Rhodes in October: Things to Do and See
Rhodes, the jewel of the Dodecanese, is a popular destination, but what happens when the summer crowds fade and autumn arrives? Many travelers wonder if October is still a good time to visit the island. The answer is a resounding yes. In October, Rhodes offers a different kind of magic, with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a more authentic atmosphere.
This guide will show you why autumn is an ideal time to explore the island, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach escape or an adventure into its rich history.
Rhodes in October: Weather and Climate
The first question on everyone’s mind is always about the weather. October in Rhodes is a transitional month, but the climate remains incredibly pleasant. Daytime temperatures average between 20-25°C (68-77°F), and can even reach higher on sunny days, particularly in the first half of the month. Evenings are cooler, dropping to about 15-18°C (59-64°F), which is perfect for a light jacket.
One of the biggest surprises is the sea temperature. Thanks to the summer’s accumulated heat, the water stays wonderfully warm, averaging between 23-25°C (73-77°F). This means swimming is not only possible but very enjoyable. While brief rain showers can occur, they usually pass quickly, leaving plenty of time for sunshine.
First Half vs. Second Half of October
The month can be divided into two distinct parts, each offering a unique experience.
The First Half: An Extension of Summer
If you’re chasing that last bit of summer, the first two weeks of October are your best bet. Temperatures are consistently high, and the sea is at its most comfortable. Many beach bars and restaurants are still open, but the tourist numbers are much lower. This is the perfect time to enjoy famous beaches like Faliraki and Lindos in a peaceful setting, with all the amenities still available.
The Second Half: Ideal for Exploration
As the month progresses, the climate shifts slightly. Daytime temperatures cool down a little, and there’s a higher chance of a quick rain shower. However, this is when the island truly comes into its own for those who want to explore. The milder weather makes activities like hiking and sightseeing much more comfortable. With fewer tourists around, you’ll discover a quieter, more authentic side of Rhodes.
Can You Still Swim in Rhodes in October?
The short answer is yes, you absolutely can! In fact, swimming in October can be even more enjoyable than in the peak summer months. Thanks to the sun’s heat accumulated over the summer, the sea remains wonderfully warm and inviting.
For the warmest water temperatures and the most reliable weather for beach days, the first half of October is the best time to visit. The water temperature averages between 23-25°C (73-77°F), making it perfect for a comfortable dip. With fewer people on the beaches, you’ll get to enjoy the crystal-clear waters in a peaceful and serene environment. While there might be the occasional brief rain shower, they typically pass quickly, leaving plenty of time for a refreshing swim.
Discovering Rhodes in October: Temperatures and Swimming Tips (Yes, it’s Still Possible!)
The month of October in Rhodes marks a gradual farewell to summer, but the climate generally remains very mild and inviting. Average daytime temperatures settle at 21-25°C, and nights become cooler, dropping to around 16-17°C, making it advisable to pack a light jacket. The chance of rain increases slightly, but it’s often a matter of brief showers that won’t ruin your vacation. The days, however, remain sunny most of the time, offering a perfect atmosphere for exploring the island, going on excursions, and enjoying the now less-crowded beaches.
Want to go for a swim? Head south to Lindos!
If the main goal of your trip to Rhodes in October is to swim, an important consideration based on observations from late September 2025 is to head to the southern part of the island, specifically Lindos. Generally, temperatures in this area tend to be one or two degrees higher than in Rhodes Town. While the difference may seem minimal, this slight increase can make the beach and swimming experience much more pleasant, especially during the transition to autumn.
Top Things to Do in Rhodes in October
With the weather on your side and the crowds gone, October is the perfect time to dive into Rhodes’ incredible culture and nature.
Explore the Medieval Old Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, grand walls, and ancient castles. In October, you can wander its charming alleys without the summer crowds and truly appreciate landmarks like the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights and the Archaeological Museum.
Hike to Lindos Acropolis
Lindos, with its iconic white-washed houses, is a must-see. The cooler temperatures of autumn make the climb up to its impressive acropolis much more enjoyable. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the bay below.
Hike and Discover Nature’s Beauty
The mild weather is perfect for exploring the island’s lush interior. Go on a hike or a bike ride to find hidden trails and traditional villages. Don’t miss the Seven Springs (Epta Piges), a magical spot with a cool stream and a dark tunnel you can walk through. While the butterflies are fewer, the Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes) is still a beautiful place for a peaceful walk.
For further insights on Rhodes Hiking, including the top trails and nature walks, head over to this article: Rhodes Hiking – Unveiling the Finest Trails and Nature Strolls.
The Valley of Butterflies (Petaloudes)
The Valley of Butterflies is a lush, enchanting nature reserve. This place is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a peaceful and picturesque walk that winds through streams and over wooden bridges. The air is often filled with the scent of storax trees, which are what the butterflies are attracted to. The experience is incredibly serene and perfect for a relaxing stroll.
The Valley of Butterflies in October
In October, the valley is much quieter as the famous spectacle of millions of butterflies is over. The butterfly species, a type of moth (Callimorpha), has finished its reproductive cycle for the year. This means the valley is peaceful and free from the crowds of summer.
Is It Worth the Trip?
This depends on what you are looking for. If seeing the millions of butterflies is your main goal, then October isn’t the best time. You might be better off using your precious vacation time to explore some of Rhodes’ many historical sites, like the Old Town or the Acropolis of Lindos, or to simply relax on one of the island’s beautiful beaches. However, if you’re a nature lover who enjoys a quiet, relaxing walk, the valley is still a beautiful place to spend an hour or two.
Is It Relatable for a US, UK, or Irish Traveler?
If you’re from the United States, the scale might surprise you. Unlike the grand, sprawling national parks like Yosemite or Zion, the Valley of Butterflies is a more intimate and contained natural space. Think of it as a beautiful, serene city park, but with a unique Mediterranean twist.
