Most Underrated Villages in Rhodes 2026 — Local Hidden Gems

⭐ Most Underrated Villages in Rhodes to Explore

If you want to experience the true heart of the island — not just beaches and famous sights — exploring the most underrated villages in Rhodes is one of the best ways to understand real local life. Away from the busy resort areas, Rhodes’ villages are calm, charming, slow-paced places filled with narrow lanes, small squares, traditional cafés, and friendly locals who still sit outside their homes in the evenings.

Many travellers visit only Lindos or Rhodes Old Town and never discover the beautiful quieter villages scattered across the island. As a local, I can tell you: Rhodes’ authentic spirit is found in these small communities, not just the big-name attractions.

If you're crafting your itinerary, pair this guide with the Rhodes Travel Guide 2026 and the full Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary — both include routes that weave through the lesser-known villages of the island.

⭐ Who I Am & Why I Wrote This Guide

Hey traveller — I’m Looneytravels, your Rhodes local buddy. I’ve lived on this island for years, and while I love Lindos and Old Town, my favourite moments usually happen in the quiet, underrated villages — the ones surrounded by pine forest, tucked into valleys, or hidden beside the sea.

These villages are where you experience real island rhythm: slow coffee, sunrise walks past old stone houses, locals waving as you drive through, and simple tavernas serving dishes you won’t find in the tourist zones. That’s why I wrote this guide to the most underrated villages in Rhodes — to help you explore the places that often go unnoticed but leave a deep impression.

⭐ Most Underrated Villages in Rhodes to Explore (Local Guide)

Each village below is quiet, authentic, beautiful, and full of local character — perfect for travellers who want to go beyond the usual highlights.

⭐ 1. Lachania — The Dreamy, Whitewashed Escape

Why it’s underrated: Far south, peaceful, beautifully restored, and incredibly atmospheric.

Lachania is one of the most picturesque villages in Rhodes, yet many travellers never see it because it sits south of the main tourist zones. Whitewashed houses, cobbled lanes, and a sleepy central square create a calm, almost Cycladic atmosphere.

Local tip:
Visit in the early evening — the village turns golden and quiet, perfect for a slow walk and dinner.

⭐ 2. Apollona — Mountain Charm & Real Village Life

Why it’s underrated: Authentic local culture, traditional cooking, small workshops.

High in the mountains, Apollona is a wonderful place to experience traditional village life. Local families run honey farms, olive workshops, and small bakeries. The air is cooler here, making it one of my favourite summer escapes.

Local tip:
Try local melekouni (sesame-honey treat) from a family shop.

⭐ 3. Archipoli — Village of Flowers & Forest Paths

Why it’s underrated: Peaceful, green, and surrounded by old forest.

Archipoli sits in a fertile valley, with vineyards, fig trees, and small farms. Kids play outside, locals sit in front of their houses, and the atmosphere feels timeless. The roads around Archipoli are perfect for gentle countryside drives.

Local tip:
Visit in spring or early summer when the flowers are blooming.

⭐ 4. Eleousa — Eerie, Beautiful & Full of History

Why it’s underrated: Italian-era architecture and a quiet, mysterious atmosphere.

Hidden deep in the forest below Profitis Ilias, Eleousa is an abandoned Italian settlement with a quiet square, huge historic buildings, and a surreal, almost cinematic charm. This is one of the most unique underrated villages in Rhodes.

Local tip:
Walk to the circular pond with freshwater fish — a peaceful hidden gem.

⭐ 5. Embonas — Wine Country & Mountain Spirit

Why it’s underrated: Local wine, tavernas, and rugged mountain culture.

Embonas is Rhodes wine capital, home to traditional tavernas serving local goat dishes and wineries producing Muscat wines. The village is lively with locals but rarely crowded with tourists beyond lunchtime.

Local tip:
Visit a winery in mid-afternoon when the village grows quieter.

⭐ 6. Sianna — Cliffside Village with Honey Culture

Why it’s underrated: Stunning west-coast views and authentic honey shops.

On the west coast overlooking the Aegean, Sianna is famous to locals for its honey and souma (a traditional spirit). The views from the square stretch far across the sea.

Local tip:
Buy thyme honey from a family-run shop — it’s among the best in Rhodes.

