LINDOS & SOUTHEAST COAST
Lindos & Rhodes’ Southeast Coast is where ancient history meets Aegean bliss. It combines the medieval grandeur of Rhodes Town’s walls with the idyllic, postcard-perfect bays of Lindos.
This sun-drenched region is the jewel of the Dodecanese, offering a mix of iconic historical sites and serene coastal beauty, making it a perfect blend of culture and relaxation.
Most Popular Attractions
Historical Wonders & Old Town Core:
Acropolis of Lindos: A stunning ancient citadel perched high above a picturesque village and two beautiful bays, featuring a Temple of Athena Lindia and Hellenistic stoas.
Medieval Old Town of Rhodes (Walls & Gates): A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world, surrounded by imposing fortifications.
Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes: A magnificent 14th-century fortress and administrative center, dominating the Old Town.
Street of the Knights: The beautifully restored main artery of the Old Town, where the Knights of St. John once lived in their different ‘Inns’ (Auberges).
Archaeological Museum of Rhodes: Housed in the former Hospital of the Knights, it displays a rich collection of finds from the island, including the famous statue of the Aphrodite of Rhodes.
Ancient Kamiros: The well-preserved ruins of an ancient Dorian city on the northwest coast, offering a fascinating glimpse into Hellenistic life.
The Colossus of Rhodes Site: While the statue no longer exists, the rumored location where it once stood, at the harbor entrance of Mandraki Port (with its two bronze deer statues), is a mandatory visit.
Mosque of Suleiman: A prominent Ottoman-era mosque in the Old Town, showcasing the island’s diverse history.
Temple of Apollo (Monte Smith): The ruins of an ancient temple on a hill overlooking Rhodes Town, offering superb sunset views.
Byzantine Museum (Panagia tis Nikis): A small but interesting collection of Byzantine art housed in the former cathedral of the Knights in the Old Town.
Natural Beauty & Coastal Sites:
St. Paul’s Bay (Lindos): A small, nearly enclosed bay famous for its stunning turquoise water and the chapel where many weddings take place, offering views of the Acropolis.
Anthony Quinn Bay (Ladiko Bay): A famously scenic, small cove with deep green-blue waters, named after the actor who bought the land after filming The Guns of Navarone.
Prasonisi (The Green Island): A stunning peninsula at the southern tip of Rhodes where the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas meet, famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Tsambika Beach: A long, golden-sand beach with shallow, clear waters, popular with families.
Monolithos Castle: A ruined 15th-century castle perched on a towering rock, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the smaller islands.
Epta Piges (Seven Springs): A cool, shaded oasis where seven natural springs converge, feeding a small lake and a cool, dark tunnel you can walk through.
Kallithea Springs: A beautifully restored Italian-era thermal spa complex with stunning architecture and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Filerimos Hill: Site of the ancient Acropolis of Ialyssos and a monastery, featuring a large cross you can climb for panoramic views.
Agathi Beach: A sheltered, sandy cove with shallow water, ideal for a relaxing day.
Pefkos: A former fishing village now a popular resort town near Lindos, known for its small sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
Lardos Beach: A well-organized, sandy-pebble beach known for its water sports and beach bars.
Vlycha Beach (Lindos): A quiet, beautiful bay near Lindos, offering a mix of sand and pebbles and calm waters.
Activities & Experiences
Climb the Acropolis of Lindos: Ascend the steep path (or take a “donkey taxi”) to this ancient citadel for an incredible journey through Greek and Byzantine history and unparalleled panoramic views of the village and St. Paul’s Bay.
Wander the White-Washed Village of Lindos: Get lost in the maze of pedestrian, cobbled streets, admiring the traditional “Captains’ Houses” and exploring the boutique shops and local artisan workshops.
Relax at St. Paul’s Bay (Agios Pavlos): Swim or sunbathe in this nearly enclosed, heart-shaped bay with calm, clear water, ideal for snorkeling. Don’t miss the picturesque tiny white chapel tucked in the cove.
Take a Boat Cruise to Navarone Bay: Book a boat trip from Lindos to swim and snorkel in the deep turquoise waters of Navarone Bay (named after the movie The Guns of Navarone), which boasts dramatic cliffs and a memorable underwater landscape.