For visitors from the UK or Ireland, the landscape might feel familiar yet distinctly different. It has the lushness of a wooded trail in the Lake District or the misty glens of Wicklow, but without the typical British or Irish weather. Here, you’re walking in shorts and a T-shirt, surrounded by a unique scent from the trees, a sensory experience you won’t get at home.
The Valley of the Seven Springs (Epta Piges)
The Valley of the Seven Springs is a true hidden gem, an oasis of green and cool, fresh air, powered by seven natural springs that feed a stream running through a dense forest. The place is famous for its unique and adventurous walk.
The Valley of the Seven Springs in October
October is one of the best times to visit the Seven Springs. The weather is perfect for a hike, and the crowds are gone. The main attraction is the famous 186-meter tunnel. This walk is a fun, pitch-black experience through cold water up to your ankles. It’s a memorable experience that’s perfect on a warm autumn day.
The Walk: There are several paths here, but you can choose to take the tunnel for a unique adventure. If you’re not comfortable with dark, enclosed spaces, there is a well-trodden path that goes over the tunnel and leads to the same place.
Is It Relatable for a US, UK, or Irish Traveler?
For those from the United States, the experience might feel like a state park trail, but with a surprising and very fun twist. Unlike the well-signposted trails of the Appalachians or the Rockies, the Seven Springs offers a unique element of adventure with its tunnel. It’s a quick, fun detour that makes a short walk feel like a bigger exploration.
For travelers from the UK and Ireland, the setting might bring to mind the beautiful green landscapes of the Peak District or the Scottish Highlands. The difference, however, is the Mediterranean atmosphere and, of course, the tunnel. It’s an element of a ‘spooky’ adventure that you’d rarely find on a typical British ‘ramble’ and is a great way to add excitement to a peaceful walk.
Savor Local Flavors
Autumn is harvest season! Many local wineries offer tours and tastings where you can sample delicious wines produced on the island. Pair your wine with local products like fresh olive oil, honey, and artisan cheeses for a true taste of Rhodes.
Discover the wonders of the Old Town Rhodes Greece: A Must-See Guide
What to Pack for Rhodes in October
Packing for an autumn trip to Rhodes is all about versatility.
- Daytime: Bring light, comfortable clothes like shorts, t-shirts, and dresses. Don’t forget your swimsuit and sandals for beach days!
- Evening: Pack a light jacket, a cardigan, or a sweatshirt. Evenings can be cool, especially if you’re dining outdoors.
- Footwear: A comfortable pair of walking shoes or sneakers is essential for exploring the Old Town and hiking trails.
Conclusion
Rhodes in October is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a more relaxed and authentic Greek island experience. The mild climate is perfect for both a final swim in the sea and a deep dive into the island’s history and natural beauty. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway away from the high-season rush, you won’t be disappointed.
2025 Observation: Slight Climate Variation in Late September and the “Lindos Factor”
Weather observations spanning late September and early October 2025 confirm the trend of an extremely pleasant climate, but introduce an important note for those traveling right at the start of the autumn month. While the average highs in late September initially settled between 27 and 29°C (as seen from September 22nd to 23rd), the subsequent period (September 28th – October 5th) shows a slight drop, with highs reaching 24-25°C (75-77°F) and an increased chance of rain or showers, particularly towards the weekend (Thursday to Saturday).
This variation reinforces the strategic importance of choosing your location: Rhodes Town, located further north, is the first to feel the seasonal shift, whereas Lindos and the southern part of the island continue to enjoy consistently higher maximum temperatures, hovering between 27 and 28°C (81-82°F) at the start of the week. For those looking to extend the summer and maximize swimming opportunities, heading south, where the autumn breeze is less impactful, proves to be the winning strategy throughout the entire transition period between September and October. It is essential to remember, however, that these are specific data from 2025 and that the Aegean climate can always surprise with unexpected sunny days.
The Smart October Itinerary: Optimizing Your Trip Between Lindos’ “Heat” and Rhodes City’s Culture
The latest weather forecasts, recorded on September 29, 2025, prove to be a key factor in trip planning, especially for those visiting Rhodes at the transition between late September and October. The data reaffirms a clear temperature difference between the north and the south: maximum temperatures in Lindos consistently remain between 27 and 28°C (81-82°F) for the first few days, while in Rhodes Town, they hover between 25 and 26°C (77-79°F).
This disparity is not an obstacle, but a resource. If the main goal is still to enjoy the sea and swimming, the winning strategy is to focus on the southern area, just as we chose to do for the first half of our trip. Staying in Lindos or its immediate vicinity means taking advantage of the higher temperatures for beach activities, exploring sunnier coves, and enjoying an atmosphere that is still summery.
However, Rhodes in October offers much more than just beaches. When forecasts indicate a slight drop in highs (around 24-25°C) or a greater probability of wind or rain, it’s the perfect time to engage in more cultural and “Mediterranean” activities. With a rental car, which is essential for freedom of movement (the distance between Lindos and Rhodes Town is about an hour), you can visit castles, explore local wineries for a tasting, or walk through the imposing walls of the Old Town without the crowds and heat of August.
In short, the key to an unforgettable Rhodes holiday in October is diversification. We use the warmer, sunnier days for beach activities and reserve the days with cooler temperatures for cultural and gastronomic exploration. In this way, the trip becomes a complete and rich experience, very different from the traditional sun-and-sea-only vacation typical of the high season.
What to Pack for Rhodes in September and October: Your Complete Guide
Essential Packing List for Your September and October Trip to Rhodes: Explore the Full Guide in the Article Below
What to Pack for Rhodes in September and October: Your Complete Guide