Introduction
Rhodes, a gem of the Aegean Sea, blends sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches with a millennia-old history where every alley echoes with the footsteps of the Knights of St John. For travelers who want more than just a bed, the city offers a range of properties where architecture, family stories and historic décor turn a stay into a real dive into the past. « Royal Stay in Rhodes: 12 Historic Hotels Worth Trying » takes you on a route where boutique hotels housed in medieval homes, converted neoclassical palaces and restored Ottoman mansions sit side by side with beaches and tavernas. Each hotel featured here tells a different chapter: Byzantine and medieval rule, the pageantry of the knights, Ottoman influence and the gradual modernization of the 20th century. It’s your chance to sleep within walls that have witnessed time, while enjoying contemporary comforts.
Beyond the romance, staying in a historic hotel in Rhodes offers a practical perk: location. Many of these addresses are right in the heart of the medieval Old Town — a UNESCO World Heritage site — or very close to Mandraki Harbor, the Street of the Knights, and Byzantine ruins. You step out of your room and you’re instantly immersed in the city’s top sights: the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Street of the Knights, Mandraki Harbor with its iconic windmills, and little squares lined with cafés where you sip a frappé and watch local life go by.
This article presents 12 historic hotels, each detailed with full address, price ranges in euros, reception hours, an immersive description of the setting, available services, and local practical tips to get the most from your stay. You’ll also find concrete recommendations on which visits to combine, nearby restaurants, the best times to photograph nearby monuments, and how to negotiate an upgrade or request a room with a view. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a week-long cultural itinerary or a longer seaside escape, these historic homes add an incomparable flavor to the Rhodes experience.
A practical note before you go: many historic hotels are housed in old buildings with narrow staircases and limited elevators. Room sizes and layouts can vary widely; always ask for precise photos before booking if accessibility is a concern. Also, while I give addresses, prices and hours, these can change with the tourist season (high season: June–September). It’s wise to confirm directly with each property before you travel. Now, let’s explore twelve of them, each ready to offer you a royal stay in Rhodes.
1. Spirit of the Knights Boutique Hotel — Street of the Knights, Old Town
Address: Street of the Knights (Ippoton), Old Town, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: double rooms from €95 per night (off-season); historic suites €220–€380 depending on season.
Reception hours: front desk open 08:00–22:00 (late check-in possible on request).
Description: Nestled on the most iconic street of the Old Town, Spirit of the Knights occupies a carefully restored medieval house. Stone vaults, original plastered walls and mullioned windows create an atmosphere from another era. Rooms pair solid wood furniture, tapestries and modern bedding. Most overlook the cobbled lane or a small inner courtyard planted with citrus trees.
Why stay here: it’s the perfect spot to feel like a visitor from knightly times. You can reach the Palace of the Grand Masters in under five minutes on foot and visit nearby museums right at opening to beat the crowds. Breakfast is often served in a vaulted room, with homemade bread, local olives and island honey.
- Practical tip: ask for a courtyard-side room if you want peace — the street can be lively in the evening.
- Combo visit: Palace of the Grand Masters (οδός Ιπποτών) is a 3-minute walk.
- Booking: plan ahead in high season; July–August often sell out.
Click here to book a guided tour of the Old Town
2. Kokkini Porta Rossa — Kokkini Porta Rossa Street, Old Town
Address: Kokkini Porta Rossa 19, Old Town, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: double rooms €120–€270; presidential suite €420+.
Reception hours: front desk 07:30–23:00; breakfast 08:00–10:30.
Description: Housed in a renovated 15th-century palace near the famous gate of the same name, Kokkini Porta Rossa blends medieval architectural elements with contemporary interior design. Original stone floors, pointed arches and restored fireplaces sit alongside designer furniture and a restaurant offering modern takes on Greek cuisine. There’s a small inner patio for evening drinks by lantern light.
Experience: the standout here is the balance between historic charm and modern comfort — discreet air-conditioning, high-end bedding and fast Wi‑Fi. The hotel sometimes hosts themed dinners showcasing Rhodes products: local cheeses, dried figs and thyme honey.
- Practical tip: the Kokkini (Red) Gate is very photogenic at sunset — request a street-view room if you’re into photography.
- Nearby: Archaeological Museum of Rhodes and the Street of the Knights.
Click here to join a cooking class and tasting
3. D’Olive Boutique Hotel — Olive Square, Old Quarter
Address: Plateia Eleftherias 7 (Olive Square), Old Town, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: double rooms €110–€240; suites €260–€480.
Reception hours: front desk 08:00–21:30; breakfast 08:00–11:00.
Description: Perched on a shady square ringed with centenary olive trees, D’Olive occupies a restored Ottoman townhouse. Rooms feature beam ceilings, Persian rugs and French doors opening onto flower-filled balconies. The hotel has a lounge-bar serving mezzes and a locally infused gin flavored with Rhodes herbs.
Atmosphere: calm and intimate, ideal for travelers wanting to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Staff are often multilingual and happy to share walking routes tailored to your interests — whether architecture, food or hidden beaches.