Enjoy a Sunset Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant: Lindos is famous for its rooftop dining. Reserve a table for an authentic Greek meal with a spectacular, floodlit view of the Acropolis after dark.
Visit the Ancient Theater of Lindos: Locate the remains of the 4th-century BC Greek theater carved into the rock face on the slopes below the Acropolis, offering a peaceful, less-crowded historical site.
Explore Rhodes’ Old Town (Day Trip): Take a day trip north to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rhodes’ Medieval Old Town, walking the famous Street of the Knights and visiting the Palace of the Grand Master.
Discover the Seven Springs (Epta Piges): Escape the heat at this cool, shaded oasis. Walk through the dark, narrow tunnel (186m long!) that channels spring water to a small lake.
Learn to Kitesurf or Windsurf at Prasonisi: Head to the southernmost tip of the island where the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas meet, creating a unique sandy isthmus and perfect conditions for wind and kitesurfing.
Swim at Tsambika Beach: Spend a day at this large, family-friendly sandy beach. For a workout and amazing views, hike up the hill to the Panagia Tsambika Monastery overlooking the coast.
Taste Local Wine and Cuisine: Head to an inland village like Embonas (known for its wine) or Lardos for an authentic taverna experience and to try local Rhodian specialties like pitaroudia (chickpea fritters) and kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb).
Go Scuba Diving: The clear waters of the Southeast Coast offer excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, with many local centers offering guided trips to reefs, caves, and wreck sites.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended for the Southeast Coast: While Lindos village is entirely pedestrianized, a rental car is the best way to explore the beautiful beaches (like Tsambika, Agathi, and Kiotari) and villages of the wider Southeast Coast at your own pace.
Lindos Parking: You must park in the main upper parking lot outside of Lindos village. From here, you can walk or take a shuttle/taxi down to the village entrance. No cars are allowed in the village center.
Public Bus (KTEL): The red-colored KTEL buses provide a reliable and affordable connection along the East Coast, connecting Rhodes Town, Faliraki, Kolymbia, and Lindos. This is a solid option for day trips, though buses can be crowded in peak season.
Water Taxis & Excursion Boats: A fun and scenic way to travel between the nearby beaches (like Vlicha) is by water taxi. Various excursion boats offer full-day trips, including Lindos-to-Rhodes Town connections.
Dress Code for Religious Sites: When visiting churches, monasteries (like Panagia Tsambika), or the Acropolis’s religious remnants, be sure to cover your shoulders and knees. A light scarf or shawl is an easy addition to your bag.
Embrace the Greek Dining Pace: Dining is a social, leisurely affair in Greece. Lunch can be late (2 PM – 4 PM), and dinner often starts after 9 PM. Don’t rush or expect fast service; relax and enjoy the mezedes (small plates/appetizers).
Tipping: While not mandatory, it’s customary and appreciated to leave a tip of about 5-10% at restaurants, especially if the service was good.
Mind the Siesta: While less strictly adhered to in major tourist resorts, many small, non-tourist-focused shops and businesses may close for a mid-afternoon break, typically between 2 PM and 5 PM. Plan your local shopping accordingly.
Acropolis Ascent and Donkeys: While the traditional donkeys offer rides to the Acropolis, be mindful of their welfare. Many travelers prefer to make the steep but manageable 20-30 minute walk to the top.
The Best Time in Lindos: Lindos village is flooded with day-trippers from Rhodes Town between 10 AM and 4 PM. The best time to experience its magic is in the early morning before the crowds arrive or in the late afternoon/evening when the streets empty and the rooftop restaurants open.
Hidden Gems:
- Church of Panagia: A beautiful, lesser-visited Byzantine-era church in the heart of Lindos village with a distinct pebble mosaic floor (chochlaki).
- Agathi Beach (Golden Sand Beach): A sheltered cove with incredibly soft, golden sand and very shallow, warm water, making it a favorite for families.
- Feraklou Castle (near Haraki): The medieval ruins of a fortress built by the Knights of St. John perched atop a hill overlooking Haraki Bay.
- The Tomb of Kleoboulos: A short hike from Lindos offers incredible views back over the village and Acropolis, especially at sunset.
