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Tucked into the southeast coast of Rhodes, Lindos is a whitewashed dream of a town that completely won me over. It’s the kind of place that feels a little more secret, a little less touristy — and a lot more special.
Wandering through its winding alleyways, I fell for its blend of history, beach life, boutique shopping and genuinely good food — all within walking distance. With its hilltop Acropolis, pretty beaches and relaxed pace, it’s somewhere that really encourages you to slow down and stay a while.
When I told people that I was going to Lindos, it surprised me how many didn’t know where it was, or had even never heard of it. Yet this small town on Rhodes Island is a beautiful place to explore and most definitely should be on your bucket list.
Here’s the best things to do in Lindos, as well as a few tips when planning your trip.
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How far is Lindos from Rhodes Town?
Lindos is around an hour’s drive from Rhodes Town (roughly 50 km), depending on traffic. You can get a taxi, which will cost you €75 one way — a bit of a splurge, but super easy and direct.
If you’re looking for a cheaper option, there’s a regular bus from Rhodes Town to Lindos that costs around €5 and takes about 90 minutes. We found it super easy to navigate – it drops you just outside the town, and from there it’s a 10-minute walk in.
Parking in Lindos is limited, so the bus or a transfer is often the easiest choice.
Where to stay in Lindos
Lindos has a great mix of accommodation — from charming guesthouses in the heart of the town to beachside resorts and adult-only hotels on the cliffs above. You can stay steps from the Acropolis, or book somewhere with a view of the bay.
We stayed at Lindos Sun Hotel and absolutely loved it. Peaceful, friendly, beautifully designed, and with a pool that made it hard to leave. It felt like a proper retreat.
Read more about the Lindos Sun Hotel in my review here.
When is the best time to go to Lindos?
Like much of Greece, the best time to visit Lindos is spring or autumn — April to June or September to early October. We went in late September and it was perfect: warm, quiet, and still sunny enough to swim and snorkel daily.
July and August are peak months, but also the hottest and busiest, so I’d avoid them if you can. In spring, the flowers are blooming and the temperatures are ideal for sightseeing. Autumn still feels summery but with fewer crowds.
How long do you need in Lindos?
You could easily do Lindos as a day trip from Rhodes Town if you’re tight on time — just head early to make the most of it. But I’d really recommend staying longer if you can.
We were there for five nights and could easily have stayed longer. It’s the kind of place that’s made for relaxing, beach hopping, slow dinners, and snorkelling. You can also combine it with a few nights in Rhodes Town for a trip that balances culture and calm.
If you’re looking for somewhere beautiful, walkable and peaceful to fully switch off, Lindos makes a fantastic standalone holiday.
Top things to do in Lindos
1. Spend at day at St Paul’s Bay
If you’ve heard of Lindos, it’s probably for the romantic St Paul’s Bay, a heart shaped lagoon where many couples go for a swim, snorkel or even to say I do in the little Cycladic chapel.
We bought a couple of snorkels in a supermarket near the town (18 Euros each for the best ones) and spent a day exploring the coves and deep water.
Two beach areas sit either end with comfy sun beds and beach bar service. There is also a lovely looking restaurant at the main end of the bay, looking out across the water.
2. Relax on Lindos Beach
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to places to relax in Lindos. There’s Megali Paralia, Lindos’ main beach and the slightly smaller Pallas Beach below. We also snorkelled here and caught some rays for a 5 Euro sunbed fee, however do be careful around the jetty as sea urchins can lurk among the rocks! You can also enjoy water sports and a ride in a glass bottom boat from the bay.
3. Climb to the Acropolis
To see the heart outline of the bay, you’ll need to head up to the Lindos Acropolis, the town’s most historic site. Many seem to complain about the 12 Euro entry fee but seeing as this is the only tourist ticket you’ll need in Lindos, it’s hardly something to moan about!
As you climb up the Hellenistic staircase (2nd century BC) through the medieval gate, you pass a wall indented with a Rhodian trireme (a warship) that dates back to 180 BC. Make sure to say hi to the cat who guards the entrance.
