
Rhodes Cruise Port Overview
The port of Rhodes lies right in Rhodes Town, the island’s capital, at the northern tip of the island.
The town itself has two faces: the modern side with lively Mandraki Harbour, and the UNESCO-listed Old Town, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.
Cruise ships dock at a long, deepwater quay in a wide bay overlooking Mandraki Marina and the Old Town’s medieval walls.
From the terminal, it’s less than a 10-minute walk to the Old Town, with several gates directly across the street once you exit the port area.
The terminal has basic facilities, including shops, car rentals, a tourist information desk, and a taxi stand.
If you turn right as you leave the port, you’ll quickly reach Virgin Mary’s Gate, one of the main entrances into the Old Town.
Besides welcoming cruise ships, Rhodes is also a busy ferry hub, with daily connections to Kos, Symi, Samos, Chalki, and other nearby islands.
Getting Around Rhodes
🚶 On Foot
The best way to explore Rhodes Town is on foot. From the cruise terminal, it’s only a 10–15-minute walk to the main attractions.
The Old Town is right across the street, and you can enter through one of its gates just opposite the port.
If you turn right when you exit the terminal and follow the seafront promenade, in about 10 minutes you’ll reach Mandraki Marina, lined with yachts, boats, and elegant Italian-era buildings.
Walk another five minutes and you’ll come to Elli Beach, a popular spot for a swim or a quick break by the sea.
🚗 Car Rental
Renting a car is one of the best ways to see more of Rhodes. The island is relatively small (79.7 km long and 38 km wide), so you can cover a lot in just one day.
You’ll find rental companies all over town and right by the port, but prices change with the season, so it’s best to book online in advance to make sure you get a car.
👉 Compare car rental prices in Rhodes here
If you’re only visiting for a day and decide to skip the town, it’s realistic to drive to Kallithea Springs, Antony Quinn Bay, and even Lindos, three of the island’s most popular spots.
👉 Check out my detailed post: Rhodes 3 Day Itinerary by Car (Day 1 Cruise-Friendly Option)
🚕 By Taxi
You’ll find a taxi rank near the Old Town entrance by the Art Gallery. Prices are usually fixed and displayed, but you can sometimes negotiate.
Taxis are a quick way to reach popular beaches and attractions outside town.
🚌 By Public Bus
Rhodes does have a public bus system, but it’s not ideal if you’re only visiting for a day since services aren’t frequent.
The Central Bus Station is located on Papagou Street, behind the Nea Agora building in Mandraki port, about a 10-15 minute walk from the cruise terminal.
Tickets are sold at the kiosk, and timetables are available there.
🚌 Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
The Rhodes sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus is a convenient way to cover the main highlights in a short time.
Keep in mind, though, that the Old Town is enclosed within its medieval walls, so the bus route circles mostly around the northern tip of the island rather than going inside the Old Town itself.
👉 Check Rhodes Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours here
🚤 Shore Excursions
Shore excursions are a good choice if you’d rather explore with a guide or have everything planned for you.
Rhodes is my favorite island in Greece, and it’s beautiful wherever you go, whether that’s Old Town or further out to Lindos, Kallithea Springs, or Antony Quinn Bay.
Practical Tips for Cruise Visitors
- Currency: Greece uses the euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always handy to carry some cash for small purchases. ATMs and exchange offices are easy to find in town.
- Rhodes Airport: Rhodes Diagoras International Airport is 15.5 km (9.6 miles) southwest of Rhodes Town. You can reach the port by taxi, private transfer, or public bus (they run every 30-45 minutes).
- Accessibility: The area around the cruise terminal and Mandraki Marina is flat and easy to walk. Rhodes Old Town, however, has cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces that can be tricky for wheelchairs or strollers.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is often available at cafés, restaurants, and in some areas near the port.
- Accommodation: If you’re staying longer, there are plenty of hotels in Rhodes Town within walking distance of both the Old Town and Mandraki Harbour. Check Rhodes accommodation deals here
🎥 I visited Rhodes on a Mediterranean cruise — here’s my quick port overview!
Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide
Planning a Mediterranean cruise? My ebook covers 45 ports with tips, maps, and insider advice to help you make the most of every stop!
10 Best Things to Do in Rhodes Town (Walking Distance from the Ship)
If it’s your first time in Rhodes, the best way to spend the day is simply exploring Rhodes Town.
The Old Town, with its medieval walls and narrow streets, sits right next to the modern harbor and Elli Beach, all easy to reach from the port.
Here are my top picks for what to see and do in Rhodes Town.