- Practical tip: try the local gin “Masticha” as an aperitif and ask for a recommendation for a family-run taverna for dinner.
- Nearby sights: the Gate of Amboise and the Suleymaniye Mosque are within easy reach.
Click here to taste local olive oil, olives and wines
4. Elli Beach Historic Manor — Seafront, Elli
Address: Leof. Akti Miaouli 24, Elli Beach, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: seaside rooms from €140; superior suites €300+.
Reception hours: front desk 06:30–23:59; private beach 08:00–20:00.
Description: Set in a neoclassical manor overlooking Elli Beach, this hotel pairs the grandeur of an early 20th-century seaside residence with contemporary hospitality. Balconies face the Aegean and Mandraki Harbor, famous for its windmills and the deer statue. Interior salons retain original mouldings, crystal chandeliers and framed portraits, evoking an aristocratic villa vibe.
Services: direct access to Elli pebble beach, sunbed rentals, and a beach bar serving Greek salads and grilled fish. The hotel can arrange boat trips to Symi and private transfers to the airport.
- Practical tip: book a sea-facing balcony room for sunset — the light is exceptional for photos.
- Nearby: Mandraki Harbor, the Rhodes Windmill, and the Maritime Museum.
Click here to book a boat trip to Symi Island
5. Grand Master’s Palace Residence — Palace Square, Old Town
Address: Plateia des Grands Maîtres 1, Old Town, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: charming rooms €180–€400; royal suite on request €600+.
Reception hours: front desk 07:00–22:00; hotel tours available on request.
Description: Just steps from the Palace of the Grand Masters (Palazzo dei Gran Maestri), this residence enjoys a commanding, almost regal position. The building, inspired by the knights’ Gothic style, offers rooms with high ceilings, tapestries, leather sofas and marble counters. Some suites open onto small towers or loggias with panoramic views over the Old Town and the sea.
Experience: perfect for guests who want to extend the palace atmosphere — breakfast served in a decorated dining room, privileged access to select private visits and partnerships with local museums for skip-the-line tickets.
- Practical tip: request a private tour of the historic cellars (by reservation) to learn the site’s chronology.
- Good to know: proximity to the palace means the cobbled streets are busy; ask for an upper-floor room for quieter nights.
Click here to explore the Jewish quarter and synagogue
6. Mitsis Grand Historic Hotel — Ialysou Avenue, near the harbor
Address: Leof. Ialysou 102, 85100 Rhodes, Greece.
Price: standard rooms from €90; junior suites €180; historic suites €350+.
Reception hours: 24-hour front desk; restaurant 07:30–23:00.
Description: Though Mitsis is a well-known chain, the « Grand » property has preserved an old-world charm — ornate lobbies, mosaics and a collection of local art. Its location near the harbor makes it a practical base for sea excursions. Rooms combine classic touches and modern amenities: air-conditioning, minibar and marble bathrooms.
Services: outdoor pool with bar, a spa offering olive-oil based massages, and a ticket desk for shows and cruises. Breakfast buffets highlight island products: Rhodes cheese, tzatziki and honey pastries.
- Practical tip: if you have an early ferry, request a harbor-side room to cut transfer time.
- Access: shuttle to the Old Town available on request.
Click here to book a Rhodes cruise with swimming stops
7. Elliou Suites Ottoman House — Ottoman Quarter, Old Town
Address: Ottoman Quarter, Agias Ekaterinis 8, Old Town, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: double rooms €130–€260; family suites €300+.
Reception hours: front desk 08:00–21:00; hammam by reservation 09:00–19:00.
Description: Tucked into the Ottoman Quarter, this hotel occupies a typical house with arcades and carved wooden elements. Interior design preserves handmade ceramic tiles, oriental lanterns and a small restored hammam offering traditional baths and treatments. Rooms are dressed with jacquard fabrics and colorful cushions, evoking Ottoman-era charm.
Experience: staying here lets you explore a lesser-known side of Rhodes. The surrounding lanes are full of artisan workshops, ceramic shops and small historic mosques.
- Practical tip: book an evening hammam treatment to relax after a day on foot.
- Transport: the hotel can arrange a driver for airport transfers.
Click here to learn pomegranate pottery with a master potter
8. Casa Romana Heritage Hotel — Agiou Fanouriou Street
Address: Agiou Fanouriou 11, Old Town, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: rooms from €100; suites €200–€420.
Reception hours: front desk 09:00–21:00; building tours 10:00–17:00 by appointment.
Description: Casa Romana is a Mediterranean-style house that recalls Rhodes’ historical links with Italy and continental Europe. Terrazzo floors, wrought-iron balconies and a central courtyard with a fountain create an air of discreet elegance. Each room is named for a historical figure (e.g. « The Governor’s Suite ») and is decorated with local art and books on regional history.
Why go: the cultural emphasis is strong here — occasional talks, readings and temporary exhibitions by local artists. Staff provide themed maps for architectural walks through the Old Town.
- Practical tip: enjoy a late breakfast to wander before the crowds and ask for a historical walking map.
- Nearby: the Knights’ College and local libraries.