⭐ 7. Kritinia — Old-World Charm & Castle Above the Sea

Why it’s underrated: Traditional life + access to one of the best castle viewpoints on the island.

The village of Kritinia itself is quiet, local, and atmospheric with old stone houses. It pairs perfectly with a visit to Kritinia Castle, which is one of Rhodes’ most romantic sunset spots.

Local tip:
Visit late afternoon — wander the village, then head to the castle for sunset.

⭐ 8. Psinthos — Tavernas, Springs & Slow Mornings

Why it’s underrated: Excellent local tavernas and shaded village corners.

Psinthos is a beautiful little village known for traditional food and shaded streets. It’s close to Butterfly Valley, making it a perfect lunch stop after a morning nature walk.

Local tip:
Order pitaroudia (chickpea fritters) — a Rhodes classic.

⭐ 9. Salakos — Peaceful Mountain Village

Why it’s underrated: Forest air, cool temperatures, natural springs.

Salakos sits at the foot of Mount Profitis Ilias and is surrounded by cool mountain air even in summer. It’s a great place for gentle hikes and quiet afternoons.

Local tip:
Walk one of the nature paths above the village for beautiful sea views.

⭐ 10. Mesanagros — Remote, Spiritual & Wild

Why it’s underrated: A tiny, remote village full of timeless charm.

Deep in the south, Mesanagros feels like a place that exists outside of time. The drive there is scenic and peaceful, passing through forest, hills, and wide-open landscapes.

Local tip:
Visit the tiny monastery of Panagia Skiadeni — full of local history.

⭐ 11. Arnitha — Hidden Among Pine Forests

Why it’s underrated: Quiet, shaded, and deeply local.

Arnitha is the kind of village where you hear roosters, birds, and soft breezes. It’s a village few tourists ever see, yet locals love its peaceful atmosphere and surrounding nature.

Local tip:
Bring a camera — the old houses make beautiful photos.

⭐ 12. Koskinou Old Village — Painted Doors & Colour Everywhere

Why it’s underrated: Very close to Rhodes Town yet still deeply authentic.

Most travellers only see the main road of Koskinou, but the old village is a maze of colourful doors, tiny courtyards, and charming alleyways. It’s a wonderful place for photography and relaxed morning walks.

Local tip:
Explore slowly — every corner reveals a splash of colour.

⭐ 13. Malona — Citrus Valley of Rhodes

Why it’s underrated: Surrounded by orange groves and peaceful farmland.

Malona is a cheerful rural village close to Haraki Bay and Epta Piges. It’s a great area for slow drives through citrus orchards, especially in spring when the blossoms are fragrant.

Local tip:
If you’re here in April, the smell of orange blossoms is incredible.

⭐ 14. Asklipio — History, Views & Village Tradition

Why it’s underrated: Castle views + authentic village core.

Asklipio is one of Rhodes’ most underrated historic villages. Visit the ancient stone church, walk the quiet lanes, and climb to the castle for views over the south coast.

Local tip:
Pair with beach time in Gennadi or Kiotari.

⭐ Why These Underrated Villages in Rhodes Are Worth Visiting

⭐ Real Local Life

No tourist crowds, no rush — just authentic island rhythm.

⭐ Traditional Food

Village tavernas serve some of the best homemade dishes on the island.

⭐ Beautiful Architecture

Stone houses, whitewashed walls, wooden balconies, mosaic courtyards.

⭐ Peaceful Atmosphere

Ideal for slow travel and quiet exploration.

⭐ How to Explore Underrated Villages in Rhodes (Local Tips)

⭐ Rent a Car

Most villages are inland or in remote southern areas.
See the Rhodes Transport Guide – Best Ways to Travel in Rhodes.

⭐ Visit in Morning or Evening

Softer light, cooler temperatures, and fewer people.

⭐ Choose Weekdays

Villages are quieter and easier to explore.

⭐ Combine Villages with Nearby Beaches

For example: Lachania → Gennadi, Kritinia → Fourni, Archipoli → Epta Piges.

⭐ Where to Stay Near Rhodes Underrated Villages

⭐ South Rhodes (Lachania, Gennadi, Kiotari)

Perfect for exploring quiet villages and the calm southern coast.

⭐ Ialyssos & Kremasti

Good central bases for exploring inland villages.