🗺️ If you decide to skip the town and explore beyond, check out my post on the Best Rhodes Beaches and Day Trips from the Cruise Port
1. Explore the Palace of the Grand Master (Old Town)
This impressive palace is one of the must-see landmarks in Rhodes.
Built by the Knights of Saint John in the early 14th century on top of a former Byzantine citadel, it now serves as a museum with 24 rooms and halls open to visitors.
You can tour it on your own or join a guided visit, and there’s also a combined ticket option that covers several nearby sites, including the Archaeological Museum and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.
👉 Explore Palace of the Grand Master tours and tickets
2. Visit the Archaeological Museum (Old Town)
Just a short walk from the Palace of the Grand Master, the Archaeological Museum is housed in the former hospital of the Knights of Saint John.
Inside, you’ll find collections of artifacts and treasures from Rhodes and nearby islands, while the peaceful courtyard displays mosaics, sculptures, and other ancient pieces.
3. Walk the Street of the Knights (Old Town)
One of the most famous medieval streets in Europe, the Street of the Knights runs from the Palace of the Grand Master down to the former Hospital of the Knights.
Walking along its cobblestones feels like stepping back in time — the stone buildings on either side were once the residences of knights from different countries, known as “Inns” or “Tongues,” each built in the style of their homeland.
4. Stroll Socratous Street & Hippocrates Square (Old Town)
Socratous Street is the main shopping street in Rhodes Old Town, filled with souvenir shops, boutiques, and stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to local products.
It’s always lively and leads straight down to Hippocrates Square (Ippokratous Square), the beating heart of the Old Town.
The square is surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and historic buildings, making it a perfect spot to stop for a drink or people-watch.
At its center is the Castellania Fountain, built in the 16th century during the time of the Knights of St. John.
👉 Check out Rhodes Old Town walking tours
🍴 Where to Eat in Rhodes Old Town
Rhodes Old Town is full of great restaurants and cafés, perfect for a lunch break while exploring the city.
👉 If you’re looking for a place to try local food, check out my article on 7 Rhodes Restaurants I Highly Recommend.
5. See the Suleymaniye Mosque (Old Town)
Built in 1522 to mark the Ottoman conquest of Rhodes, the red-domed Suleymaniye Mosque stands at the top of busy Socratous Street.
No longer used for regular worship, it remains one of the island’s most striking landmarks and a reminder of the many cultures that have shaped Rhodes over the centuries.
6. Climb the Roloi Clock Tower (Old Town)
Dating back to the Byzantine era, the Roloi Clock Tower is one of the best spots for panoramic views of Rhodes Town.
It combines Byzantine and Ottoman architectural features and is especially beautiful at sunset. For a small entrance fee, you can climb to the top and then enjoy a complimentary drink at the café below.
The entrance is tucked right beside the Suleymaniye Mosque.
7. Swim at Elli Beach
Just a short walk from the port, Elli Beach is the go-to spot for cruisers who want some sun and sea without leaving town.
The long stretch of sand and pebbles has clear water, plenty of beach bars, and all the usual amenities.
You’ll spot it easily by the trampoline with three diving boards, a fun landmark that makes Elli Beach instantly recognizable.
From the cruise terminal, it’s about a 15-minute walk, starting at the end of Mandraki Harbour.
8. Stroll Mandraki Harbour
Mandraki Harbour is one of the most scenic spots in Rhodes Town, with a seafront promenade lined with yachts, fishing boats, and tour operators offering trips to beaches, bays, and nearby islands.
Much of the harbour was rebuilt during Italian rule in the early 20th century, and its elegant buildings now house the police station, governor’s house, national theatre, and other institutions.
The entrance to Mandraki is said to be the site of the Colossus of Rhodes, the giant statue of the sun god Helios and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, destroyed by an earthquake in 226 BC.
Today, two deer statues — Elafos and Elafina — stand on columns where the feet of the Colossus once rested. You’ll find them opposite the Church of the Annunciation with its tall bell tower.
Mandraki is also home to the 15th-century St. Nicholas Fortress and lighthouse, along with three picturesque windmills that have become a symbol of Rhodes.
👉 Explore Mandraki Harbour tours and activities
9. Visit the Rhodes Aquarium
At the far end of Elli Beach promenade sits the small Art Deco Rhodes Aquarium.
Overlooking the sea, it’s a nice stop if you’re visiting with kids or want a quick look at Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean marine life.
The visit takes about 30 minutes, so it’s an easy add-on to your Old Town or Elli Beach walk.
