Deciding on the best time to visit Rhodes depends on what you want from the trip: sun and sea, sightseeing with fewer crowds, or lower prices and a more local feel. For most travelers the sweet spot is the shoulder seasons—late spring and early autumn—when temperatures are pleasant, beaches are inviting and the island is less crowded than peak summer.
Below you’ll find a month-by-month guide, a clear overview of Rhodes weather, tips on Rhodes travel cost, advice for avoiding the busiest tourist season, and practical packing and planning suggestions so you can choose the ideal window for your visit.
Quick answer: When to go and why
If you want warm sea water, long sunny days and lively nightlife, July and August are the best months, but expect crowds and higher prices. For warm weather with fewer tourists and comfortable sightseeing, May–June and September–October are generally the best time to visit Rhodes. Winter gives mild, rainier conditions and is best for travelers who prefer quiet and lower costs.
Think of Rhodes as offering three distinct experiences: high-sun summer (beaches and parties), shoulder-season exploration (culture, walks, and swimming), and low-season local life (mild weather, closed beach amenities, and very low prices).
Month-by-month guide
January–March: Winter on Rhodes is mild compared with northern Europe. Average daytime highs range from 12–16°C (54–61°F), and rainfall is more frequent. Many tourist businesses reduce hours, but hotel prices are typically lowest and the island’s medieval Old Town is quiet and atmospheric.
April: Spring arrives, flowers bloom and daytime temperatures climb into the high teens to low twenties. This is a good time for hiking, cultural walks and exploring archeological sites before the heat picks up.
May–June: One of the best windows to visit. Expect warm, sunny days (20–28°C / 68–82°F), calm seas and busy but not overcrowded towns. Outdoor attractions, boat tours and local restaurants are all fully active.
July–August: Peak summer brings hot daytime temperatures (28–34°C / 82–93°F), lively beach scenes and the densest tourist season. The Meltemi wind can be strong in August, cooling afternoons and creating good conditions for wind sports but sometimes rough seas for boat trips.
September–October: Another excellent period for travel. Sea temperatures remain pleasant into October (often 23–25°C / 73–77°F), crowds thin after mid-September and days stay warm while evenings are more comfortable than midsummer.
November–December: Cooler and wetter; daytime highs tend to be 15–20°C (59–68°F). This is a quieter time when island life slows and accommodation prices fall further.
Use online booking tools to compare availability if you’re traveling in May–June or September–October; popular hotels and sought-after rooms fill up in advance. For a quick hotel search and to compare options, try a large accommodation site like Rhodes hotels and guesthouses.
Rhodes weather: what to expect
Rhodes weather is Mediterranean: hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Sunshine is abundant from late spring through early autumn, with over 12 hours of daylight in high summer. Sea temperatures are warm enough for swimming from late May and remain inviting through October.
Rainfall is concentrated in the winter months and is rarely heavy enough to derail travel plans, but narrow, wet periods can be expected from November to March. The island’s southeastern shores are typically drier and warmer than the northern parts near the Aegean Sea.
Wind patterns matter: the Meltemi wind peaks in July–August, bringing strong northerly gusts that reduce humidity and temperature but can limit some smaller-boat excursions. Plan water activities in the morning or late afternoon during strong-wind days, and check local weather forecasts for sea conditions when booking day trips.
Rhodes tourist season and crowd management
The main Rhodes tourist season runs from late May through early October, peaking in July and August. During high season, Old Town streets, Lindos and the most popular beaches can be very busy between mid-morning and late afternoon. If avoiding crowds is a priority, target early mornings for landmark visits and late afternoons for beach time.
- Visit archaeological sites and the Palace of the Grand Master right at opening for cooler temperatures and fewer people.
- Choose lesser-known beaches—like Gennadi or Agathi—if you prefer calmer waters and fewer loungers.
- Book guided tours, ferry connections and restaurants in advance during July–August to avoid limited availability.
Local festivals and peak holiday weeks (Greek Orthodox Easter and European summer holidays) can intensify crowds. To experience cultural events without the crush, plan to attend morning or evening sessions and combine popular sites with quieter neighborhoods of the Old Town.
Rhodes travel cost: budgeting for your trip
Rhodes travel cost varies by season. Expect the highest prices for accommodation, car hire and flights in July–August. Shoulder months deliver better value while maintaining good weather.
- Budget traveler: €40–€60 per person, per day (hostels or budget rooms, public transport, self-catered meals).
- Mid-range traveler: €80–€150 per person, per day (3–4 star hotels, occasional taxi or car rental, dining out).
- Luxury traveler: €200+ per person, per day (high-end resorts, private tours, fine dining and boat charters).
To keep costs down, book accommodation and car rentals early for the shoulder months, use local buses (reliable between Rhodes town and beaches), and opt for tavernas away from main tourist strips. If you prefer to compare room options quickly across dates and areas, this site can help with availability and reviews: search Rhodes properties.
Practical tips: what to pack and how to plan
Packing depends on season. For shoulder months bring layers: light shirts, a windbreaker for evenings, comfortable walking shoes and swimwear. In summer, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), light cotton clothing and a reusable water bottle are essentials. For winter travel include a waterproof jacket and warmer layers for evenings.
- Bring a daypack, reusable water bottle and sunscreen for walking the Old Town and archaeological sites.
- If you plan to rent a car, book in advance during high season and choose a model that handles narrow Old Town streets if you intend to drive there.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and travel insurance; health services are good but remote clinics are limited outside Rhodes town.
Public transport covers main tourist routes, but a rental car or scooter increases flexibility for exploring the island’s quieter south and interior villages. Taxis are available but can be in high demand during peak season and late-night returns.
FAQs
What month has the best weather in Rhodes?
Late May through early October offers the most reliably warm, sunny weather. For hot, beach-focused holidays choose July–August; for warm days with fewer tourists choose May–June or September–October.
Is July or September better for visiting Rhodes?
September often strikes a better balance: sea temperatures remain warm, daytime heat eases slightly, and crowds shrink after August. July delivers guaranteed summer vibes but also the highest visitor numbers and hottest temperatures.
How much does a week in Rhodes cost?
A one-week stay can range widely: budget travelers might spend €300–€500, mid-range travelers €600–€1,050, and luxury visitors €1,400+. Costs depend on season, accommodation choice and how many paid activities you include.
Are shops and restaurants open year-round in Rhodes?
Most shops and restaurants operate year-round in Rhodes town, but many seasonal businesses, especially on smaller beaches and in Lindos, reduce hours or close in winter. If traveling off-season, check opening times for any must-see venues.
Can I swim in Rhodes in October?
Yes. Sea temperatures in October are still warm enough for comfortable swimming, often around 23–25°C (73–77°F), making it one of the best months for combining beach time with sightseeing.
Conclusion
Choosing the best time to visit Rhodes depends on your priorities: peak summer for the liveliest beach culture, shoulder seasons for the best blend of weather and lower crowds, and winter for quiet and lower travel costs. May–June and September–October generally offer the most comfortable mix of warm days, pleasant seas and manageable crowds. Plan ahead for accommodation and transport if you travel in July or August, and consider early morning visits to major sites year-round to avoid peak heat and crowds.
With this guide you should be able to pick the right window for your interests, budget and tolerance for crowds—whether you want to soak up sun on clear Aegean waters, explore ancient streets in pleasant temperatures, or enjoy a quieter island pace in the off-season.