What to see in Ialyssos: Discover the must-see sights of Rhodes by car
Ialyssos, a picturesque town on the west coast of the island of Rhodes, is one of those perfect destinations to discover by car. With a rich historical heritage, beaches ideal for relaxing and panoramic views that will take your breath away, Ialyssos is one of the highlights of any route around Rhodes. Hiring a car in Rhodes will allow you to move around freely and explore this wonderful region to the full, making the most of every corner of the island. Below, we tell you all about what to see in Ialyssos and the must-see sights you can't miss on your tour of Rhodes.
Must-sees in Ialyssos to enjoy on a driving route
Filerimos Hill: history and panoramic views
One of the must-see sites on Ialyssos is the hill of Filerimos, an ancient settlement with panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea. Here you will find the Monastery of Filerimos, built in honour of the Virgin Mary, as well as the remains of a temple dedicated to Zeus and Athena. The area also has a Stations of the Cross culminating in a huge concrete cross from where you can enjoy spectacular views. The hill is easy to reach by car and you can park nearby to explore this fascinating site on foot.
Ialyssos Beach: sand, sun and water sports
Ialyssos Beach is one of the key spots for those looking to enjoy a day at the beach and water sports. Its crystal clear waters and fine sand invite you to relax, but it is also ideal for activities such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the favourable winds in the area. You'll find areas for renting equipment and receiving lessons, making this beach a perfect place for beginners and experts alike. You can also take advantage of the flexibility of the rental car to get there easily and enjoy a day of sun and sea.
Visit to the historical centre of Ialyssos
The centre of Ialyssos retains the charm of a traditional Greek village. Strolling through the cobbled streets and discovering the whitewashed houses, small craft shops and local tavernas is an experience not to be missed. You can stop to sample the local cuisine in one of the tavernas and enjoy typical dishes such as gyros, Greek salad and souvlaki. Take the opportunity to buy local products, such as olive oil and handmade pottery, as souvenirs of your visit.
What to see around Ialyssos: key stops on your Rhodes driving route
Rhodes Town: a journey into the medieval past
Just 10 kilometres from Ialyssos, Rhodes Town is a destination that combines history and culture. Its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a true architectural gem full of walls, fortresses and narrow streets. You can visit the Grand Master's Palace, walk along the Rue des Chevaliers and explore the Porte d'Amboise. With a rental car, getting to the historic centre is easy, and you'll find parking nearby.
Valley of the Butterflies: nature at its best
The Valley of the Butterflies is a unique stop for nature lovers. About 20 minutes drive from Ialyssos, this valley is famous for being the habitat of thousands of butterflies that cover trees and paths during the summer. It is an ideal place to walk and enjoy the cool atmosphere of its vegetation and small streams. Don't forget your camera to capture the beauty of the place and the abundant wildlife. This visit is ideal for those who are looking for something different on their route.
Ancient Kamiros: ruins and views over the Aegean Sea
A little further south of Ialyssos lies Ancient Kamiros, one of the best preserved ancient cities on Rhodes. Kamiros was a thriving city in ancient times and today you can tour its ruins, which include temples, baths and residences dating back to the 5th century BC. Arriving by car, you'll find a car park nearby where you can easily access this fascinating archaeological site. The sea views from the ruins are a sight not to be missed.
Activities and things to do in Ialyssos to make the most of it
Hiking and exploring on Filerimos mountain
For hiking enthusiasts, the Ialyssos area offers several routes that allow you to explore the natural environment of Rhodes. Mount Filerimos, in particular, is an ideal option for a moderate hike while discovering ancient paths and viewpoints. Along the way, you can observe the local flora and fauna and enjoy panoramic views of the island. A perfect plan for those looking to combine nature and adventure.
Enjoy a sunset dinner at Ialyssos
One of the things to do in Ialyssos is to enjoy a sunset dinner overlooking the sea. On the coast of Ialyssos you will find several restaurants offering terraces overlooking the Aegean Sea, where you can savour Greek cuisine while watching the sun go down. It's a unique experience that combines the best of local cuisine with a unique atmosphere, ideal for a special night out.
Tips to get the most out of your Rhodes driving tour
Take advantage of viewpoints and panoramic areas.
The driving route around Rhodes is full of natural viewpoints that offer incredible views of the island and the sea. Pause at these scenic points to enjoy the scenery and take pictures. Some of the best viewpoints are on the road connecting Ialyssos to Rhodes Town and on the road to Filerimos Hill.
Explore local cuisine at every stop
Rhodes is famous for its cuisine, and on your route you will find small tavernas and family-run restaurants where you can sample local delicacies such as grilled octopus, aubergine salad and almond sweets. Take the opportunity to sample authentic dishes at every stop and discover the unique taste of Rhodes' gastronomy.
Plan visits in advance
To make the most of the sights in and around Ialyssos, we recommend planning your visits, especially in high season. Hiring a car will allow you to get to the busiest places early and enjoy a quieter, uncrowded experience.