Top Restaurants
Mavrikos [$25-$45] – One of the oldest and most respected restaurants in Lindos main square, still family-run, known for high-quality, authentic Greek dishes and fresh seafood.
Taverna Kamariko [$20-$35] – A traditional Greek taverna in Lindos, housed in a beautifully restored home and serving secret family recipes with a very warm welcome.
Arhontiko [$25-$40] – Located in a well-preserved 1605 Ship Captain’s House in Lindos, offering gastronomic excellence with traditional Greek recipes and fresh local ingredients.
Byzantino [$20-$35] – A favorite in Lindos for good value and traditional dining, featuring a rooftop with excellent views and a menu of Greek classics like souvlaki and seafood.
Skala Beach Restaurant [$20-$35] – Situated right on Lindos main beach, this taverna is renowned for its superb traditional Greek food, fresh fish, and a stunning waterfront setting.
Pallas Beach Taverna [$20-$35] – A prime beachside location in Lindos offering traditional Greek food, international cuisine, and a fantastic range of fresh seafood.
Village House [$15-$30] – Offers an undeniably Greek dining experience in Lindos with classic, high-quality Greek dishes such as tzatziki and hummus.
Agostinos Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located on the edge of Lindos village, it provides Greek cuisine in a lovely setting, with amazing views over the village and the Acropolis from the rooftop.
Dionysos [$25-$40] – One of the first restaurants in Lindos village, serving traditional Greek dishes alongside international options and a variety of salads.
Philosophia Beach Taverna [$25-$45] – This balcony restaurant sits on the side of the mountain just above Pefkos beach, offering amazing views of the sea and horizon, specializing in Greek cuisine.
To Pigadi [$20-$35] – A traditional taverna in the heart of Lindos Old Town, known for its hearty portions, local hospitality, and classic Greek dishes.
Stefany’s Restaurant [$20-$35] – A highly-rated restaurant in Lindos, praised for its delicious and plentiful food, helpful staff, and great views.
Hermes Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offers delicious food with generous portion sizes and careful presentation in Lindos, known for its traditional Souvlaki served on a metal spit.
Taverna Manolis [$15-$30] – A charming, unpretentious local taverna in a small village near Lindos, popular with locals for home-style Greek cooking and grilling.
Kritamo [$25-$40] – Located in a nearby village, this restaurant is praised for its authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine using high-quality local produce.
Odyssia Restaurant [$30-$50] – A stylish and contemporary restaurant in Lindos that offers Greek food with a touch of innovation, set in a beautiful courtyard and rooftop.
Akres Lindos [$35-$55] – A modern restaurant focused on Greek Fine Dining, using locally sourced ingredients and transferring local culinary tradition to the present with a modern approach.
Almyra [$40-$65] – An elevated dining experience on the shores of Lindos Beach, offering contemporary takes on traditional dishes, fresh seafood, and refined simplicity.
Cesar Meze Bar [$35-$55] – A sophisticated fusion eatery in Lindos, offering a menu of creative dishes, located in a charming inner courtyard with an elegant rooftop area.
Mythos All Day Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located in Lindos Main Square, this restaurant offers a great variety of Greek dishes with local organic products, combined with stunning views of the Acropolis.
Panos Restaurant and Bar [$30-$50] – Located on Lindos beach, this spot offers a fusion of traditional Greek and modern Mediterranean cuisine in a beautiful setting with views of the Acropolis.
Ktima Lindos [$40-$65] – A short drive outside Lindos, perched atop a hill, offering modern Greek fine dining with exceptional, romantic views of the area.
Ambrosia [$30-$50] – An exquisite international dining experience in Lindos, combining a delectable menu prepared with fresh local ingredients with charm and class.
Elia Restaurant [$35-$55] – A highly-regarded restaurant near Lindos known for its sophisticated take on Mediterranean and Greek cuisine, focusing on fresh, quality ingredients.
Broccolino Restaurant [$25-$45] – Although Italian, this Lindos favorite is serious about food, offering authentic Italian dishes with fresh ingredients, a wood oven for pizzas, and stunning views.
Thalassa Restaurant (Lindos Princess) [$35-$60] – Specializes in elegant seafood and Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist, located in a resort nearby Lindos.