⭐ Haraki & Malona

Ideal for combining peaceful beaches with village-hopping days.

Explore more options in Where to Stay in Rhodes – Guide to All Best Areas & Resorts and Best Hotels in Rhodes.

⭐ Frequently Asked Questions About Rhodes’ Underrated Villages

❓ Are Rhodes’ underrated villages easy to reach?

Yes — most underrated villages in Rhodes are surprisingly easy to reach, especially with a rental car. Distances are short, roads are straightforward, and villages are well-signposted. Even the remote southern or mountain villages are within 30–45 minutes of major resort areas.

Public buses reach some destinations, but not all, and they run less frequently than coastal routes. If you want flexibility and the joy of spontaneous stops, driving is ideal. You’ll find suggested driving routes inside local travel tips for navigating Rhodes villages.

❓ Are these villages suitable for families?

Definitely. Rhodes’ underrated villages are wonderful for families who enjoy simple, slow-paced experiences. Kids love wandering quiet alleys, meeting friendly locals, seeing farm animals, and enjoying shade-filled squares with room to run.

Villages like best nature-linked villages for families, including Archipoli, Psinthos, and Embonas, offer gentle streets, nearby forests, and traditional taverns where children feel welcome. Just avoid mid-afternoon in high summer — mornings and evenings are perfect.

❓ Do the villages have good food?

Some of the best food in Rhodes is found in these underrated inland villages — often better than what you’ll find in resort zones. Expect:

• slow-cooked goat

• homemade pasta

• village salads with local olive oil

• melekouni from village shops

• freshly grilled meats

• authentic vegetarian dishes like pitaroudia

Apollona, Psinthos, and Embonas are especially known for exceptional homemade meals. For broader inspiration, see Rhodes traditional dishes worth trying.

❓ Which underrated village is the most beautiful?

It depends on the mood you want:

• Lachania — dreamy, whitewashed, artistic

• Koskinou Old Village — bursts of colour and charm

• Embonas — vibrant, traditional, and lively

• Eleousa — mysterious, historic, beautifully atmospheric

• Sianna — cliffside village with unforgettable sea views

For first-time explorers, Lachania and Embonas make unforgettable introductions to Rhodes’ quieter side.

❓ Do you need a full day to explore these villages?

Not necessarily — most villages can be explored in 1–2 hours, but you’ll enjoy them more if you slow down. A perfect day often includes:

• two or three villages

• a lunch stop at a traditional taverna

• a nature walk or castle viewpoint

• a swim at a nearby quiet beach

You’ll find suggested combinations inside village-and-beach day ideas for Rhodes.

❓ Are the underrated villages good for photography?

Very much so. Rhodes’ villages offer rustic textures, painted doors, old stone houses, colourful courtyards, and dramatic mountain settings. Villages like Koskinou, Lachania, Embonas, and Eleousa are especially photogenic.

Morning or late afternoon provides the best light. For wider photo inspiration, visit most Instagram-friendly spots in Rhodes.

⭐ External Expert References

“Unspoiled Villages of Rhodes” – Discover Greece
A trusted Greek tourism resource featuring authentic, lesser-known villages across Rhodes. Highlights include wine-producing Embonas, honey-famous Sianna, and quiet countryside settlements that preserve traditional island life.

“Hidden Villages of the Dodecanese” – Greece Is Magazine
A feature exploring small, underrated villages across the Dodecanese, including atmospheric mountain villages, Italian-era settlements, and forest-lined communities similar to Eleousa, Embonas, and Salakos.

“Traditional Villages of Rhodes” – Visit Greece (GNTO)
An official travel overview presenting Rhodes’ traditional inland settlements, their architecture, history, and cultural importance — emphasising villages outside major tourist zones.

⭐ Final Thoughts

Exploring the most underrated villages in Rhodes is one of the best ways to understand the island’s authentic character. These villages offer quiet charm, traditional food, warm local encounters, and beautiful views — all far away from crowded hotspots.

To plan a rich, balanced trip that includes beaches, villages, and cultural experiences, pair this guide with the Rhodes Travel Guide 2026, the Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary, and Best Hotels in Rhodes.

Slow down, wander softly, and let Rhodes reveal its gentle, timeless side.