Lindos, the most beautiful village on Rhodes

To the south-east of Rhodes, just under 55km from the capital, the magnificent village of Lindos is one of the island's main attractions. With its whitewashed houses, this is a typical Greek island setting.

Smothered by an incredible number of shops of all kinds, souvenir vendors, bars and restaurants (and the smell of sweet pancakes!) follow one another down the narrow streets of Lindos. An exceptional archaeological site, the village is overlooked by a superb ancient acropolis, protected by its medieval citadel.

You'll need to be patient to reach it, as the path is steep and there are many steps! From up there, you can enjoy a splendid panorama over a hundred metres high. The less courageous can still make it to the top thanks to the local attraction: the donkey ride.

Breathtaking view from the acropolis of Lindos

- © Katvic / Shutterstock

Lindos, one of the founding cities of Rhodes

Lindos was one of three cities on the island that joined forces in the 5th century BC to found the city of Rhodes. Testifying to the city's importance in ancient times, its acropolis remains the major archaeological site on Rhodes, and one of the most impressive in the whole of Greece!

Lindos and its acropolis

- © ecstk22 / Shutterstock

The site is actually quite exceptional: overlooking the sea, the acropolis of Lindos is built on a rocky outcrop that stands out from the surrounding area at a height of 115 metres. It is home to the remains of two major temples, one dedicated to Heracles, the hero of Greek mythology, and the other in particular, dedicated to Athena Lindia, visited by Alexander the Great himself.

Vestiges of the acropolis

- © Lubos K / Shutterstock

Although Lindos lost some of its influence during the medieval period, the strategic site was fortified first by the Byzantines, then by the Knights of the Order of St John of Jerusalem from the 14th century onwards. As a result, the acropolis and its rock still look like an impregnable fortress.

A fortified acropolis

- © DaLiu / Shutterstock

Some of you will confirm this impression, which becomes reality as you climb the steep steps leading up to the site: the Acropolis of Lindos has to be earned, but the view from this unbeatable promontory is a magnificent reward!

From ancient acropolis to beach: a walk in Lindos

As well as its acropolis, Lindos has other assets that ensure its huge success as a tourist destination throughout the season. The village is magnificent, an ideal picture postcard of the Greek island: small white houses squeezed together in narrow labyrinthine streets, all whitewashed - the recipe has proved its worth!

In the alleys of Lindos

- © Oleg_P / Shutterstock

Lindos is home to a large number of souvenir shops, selling silver jewellery, key rings, stamped trinkets and local handicrafts such as pottery and embroidery. In short, it's the perfect place to take home a souvenir! On another note, don't miss the Church of Panagia, with its icons and frescoes...

Agios Pavlos cove

- © ian woolcock / Shutterstock

It's worth noting that you rarely feel alone in the streets of Lindos: the same is true of its pretty beach, a strip of sand covered with deckchairs at the end of a protected rocky bay, or the Agios Pavlos cove, a little further south, which is also very photogenic!

Practical info

🕑 How long should I spend in Lindos?

It's possible to devote just a day's visit to Lindos, which is small in size after all. However, the village makes an excellent base for your stay, especially if you enjoy the wild, undeveloped corners of southern Rhodes...

👉 When to come to Lindos?

In June, July, August and September, visitors flock to Lindos from all over Rhodes: it's crowded every day! The best time to visit Lindos is early in the morning. It's in the months of April, May or October, when the high season is out of the way, that Lindos will reveal all its charms.

🚌 How do I get to Lindos?

  • By bus, frequent connections from Rhodes with KTEL buses (approx. 1-hour journey).
  • By car, be warned: it is imperative to park outside the village, and spaces are scarce in season!
  • By boat, all the local agencies offer day trips from Rhodes town.

🎟️ Visit the acropolis of Lindos

Not to be missed. You can take a mule up to the site for €8 a ride. On foot, bring water on hot days to climb the stairs.

  • Times: daily 8am-8pm in summer, daily except Tuesday 8.30am-3.30pm in winter.
  • Admission: full price €12, concessions €6
  • Ticket: to be taken on site

🍴 What to eat in Lindos?

Grilled fish, squid, octopus, kebabs, tzatziki, aubergine salad... There's plenty to choose from in Lindos! If you're not a fan of traditional Greek cuisine, give it another try. Otherwise, there are plenty of restaurants serving more 'mainstream' dishes such as pizzas, pasta and pancakes.

Where to sleep nearby?

Vassos Apartments Rhodes
Booking.com

Vassos Apartments

Just a 2-minute walk from Lindos town centre, Vassos Apartments offers self-catering accommodation with views of the garden or the Aegean Sea.
9.1 Fabulous
From
£41 / night
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by Jude JONES
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