Stefanos Restaurant [$30-$50] – A family-run spot in a village on the Southeast Coast, known for serving traditional Greek food with a modern presentation and a lovely atmosphere.
Tharri [$35-$55] – Located slightly further south, offering creative Mediterranean cuisine with a strong emphasis on seafood and local wine pairings.
Dimitra’s Restaurant [$30-$50] – Known for its modern twist on classic Greek dishes, using fresh, seasonal ingredients in a welcoming environment on the Southeast Coast.
Maria’s Taverna (Archangelos) [$20-$35] – A hidden gem known for home-cooked Greek meals and friendly atmosphere, often serving a large fish plateau, offering a touch of local authenticity outside Lindos.
Melenos Restaurant [$60-$90] – An atmospheric rooftop restaurant at the Melenos Lindos hotel, offering high-quality dishes based on Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with dramatic, breathtaking views.
Thalatta Fine Dining Restaurant [$70-$110] – Located in the opulent Lindos Grand Resort & Spa, it offers exquisite gourmet Greek cuisine with a contemporary twist and stunning views over Vlycha Bay.
Five Senses (Lindos Blu) [$70-$110] – A sophisticated Greek gastronomy experience at Lindos Blu hotel, offering creative cuisine and peerless service in an idyllic setting with panoramic Aegean views.
Noble Gourmet Restaurant [$80-$130] – While further north (Faliraki area), it’s a major high-end spot in Rhodes; for those willing to travel for Michelin-level creative dining and panoramic views.
Ammos Restaurant (Lindos Imperial) [$50-$80] – A seafood-themed à la carte restaurant in a resort in Kiotari (Southeast Coast), offering a refined focus on fresh catch.
Thalassa Restaurant (Pefkos) [$60-$90] – A distinguished fine-dining establishment in Pefkos, known for its creative Mediterranean cuisine and romantic seaside setting.
Ktima Lindos [$40-$65] – Worth noting again here for its higher-end atmosphere and menu compared to traditional tavernas, providing one of the most romantic and sophisticated experiences outside the main town.
Gatto Bianco [$20-$35] – A stylish Italian restaurant and pizzeria in Lindos, utilizing a wood oven for authentic pizzas in a stylish setting overlooking St Stephanos’ Square.
Broccolino Restaurant [$25-$45] – (See Modern & Creative) A great option for international cuisine with its focus on delicious Italian food in a relaxed, fun environment with views.
Il Sogno [$15-$30] – A unique spot located in the heart of Lindos offering an intimate lounge bar experience with a selection of creative cocktails and high-quality appetizers/snacks.
Cesar Meze Bar [$35-$55] – (See Modern & Creative) Unique for its ‘fusion eatery’ concept, combining a chic, bohemian courtyard setting with Mediterranean cuisine.
Meze Meze (Lindos Imperial) [$20-$35] – A Greek-themed à la carte restaurant (in Kiotari/Southeast Coast) that focuses on the Greek tradition of ‘Mezedes’ (small bites) in a fixed-menu format.
Wok Gourmand (Lindos Imperial) [$25-$40] – An Asian/Ethnic themed restaurant (in Kiotari/Southeast Coast) offering oriental flavors and spices for a different culinary journey.
Tapas (Lindos Imperial) [$25-$40] – A Mexican-themed restaurant (in Kiotari/Southeast Coast) that blends traditional and contemporary tapas with a spicy twist for an international alternative.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Cozze Champagne Cocktail Bar Restaurant (Lindos): This elegant rooftop bar in Lindos offers extraordinary views of the Acropolis and the bay, specializing in oysters, mussels, and craft signature cocktails tailored by a master mixologist.
Dreams Cocktails Bar (Lindos): Famous for its stunning panoramic views of Lindos and the Acropolis from its rooftop gardens, this friendly spot is known for its strong, unique cocktail recipes and lively atmosphere.
Rainbird Bar (Lindos): Located slightly away from the main bustle, this bar is ideal for a peaceful sundowner or morning coffee, offering stunning views over the bay and a curated selection of fine cocktails and gins.
