There’s more to Rhodes than ancient ruins and resort-lined beaches. Beyond the glossy brochures and crowded tourist spots lies an island full of character, charm, and timeless tradition. Here, cobbled alleyways wind through medieval towns, local fishermen still pull in the morning’s catch, and centuries-old olive groves rustle in the breeze. To truly experience Rhodes is to step off the beaten path and explore it like a local, where each village, market, and hidden bay tells a story known only to those who’ve taken the time to listen.
While the island’s major attractions, like the Palace of the Grand Master and the Acropolis of Lindos, draw the spotlight, many travellers are turning their attention to more immersive escapes. Carefully curated package holidays to Rhodes can introduce you to the island’s quieter side, where charming mountain villages such as Embonas and Apollona showcase traditional Rhodian life. These are places where time slows down, and hospitality flows as freely as the locally made wine. Exploring Rhodes on package holidays to Rhodes beyond the main resorts rewards visitors with authentic moments that can’t be found in any guidebook.
If you’re seeking spontaneity without sacrificing comfort, cheap last-minute holidays are an excellent way to uncover Rhodes’ lesser-known treasures. By booking with providers like Travelodeal, travellers can take advantage of flexible itineraries and well-located stays that encourage exploration beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether you’re wandering through hidden alleys in the Old Town or stumbling upon a family-run taverna in a remote village, Rhodes invites discovery at every turn.
Hidden Villages and Quiet Corners
Rhodes is often associated with its bustling coastal resorts, but venture inland and you’ll find a very different island. Villages like Monolithos, with its ancient castle and sweeping sea views, offer serenity and soul in equal measure. In Salakos, you’ll be greeted by locals sipping coffee beneath plane trees, surrounded by stone houses and citrus groves.
Many of these communities still practise centuries-old traditions—from winemaking to bread baking in outdoor ovens. Walking through these villages is a window into the island’s past, untouched by commercial tourism. There’s a purity to life here that’s both grounding and inspiring. Local festivals, often missed by tourists, bring music, dancing, and homemade delicacies to the streets, offering a glimpse into the heart of Rhodian culture.
Secret Beaches and Coastal Wonders
While Rhodes is famous for its sun-drenched beaches, some of the best spots are those that aren’t listed in brochures. Locals often head to Agios Pavlos Beach near Lindos—not to be confused with the crowded main beach—for a quiet swim surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Another gem is Glystra Beach, tucked away in the south, where soft, golden sand meets calm, shallow waters perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
For those willing to explore, Fourni Beach near Monolithos is a hidden cove accessible by a winding path through the hills. It’s the kind of place you’ll likely share with a few locals and maybe a wandering goat or two. No beach bars, no umbrellas—just nature in its raw beauty.
Authentic Flavours and Local Fare
Food in Rhodes is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of heritage. Beyond the tourist restaurants lie family-run tavernas where recipes have been handed down through generations. Look for spots with handwritten menus and a terrace full of locals. In villages like Psinthos, you can sample dishes like “pitaroudia” (chickpea fritters) and “moussaka” cooked the old-fashioned way.
One of the joys of Rhodes is discovering these hidden eateries, where the owners might offer you a glass of ouzo and a story to go with your meal. Rhodian cuisine is simple, hearty, and deeply connected to the land and sea, just like its people.
Travel with a Local Spirit
To explore Rhodes like a local is to slow down, stay curious, and welcome the unexpected. Whether it’s an unplanned detour to a quiet chapel on a hill or a conversation with a shopkeeper in a mountain village, the island’s most memorable experiences come when you least expect them. Skip the crowds, wake up early, take the road less travelled—and Rhodes will show you its soul. The island’s secrets aren’t locked away—they’re simply waiting for the right traveller to find them.
