Top things to do in Lindos

The astonishing acropolis stands proudly 116 metres above the village of Lindos. Dedicated to Athena Lindia, this historic structure has ancient walls and battlements to explore. It's an ideal place to get in touch with the past of Rhodes and Greece. From the village centre, the steep, winding path to the top is well signposted. If you don't feel like walking, many local traders offer donkey rides to the summit. Once you reach the top, you'll not only be able to admire the historic architecture, but also enjoy spectacular sea views.

In the middle of Lindos is a Greek Orthodox place of worship dating back to the 1300s, the Church of Panagia. The church has been renovated several times over the centuries, most recently during the Italian occupation in the 1920s. The interior of the church is cool and features superb frescoes of saints and biblical scenes lovingly preserved, while the exterior is equally impressive, with a tall bell tower towering over the building. If you'd like to find out more about the history of the area, there's a small museum attached to the church.

Although neither ancient nor steeped in history, a visit to the Ioanni Zigdi monument is well worth including in your holiday itinerary. This stone shrine is located above the northern end of Lindos town and is dedicated to a popular local hero, Greek politician and economist, Ioanni Zigdi, who was born in Lindos in 1913. Situated on a small hill, the current attraction for tourists is the spectacular view that the site offers over the bay and the Acropolis, and it is also one of the best places to watch the sunrise on the island.

Located at the northernmost tip of St Paul's Bay, a circular stone structure is believed to be the burial place of the 6th-century Greek poet Kleoboulous. Unfortunately, there is no reliable evidence to support this claim and it is more likely that the tomb is the final resting place of a wealthy local family. Whatever its history, Kleoboulous' tomb is well worth a visit for the spectacular views across the bay towards Lindos. The gentle 3km walk to the site is a great way to exercise your leg muscles and a welcome alternative to lazing on the beach.

Opposite the Acropolis, on the eastern side of the bay, is St Paul's Chapel, a stunning example of a traditional Greek church. Built to mark the spot where St Paul landed in 51 AD to begin his work as a Christian missionary in Rhodes, this simple, white chapel rests just above the water's edge. This location, combined with stunning views and picturesque scenery, has made it a favourite venue for modern weddings. A trip to Rhodes during the summer months is often an opportunity to attend a beautiful wedding that looks as if it has just stepped off a film set.