Why You Can’t Miss the Lindos Acropolis on a Trip to Rhodes

Greece has so many historical sites that will take your breath away, but there is only one Acropolis of Lindos! Join us for the short climb to the castle, the magnificent history, and everything you’ll see at the Lindos Acropolis. 

Early History of Lindos Greece

After exploring the ancient walls of Old Town it might be hard to believe there’s somewhere with an even deeper history on Rhodes. Well, that’s exactly what you’ll find in Lindos! Lindos was actually the first capital of Rhodes and was founded by the Dorians way back in 10th Century B.C.

Fast forward a couple of hundred years later and Lindos was a well-established trading port linking Europe with the Middle East. In the 5th Century, Rhodes town became the center of commerce on the island and the importance of Lindos would lessen as time went on.

So when you’re walking around the ancient ruins, remember that there are more than 2,500 years of history around the Acropolis of Lindos!

Lindos Acropolis Info

Hours: Open Daily 8:00-20:00
Ticket Cost: Adult: €12 – Kids/Seniors: €6
Time Needed: One Hour
Pack: Water, Sunblock, and Sunglasses 

Our Morning Visit to the Acropolis of Lindos

The day started with a hike from our hotel which was located right underneath the Lindos Acropolis. We always try to get to major tourist attractions early so it was perfect making the quick climb in just 10 minutes.

We highly recommend getting to the Acropolis of Lindos when it opens at 8am to be the first ones inside the castle. So why should you go so early?

Crowds: There’s something so magical about exploring this ancient place with no one else there! If you arrive when the Acropolis of Lindos opens you’ll only be with a handful of other early risers.

Weather: The Greek Islands can get extremely hot especially in the peak summer months. Going in the morning will give you the most pleasant weather as you explore the Lindos Greece Acropolis. 

View: While the Acropolis of Lindos is the star of the show, the views from above are jaw-dropping as well. The morning light is much better for photos and to simply enjoy the coastline.

Entering the Castle of the Knights of St. John

The Acropolis is surrounded by a massive castle which you will see as soon as you arrive in Lindos. With its strategic position atop the hill, there was most likely always a fort here dating back to Roman and Byzantine times.

However, the strongest fortifications came in the 14th century by the Knights of St. John. The Knights defended it until its capture by the Ottomans in 1522, who would then add further additions to the castle.

First View of the Lindos Acropolis 

Upon entering the castle we couldn’t believe our eyes… Ruins from thousands of years ago still intact! We’ve seen a lot of history and UNESCO World Heritage Sites during our travels, and the Acropolis at Lindos really impressed us.

Also, its location towering high above town makes it all the more incredible! Walking through the stone of the Lindos Acropolis was an amazing feeling that everyone should experience for themselves. 

Historic Sites at the Lindos Acropolis

The Propylaia: This gateway on the staircase was built in 3rd Century B.C. This is an interesting part of the ruins leading up to the top of the Acropolis of Lindos. 

Hellenistic Stoa: Look for the two roofed wings on both sides of the staircase of the Propylaia. Beneath this, there were several cisterns, and rainwater was once collected from the roofs of the Propylaia and Stoa.

Portico of Psithyros: The colonnade was added during the Roman period. Ancient inscriptions here revealed worship to Psithyros who was seen as the mediator between gods and mortals.

Temple of Athena Lindia: The main feature of Acropolis at Lindos and built on its highest point in 4th Century B.C. This temple is dedicated to the Greek goddess, and it’s believed it was the site of earlier cult worship in the cave below.

Turkish Fortifications: Following the siege of 1522, the Ottomans took over the castle and made their own reinforcements. In the 16th and 17th centuries, they built bastions at the three corners of the castle for increased defense. 

Views of the Two Lindos Beaches: Another breathtaking part of visiting the Lindos Acropolis is the views! On one side you can see Lindos Beach and on the other the famous St. Paul’s Bay. This will definitely get you excited to swim after your morning at these unbelievable ruins.