10. Taste the Local Food
One of the things I love most about Rhodes Town is how easy it is to find a good meal. Around every corner, there are tavernas, cafés, and restaurants serving everything from Greek specialties to international dishes.
I’m a big seafood fan, so I tried a different place every day — and most of them were excellent!
Prices in the Old Town can be a little higher than elsewhere on the island, but the friendly service and lively atmosphere make it worth it.
Don’t miss trying local Rhodian wine or a cold Mythos craft beer!
👉 I’ve put together a helpful article — check it out if you’re planning to stop for a meal: 7 Great Rhodes Restaurants That I Highly Recommend
Best Day Trips and Places Outside Rhodes Town
Rhodes isn’t just about the Old Town and Mandraki Marina. If you’d like to see more of the island during your cruise stop, you can head out on a day trip.
Whether you book a shore excursion, grab a taxi, or rent a car for flexibility, there are plenty of amazing places to explore beyond the city walls.
Here are some of the most popular spots outside Rhodes Town, with approximate distances and driving times:
- Lindos – 50 km / 31 miles south, about 1 hour
- Kallithea Springs – 9 km / 5.6 miles, about 15 minutes
- Antony Quinn Bay – 19 km / 12 miles, about 30 minutes
- Tsambika Beach & Monastery – 30 km / 19 miles, about 40 minutes
- Butterfly Valley – 27 km / 17 miles, about 40 minutes
- Kamiros Archaeological Site – 37 km / 23 miles, about 50 minutes
- Kritinia Castle – 46 km / 28.5 miles, about 1 hour
- Monolithos Castle – 72 km / 45 miles, about 1h30
- Prasonisi Beach – 90 km / 56 miles, about 1h30
- Faliraki – 13 km / 8 miles, about 20 minutes
👉 Learn more about each place in my full article: Best Rhodes Beaches and Day Trips from Cruise Port
👉 Explore the top-rated Rhodes tours and activities
Rhodes Cruise Port FAQ
❓ Can you walk from Rhodes cruise port to the Old Town?
Yes, the Old Town is right across the street from the cruise terminal. It takes less than 10 minutes on foot to reach one of the main gates.
❓ How far is Elli Beach from the cruise port?
Elli Beach is about a 15-minute walk from the cruise terminal, located just past Mandraki Marina.
❓ Is Rhodes safe for cruise passengers?
Absolutely. Rhodes is one of the safest Greek islands for visitors. The Old Town is very walkable, but be prepared for cobblestone streets and summer crowds.
❓ Do you need a tour in Rhodes, or can you explore on your own?
You don’t need a tour to enjoy Rhodes Town — Old Town, Mandraki Marina, and Elli Beach are all within walking distance. For attractions farther out, like Lindos or Butterfly Valley, you’ll need a taxi, rental car, or excursion.
❓ What currency is used in Rhodes?
Greece uses the euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, though it’s handy to carry some cash for souvenirs or small purchases.
❓ Are taxis easy to find near the port?
Yes, there’s a taxi rank right outside the Old Town entrance near the Art Gallery. Prices are usually fixed and displayed, though some drivers may negotiate.
❓ What shore excursions are most popular from Rhodes?
Popular excursions include Lindos, Kallithea Springs, Antony Quinn Bay, and Butterfly Valley. Many are offered through both cruise lines and independent tour operators.
❓ Is Rhodes cruise port wheelchair accessible?
The port and Mandraki Marina are flat and accessible, but the Old Town has uneven cobblestones that may be challenging for wheelchairs or strollers.
Helpful Resources for Rhodes Cruise Port
🌐 Useful Websites
- Find Rhodes Cruise Port on Google Maps
- Rhodes Cruise Ship Schedule
- Rhodes Tourism Office
- Local Weather Forecast
⚓ Other Ports Often Included
If your itinerary includes Rhodes, chances are you’ll also visit other popular Mediterranean ports:
- Piraeus (Athens) – gateway to the Acropolis
- Mykonos & Santorini – iconic whitewashed villages and Aegean views
- Corfu – Venetian Old Town and lush landscapes
- Istanbul – Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar
- Kusadasi – gateway to ancient Ephesus
- Kotor, Split & Dubrovnik – Adriatic gems with medieval Old Towns and fortresses
- Thessaloniki – Byzantine heritage and vibrant city life
- Crete (Heraklion & Chania) – Minoan ruins and scenic harbors
- Limassol (Cyprus) – a starting point for exploring the island
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Middle East, Australia & New Zealand
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Are there deep sea fishing charter boats in Mandraki Marina?
If yes, any recommendations?
Hi! I think there are, but I haven’t done it so I can’t recommend any specific company.