Click here to book a private walking tour of Rhodes
9. Lindian Gate Manor — Lindos Gate entrance, historic quarter
Address: Lindian Gate Street 3, Old Town, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: double rooms €150–€320; terrace suites €380+.
Reception hours: front desk 07:30–22:30; rooftop bar 18:00–01:00.
Description: Located near an old gate leading to the ramparts (Lindian Gate), this manor offers panoramic terraces perfect for taking in the Old Town roofs and the sea beyond. Rooms are spacious with high ceilings, oriental rugs and decorative alcoves. The rooftop bar serves citrus-based cocktails and light bites.
Highlights: spectacular sunsets from the terrace, a small library lounge where you can borrow guides and historical novels, and concierge services to arrange private dinners in courtyard settings.
- Practical tip: request a room with a private terrace so you can enjoy the evening without leaving the hotel.
- Suggested activity: an evening stroll along the illuminated ramparts.
Click here to join a guided walk and wine tasting
10. The Old Mill Boutique Hotel — Mandraki Quay
Address: Mandraki Harbour, Leof. Akti Miaouli 1, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: rooms from €130; suites €260+.
Reception hours: front desk 06:00–23:59; breakfast service 07:00–11:00.
Description: Built near Mandraki’s iconic windmills, this hotel retains elements of a former mill converted into chic accommodation. Thick stone walls, exposed beams and large windows overlooking the harbor create a striking contrast between historic robustness and contemporary comfort. Many rooms offer views of boats and the sea.
Services: cocktail bar specializing in Greek digestifs, partnerships with local fish restaurants, and the option to book sunset boat trips.
- Practical tip: to catch the fishing boats leaving and photograph the windmills, the best time is early morning between 06:30 and 08:00.
- Nearby: Rhodes Aquarium and the Maritime Museum.
Click here to book a sunset cruise on an 18th-century boat
11. Palazzo del Mare — Historic Seafront, Ixia
Address: Leof. Ixia 45, Ixia Beach, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: double rooms €160–€300; suites €350–€700.
Reception hours: 24-hour front desk; restaurant 12:00–23:00.
Description: This palace-turned-hotel overlooks a tranquil bay west of Rhodes town. Interior salons keep frescoes and mouldings, while terraced gardens slope down to the sea, offering shaded nooks and Mediterranean greyhound-lined walkways. Rooms are generous, often with private balconies or verandas.
Experience: an ideal spot to mix cultural visits with seaside relaxation. The hotel hosts outdoor themed dinners with traditional music and Rhodes wine tastings.
- Practical tip: ask for a private airport transfer if you have lots of luggage — the coastal road is winding.
- Activities: snorkeling, paddleboarding and on-site Greek cooking classes.
Click here to try paddleboarding, snorkeling and explore the sea cave
12. Byzantino Palace Hotel — Byzantine Quarter, Historic Center
Address: Byzantino 2, Historic Center, Rhodes 85100, Greece.
Price: rooms €120–€280; historic suites €320+.
Reception hours: front desk 07:00–22:00; tea lounge 09:00–19:00.
Description: Housed in a building inspired by the Byzantine era, Byzantino Palace is decorated with hand-painted frescoes, reconstructed columns and tapestries echoing Byzantine motifs. Rooms are designed to evoke different centuries: some have canopy beds, others display ochre and deep-blue tones reminiscent of religious icons.
Why pick it: the vibe is perfect for fans of history and sacred art. The hotel offers themed itineraries (Byzantine churches, mosaics, icons) and occasionally hosts lectures with local historians.
- Practical tip: if you’re following an intensive cultural circuit, request a courtyard-side room for optimal rest between visits.
- Don’t miss: guided tours of nearby Byzantine churches and the icons museum.
Click here to join a guided tour of the Old Town
Conclusion
Rhodes reveals its full splendor when you choose to sleep in places that carry the island’s memory. These 12 historic hotels offer as many ways to experience Rhodes: from the sturdy elegance of Mandraki’s mills to Ottoman courtyards, from neoclassical seaside homes to medieval houses on the Street of the Knights. Beyond comfort and services, each provides a unique doorway into local history — daily tapestries of artisans at work, citrus scents in inner courtyards, the chime of bells and the sound of waves, and sunsets painting the sea gold.
To get the most from your royal stay, take time to plan: favor sea-view rooms for sunrises and sunsets, request private tours if you want a deeper historical immersion, and think about logistics — limited car access in the Old Town, sometimes steep stairs in old houses, and varying restaurant hours off-season. Don’t forget the food: Rhodes cuisine highlights thyme honey, local cheeses (like ladotiri), grilled fish and island wines. Use concierges to book tables in family tavernas away from tourist routes, and explore markets to buy artisanal souvenirs.
Finally, although I’ve listed addresses, prices and hours to help your planning, always verify details at the time of booking: rates change by season, local events and each property’s policies. Whether you’re after the intimacy of a medieval suite, the grandeur of a seaside palace, or the authenticity of an Ottoman house, Rhodes has a historic hotel to match every desire. Let the atmosphere enchant you — and get ready to tell your own stories born beneath the vaults of these old houses.