Where to Stay Near the Acropolis at Lindos

It’s important on your trip to Rhodes to stay in Lindos for at least two nights. Honestly, from the moment you catch your first glimpse of the Acropolis and town, you won’t want to leave! If you’re looking for a place to stay we highly recommend Melenos Art Boutique Hotel.

Here you’ll find luxury mixed with a unique design that beautifully tells the story of the island. Our room had a stunning view of the ocean and all the amenities we look for when traveling. The best part is it’s located right on the hill which makes it just a few minutes walk from the Lindos Acropolis. 

→ Melenos Art Boutique Hotel in Lindos: The Best Luxury Hotel on Rhodes

Have any questions on the Lindos Greece Acropolis or want to share your own experience here? Leave us a comment below!

Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake

Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar! 

Where to Stay in Rhodes Greece

Old Town Luxury – 10GR Hotel & Wine Bar – Set inside the historic walls of Old Town, this hotel doubles as the best wine bar on the island. The luxury rooms built inside caves style rooms give you a one of a kind escape from the city center. 

Old Town Budget– Mascot Garden Rooms & Mascot Boutique Hotel – These sister hotels are unique and fun places to stay just outside of Rhodes Old Town.  They are beautifully designed and a simple, but charming place to sleep after exploring all day. 

Old Town Hostel – Stay Hostel Rhodes – What separates Stay Hostel from others in town is that it offers a kitchen, multiple lounges, games room, gym, and home cinema! It’s also a great place to meet other travelers from around the globe. 

Monolithos – Limeri Traditional Guesthouse – At Limeri you’ll find a traditional design equipped with modern amenities. Each room has a nice view from the balcony, and some even have a private jacuzzi! 

For more places to stay in Rhodes Greece you can explore the latest prices here!

Pin For Later ↓

Rhodes Travel Inspiration

• 5 Helpful Tips for Renting a Car in Rhodes & Why You Should!
• 23 Epic Things to Do in Rhodes Greece
• Anthony Quinn Bay in Rhodes: 7 Fun Facts to Know Before Your First Visit
• Planning a Trip to Rhodes Greece: 10 Step Easy to Follow Travel Guide
• 11 Best Beaches on Rhodes Greece: Anthony Quinn to St. Paul’s Bay

Greece Travel Planning 

 Packing Lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!

When island hopping use FerriesinGreece to compare different routes, prices, and companies. 

 Flights: We always check Skyscanner and Kayak to search for cheap flights. That’s how we got from Crete to Athens for under $50 USD!

 Accommodation: Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such as Booking.com and Agoda! Also,  Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget. 

 Rental Car: You can book a rental car for around $20 a day in Greece! We use Discover Cars to explore the larger islands with a vehicle.

 Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for activities in Rhodes Greece. You can find everything from a boat cruise with snorkeling and lunch, to a hop on hop off bus, and sunset dinner cruise.

 Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without protection. We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.

___________________________

Explore Greece

Travel Planning: Planning a Trip – Cyclades Itinerary – 30 Facts – Greek Ferry Questions – Sky Express Review 

Rhodes:  1 Week Itinerary – Elli Beach – Kallithea Springs – Lindos Guide – Monolithos 

Karpathos: Fun Things to Do – 1 Week Itinerary – Must Try Food – 6 Best Beaches – Olympos – Saria Island Boat Tour

Crete: 10 Day Itinerary – 19 Food & Drinks – Matala Hippie Caves – Elafonisi (Pink Sand) – Renting a Car – Bus Tips – 20 Facts – Vai Beach Palm Trees – Best Things to Do

More Dodecanese: Halki Island – Symi Island Guide – Symi Things to Do 

Cyclades: Moon Beach Milos – Adamas Milos – Ios – Naxos Beaches – Naousa Paros – Galissas Syros – Mykonos Old Town – Santorini

Corfu: Old Town Food – Greece to Albania Ferry

___________________________

*We receive a commission for purchases made through links in this post. This allows us to continue our travels and keep providing great content to our readers! Also, as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.