Lindos is a must-see site when going to the island of Rhodes in Greece. An archaeological site, a fishing village and a former municipality, it is most famous for its Acropolis as well as Byzantine and medieval history and ruins. Of course, this isn’t the the only thing to do in Lindos, the pearl of Rhodes.
With its picturesque old village, two beaches, hiking trails and night life, Lindos deserves a day of discovery.
Lindos acropolis
Morning
First things first—visit the acropolis early, when the heat is still bearable. During the high season, the site is open every day from 8:00 a.m., and you should get there as close to the opening time as possible to avoid the heat and the crowds of tourists who arrive in busloads from Rhodes on one-day excursion.
Shopping time in Lindos village
It is believed that Lindos was founded in the 10th century BC by the Dorians who were one of the first of four ethnic groups that created the Hellenes of Classical Greece. The site was well chosen for several reasons. First it is ideally located on the eastern coast of Rhodes making it a major trading centre between Greeks and Phoenicians.
Inside the acropolis walls
The site is simply beautiful and 3,000 years later we realise that we share the same beauty standards as our distant ancestors.The acropolis was built on top of a high hill overlooking the bay with two beautiful beaches at its foot.
There is no better way to pass the time than trying to find your way around the charming Greek village of Lindos. The lovely white village climbs up the steep slope, and affords one of the best views in all Greece. However, be warned, the Acropolis is 116 metres above sea level, and you need to climb 250 stairs to get there.
The iconic Lindos Athena emple
You can either climb up the hill on foot or ride a donkey, rented to tourists. The site was successively inhabited by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Knights of Saint John and Ottomans. Each of them left evidence of their existence. The top of the hill has probably been a place of worship since the 9th century BC. A first temple dedicated to Athena was built in the 6th century BC but burned out 200 years later. It was not before the 3rd century BC that a stone temple was built on the same place. This is the Doric temple we can still see today with its elegant colonnade, impressive double stairway, five unusual vaulted doorways and a high surrounding wall built at the same time as the temple.
Impressive staircase inside the acropolis
When climbing up the long stone staircase leading to the main entrance don’t miss the iconic relief of a Rhodian antique warship cut in the rocky wall on your left-hand side.
There is not much left from the Byzantine time and the Castle of the Knights of Saint John was built in the beginning of the 14th century on the foundations of their remains. Three of the original towers of the medieval fortress still stand guard over the bay as well as a gothic chapel.
Medieval St. John Chapel
On the way down take time to enjoy the narrow pedestrian streets of the old village. There are filled with cafes, restaurants and small shops selling all kinds of souvenirs such as local crafts, jewels and clothes. Downhill local women sell embroidered tablecloths, placemats, aprons. They call out to the tourists passing by in several different languages— joyful cacophony!
Embroidered tablecloths for sale on the way up to the acropolis
Afternoon
After your culturally active morning on the acropolis, it’s time to enjoy Lindos beaches. The first one is Lindos Beach , a long and sandy stretch with beautiful views of the acropolis and the white village. It is well equipped with umbrellas and sun beds. On the other side of Lindos promontory is Saint Paul Beach. It is nestled at the far end of an omega shaped cove, and is well-protected from wind and waves. Saint Paul’s Bay Beach aims to be a more chic alternative to Lindos, but is much quieter, with less people.
The acropolis terrace has some of the best views on the island
You probably have already heard of sunset in Santorini. Unfortunately it is now the victim of its own success and is over run with tourists. However, sunset in Lindos is no less spectacular than Santorini’s. While the sun sets behind the hill the acropolis is haloed in this special glow, while the electric lights of the village start to sparkle in the coming night.
Evening
When the sun goes down, the sleepy town of Lindos comes alive. In Lindos, things start later on in the evening, so you’ve got time to relax after your day of exploring, and maybe even take a nap. Lindos has a choice of bars, restaurants and tavernas where you can sample Greek cooking, sip ice-cold Mythos beer, and watch the sunset.’s glow behind the acropolis. If you do fancy an all nighter, you’ll find a handful of nightclubs too.
Typical Lindos souvenir
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BeSeeingYou In: Rhodes, Greece
Good to know: There is a high speed ferry from Rhodes Old Town to Lindos a couple times per week
WOW! Factor: Rhodes is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: The Colussus of Rhodes
Tip: The affordable RODA bus system runs from Rhodes Old Town to many coastal towns and cities around the island
Author bio: Annick Dournes & Frederic de Poligny
Photos ©Frederic de Poligny