Captain’s House Bar (Lindos): Tucked away on the Post Office lane, this charming and peaceful spot is set in an original Captain’s House, providing shady seating and a bar in the courtyard garden.
La Presidenta Rum and Cocktail Bar (Lindos): A unique cocktail bar in the heart of Lindos with a vibrant, Central and South American/Caribbean theme, offering a selection of classic and house rum-based cocktails, cigars, and small plates.
Antika (Lindos): A stylish and well-established bar on the main street of Lindos, offering a fabulous cocktail menu alongside the unique offering of high-quality sushi.
Giorgos Cocktail Bar (Lindos): A long-standing, welcoming landmark in the heart of Lindos’ main square, known for its friendly service, a mix of local and international visitors, and classic cocktails enjoyed from morning until late.
Red Rose Cocktail Bar (Lindos): Known for its creative cocktails and energetic ambiance, this spot is a popular visit for those looking to enjoy the livelier side of Lindos nightlife.
Courtyard (Lindos): A welcoming and friendly place in Lindos Town offering panoramic views, with its terrace being a perfect spot to relax with a drink.
Lindian Apollo (Lindos): Situated in the village, this popular bar offers a beautiful atmosphere and impeccable service, serving high-quality drinks from morning coffee to late-night cocktails and fine wines.
Windows Acropolis (Lindos): A fantastic spot known for its stunning views of the Acropolis and the bay, making it a highly recommended place to enjoy a drink with a perfect backdrop.
Macao Cocktail Bar (Rhodes Old Town): Located within the heart of the Medieval Old Town, this elegant spot is a sophisticated cocktail bar by day and transforms into a vibrant, open-air club by night, featuring house and electronic music.
The Last Butler (Rhodes Town): Found in Rhodes Town (New City), this refined lounge bar offers an inspired atmosphere and inventive cocktails, taking guests on a journey to another era.
Mozaik Cocktail Bar (Rhodes Old Town): A popular cocktail bar located in the Old Town, offering a great selection of drinks in a lively atmosphere.
Amphitheatre Club (Lindos): A legendary open-air venue situated on a hill about 1 km from Lindos, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Lindos Bay and the Acropolis. It hosts major parties with international and local DJs, perfect for dancing until dawn.
Arches Plus Open Air Club (Lindos): Located near Lindos Beach, this seasonal open-air nightclub provides an ultimate nightlife experience with world-class DJs, a spacious dance area, and a mix of Hip-Hop, R&B, and electronic music.
Colorado Club (Rhodes Town – New City): One of the largest and most iconic clubs on the island, located on Orfanidou Street (Bar Street) in Rhodes Town. It offers a three-in-one experience with multiple rooms and a diverse range of music from international DJs, attracting a youthful, party-loving crowd.
Gazi Greek Music Club (Rhodes Old Town): Tucked within the medieval walls of the Old Town, this club offers an intimate and chic party experience, playing a mix of R&B, Afrobeat, and contemporary Greek songs.
Alter Ego Greek Music Club (Rhodes Town – New City): Located near Orfanidou Street, this popular venue is known for its energetic atmosphere and playing the best in Greek music, attracting a lively crowd.
Lindian House Bar (Lindos): A good-time music bar with a DJ playing dance classics. You can enjoy a drink in the courtyard or have a pre-dinner cocktail on the rooftop with views over the village and Acropolis.
Pals Bar (Lindos): A friendly and lively bar tucked away in the back streets of Lindos Town, ready to get the party started with a great atmosphere and good music.
Fuego (Rhodes Old Town): A lively disco bar located just a few steps from Hippocrates Square, where you can dance outdoors to a variety of music.
Crazy Moon Cocktail Bar (Lindos): A lively, family-run bar that offers fantastic cocktails and a choice between a more laid-back courtyard area or an inside area for partying with the resident DJ.
Lindos Ice Bar (Lindos): While also offering a warm lounge bar and restaurant with views, its main feature is the minus six-degree Celsius Ice Bar, which offers a unique, exhilarating experience and is perfect for a cooling shot or cocktail in an ice cup.
Yannis Bar (Lindos): Nestled in the vibrant heart of Lindos, this spot is a must-visit for soaking up the local atmosphere and is known for its warm hospitality and lively night scene.