The main archaeological site begins with a slightly slippy climb over a cascade of rocks, leading you to the summit.
The Propylaea of the Sanctuary is perhaps the most impressive part of the structure, a 4th century BC gateway with a dramatic staircase leading to a D-shaped stoa.
At the edge of the cliff sits a throne like pile of rubble, a perfect spot to awkwardly balance on and attempt a glamorous shot overlooking the bay below!
The Doric temple of Athena Lindia is perhaps the star of the show. Although it’s humoured us to discover that the majority of the structure was in fact reconstructed just eleven years ago! Perhaps in 2000 years people will gaze at the columns, trying to imagine what life was like in 2005.
4. Enjoy the view of St Paul’s Bay
Behind the temple is where the views of St Paul’s Bay look their best. Although upside-down, the heart outline is a truly remarkable natural wonder, a great spot to get a romantic selfie!
5. Explore Lindos Village
Below the Acropolis is Lindos Village, a labyrinth of narrow Cycladic streets filled with restaurants, souvenir shops and dotted with a slippery pebble floor! Donkey rides take those who can’t face the walk up and down from the Acropolis, a perhaps romantic notion however I couldn’t help feeling bad for the poor creatures carrying hefty tourists in the scorching sun.
Among the inevitable tacky souvenirs are a few fine jewellery stores and local crafts, my favourite was Kori, where we picked up a gorgeous locally made bowl.
6. Eat at a rooftop restaurant
In the centre of it all are rows of restaurants, each beckoning you in for a moussaka and shot of Ouzo. Hungry after the steep walk to the hilltop, we decided on Lindos Restaurant. Their rooftop view over the Acropolis was stunning and the food was equally great.
A fresh mojito was a perfect refreshment and the freshly baked pitta with tzatziki and hummus was delicious. I particularly enjoyed my ‘shrimp orzo’.
7. Snorkel and swim in Navarone Bay
The next day we ventured to the Navarone Bay, a slightly more secluded spot opposite the Lindos Sun Hotel. With turquoise waters and stunning cliff surroundings, I could see why this spot was famous for a backdrop in the film ‘Guns of Navarone’.
We enjoyed a leisurely snorkel out over the cliffs, spotting schools of fishes of all shapes and sizes.
8. Take a day trip to Rhodes
If that’s not enough to keep you occupied in Lindos, then a day trip to Rhodes town is an hour bus journey away. For 6 Euros (one way) you can catch a bus to the town from the Lindos Sun Hotel or at the top of the Village.
I won’t lie, we weren’t overwhelmed by Rhodes. Everyone had told me I should go and visit but I’m not sure what all the fuss is about.
The old town is enclosed within medieval walls, offering a true feeling of ancient Greece. However it is slightly spoiled by the huge number of tacky shops and overpriced jewellery. I would only recommend a visit if you are in need of a change of scenery and have time to spare. I’m sure a meal and glass of wine on one of the open top bars would be delightful.
One thing we did love about Rhodes was the bright blue pier, a lovely strip to walk along in the sunshine.
Our trip to Lindos has definitely inspired me to see more of Greece. I’d love to know about where you’ve been and your favourite parts of the many islands!
9 Responses
Gorgeous! I’ve not been there… yet.
What a gorgeous place!
Wow this looks amazing! I love the Greek Islands but have never been there. Definitely need to add it to my list 🙂
Thanks Kassie, it really is beautiful! I definitely want to explore more of Greece now!
What gorgeous photos of Lindos Eppie and I love the windswept photo of you sat on the throne! I’ll be honest, I hadn’t heard of Lindos either until you put it on the map for me – I agree, it definitely needs to be on everyone’s bucket list after seeing those photos!
Thank you lovely! It’s amazing how there are still so many gorgeous places in the world we are yet to hear of and explore. Hopefully you’ll get to go soon! xx
gorgeous place! and a cute cat!
Lindos is beautiful, if you enjoyed it in Greece I would definitely recommend Skiathos. Santorini is beautiful but Skiathos is equally gorgeous and more authentic/less touristy x
I’ve heard lots of good things about Skiathos, I definitely want to explore more of Greece – thanks for recommending!